(Clarksdale, Mississippi) — Coahoma Community College Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society launched its first community service initiative with a visit to Diversicare Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Shelby, Miss., where students engaged residents through interactive activities and social connection.
The Gamma Beta Phi, Delta Legacy Chapter, is a nationally recognized honor society dedicated to academic excellence and community service. The chapter currently includes 18 inducted student members who have committed to maintaining active status through the completion of five to eight service hours each semester. This structured service requirement reinforces the organization’s emphasis on civic responsibility and student development beyond the classroom.
The visit to Diversicare Nursing & Rehabilitation Center marked the chapter’s initial large-scale service project focused on supporting senior citizens within the Mississippi Delta. During the visit, students organized and participated in a series of activities designed to encourage interaction and engagement among residents. Bingo served as a central activity, allowing participants to connect in a relaxed and inclusive environment while promoting social stimulation and enjoyment.
In addition to structured activities, students spent time building rapport with residents through conversation and shared experiences. The engagement provided an opportunity for students to apply leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills in a real-world setting while contributing to the well-being of the local community. The initiative reflects the chapter’s broader mission to create meaningful service opportunities that align with both academic values and community needs.
The service project was coordinated under the leadership of Mar’Tia Crawford, a student leader who guided the planning and execution of the event. The organization and structure of the visit contributed to a positive and productive experience for both students and residents. Staff at the facility recognized the professionalism and preparedness demonstrated by the students and expressed strong interest in continued collaboration.
As a result of the successful initial visit, the Delta Legacy Chapter has scheduled a follow-up service activity later this month at the same location. The chapter also plans to expand its outreach efforts to additional communities across the five districts it serves, reinforcing its commitment to sustained and impactful service initiatives throughout the region.
Gamma Beta Phi continues to serve as a platform for student achievement and leadership at Coahoma Community College, providing members with opportunities to engage in service-driven programming that supports both personal growth and community advancement. The Delta Legacy Chapter’s recent initiative represents a strategic step in strengthening community partnerships while advancing the organization’s mission.
Chapter leadership includes Mar’Tia Crawford, president; Adrianna Dawson, vice president; and Karmese Leflore, secretary.
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Founded in 1949, Coahoma Community College is a public, comprehensive, historically Black community college serving the heart of the Mississippi Delta. Coahoma offers Associate of Arts degrees, Associate of Applied Science degrees, and specialized certificates across dozens of diverse academic and career pathways. Located on a 99-acre campus in Clarksdale, Mississippi, the College is celebrating 77 years of academic excellence. In addition to its affordable tuition and generous scholarship opportunities, Coahoma has earned widespread recognition in nursing and health sciences, career-technical education, and university transfer programs. Outside of the classroom, students are involved in competitive NJCAA athletics as well as a variety of organizations and clubs, including student government, the celebrated college choir, and the renowned Marching Maroon Typhoon Band.