Foundations Magazine Fall 2022

Mississippi State University Foundation

Volume 22 | Number 2

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

Ashleigh Lee

Addie Mayfield

CONTRIBUTING STAFF

Erica Way, Marketing Manager

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Megan Bean

Grace Cockrell

Robby Lozano

Beth Wynn

• • • 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.

Noteworthy News

08 | Presidential Scholars

Selected for 2022—2023

24 | James Worth Bagley College of Engineering

Prepares for the innovations of tomorrow

40 | Personnel Changes

Development team welcomes new staff

41 | 2022 Fiscal Year

New milestones achieved

In Each Issue

03 | Viewpoint

Foundation President and CEO

15 | Student Perspective

Madison Taylor in her own words

16 | Foundation Favorites

Jack McCarty proposes leisure activities

18 | Campus Views

Cowbells and paint pails

20 | Why Give?

Sonny Montgomery's legacy continues at MSU

32 | Get to Know

Meet the Bagley College fundraisers

36 | Then and Now

The YMCA Building

42 | Achievements

Fundraising success

43 | Foundation Board

A complete list of our voluntary board

Our Cover

Eileen Carr-Tabb is a Starkville native and twotime graduate of MSU. She is a proud alumna and has remained active with the university for many years. Read her full story on page 4.

PHOTO BY Megan Bean

Headline Title ?????

When I started my job with the MSU Foundation in 1997, I never could have imagined the ways my life would be shaped by the people I’ve met throughout my career. Hunter Henry was one of the first alumni I was introduced to in my new role as a development officer.

Hunter, who had previously retired from Dow Chemical Company after more than four decades of service, was an encouraging mentor to me as I navigated my own career path. He was always there to listen and offer great advice— much of which I still rely on today.

Despite his passing in 2011, Hunter’s connection to MSU continues today through the investments he made in his lifetime. Many individuals, myself included, benefitted from his involvement and interest in the success of our university, and I’m thankful to have called him a friend.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Hunter Henry Center that is home to the Division of Development and Alumni. When we left the Butler Williams Building, the Hunter Henry Center seemed enormous. Now, we have staff members filling every office. Such growth wouldn’t have been possible without his visionary foresight that allowed us to enter a new space—physically and figuratively—in the realms of fundraising and alumni engagement.

Hunter’s cornerstone commitment for this facility contributed to the unrivaled $55.8 million raised in private support for the 2000-2001 fiscal year. Through the evergrowing support of the Bulldog family, we’re now celebrating a new record-high of $125.3 million and 9 consecutive years of giving over $100 million. I can’t imagine the pride and joy Hunter would have in seeing how far we’ve come.

I am fortunate that, in terms of esteemed mentorship and valued friendships, Hunter was just the beginning for me in my professional life. Throughout my career, I have encountered a growing number of genuinely good people who not only see the untapped potential in others, but also willingly offer their time and resources to bring it to fruition. And in doing so, I’ve realized that sense of shared success is both a catching and defining hallmark of the Bulldog family.

More than a building, The Hunter Henry Center, is a prominent reminder of the strides we have taken in the brief 20 years of its existence. It is a purveyor of the generous

support and meaningful connections of countless alumni and friends who make unimaginable successes a reality. And it is a lasting legacy of those, like Hunter and you, who care enough to make a real difference in the lives of others. Thank you for being a part of this prolific journey that is fueling monumental milestones for the next generation to build upon at Mississippi State.

JOHN P. RUSH '94, '02

President and CEO MSU Foundation

One would be hard pressed to find someone more passionate about people and Mississippi State University than Eileen Carr-Tabb. A proud alumna of the university she calls home, she has a lifetime of memories connected to MSU—many of which are recalled with tears of joy and gratitude. And she doesn’t miss a home game when the Bulldogs are playing. Recognizing what it took to get her MSU degree, she’s doing her part to help other ambitious Bulldogs become a part of the great tradition.

Carr-Tabb was raised in a home on Vine Street, no more than a mile from MSU’s campus, just off Highway 12. Growing up, she fondly recalls the many walks she made with her sisters to watch the passing cars on their way to the football game at Davis Wade Stadium.

