2023 Spring Foundations

Volume 23 | Number 1

BOARD CHAIR

MSU FOUNDATION

Anthony L. Wilson

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MSU FOUNDATION

John P. Rush

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Cathy Lammons

MANAGING EDITOR

Addie Mayfield

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Sarah-Anne Murphy

WRITERS

Hailey Jenkins

Addie Mayfield

CONTRIBUTING STAFF

Erica Way, Marketing Manager

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sam Baker

Megan Bean

Beth Newman

Alyson Strom

• • •

Post Office Box 6149

Mississippi State, MS 39762 phone: (662) 325-7000

fax: (662) 325-8426

msufoundation.com

Foundations is published two times per year by the Mississippi State University Foundation. Please send comments and questions to P.O. Box 6149, Mississippi State, MS 39762-6149 or phone (662) 325-3780.

The Mississippi State University Foundation Inc. is a nonprofit organization that assists the university in accomplishing its goals and mission by cultivating and soliciting private support and ensuring stewardship for all contributions benefiting Mississippi State University.

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status protected by applicable law is prohibited. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Compliance and Integrity, 56 Morgan Avenue, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.

Campus Views

MSU students take to social media to share their favorite study spots

04 | Belinda Stewart

Stewart invests in MSU and future generations through passionate work

08 | Senior Scholar Salute

Words from a few of MSU’s outstanding students from the graduating class of 2023

16 |

Why Give?

Husband remembers wife with meaningful gift

20 | Impact of One

Former dean of students’ legacy continues to grow

Noteworthy News

24 | Personnel Changes

Baldwin assumes new fundraising role

26 | 2023 Fiscal Year

Leading the way

In Each Issue

03 | Viewpoint Foundation President and CEO

11 | Student Perspective

Clark Hensley in his own words

12 | Foundation Favorites

Jack McCarty proposes leisure activities

14 | Campus Views

MSU students take to social media to share their favorite study spots

16 | Why Give?

Husband remembers wife with meaningful gift

20 | Impact of One

Former dean of students’ legacy continues to grow

25 | Then and Now

The YMCA Building

28 | Achievements

Private Scholarships awarded in 2022-2023

29 | Foundation Board

A complete list of our voluntary board

Our Cover

MSU’s YMCA Building, originally built in 1914, was renovated in 2018 under the design direction of Euporabased Belinda Stewart Architects. The renovation project earned a preservation award from the Mississippi Heritage Trust. Read more about alumna Belinda Stewart and her career as an architect on page 4.

PHOTO BY Megan Bean

Investing in what matters

With graduation right around the corner, I can’t help but think about what it means for each individual and for our university as a whole. It’s a major milestone and a time to celebrate the accomplishment of the students we serve. It’s also a time to reflect on all that MSU has enabled me to do as an alumnus since walking across the stage at my own graduation.

When students enroll at the university for the first time, they are essentially entrusting us with preparing them for the jobs and journeys, decisions and connections they will encounter throughout their lives. This fall, more than 22,000 students placed their future in the hands of our faculty and staff as they began their Mississippi State experience.

Yet, as a university dedicated to higher education, our success is not counted in recruitment and enrollment alone. Instead, ours is a shared success in the completion of each degree, each job placement, each life made better because of an MSU experience. We are an institution dedicated to our students—from the day our students step onto campus for the first time, to the day they step onto the graduation stage and beyond.

Accordingly, we are ever proud to serve outstanding students who choose to pursue their dreams through our university. And one of the greatest investments we can make is to grow and support opportunities for more ambitious learners to experience all that higher education has to offer and find their own success as socially and economically productive graduates.

This is something that MSU alumnus Ranny Moseley and his wife, Mary Lyn, taught me long ago. While they are proud to support scholarships at MSU, Ranny told me that their biggest priority was knowing their scholarship recipients acquired jobs when they graduated. There are plenty of horror stories of people graduating from college and not being able to find a job, but that’s not the case for MSU alumni.

Currently, our university has a demonstrated 94 percent job placement among graduates, which is significantly higher than the 84.1 percent national average. According to New York-based financial technology company SmartAsset, Mississippi State continues to rank No. 1 in the state as the top “Best Value College,” with graduates earning higher salaries than those from any other in-state college.

Our job placement scores indicate that MSU is excelling in preparing adaptive, high-achieving graduates to meet the needs of a diverse and developing workforce. This would not be possible without private support to

JOHN P. RUSH '94, '02 President and CEO MSU Foundation

viewpoint

bolster our ongoing efforts. Support for scholarships don’t end with the student recipient—instead the impact of your gifts are resonating beyond campus, transforming families and communities through new career opportunities for graduates.

As this year’s graduates enter the world as the newest Bulldog alumni, I am confident they will do more than they ever dreamed possible before coming to Mississippi State. Their success now and in the future is a reflection of the collective investment our university community is making to take care of what truly matters.

STORY HAILEY JENKINS PHOTOGRAPHY MEGAN BEAN

Eupora is the largest city within Webster County and is home to a little over 1,900 people. Among these residents is Belinda Stewart, a local architect and Mississippi State alumna who has an eye for both design and opportunity.

Stewart first discovered her passion and future career through the College of Architecture, Art and Design’s School of Architecture. As time progressed, she began to discover the difference she could make with her skills within her own hometown of Eupora.

“I decided I wanted to be an expert in architecture in my own backyard,” said Stewart.

An impact moment for Stewart was being a student while the school was celebrating its 10th anniversary. Stewart said her education pushed her to pursue her passion.

women

Stewart graduated in 1985 and is now principal and founder of Belinda Stewart Architects. A statement on her firm’s website sums up the values that Stewart lives and works by each day—“We were founded through the vision of one woman who firmly believed in the power of our small towns to inspire, that family roots can build an ethic that weaves through a profession, and that architecture can see beauty in our history and hope in our future.”

She is also a longtime supporter of the university, weaving her passion into giving back to her alma mater. In addition to investing in the Fred Carl Jr. Small Town Center, Stewart also serves on the college’s advisory board and regularly offers internships to MSU students within the college at her firm.

