In the wake of COVID-19, things looked pretty different for the Bobcats homecoming week as most traditions were cancelled to follow the safety guidelines put into place by the Mississippi Department of Health and the CDC. The Nov. 12 football game against Copiah-Lincoln was still set to take place until Copiah Lincoln CC had to cancel due to COVID concerns at their college.
“I expected for homecoming to be the same as last year, but my expectations were unrealistic due to the pandemic,” said Kyra Lampely, who was elected sophomore maid. “Because the football game is cancelled, we aren’t having the parade or annual brunch, but I am hoping that we can all still make the most of it. This is my last year at Jones, and I would love to remember this for years to come.”
Although many things have been put on hold or cancelled altogether due to the coronavirus outbreak, students are still encouraged to make the most of their time at Jones.
“Even though times are a bit different right now, being able to be on the homecoming court is such a blessing,” said Keely Skellion, freshman maid. “I have not been able to experience everything my freshmen year so far, but this definitely will be one of my best memories, being able to be a part of the 2020 homecoming court.”
Skellion expressed that representing her freshman class is a true honor and that she has made several friends because of it despite the many obstacles that the pandemic has thrown her way.
Representing the homecoming court of 2020 are Queen, Lakyra Walker of Mount Olive; Student Body Maid, Karsyn Ulmer of Laurel; Sophomore Maid, Brinley Bullock of Laurel; Sophomore Maid, Kyra Lampley of Petal; Freshman Maid, Jordan Smith of Hattiesburg; and freshman Maid, Keely Skellion of Ellisville.
The court was presented at half time, along with Mr. JC, Isaac Burns of Lucedale, and Miss JC, Dariyel Johnson of Leakesville. Also recognized was nurse practitioner Vicki Hampton, who was named Honor Alumna. Hampton is Director of the Campus Clinic.
To make the most of the night, the college took the evening to introduce all sports teams and band members, and videos from students being recognized were also shown. Adding to the uniqueness of the evening, when the court and queen were presented on the field, they were flanked by a special fireworks display.
“Even though our homecoming football game was canceled due to COVID, I really enjoyed the homecoming festivities,” said Lakyra Walker, Homecoming Queen. “Being on the field socializing with the other members of the court was a very enjoyable time. From the moment I was advised I would be representing Jones College as the homecoming queen, I was overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude and pride. It has been a pleasure to represent our school and I continuously reminisce about my crowning moment. If I could replicate this experience, I would do it again and again.”
by Tori Ellis
