LORMAN — Dr. Jacqueline Walters encouraged 700 Alcorn State University graduates to challenge their minds, bodies and spirits Saturday.

Walters spoke to graduates at the Davey L. Whitney Complex as each member of the Alcorn Class of 2015 said goodbye to the university.

A graduate from Alcorn State University, Walters is a native of Fayette and currently resides in Atlanta, where she is an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Graduates listened as Walters urged them to make it a personal mission to learn something new everyday.

“Always take every opportunity you can,” Walters said. “We can learn from many different sources.”

Walters, a two-time breast cancer survivor, understands how important personal health is for the human body — and for the graduates.

“I learned how to eat healthy,” Walters said. “I challenge you to take charge of your health and the health of others.”

Walters told the graduates they should not accept that they feel comfortable, but to push for better health.

“Learn healthy habits,” she said. “Learn the importance of exercise.”

She said graduates must become one with their entire body.

“Fitness is being whole in your mind, being whole in your body and being whole in your spirit,” Walters said.

To pay tribute to women and men diagnosed with breast cancer, Walters founded the 50 Shades of Pink Foundation in 2013.

Walters left the graduates with the challenge of carrying the Alcorn spirit wherever they go in life.

“I encourage you, please be an ambassador for Alcorn State University,” she said.

Alcorn President Alfred Rankins Jr. congratulated his graduates for a job well done.

“Today, you are part of the 2015 graduating class,” Rankins said. “This is a day to celebrate your accomplishments and to thank those individuals who have contributed to this joyous occasion.”

Rankins called for graduates to keep Alcorn’s values and traditions alive and to continue to grow in knowledge and character.

“Never forget how brave you are,” Rankins said. “Keep alive your alma mater and the knowledge that you are part of a great heritage.”