“We could hear the cowbells and see the lights during the night games and always said that one day it would be us in one of those cars going to watch the Bulldogs play,” she said. “All we knew was Mississippi State and we wanted to be a part of it.”

Her parents were some of the hardest working people she’s ever known. They worked multiple jobs, including serving as staff members on MSU’s campus, to take care of their family. Carr-Tabb’s father, John Carr Jr., worked in the university laundry services before going to work for Peoples Bank as a courier. Her mother, Queen Carr, was a custodian. When their day-jobs at MSU ended, the couple began another shift cleaning local business in the evenings.

“After school, our parents would take my sisters and me with them to their job. While they cleaned, we sat on the floor and did our homework assignments,” said Carr-Tabb, the youngest of the three daughters. “They worked so hard to make sure the three of us would have opportunities to go to college like we had always dreamed. They were wonderful parents.”

When Carr-Tabb graduated high school, there was no doubt where she was going to pursue her degree. She had received scholarship offers to other schools, but after all the years she spent as a little girl watching cars pass on Highway 12, she knew she’d never go anywhere but Mississippi State.

She enrolled at MSU and officially joined the Bulldog family. Like her elder sister Aurora Carr Baugh (’84), Carr-Tabb also chose to study communications. One of her favorite memories from her undergraduate year was traveling to her first away game—an experience with which she is now well accustomed.

“I never dreamed I would be able to travel to a game. I was just grateful to be able to go to school. My friends and I always heard about the big rival game State played against Ole Miss in Jackson, so when we finally had a chance to go, we took it,” she said. “To be able to go to Jackson and watch MSU beat Ole Miss— I can’t even describe the atmosphere. We still talk about that trip!”

In addition to being her first time traveling to an away game, the trip brought another “first” as Carr-Tabb and her friends made special purchases for the occasion.

“I had never owned a cowbell. I wasn’t sure if I could afford it because I was just trying to go to school, but we all splurged, and it was money well spent. We rang those bells all the way to Jackson and back,” said Carr-Tabb, who has substantially grown her cowbell collection over the years since.

Carr-Tabb graduated with her bachelor’s degree in communication in 1985, and later earned a master’s degree in health promotion. She began her career with the Shelby County Health Department, where she helped trace and minimize the spread of HIV/AIDS through public health education and related outreach services. As her career progressed and she became more interested in public health issues, Carr-Tabb assumed similar progressive roles in Dallas, Texas, with the Dallas Urban League and later in Chicago, Illinois, with the Cook County Health Department.

She eventually returned home to work with the Mississippi Department of Health. Based in Oktibbeha County, she promoted health and safety across ten

Carr-Tabb at MSU, photo by Megan Bean

I ALWAYS THOUGHT, IF I CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE OR MAKE IT EASIER ON ONE PERSON—IT MIGHT NOT BE MUCH—BUT IF I CAN HELP SOMEONE NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT WHETHER OR NOT THEY CAN GO TO COLLEGE, I WILL.

surrounding counties for more than 24 years. Carr-Tabb retired in 2020 as senior community health educator but continues her diligent service to the community through her ongoing volunteer efforts.

Over the years, she has been actively involved with more than 15 different community service organizations in Starkville and the surrounding areas. She has held executive positions for many, including the Starkville Lions Club, Starkville-MSU Multi Cultural Lions Club, the local American Red Cross chapter’s disaster preparedness team and the Greater Starkville Partnership’s Minority Task Force. The Partnership honored Carr-Tabb with the esteemed T.E. Veitch Community Service Award in 2017.

Her late husband Robert Tabb Sr. shared Carr-Tabb’s passion for helping others. As the oldest child in his family, Tabb went to work right out of high school to help take care of his younger siblings. Although he never had the chance to go to college, he worked hard and taught himself the skills needed to be successful.

Looking back on the difficult journey her husband faced without a college education and thinking about the sacrifices her parents endured to put three children through college, Carr-Tabb knew she would do whatever it took to help create opportunities for other students to further their education.