Belinda Stewart Architects hosted five interns last summer—four architecture majors and one interior design major. She described the internship experience as a win-win, and said she especially enjoys hearing from interns about the latest programs and technology they are learning at MSU.

With several School of Architecture graduates on staff, as well as current students working in co-op positions, Stewart said she is impressed with the way the school teaches students to be problem solvers, a skill that suits them in her firm or wherever they go.

In addition to working on 30 different courthouses within Mississippi, Stewart is proud to have also led the renovations of the historic YMCA building and designing of the new Old Main Academic Center on MSU’s campus. Through such projects, Stewart helps bring life back into her hometown, home state and “home away from home” at Mississippi State University.

In 2012, she created the Belinda Stewart Architects Fellow program in the Carl Small Town Center

Stewart inside the Old Main Academic Building at MSU.

in philanthropy

“I decided I wanted to be an expert in architecture in my own backyard.”

(CSTC) within the School of Architecture. The fund supports a competitively selected student each summer, who conducts research and performs outreach to small towns throughout the state.

Earlier this fall, she also made another commitment to further support the Belinda Stewart Architects Fellow Fund and the School of Architecture Advancement Fund.

“We've always asked that our fellowship go, in some way, to existing buildings, communities or places. It's about appreciating and learning those things that are around you,” Stewart said.

Leah Kemp is the director of the Fred Carl Jr. Small Town Center, which is a community design center housed by the college that serves communities all over the state of Mississippi through design and planning skills or services.

Kemp met Stewart when she served on the advisory board for the school, and again when Kemp accepted her position as director of the CSTC. Kemp recalls speaking with Stewart on the history of the center and gleaning advice for her new role within the university.

“When I took this position, she was one of the first people to call me and she sat down with me for several hours and told me about the history of the center and shared a lot of good advice with me,” said Kemp.

One of the biggest impacts Stewart has made has not only come from her financial support but the amount of time she spends with fellow employees, professors and the students at MSU.

Kemp feels that Stewart is one of the most involved supporters by being readily available for the students and serving as a role model in numerous design projects and review processes.

“She is a leader in the state and a role model for not only our students interested in that path of architecture, but also young women who are interested in architecture and owning their own firms,” Kemp said.

Stewart said, “I'm more excited than I've ever been about the future of the school and the college right now,” primarily because of the work and advances the students and program are making. She continues to push the university forward in new directions and constantly provides new opportunities for architecture students.

Belinda Stewart is an inspiring woman in philanthropy and makes a difference daily for MSU as well as the state of Mississippi.

When asked what advice she would give young women who aspire to be involved in their communities, she said, “Seek the power in being a woman and embrace that power, appreciate the fact that as a woman, you have gifts and skills that are individual and different. There's a power to individuality.”

Stewart and MSU officials celebrating the completed renovation of the YMCA building in 2018 with a ribbon cutting.

Real Estate that makes a Real Difference.

Gifts of real estate can greatly benefit students and enable Mississippi State University to grow and thrive. Whether retained and preserved for educational purposes or liquidated for immediate support, gifts of real property create strategic opportunities in the donor’s area of choice and also provide certain personal benefits. A variety of real estate types that can be transformed into rewarding charitable gifts exist.

• Timberland

• Recreational Property

• Agricultural Farm

• Residential Home

• Vacation Home or Condominium

• Commercial Investment

• Undeveloped Property

• Mineral Interests

The MSU Foundation offers two programs to assist property owners with utilizing their real estate – Bulldog Properties and Bulldog Forest. Both avenues offer meaningful ways to begin a remarkable legacy. Contact the MSU Foundation’s real estate services team today to learn how easy it can be to make a real difference.

Landree Amis

Hometown: Conehatta

Major: Biochemistry

Post-Graduation Plans: “I’m currently applying to physician assistant schools and hope to continue my education after graduation.”

Scholarship Impact: “I’m grateful for the Southern AgCredit Endowed Scholarship because it means there are other people outside of my family and friends who believe in me and want to help me pursue my dreams.”

“Coming to Mississippi State was an easy decision. My whole family came here, and I grew up a Bulldog fan coming to football and baseball games, so it’s always felt like a second home.”

Will Fiser

Hometown: Oxford

Major: Petroleum Engineering

Post-Graduation Plans: “I will be moving to Houston, Texas, to work as a flow assurance engineer for ExxonMobil.”

Scholarship Impact: “The D. Paul Sparks Endowed Scholarship has allowed me to focus more on schoolwork without having to work to afford living expenses. Also, I have developed a strong relationship with Paul Sparks acting as a mentor to me. He helped me tremendously with my job search and provided a large amount of beneficial advice the entire time I have known him.”

Ariory Hood

Hometown: Reform, Alabama

“My favorite MSU memories must be all the athletic events I attended throughout my time here. I love to see the MSU pride on full display at each event, win or lose.”

“I came to MSU because it is a home away from home. I wanted a new change of scenery, but I also wanted to be able to feel at home, so MSU was the greatest choice.”

Major: Biomedical Engineering

Post-Graduation Plans: “I am planning on going to graduate school, but I am also looking for an option where I can work and continue my studies.”

Scholarship Impact: “The Bill Cobb Loyalty Scholarship has helped me stay dedicated to my studies. With this scholarship, I was able to experience university life more comfortably.”

Kendarius James

Hometown: Vicksburg

Major: Computer Science

Post-Graduation Plans: “My plan after graduation is to pursue a career in software development and to pursue some personal projects in computer science.”

Scholarship Impact: “The ENCORE Annual Scholarship impacted my student experience by allowing me to fully focus on my academics without me worrying about finances as a student. During my freshman year, I didn't really have that many scholarships, which was also a motivating factor of pushing myself harder to study and perform well in my classes. This allowed me to develop a routine that helped me balance the responsibilities as a student and the weight of being in a new environment for the first time. Now after receiving the scholarship, it allowed me to appreciate the generosity of my scholarship donors while finishing my last semesters of my degree without the pressure of finances.”

“I chose computer science because I wanted to pursue something that would challenge my thinking on how to solve real-world problems.”

“I have grown up coming to Mississippi State sporting events since I was a little girl, and I’ve always been able to picture myself here. When I visited different colleges throughout high school, I felt the most comfortable and at peace when touring the campus of Mississippi State.”

