Gwendolyn Boyd, Ph.D
Gwendolyn Boyd, Ph.D. is an accomplished educator and researcher, serving as an Associate Professor at Alcorn State University with over 26 years of experience in teaching, research, and community engagement. She specializes in curriculum design, wood science, and chemistry, and has contributed extensively as an author, peer reviewer, and presenter. Dr. Boyd is recognized for her dedication to fostering academic excellence and mentoring students, inspiring them to achieve their full potential both inside and outside the classroom.
Beyond her academic responsibilities, Dr. Boyd actively volunteers in educational, religious, and social organizations, including long-term involvement with the Boy Scouts, where she has served as an adult leader and troop committee member. Her community engagement reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and empowerment, demonstrating the broader impact of her work beyond academia.
Dr. Boyd earned her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Wood Science and Wood Products/Pulp and Paper Technology from Mississippi State University and her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Alcorn State University. She holds additional certifications in Agroforestry and remains an active member of professional organizations, including the Forest Products Society. Her career is guided by a philosophy of inspiring others to “be better, do better, and be the best,” a mission she embodies through her teaching, research, and outreach.
• Agroforestry
• Mississippi State University - Ph.D
• Alcorn State University - BSChem
• Forest Products Soceity
• Boyscouts (Troop 76)
• Boy Scouts Troop 7 Vicksburg, MS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to over three decades of dedication to education and a commitment to inspiring others to “be better, do better, and be the best.” For the past ten years, I have served as an associate professor, finding my greatest fulfillment not in awards or accolades, but in the moments when a student’s face lights up as they connect the dots and grasp a new concept. This passion for enlightening and empowering others extends beyond the classroom into my work as a community pastor, where I continue to foster growth, learning, and meaningful impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to find a mentor who can guide you and help you navigate the challenges of the profession, saving both time and effort. While this career may not always be financially lavish, it is incredibly rewarding in its ability to transform lives and shape perspectives. I live by the motto, “Your life is only as good as the memories you leave behind,” and I encourage others to embrace the meaningful impact they can have every day.