“I watched the financial struggles my parents faced as one, and then both of my older sisters were enrolled in college. I was afraid I might not be able to go because three children in school might be too much to afford, but they made it work,” said Carr-Tabb, remembering the worrisome feeling like it was yesterday.

She continued, “I always thought, if I can make a difference or make it easier on one person—it might not be much—but if I can help someone not have to worry about whether or not they can go to college, I will. I don’t want young people to hear the cowbells and the cheering, like my sisters and I did, and not be able to come here and be a part of this wonderful place.”

As a result, she created the Eileen Carr-Tabb Loyalty Scholarship at MSU in 2020. The scholarship benefits fulltime entering freshmen or community college transfer students and serves as a meaningful testament to the transformative support poured into her life and education by those she has loved.

An active member of the MSU Alumni Association and Black Alumni Advisory Council, Carr-Tabb has been giving back to the university for a decade. Her gifts have supported areas such as the Black Alumni Advisory Council Scholarship and the Access, Diversity and Inclusion Emergency Fund. Unsurprisingly, she also is a longtime supporter of Bulldog athletics.

“I love this university. I still get emotional about it because I know what it took to get me here,” she said. “My dad always said, ‘Make something out of yourselves. The only way you can do that is with an education. Houses, cars, clothes—they can be taken away from you, but the one thing that cannot be taken away from you is what you have in your head’.”

As a result of her parents’ dedication and the values they instilled in their children, Carr-Tabb is now one of five MSU alumni in her family—four of which are postgraduates. Her eldest sister, Shelia Carr Williams, and one

Eileen Carr-Tabb at various MSU events???

niece are “honorary Bulldogs,” having graduated from Rust College in Holly Springs, but sharing their family’s love for MSU.

“It means so much to think of what came from the sacrifices my parents made to get me to State. And even more to think that there are now four people in my family with not just one, but two degrees from MSU,” she said.

Today, when Carr-Tabb takes her seat in the Scoreboard Club of Davis Wade Stadium to watch the Dawgs play, she thinks of how far she’s come from her childhood home on Vine Street. She also is reminded of an especially memorable game she attended with her father, who, despite working on campus most of his life, had never watched the Bulldogs play from a seat inside the stadium until that day.

The Scoreboard Club wasn’t built at the time, but CarrTabb had season tickets. As she guided her elderly father down to her seats on the 50-yard line near the field, he began to get emotional. Carr-Tabb will never forget the awe in her father’s expression when he asked, “You mean we get to sit down there by the field?”

The highlight of the game came when Carr-Tabb’s nephew, her father’s grandson and an MSU student at the time, walked onto the field to sing with the MSU choir. “He was so proud of us, and I was so happy to share that moment with him,” said Carr-Tabb.

Carr-Tabb’s husband passed away last December. As the only member of her family still residing in Starkville,

she said it’s common for people to ask when she’s going to leave and move closer to family. But her response is the same as it has always been.

“Mississippi State is my home. I’m here by myself because of this doggone university, but I love it,” she laughed. “Living here, I get to still be involved and I enjoy going to everything MSU-related I can fit into my schedule.”

A season ticket holder for multiple Bulldog athletic teams, Carr-Tabb is a regular at football, women’s and men’s basketball, softball and baseball games, making a point to be at every home game and at least two away games each year. This year, she and her sisters are looking forward to traveling to the Egg Bowl together to cheer on their Dawgs.

“After all those years of dreaming about being a Bulldog, it seemed like a miracle for me to finally hear the cowbells ringing from inside the MSU football stadium,” said Carr-Tabb. “Now I get to hear those same cowbells in stadiums in other cities. It never gets old.”

PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

I LOVE THIS UNIVERSITY. I GET STILL EMOTIONAL ABOUT IT BECAUSE I KNOW WHAT IT TOOK TO GET ME HERE.

Selected for 2022-2023

Presidential Scholars are known for their academic skills, creativity and desire to excel. They are among the elite students in the United States who enroll at Mississippi State University to further their goals as part of the prestigious Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College.

Earnings from endowment-level gifts for Presidential Scholarships help cover the cost of attending MSU over the course of four years. The experience provides a one-time educational enrichment scholarship for study abroad, internships or other qualified academic pursuits, an undergraduate research fellowship award and exceptional mentoring opportunities.