Abby Long

Hometown: Olive Branch

Major: Accounting

Post-Graduation Plans: “After graduating in May, I will begin Mississippi State’s Master of Professional Accountancy Program while also working towards obtaining my CPA license. I then hope to work my way towards a management position in the field of accounting where I can portray leadership skills and work with a team to ultimately grow as an accountant.”

Scholarship Impact: “My scholarships have had a substantial impact on my college experience here at MSU. I have always had a job throughout my time on campus in order to grow my experience in the field of accounting, but my scholarship opportunities have allowed me to spend more time focusing on my studies and campus involvement.”

Hannah Miller

Hometown: Dyersburg, Tennessee

Major: Biochemistry, Pre-Med Concentration

Post-Graduation Plans: “I am planning to get a laboratory job so I can work and save up some money for medical school. I will also be going through the medical school application process, so I could start medical school in August 2024.”

Scholarship Impact: “The Bryan and Cindy Wilson Endowed Scholarship has relieved some of the financial stress that come with being a student. Also, my mom has many chronic health issues, which brings medical bills that cause financial stress. This scholarship has eased those burdens and allowed me to focus more on school and pursuing my dreams instead of having to work long hours on top of class work.”

“My favorite memories come from my time in the Famous Maroon Band. Specifically, the Egg Bowl and the Reliaquest Bowl from the 2022 football season. Both games were really close, but we won both. I will always remember how it felt in the stands at each of these games as we played stand tunes and cheered on the Bulldogs.”

Ryan Pritchett

“I chose to come to MSU because of how attainable an engineering degree from MSU was. I am paying for college myself, which means I was looking for an affordable school with a respected engineering degree program that would allow me to secure a job after college. The Bagley College of Engineering was the perfect fit for these constraints, and with the help of scholarships, I was able to attend.”

Hometown: Odenville, Alabama

Major: Industrial Engineering

Post-Graduation Plans: “I have co-oped with Brasfield & Gorrie General Contractors, and I have accepted a full-time job with them upon graduation.”

Scholarship Impact: “The George Crow Dunn Engineering Scholarship has been an integral reason I am able to continue my education at MSU. This award has allowed me to continue studying without having to take out loans or work during school.”

My Bulldog Experience:

Clark Hensley

Class: Senior

Major: Computer Science

Hometown: Clinton, Mississippi

My decision to come to Mississippi State was influenced by several factors. I had several older friends who spoke highly of their time at MSU, and I knew the engineering program was very strong. When I found out that I was being offered a the Jim and Julia Rouse Presidential Endowed Scholarship, the decision was clear. I was honored for the change to be a part of such a prestigious program while pursuing my degree in computer science.

I was first exposed to the computer science area in high school. I love the problemsolving skills I have gained in my major courses of study. I also love the cross-disciplinary nature of computer science, which has allowed me to explore and interface with other fields, such as biology, biomedical engineering, and mechanical engineering.

At MSU, I have been able to participate in several extracurriculars that have helped shape my interests. Among my favorite have been my time in the research lab at the HighPerformance Computing Collaboratory, where I do data science and visualization for mechanical engineers, and my time leading MSU's Third-Annual Climate March in 2021. I have also served with other organizations, including the Student Association, where I was involved in policy research in the President's Cabinet as a sophomore and junior.

My involvement is due in large part to the Jim and Julia Rouse Presidential Endowed Scholarship, that has made such an impact on my student experience. It has, first and foremost, allowed me the financial freedom to have no concerns about being able to afford my tuition, housing or course materials. As such, I have been able to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities without needing my parent's assistance or having any debt. Beyond that, the Rouse Presidential Scholarship has also immersed me in the Shackouls Honors College and the Presidential Endowed Scholars program, in which I have met many life-long friends, had the opportunity to travel across the country and strengthened my academic ability, while writing and preparing to defend my Honors Thesis.

After I graduate in May, I intend to stay at Mississippi State and pursue my master's degree in computer science as well. I am grateful for all that I’ve been able to be a part of at MSU, and look forward to continuing my time as a Bulldog student in graduate school.

TUNE IN | Benjamin Franklin

Ken Burns' two-part, four-hour documentary, Benjamin Franklin, explores the revolutionary life of one of the 18th century's most consequential and compelling personalities. A writer and publisher, scientist and inventor, diplomat and signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution, Franklin's influence was unmatched in his time, and his impact remains with us today. The documentary offers an up-close look into the life of a true revolutionary figure. The documentary can be watched through the PBS app on a mobile device, or via a smart streaming device. For those who are strictly readers, try Walter Isaacson’s book, Benjamin Franklin: An American Life. The PBS website also has other info about him like this timeline: The PBS website also has other information about him, like this timeline you can access by scanning this QR code.

Jack McCarty, a proud alumnus and executive director of development for the MSU Foundation, enjoys sharing more than just investment advice with alumni and friends. His passion extends to sparking people’s interest in a range of topics from entertainment to news. Here’s a sundry of Jack’s latest “top picks” that he hopes all Bulldogs will pass along to others.

ON CAMPUS | MSU's New Music Building

The next time you’re on campus, make a point to stop by the newly opened Music Building at 124 Hardy Road. Tour the 37,000-square-foot facility to see the world-class rehearsal and recital halls, practice rooms, recording studio and more. You’ll also be able to see the impressive lineup of pianos that make up MSU’s All-Steinway Initiative. At the time of publication, MSU is only one piano short of reaching the official designation of an All-Steinway School.

ROAD TRIP | Walkin' in Memphis

Looking for an entertaining weekend getaway? Head up the river to Bluff City for a taste of history, culture and the arts that can only be found in Memphis. Visit Graceland, Sun Studios and Stax Records to learn more about the city’s musical heritage, and be sure to see the ducks at the Peabody Hotel—or at the Bass Pro Shops in the iconic pyramid. Catch a show at the historic Orpheum Theatre, located downtown at the intersection of Main and Beale streets. Get a reservation at Catherine and Mary’s (about one block from the Orpheum) for dinner before the show. This was highly recommended to me by fellow Bulldogs Dean and Lauran Wingo, who define what it means to be True Maroon. Try the panzanella, meatballs and tagliatelle.

