By Blake Jackson
After graduating as Kentucky State University’s 2026 valedictorian, Zhakeya Hawkins is taking the next step in her academic journey by conducting atmospheric and climate research at the University of California, Merced.
Hawkins completed two years of undergraduate coursework in just one year while maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA and competing as a scholar-athlete. This summer, she is participating in UC Merced’s BRAAG-SURI post-baccalaureate research program, where she works with Professor Adeyemi Adebiyi’s Aerosol-Climate Group.
Hawkins research examines the relationship between atmospheric aerosols, agriculture, air quality, and climate, with a focus on mineral dust and smoke generated from California’s Central Valley.
“By bridging my existing skills in image analysis and geospatial modeling with the lab’s sophisticated climate simulations and satellite observations, this opportunity serves as a pivotal stepping stone,” Hawkins said.
Before enrolling at Kentucky State, Hawkins had already earned an associate degree while still in high school. During her accelerated undergraduate studies, she became a USDA 1890 National Scholar, competed for the Thorobreds, and strengthened her expertise in mathematical computer science, data science, and geospatial technology.
“Zhakeya distinguished herself through exceptional discipline, intellectual curiosity, and an ability to connect computing and data analysis with practical challenges,” said Dr. Chi Shen, dean of the College of Business, Engineering, and Technology.
“Her accelerated academic progress and research experience at Kentucky State prepared her well for this opportunity and for the doctoral study she plans to pursue.”
At Kentucky State’s Geographic Information Systems Lab, Hawkins gained hands-on experience using ArcGIS Pro, remote sensing, Python, and spatial analysis to support sustainable agriculture and natural resource research.
“The GIS Lab was the space where raw data intersected real-world dirt,” Hawkins said.
In addition to academics, Hawkins excelled in cross country and track and field, winning the women’s pole vault title and setting a meet record at the 2026 SIAC Indoor Championship.
“I don’t see education as a race; I see it as a relay,” Hawkins told graduates. “I wasn’t just crossing those stages for myself; I was carrying the baton for my family.”
Photo Credit: kentucky-state-university
Categories: Kentucky, Education