Photo by Megan Bean, Office of Public Affairs

HAYDEN ANDERSON

Columbus, MS Biochemistry

Nichole Moore Ray Presidential Endowed Scholarship

HUNTER ANDERSON

Mountain Brook, AL

Animal and Dairy Science, Pre-Vet Hal and Linda Parker Presidential Endowed Scholarship

DAVID ANZOLA

Hattiesburg, MS

Mechanical Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

GRACE BELK

Biloxi, MS Chemistry

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

ABBY BERGER

Jonesboro, AR Biochemistry, Pre-Vet John Grisham Presidential Endowed Scholarship

WILLIAM CARTER

Jackson, MS

Electrical Engineering

Berenice and Lamar A. Conerly Presidential Endowed Scholarship

SNEHA CHERUKURI

Madison, MS

Biological Sciences

Ottilie Schilling Leadership Scholarship

GERTARRYAN COLEMAN

Clinton, MS Biological Sciences

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

ELI COLEMAN

Meridian, MS

Mechanical Engineering

Mark and Cindy Jordan Presidential Endowed Scholarship

PAYTON DAVIS

Ocala, FL

Environmental Economics and Sustainability

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

KYLAR DELOACH

Stonewall, MS Computer Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

ANNALYN FAYARD

Biloxi, MS Biomedical Engineering

Hassell Franklin Presidential Endowed Scholarship

ROWAN FEASEL

Union, MS English

G.V. Sonny Montgomery Presidential Endowed Scholarship

REGAN FELDER

Madison, MS Biomedical Engineering

Lila and Hunter Henry Presidential Endowed Scholarship

LEWIS FULLER

Birmingham, AL Economics

Brad Roderick Moore Presidential Endowed Scholarship

MADELYNN GREEN

Russellville, AL Anthropology

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

CLAIRE GREEN

Little Rock, AR Biochemistry

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

APRIL

GUO-YUE

Starkville, MS Biomedical Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

RACHEL GUYNES

Greenville, MS Computer Science

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

AMELIA

Missouri City, TX

Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

LOGAN

Jackson, MS

Mechanical Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

CHRISTOPHER JOLIVETTE

McCalla, AL Psychology

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

Olive Branch, MS Accounting

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

Shannon, MS Biomedical Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

Bartlett, TN Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation

John Grisham Presidential Endowed Scholarship

JENNA KASSELMAN

Enterprise, MS Computer Science

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

Madison, MS Chemical Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

HORNER

HUFF

MAYA JONES

MIKAYLA JONES

NYLA JONES

SHREENITHI LAKSHMINARAYANAN

JAREN LEE

Starkville, MS Finance

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

CHRISTOPHER MARTINEZ

Huntsville, AL Computer Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

CALEB MCCONAHA

New Albany, MS Kinesiology

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

SADIE MORRIS

Greenwood, IN

Geoscience, Broadcast Meterology

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

JALEN NIXON

Vossburg, MS Computer Science

Hassell Franklin Presidential Endowed Scholarship

ANNE PHILLIPS

French Camp, MS English

G. V. Sonny Montgomery Presidential Endowed Scholarship

CHLOE PUCKETT

Muscle Shoals, AL Chemical Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

ZAMIYA WARNER

Pearl, MS

Kinesiology, Neuromechanics

Charles and Pat Lee Presidential Endowed Scholarship

WILLIAM WORD

Madison, MS Microbiology

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

MADELINE RAYNOR

Diberville, MS

Chemical Engineering

Hunter and Lila Henry Presidential Endowed Scholarship

ABBY REEVES

Cushing, TX

Aerospace Engineering, Astronautics

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

LUKE SALISBURY

Long Beach, MS

Mechanical Engineering

Ottilie Schilling Leadership Scholarship

HAILEE SEXTON

D’Iberville, MS

Philosophy

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. S Presidential Endowed Scholarship

VINEETH VANGA

Madison, MS

Biochemistry, Pre-Med

Charles and Pat LeePresidential Endowed Scholarship

ETHAN WARING

Westlake, OH

Mechanical Engineering

Louis A. Hurst, Jr. Presidential Endowed Scholarship

My Bulldog Experience:

Class: Freshman

Major: Business Administration

Hometown: Columbus, MS

I grew up in a home where we bled Maroon and White. At the end of my high school years, I started touring colleges. MSU was the first college tour I went on. Throughout the tour, there was a sense of peace that surpassed me. I could see how enthusiastic others were about being on campus and the sense of family that MSU creates. Since then, I’ve known that Mississippi State was where I was meant to be.