WEATHER ON THE GO | Climate FieldView™ App WeatherSTEM

If you’re looking for a reliable weather app, download Climate FieldView. It tracks and saves recent and historical weather trends like rainfall data for specific locations of your choosing and provides accurate radar forecasts, wind direction and speed and precipitation estimations. You’ll need to setup a free FieldView account to login, but once completed, your data will be accessible from any internet capable device for easy reference. It’s like having a rain gauge or personalized weather station for any given location at your fingertips. Another app to try is WeatherSTEM, which uses a monitoring station on Davis Wade Stadium. Just search for “Mississippi State” in the app and get accurate weather updates from right here on campus.

GOOD READS | Raven Black

MSU Foundation board member

Turner Wingo recommended Raven Black to me. Author Ann Cleeves is a longcelebrated crime writer in Britain whose fame went international when she won the coveted Duncan Lawrie Dagger for this unforgettable suspense novel. It’s the first in a series by Cleeves that inspired the hit BBC tv show Shetland, starring Douglas Henshall. I watch Shetland on Britbox, a streaming platform that offers great British and other international dramas and comedies.

GOOD EATS | Fine Dining in the French Quarter

The next time you’re in the Big Easy, make plans to visit Bayona for an exceptional dining experience. I learned about this spot from MSU Foundation board member David Hall. Located in an early19th-century Creole cottage in the heart of the French Quarter, Bayona and Chef Susan Spicer have gained world-wide recognition for award winning food and a hand curated selection of fine wines and spirits. The “New World” cooking style boasts imaginative dishes of locally sourced ingredients and culinary influences from the Mediterranean, North Africa, Asia and the U.S. Although the menu is constantly changing, I highly recommend the goat cheese crouton appetizer. In nice weather, sit outside in the courtyard under banana fronds and sweet-olive trees.

MCCOOL HALL

ANIMAL AND DAIRY SCIENCE COMPLEX

With finals quickly approaching, we took to Instagram to ask MSU students and alumni about their top study spots on campus. From classics like Mitchell Memorial Library to brand new buildings like the Richard A. Rula Engineering and Science Complex, there’s a location perfect for every MSU student!

John was a long-time MSU professor of mathematics who also served as the department head. He retired from the university in 1988 after 24 years of service, two of which he devoted to the establishment of MSU’s honors program. Accordingly, he also holds the title of the first director of the program.

Loving husband John Tilley allows the legacy of his beloved wife Delores Tilley to live on at Mississippi State University with an Excellence Endowment in the College of Architecture, Art and Design, which bears her name.

Husband remembers wife with meaningful gift

Dolores grew up in southwestern Pennsylvania with her father, a master carpenter who inspired her love for drawing house plans. In 1964, she earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Clemson University. Later that summer, she and John moved to Starkville, where he began his career at MSU.

Together, the couple built a life they loved in Starkville, making their home in a house Dolores designed for them in 1973. She designed several other homes around the city, along with most of the original offices in Allen Hall on campus. She also enjoyed sewing and made her wedding dress, as well as most of the clothes she wore daily.

Over the nearly 70 years of marriage the Tilleys shared together, they supported MSU in many different ways, including establishing the Dolores M. and John L. Tilley Endowed Scholarship for mathematics majors in 1999.

Dolores passed away in August of 2021, but John is determined to continue their commitment toward MSU, as well as the legacy Dolores created by his side in Starkville and on campus. Last year, John established endowed excellence funds in the Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College and the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Mathematics and Statistics—both of which bear the names of John and his late wife.

More recently, he created the Dolores May (Cope) Tilley Excellence Endowment for the College of Architecture, Art and Design. In addition to being a meaningful tribute to Dolores, the gift will help create new opportunities through enhanced support for activities, programs, scholarships, faculty support, equipment or other areas within the college.

"I hope that the endowment will provide a worthy student the opportunity to complete a degree or be put to good use to help a faculty member or program in need,” said John.

The college is home to more than 800 students and has four undergraduate degrees with multiple concentrations and an MFA in historical preservation option for those seeking to take their education to the next step. Through a hands-on environment, students can express

themselves through creativity while honing their specific skill sets. Students have access to many opportunities to learn, network and interact with experts within their field and get first-hand experiences through field trips and study abroad experiences. The Dolores May (Cope) Tilley Excellence Endowment will ensure perpetual support to enrich and grow these valuable learning and outreach engagements.

“Outside costs for students in the College of Architecture, Art and Design can quickly add up,” said Kevin Randall, assistant director of gift planning. “Endowments like these help the college provide support wherever it’s needed for its students. John’s generosity and dedication to MSU and his love for Dolores allows her memory to live on in a place that shared her greatest passion: design.”

John’s dedication to MSU and eternal love for Dolores is allowing the university to flourish in new ways, while sharing Dolores’ legacy and passion with future generations.

STORY HAILEY JENKINS PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

Derris Devost-Burnett, associate professor and meat scientist in the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, said the secret to grilling lies in understanding the anatomy, biology and chemistry of meat cuisine. Burnett uses brisket to illustrate the ABCs of meat cuisine.

“Anatomy and biology tell us that the weight of a cow’s front end is shored by the brisket, which has a lot of connective tissue. That informs the chemistry and is why we can’t just put a piece of brisket on the grill and flip it a few times like a steak and be done with it,” Burnett explained. “We have to cook it low and slow and apply moisture to try to break down some of that tissue.”

As far as what to throw on the grill this summer, Burnett said he’s a fan of flat iron steak. “It isn’t well known, but other than the tenderloin, it’s one of the most tender cuts of beef.”

Pork: 145° F

Fish: 145° F

Hamburgers: 160° F

Beef steak:

• medium-rare / 130-135° F

• medium / 135-140° F

• Medium-well / 140-145° F

Poultry: 165° F

top tips for grilling

1 Pat the meat dry using a paper towel before throwing it on the grill. This removes the excess moisture that would otherwise steamcook the meat and prevent the caramelized bits that help give you a seared crust.

