VanDetrick Lockhart

O.M. McNair Student Government Association

Educational Specialist in Administration and Supervision

Graduated, Fall 2022

Inverness, MS

Van Lockhart, a native of Inverness, MS, is passionate about helping students discover their voice and see themselves as agents of change. He earned his degree in History from Mississippi Valley State University and later a Master’s in Criminal Justice. After joining Teach For America, Van taught for several years in Indianola, MS, where he developed a deep commitment to student leadership and civic engagement.

As a TFA Fellow alum, Van launched the O.M. McNair Student Government Association to give students a sense of belonging and a platform to lead. The SGA goes beyond typical school projects—encouraging students to explore career interests, connecting them with mentors, and challenging misconceptions about their potential. With 20 officers and members, the organization has positively impacted the school and surrounding community, even with limited resources.

Through this work, Van learned that meaningful change doesn’t require large budgets, but it does require persistence, vision, and a focus on developing students into leaders who will shape the future of the Mississippi Delta.