MSU not only offers a community, but also tons of organizations to get involved in. As I freshman, I am still learning all about the opportunities, however I hope to get involved in as many student activities as my schedule will allow.

I chose to pursue a business degree because I want to start and run my own business in the future. I hope that one day I will be a woman in business that makes an impact. None of the opportunities I am currently navigating would be possible without the financial support I received through the George Bishop Family Endowed Scholarship. The scholarship inspires me to work hard and is helping me achieve my career goals. I am so thankful for the support that has been given to me at MSU.

Becoming a Bulldog has been one of the best decisions that I have made. I am so excited to dive into my studies, get involved in organizations and simply experience the life of a student at MSU. Hail State and Go Dawgs!

1. Campus STATE-ment • Hail State Icon

Bulldogs interested in seeing one of the many campus beautification efforts that has emerged over the summer should add another location to their campus pilgrimage bucket list. A massive installation of life-size letters that read “Hail State” has been firmly affixed to the ground between Montgomery Hall and the Perry Cafeteria, offering a highly photographable moment in a prominent location. Like The Drill Field and the Bulldog statues in The Junction, this vividly iconic sign will undoubtedly be a hit destination for social media trends and memorable snapshots alike. The monument, inspired by the “Memphis” sign on Mud Island, also adds to the growing list of public art displays woven throughout campus and downtown Starkville. Be sure to send us your photo in front of the “Hail State” sign after your next visit!

2. Make it Count • IRA Transfer

Fun fact- MSU’s iconic new “Hail State” sign was made possible through a generous gift in the form of an IRA transfer. Individual retirement account (IRA) transfers are very popular among individuals who are 70 ½ years and older as they can make a direct, taxfree transfer of up to $100k annually from their IRA to a public charity like the MSU Foundation. This unique method of giving may also reduce your taxable income and can count toward your annual required minimum distribution.

Scan the QR code to learn more about IRAs and other gift planning options available through the MSU Foundation’s Office of Gift Planning.

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.

3. Read All About It • A Season in the Sun by Lars

Anderson

In a previous issue of Foundations, I featured Bruce Arians’ book, The Quarterback Whisperer. A great follow-up read to that is A Season in the Sun: The Inside Story of Bruce Arians, Tom Brady, and the Making

of a Champion by Lars Anderson. It’s an extraordinary behind-the-scenes story of how Arians, Brady, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers came together to deliver one of the most improbable Super Bowl victories in NFL history. Enjoy!

4. Seeing is Believing • Binocular Top Picks

A good pair of binoculars are an essential appendage for ballgame-goers, wildlife enthusiasts and everyone else on your Christmas list. Here are my top picks for any budget.

Top shelf: Leica Ultravid 8x42. Before making a purchase at this level, I recommend comparing these to the Swarovski EL 8.5x42. Then, I wouldn’t hesitate to elevate your viewing life with whichever pair fits your eyes and hands the best. These are true game changers that excel in every situation.

Middle of the road: Pentax 8x42 DCF – WP II. These are hard to beat for the money—crystal clear and ergonomic. Another great option is the Vortex Diamondback 8x42.

Economical: Wingspan Optics Fieldview 8x32. Great entry-level pair that you will carry with you everywhere. Also try the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD E – Series 10x42.