2 Season meat with coarse sea or kosher salt a day or two before you plan to grill it. Salt pulls moisture to the surface but seasoning well in advance leaves plenty of time for the meat to reabsorb the nowseasoned juices. This will ensure a more flavorful cut throughout instead of only seasoning the surface. If you’re crunched on time, save the seasoning for the very last moment to prevent the meat from being too dry.

3 When meat is hot, its physical structure loosens and weakens, making it less able to retain juices. Once meat cools, it returns to a stable physical structure that is able to retain its flavorful juices. So, be sure to let steaks rest for about 10 minutes, and give bigger cuts upward of 20 minutes for juices to settle down. This is the perfect time to finish your

meat with freshly cracked pepper and a few pats of compound butter. Make your own by mixing softened butter with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for a flavor boost that’s all your own!

4 Remember to pull your meat off the heat before it reaches your ideal cooking temperature as it will continue to cook after removal. Larger cuts and bonein cuts will continue to “cook” longer than smaller, boneless cuts.

5 Slice meat against the grain. This creates short meat fibers, making bites more tender.

Burnett adds that food safety is always important to keep in mind when grilling. Wash your hands before and after handling raw meat or poultry and use new plates and utensils to prevent crosscontamination when cooking.

Partially cooked meat can encourage bacteria to grow, so it’s best to cook meat to the recommended temperatures. Keep a food thermometer handy to check the level of doneness.

The Impac T of one

More than a duck hunt: Former dean of students’ legacy continues to grow

At first glance, it would seem that Eddie Keith’s devoted connection to Mississippi State University has greatly influenced his life. However, those who know him will undoubtedly tell you that his Maroon and White affinity has equally impacted their lives. His commitment to the Bulldog family has also lent to a long list of “unofficial titles” Keith has assumed over the years, including social coordinator, news reporter, record keeper, tour guide and mainstay of an annual duck hunt-turned fraternity alumni reunion that’s grown in size and meaning over the last 25 years.

In honor of all that he has done for others and his alma mater, a special fund bearing his name exists in the Division of Student Affairs at MSU. And thanks to the generosity of friends, many of whom are attendees of the annual duck hunt, the endowment has

significantly increased. Recent contributions, made in honor of Keith’s service and friendship, will enable the fund to serve as an enduring tribute to its namesake and the legacy he is continuing to shape at and through Mississippi State.

A native of Ellisville and a Gulfport High School graduate, Keith’s parents were both educators who emphasized education early on. He always knew he was bound for college, and when it came to where he would enroll, MSU was an easy choice.

“Growing up, my dad always took me to Jones County Junior College football games and we read the sports page in the Sunday news together,” said Keith. Around the age of eight or nine, Keith remembers his dad telling him that Ole Miss had a kicker from Eupora named Paige Cothren on the football team who was pretty good. “We always cheered for Mississippi—regardless of which team. I told him I really wanted to see Cothren play, so he surprised me with tickets to a double header in Jackson.”

He continued, “State was playing Tulane in the afternoon game and Ole Miss was playing Houston at night, so we planned to watch both games.”

They visited the Heidelberg hotel in downtown Jackson, where the Famous Maroon Band was also staying. Keith remembers the Famous Maroon Band playing on the roof of the hotel and the sound of cowbells ringing when MSU beat Tulane, saying, “It was electric. And it didn’t hurt that State won handily.”

By the time the father-son duo made it to the night game, Keith was so worn out from his experience at the MSU game that he fell asleep early in the first quarter.

“I still haven’t seen Cothren kick, but I woke up a State fan for life,” laughed Keith.

Keith enrolled at the land-grant institution and began his studies in education. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from MSU in 1970 and 1972, respectively, and began his career as a student counselor in the Division of Student Affairs.

He went on to complete his doctoral degree at the University of Florida (UF) and held positions at Valencia Community College, the University of Tampa and the University of North Alabama before returning home to MSU to serve as director of student life and the Colvard Student Union. He retired from the university in 2014 as associate dean of students after 25 years of service to his alma mater.

“Everyone dreams of working at their alma mater,” said Keith. “There’s just such a family feeling at MSU. I was lucky enough to have the chance to take a position here at MSU. When it came up, I jumped at it, and was proud to finish my career here.”

During his tenure, Keith oversaw the renovation of the Colvard Student Union. The original facility, which

opened two years before Keith came to campus as a student, was no longer big enough for the growing number of students and campus organizations. In 2008, the newly renovated Union was completed with a more efficient layout to maximize space for countless students and visitors of the university.

“The Union renovation was a highlight, but my favorite part of my career was always the students,” said Keith. “College students are bright, motivated, creative and fun. Some people live their lives like a race, such that every day is the same, but not students—they’re never the same. The first few weeks of the fall semester every year, as rush, move-in day and football season all start to happen, you can get a contact high just walking around campus.”

Keith regularly interacted with students in his daily work, overseeing student organizations and serving as a mentor to countless Bulldogs over the years. While his career helped make a positive impact on campus, connections forged during his own time as a student continued to shape the university community—particularly the connections he made through participating in Greek life. A longtime supporter of the fraternity and sorority life experience, Keith is credited with growing and stabilizing MSU’s Greek community.

As a freshman, Keith was unsure of what his life on a college campus would look like. But thanks to some former acquaintances, he soon found a new group of lifelong friends who shared the MSU journey with him.

“I was considering trying to walk on the MSU track team,” said Keith. “But my best friends’ older brother told me that I could play several sports for a fraternity team in intramural sports and still have more of a social

“COLLEGE STUDENTS ARE BRIGHT, MOTIVATED, CREATIVE AND FUN. SOME PEOPLE LIVE THEIR LIVES LIKE A RACE THAT’S THE SAME EVERY DAY, BUT NOT STUDENTS— THEY’RE NEVER THE SAME.”

life. He told me what a fraternity was, and that I could get a home-cooked meal for breakfast, lunch and dinner five days a week at the fraternity house. I think that sold my parents and it sounded pretty good to me too.”

Keith’s freshman-year roommate’s older brother was a member of the Gamma Theta Chapter of the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity at MSU, as were a handful of upperclassmen from Keith’s hometown. So, when he made the decision to rush, he immediately felt at home with the Pikes.

In the fall of 1966, Keith was one of 73 pledges for the Pike chapter’s incoming class. At the time, it was the biggest pledge class any fraternity at State had ever welcomed.

“It was a good decision for me,” said Keith of pledging. “It happened to be a really good time in the life of the chapter. We had some great guys, many of whom have been very successful in their lives, careers and marriages. They’re stable, salt-of-the-earth guys and I’ve always enjoyed their company.”

Through his fraternity involvement, Keith served as the fraternity sports chair for several semesters before becoming the Interfraternity Council sports chairman. He also served as the chapter’s vice president and, the summer before his senior year, he served as rush chair and then as the pledge educator for the new class.

“I always wanted brothers and sisters,” said Keith, who admits he never liked being an only child. “Thanks to my time at MSU, I now have over 100 brothers. It took me a while to get to know them all and the cast has changed some over the years, but I’ve really valued that.”

He continued, “I’m an extrovert and always really enjoyed getting to know

people, building friendships and developing lifelong relationships. That’s one of the biggest advantages of being Greek—you always have a place to go back to and know your friends are there.”

After graduation, Keith was determined to stay in touch with his newfound brothers, and his role working with student organizations also gave him an outlet for connecting with former classmates. He began sending out regular email newsletters to keep everyone up to date on happenings around campus and among their friend group. The email also served as a way to schedule regular gatherings.

Eventually, a special get-together was established through the Bear Anderton Annual Duck Hunt, which Keith coordinates. The hunt was named in memory of one of its founders and former fraternity brother, Tom “Bear” Anderton of Little Rock.

“We had about 16 people in 1999 on the first duck hunt and it’s grown substantially over the years since,” said Keith. “We now have about 35 to 40 people every year and have been doing it for 24 years straight. The only year we missed was during COVID-19.”

Although originally a true hunting weekend, as the “hunters” have moved into their 70s, the event has evolved into a reunion that brings together fraternity brothers from far and wide for a weekend of fellowship and fun. The nucleus of the group consists of the Pike pledges from 1964 to 1968, some of whom have traveled to the gathering from as far as Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, England and Guam. If you ask any of them, they will likely all tell you it’s less about the “hunt” and more about the camaraderie.

Rodger Johnson, a 1971 civil engineering graduate and Pike alumnus from Atlanta, Georgia, has been involved with the hunt from the beginning.

“Here we are, some 50 years after graduating from MSU, and still making plans to see each other at least once a year,” said Johnson. “Most of us lived in the fraternity house at some point during our time as students. The 1960s were a turbulent time and I think living together through it all really bonded us. We’re all pretty lucky that we ended up landing at the same place at the same time.”

Johnson, who currently serves on the MSU Foundation board of directors, has remained connected to MSU over the years. However, he credits his former Pike roommate Keith with being the “glue” that has kept the alumni brothers close to one another and their alma mater.

“Eddie has always been the guy behind the scenes that helps everyone make things happen,” said Johnson. “Because he lived in Starkville and was on campus, he was the contact point for anyone who visited MSU over the years, and he made it a priority to keep all of us in

touch. Thanks to him, we continue to be there to support one another as time marches on, living up to what we learned to be—brothers.”

Johnson continued, “A lot of people for a lot of years have recognized how important Eddie was to the relationships we all share, and we wanted to do something special to honor him.”

In 2020, the annual duck hunt was cancelled due to COVID-19. Later that year, once campus re-opened, Keith was instrumental in putting together a special reunion weekend at MSU to make up for the lost time. During that trip, Johnson and several others began to discuss ways to honor Keith for all he’s done throughout his personal and professional life at MSU. Johnson asked Keith’s wife Susan, a fellow MSU graduate, for ideas. Susan said that Keith would not want something for himself, but rather something that would benefit others. She reminded the group about a special fund that was created upon Keith’s retirement from MSU in 2014. Johnson immediately inquired about the fund and rallied the troops.

“I gathered email addresses for some of our Pike alumni and made them aware of the idea to contribute to Eddie’s fund,” said Johnson, who admits it wasn’t a difficult ask. Many were eager to give back in a special way to honor all Keith had done for them. “The hardest part was trying to keep our effort quiet so Eddie would be surprised. More than sixty people right off the bat agreed to contribute. Most of them were participants of the duck hunt.”

The following year during the annual hunt, the group presented Keith with a memento—a hand-carved duck decoy with a walnut base and special plaque entitled, ‘More than a duck hunt’—which served to inform him of the collective contribution they had made in his honor. Keith was “blown away” by the gesture.

The Edwin M. Keith Jr. Greek Excellence Endowment was created in 2014 through a $150,000 collective gift by the social fraternity and sorority organizations at MSU and was initially presented to Keith during his retirement celebration as a salute to his work on behalf of students and Greek life at the university. The fund ensures perpetual support for Greek activities and creates opportunities for future students—a cause that’s dear to Keith’s heart.

Nearly 70 individuals and organizations have contributed to the nearly $50,000 total that has been added to the fund since 2021. “There are still fraternities and sororities making annual gifts to the fund, and that alone should

AND SORORITIES MAKING ANNUAL GIFTS TO THE FUND, AND THAT ALONE SHOULD TELL YOU SOMETHING ABOUT THE IMPACT EDDIE MADE.”

tell you something about the impact Eddie made,” said Johnson.

It would be nearly impossible to count the lives and the ways Eddie Keith has impacted MSU throughout his journey as a student, an employee and an alumnus. But the mark he’s made is unmistakable and continues to grow on campus and beyond.

“You hope that the people you come in contact with walk away having had a positive experience because of you,” said Keith. “And specifically, in my job with students and with the role I undertook on behalf of my fraternity brothers as an alumnus, my goal was always for someone to walk away from the college experience saying that they are better for having been a part of it. I know I am.”

“There are so many stereotypes of Greeks and fraternities, but at the end of the day, it’s about friendship and real life,” said Keith, who credits his Greek affiliation with his ability to lead and engage with different types of people for various outcomes. “We’re social creatures and Greek life gives you a chance to find people you enjoy spending your college years with, and if you’re lucky, the years beyond.”