6. Southern Comfort • Norma Jean's Diner

5. Road Trip •

Fall is the perfect time to visit the beautiful John James Audubon State Park Museum. Housed in a historic stone chateau-style building perched on the edge of the park’s beautiful nature preserve, the facility is home to one of the largest collections of materials from wildlife artist and naturalist, John James Audubon. Several hiking trails begin/end near the building as well, allowing for great outdoor experiences. Before you go, take an hour to watch the documentary “Audubon” on Amazon Prime. Then, trace the steps of the remarkable namesake by visiting London (England), Labrador (Canada), New Orleans, Louisiana or St. Augustine, Florida. Audubon followed the birds, and the birds obviously know the best places to visit.

The next time you’re craving authentic, down-home Southern comfort food in an equally comfortable and friendly setting, grab a table at Norma Jean’s in Pachuta. The diner is a hidden gem that serves country classics like fried chicken, greens and cornbread in a cafeteria-style line, so you can pick what you like. It’s an easy drive from Starkville, just off exit 126 on I-59. Stop by for lunch during the week and tell her I sent you.

Volunteers painted a large cowbellthemed mural in the center of University Drive near MSU's campus this summer. Similar murals and crosswalk art were also added. The project strengthens the corridor between campus and the city of Starkville with creative imagery representing the positive town and gown partnership.

PHOTOGRAPHY MSU OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Montgomery’s legacy continues at MSU

1951 in the 31st National Guard Infantry Division. He retired from the National Guard as a Major General after 35 years.

G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery's roots run deep in Starkville. Though he called Meridian home, his greatgrandfather, Col. W.B. Montgomery, was raised around the Starkville area and was an original trustee of Mississippi Agricultural & Mechanical College, helping secure its location in Starkville. Montgomery Hall was named in his honor.

Even without these connections, Montgomery's love for the university was evident as a student during the 1940s. He was a varsity basketball player, a football manager, president of the Student Association and was named Mr. MSU. He graduated in 1943 with a bachelor's in general business administration and immediately went to Europe during World War II as a lieutenant in the 12th Armored Division, beginning his life-long involvement with veteran and military affairs.

After returning from World War II, Montgomery joined the Mississippi National Guard and later served in Korea in

"Sonny was always the life of the party," said Brad Crawford, president of the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Foundation. "He was a well-rounded guy and was known as 'Mr. Personality.' He always treated every person he encountered with the same respect. From the workers in the cafeteria to the former presidents he worked with, he treated them all with genuine reverence."

Montgomery began his political career by representing his state when elected to the Mississippi State Senate in 1956. He served in that role for 10 years before heading to Washington, D.C., where he spent the next 30 years as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Known as "Mr. Veteran" on Capitol Hill, he was a proponent of veteran, military and National Guard issues and championed a G.I. bill that bears his name. Montgomery passed away in 2006 at the age of 85 in his hometown.

"Sonny's legacy is hard to sum up," said Crawford. "Everything he did was to help support those who served

our country. He was a popular politician in Washington who earned the respect of his supporters and opponents alike because of his dedication to military endeavors. Before he passed away, he created the G. V. “Sonny” Montgomery Foundation to further his legacy to recognize and support the various military and veteran projects and needs around our state and nation."

Today, Montgomery's legacy continues to touch lives at Mississippi State in many ways. The Starkville campus is home to the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Center for America's Veterans, a national leader in providing campusbased veteran resources. In addition to contributing to the center, the Montgomery Foundation also supports scholarships and other projects at MSU.

More recently, a new scholarship has been established by the foundation for MSU's Physician Assistant (PA) Studies master's program at MSU-Meridian. The Montgomery Physician Assistant Scholarship will support eligible students in the program. Preference for scholarship recipients is given to students who are veterans or immediate dependents of veterans, or students with an interest in serving veterans post-training.

Fittingly, the PA profession is rooted in military history. In the mid-1960s, amid a shortage of primary care physicians, Eugene A. Stead Jr., MD, designed a curriculum to credential Vietnam Navy Corpsmen who had received considerable medical training for civilian service. The curriculum was based on "fast-track" training for Navy physicians during World War II. Today, MSU-Meridian's program is one of 254 accredited PA programs in the U.S. and is the only publicly funded program in Mississippi.