STORY ADDIE MAYFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

“THERE ARE STILL FRATERNITIES

Mary Beth Baldwin has assumed a new role within the Mississippi State University Foundation’s fundraising team, serving as the assistant director of development for the College of Veterinary Medicine. The Bruce native previously served as the associate director of annual giving for the Foundation, a role she held since 2018.

Baldwin graduated in 2009 from MSU with her bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing, followed by her master’s degree in kinesiology with a concentration in sport administration in 2012.

After attending MSU, Baldwin managed premium seating and hospitality with MSU Athletics while she worked for the Colonnade Group Inc. as suite director. Most recently, she was office manager for Columbus Orthopaedic Clinic’s Starkville location.

In her new position, Baldwin joins veteran fundraiser Jimmy Kight in securing gifts for the College of Veterinary Medicine. Her office is located in the Wise Center near the Turner A. Wingo Dean’s Suite.

For more on the MSU Foundation and a full list of fundraisers, visit msufoundation.com.

Baldwin

Colvard Student Union Then and Now

The Colvard Student Union was built in 1964 under the leadership of its namesake, Dr. Dean W. Colvard, the President of the University who called it the “Living Room of the University.” It housed the MSU Bookstore; a game room which featured an 8-lane bowling alley, pinball machines, and billiards tables; an 8-chair barber shop; offices for the Student Association, Union Program Council (formally the Campus Activities Board), Reflector, Reveille, and a few other student groups; the Union Grill; meeting rooms, the Ballroom, and Small Auditorium; and administrative offices for the Union staff. In response to steady growth in the student body and the number of student organizations, an architect was hired in the late 1990s to lay the groundwork for a major renovation. After several years of planning, studies of trends in other student unions, and student surveys and focus groups, a major renovation and expansion for the Colvard Student Union began in 2006. The newly renovated building opened in early 2008 with eight large multi-purpose meeting rooms, 4 conference style rooms, the Fowlkes Auditorium, Art Gallery, as well as the Bill R. Foster Ballroom, and a food court. Today, the Union also houses the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center and continues to be one of the most widely visited facilities on campus.

MSU Foundation announces 2023 officers, incoming members

The Mississippi State University Foundation is announcing its 2023 leaders and incoming members for the board of directors that guides the fundraising arm of the land-grant institution.

Incoming officers with new one-year terms that began Jan. 1 include three alumni: Anthony L. Wilson of Gulfport as chair; Rodger L. Johnson of Atlanta, Georgia, as vicechair; and Paul J. Karre of Pawleys Island, South Carolina, as treasurer.

A Mississippi native of D’Iberville, Wilson is a loyal member of the MSU Foundation board who earlier served as vice chair for three terms. He earned an electrical engineering degree from MSU in 1987, and also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. He currently serves as chairman, president and CEO of Mississippi Power Company. Prior to assuming his current role, he served as executive vice president

of customer service and operations for Georgia Power.

Johnson is a 1971 civil engineering graduate of MSU. He also earned an MBA from Georgia State University in 1982. A native of Greenwood, he currently serves as president and CEO of JKC Holdings, Inc

Karre is the retired senior vice president of human resources and communications of International Paper. He earned a BBA in management from MSU in 1974. The Natchez native is a current member and past president of the executive advisory board for the College of Business.

Rounding out the remaining board officers are MSU personnel. John P. Rush, vice president for development and alumni, is the board’s president and CEO; Janet H. Carraway, executive director of finance, is chief financial officer; and Jack McCarty, executive director of development, serves as board secretary. All are MSU graduates.

2.

1. Brenton S. Brasher of Holcomb. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural economics from MSU in 1985 and 1991, respectively. He leads Kengro Corporation as president.

Catherine C. Dunn of New Orleans, Louisiana. She earned her bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from MSU in 1975. She also completed graduate studies in industrial engineering at MSU and civil engineering at the University of New Orleans. Dunn is the retired director of port development for the Port of New Orleans.

3. Douglas J. Marchant of Memphis, Tennessee. He is a 1974 MSU computer science graduate and an original founder of United Health Services. He retired from the organization as president and CEO.

4. H. Lamar McKay Jr. of Houston, Texas. A native of Jackson, he graduated from MSU with a degree in petroleum engineering in 1980. He spent 40 years in progressive leadership roles in the oil industry before retiring as Deputy Chief Executive of BP p.l.c.

Seven

members who have previously served are returning to the board in new terms. They are:

1. William B. Berry of Katy, Texas. He received two MSU petroleum engineering degrees—a 1974 bachelor’s and a 1976 master’s. He is the retired CEO of Continental Resources Inc.

2. Helen M. Currie of Houston, Texas. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy in business administration with a concentration in finance from Mississippi State in 2000 and is the chief economist for ConocoPhillips.

3. John D. Davis IV of Flowood. He is a 1988 biological engineering and pre-medicine graduate of Mississippi State, who later received an M.D. from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 1992. He is a founding partner and neurosurgeon for NewSouth NeuroSpine.

4. John R. Lundy of Ridgeland. A native of Leland, he is a 1983 graduate of MSU with a bachelor’s in agricultural economics, and a partner at CR Federal.

Chartered in 1962, the MSU Foundation administers most of the campus-based fundraising activities and endowment funds. For more information: msufoundation.com & @MSU_Foundation

5. Allen K. Sills Jr. of Franklin, Tennessee. He is a 1986 biological engineering graduate of Mississippi State who received an M.D. from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in 1990. He serves as the inaugural chief medical officer for the National Football League and is a professor of neurosurgery, orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation in the Department of Neurological Surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

6. Cynthia W. Simpson of Plano, Texas. She is a 1996 interior design graduate who serves as regional managing principal at Gensler.

7. Bryan S. Wilson of Starkville. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in entomology from MSU in 1982 and 1984, respectively, and is the retired managing partner of Tacoma Ag LLC.

alumnI assn. chapTer

scholarshIps = 153

annual scholarshIps = 1033

compass scholarshIps = 155

loyalTy scholarshIps = 566

legacy scholarshIps = 114

endowed scholarshIps = 3218

presIdenTIal endowed scholarshIps = 110

grand ToTal = 5349

foundation board

Officers:

CHAIR — Anthony L. Wilson | Chairman, President and CEO of Mississippi Power Company | Gulfport, Miss.

VICE CHAIR — Rodger L. Johnson | President and CEO of JKC Holdings, Inc. | Atlanta, Ga.

TREASURER — Paul J. Karre | Senior Vice President HR/Communications for International Paper (retired) | Pawleys Island, S.C.

PRESIDENT AND CEO — John P. Rush | Vice President of Development and Alumni, Mississippi State University | MSU

MSU SECRETARY — Jack R. McCarty | Executive Director of Development, Mississippi State University Foundation | MSU

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER — Janet H. Carraway | Executive Director of Finance, Mississippi State University Foundation | MSU

Members:

Boyce E. Adams Sr. | Special Advisor of BankTEL- An Avid Exchange Co. | Columbus, Miss.

Richard C. Adkerson | Chairman and CEO of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. | Phoenix, Ariz.

William B. “Bill” Berry | CEO of Continental Resources, Inc. (retired) | Katy, Texas

D. Hines Brannan Jr. | Managing Director of Accenture (retired) | Atlanta, Ga.

Brenton S. “Brent” Brasher | President of Kengro Corporation | Holcomb, Miss.

Mary M. Childs | President, CEO, COO and Chairman of The Peoples Bank | Ripley, Miss.

Albert C. Clark | President and CEO of C.C. Clark Inc. | Starkville, Miss.

Dr. Helen M. Currie | Chief Economist of ConocoPhillips | Houston, Texas

Dr. John D. Davis IV | Neurosurgeon/Founding Partner of NewSouth NeuroSpine | Flowood, Miss.

Earnest W. Deavenport, Jr. | Chairman and CEO of Eastman Chemical (retired) | Greenville, S.C.

Timothy S. “Tim” Duncan | President and CEO of Talos Energy Inc. | Houston, TX

Catherine C. “Cathy” Dunn | Director-Port Development of Port of New Orleans (retired) | New Orleans, LA

David B. Hall | CEO and President of Hall Timberlands | Meridian, Miss.

Thomas G. “Tom” Hixon, Sr. | Chairman of Phoenix Development Company, LLC | Ridgeland, Miss.

Herbert V. “Herb” Johnson | President of HVJ Associates, Inc. | Houston, TX

Malcolm B. Lightsey Sr. | President and CEO of SunTech Inc. (retired) | Ridgeland, Miss.

John R. Lundy | Partner of CR Federal | Ridgeland, Miss.

Lewis F. Mallory Jr. | Chairman and CEO of Cadence Bank (retired) | Starkville, Miss.

Douglas J. “Doug” Marchant | Founder, President, and CEO of Unified Health Services (retired) | Memphis, TN

Mike M. McDaniel | President of Saber Power Services LLC (retired) | Houston, Texas

J. Michael “Mike” McIlwain | CEO of Applied Technical Services | Kildeer, Ill.

H. Lamar McKay, Jr. | Deputy CEO of BP PLC (retired) | Houston, TX

Roderick A. “Rod” Moore | Executive Vice President and CEO of Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance (retired) | Brandon, Miss.

Becky E. Murphy | Senior Vice President of Sales for Sirius Computer Solutions (retired) | Dallas, Texas

Linda F. Parker | Secretary of Sunbelt Wholesale Supply (retired) | Bolton, Miss.

Joffrey R. “Jay” Pryor | Vice President for Business Development of Chevron Corporation | Houston, Texas

Richard H. Puckett Sr. | Chairman and CEO of Puckett Machinery Co. | Madison, Miss.

Walter D. “David” Purvis | Vice President Engineering of BHP Billiton (retired) | New Orleans, La.

Charles W. “Tex” Ritter Jr. | President and CEO of The Attala Company (retired) | Kosciusko, Miss.

James J. “Jim” Rouse | Vice President of ExxonMobil Company (retired) | Suwanee, Ga.

Richard A. Rula | President of Hemphill Construction Co. | Florence, Miss.

Michael W. “Mike” Sanders | President and CEO of Jimmy Sanders, Inc. (retired) | Cleveland, Miss.

Leo W. Seal III | President of Leo Seal Family Foundation | Bay Saint Louis, Miss.

Bobby S. Shackouls | Chairman, President and CEO of Burlington Resources Inc. (retired) | Houston, Texas

Dr. Allen K. Sills, Jr. | Chief Medical Officer of NFL | Franklin, TN

Cynthia W. “Cindy” Simpson | Regional Managing Principal of Gensler | Plano, Texas

Charles R. “Charlie” Stephenson | CEO and Director of Heartland Natural Resources | West Point, Miss.

R. Patrick White | Vice President of National Accounts for LSI Industries | Houston, Texas

Albert J. “Al” Williams | Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Chevron | San Ramon, Calif.

Bryan S. Wilson | Managing Partner of Tacoma Ag, LLC (retired) | Starkville, Miss.

Turner A. Wingo | Owner of Sherry's Hallmark (retired) | Starkville, Miss.

Stacy E. Thomas | Legal Counsel | Jackson, Miss.

Post Office Box 6149

One Hunter Henry Boulevard Mississippi State, MS 39762-6149

www.msufoundation.com

Mississippi State University Foundation

@MSU_Foundation

@msu_foundation

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Compass Scholars WalK

Leave your mark at Mississippi State University

The compass scholars walk, located south of Davis Wade Stadium in The Junction, offers opportunities for the Bulldog family to acquire customizable bricks and pavers to be placed in the heart of gameday territory. Your contributions to the Compass Scholarship Program give us a competitive advantage as we recruit the best students who will excel and uphold MSU’s long-standing tradition of excellence and service.

TO ORDER: Visit msufoundation.com/ compasswalk.

FOR QUESTIONS: Contact the Office of Annual Giving at (662) 325-5975.

8” x 4” brick: Gifts of $500 each

16” x 16” BLACK granite paver: Compass Scholarship pledge of $1,500 or more annually over five years per paver

8” X 8” BRICK: Gifts of $750 each