Adriana Fuentealba, a first-year PA student at MSUMeridian, is the first recipient of the Montgomery Physician Assistant Scholarship. The Gulf Breeze, Florida, native earned her bachelor's in biological sciences in 2019 from MSU and spent a year at Fort Sam Houston Army Base in San Antonio, Texas, as a medical research tech and has completed a rotation at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida.

Her military connections come from her father, Marco, a U.S. Navy veteran and her grandfather, Marco Sr., who joined the U.S. Army after immigrating to the U.S. from Santiago, Chile. Her grandmother was a nurse at a hospital in Chile before moving to the U.S. to work at a sister hospital.

Joining the PA program in January 2022, Fuentealba knew that she wanted to enter the medical field and help

Images of G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery through the years.

people. With the rising costs of medical school and its intensive four-year programming, a friend convinced her to consider applying to PA programs. She considered a few different schools, but ultimately, it was her alma mater that won her over and provided her with the education and support she knows will enable her to be successful in the future.

"This program offers the best of both worlds," she said. "I get the one-on-one interaction with patients to explain complex information and break it down to show how it positively changes their lives. I also get to work with doctors to help diagnose, treat and provide plans for patients. As someone who has been a patient, I wanted to improve that interaction between health care workers and patients."

While she is still figuring out her path after graduating from the program, Fuentealba knows it will involve veteran care. She's found a passion for improving veterans' lives, just like Montgomery. She hopes to be a travel PA and work at different veterans' hospitals around the country.

"Even after his death, he left a legacy to support education and veterans," she said. "Sonny worked hard on Capitol Hill to ensure that veterans are cared for. They put their lives on the line, and the least we can do is provide the best available health care for them."

An inspiring leader and dedicated public servant, Montgomery was a champion of the men and women who served their country. Through the investments of the Montgomery Foundation, as well as the students like Fuentealba who will carry on his compassion in their lives and future careers, Montgomery's legacy lives on.

"Sonny not only talked the talk, but he walked the walk," said Crawford. "Everything we do is to support causes he would have wanted to support. It's an extension of his life, and we're continuing what he did during his life. Sonny is in the fabric of history at MSU. There was never a bigger cheerleader of the university than him. It makes sense that we do everything we can do to support his alma mater and give back to students."

“EVERYTHING WE DO IS TO SUPPORT CAUSES HE WOULD HAVE WANTED TO SUPPORT. IT'S AN EXTENSION OF HIS LIFE, AND WE'RE CONTINUING WHAT HE DID DURING HIS LIFE. SONNY IS IN THE FABRIC OF HISTORY AT MSU."

Above: Crawford (left) and Fuentealba

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.

As one of nearly 40 named engineering colleges in the United States, the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering (BCoE) provides a comprehensive education to Mississippi State University students. With eight academic departments and more than 30 degrees offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels, students have a robust educational experience that will prepare them for life after graduation.

As the university’s second-largest college, more than 4,700 students have opportunities for hands-on learning and research experiences through the Bagley College’s departments. BCoE prides itself on delivering an environment where students can thrive while being challenged and supported during their time at MSU. The Bagley College encompasses the vast and ever-changing field of engineering with every aspect of its curriculum offerings.

“Our hands-on, practical curriculum produces highly sought-after graduates who excel in whatever profession they choose,” said Jason Keith, dean of the Bagley College and holder of the Earnest W. and Mary Ann Davenport Chair. “The Bagley College is on the short list of many companies that hire into industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, construction, chemicals and design throughout the Southeastern United States.”

The Bagley College is dedicated to ensuring that engineering education is accessible to all Mississippians and beyond. Through a partnership with Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, students along the Gulf Coast can study three different disciplines without having to leave the area. There, electrical, mechanical and industrial engineering students range from traditional to nontraditional to first-generation, and can choose paths that best fit their schedules.

A Point of Pride

The Bagley College has much to be proud of. MSU and BCoE were named a top 20 institution for total bachelor’s degrees awarded to African Americans by the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). The organization also ranked MSU No. 25 in its list of top 50 institutions by total bachelor’s degrees awarded in chemical engineering.

Student competition teams have seen success in recent years. The EcoCAR team, through the Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems (CAVS), recently won several first-place awards in the national Mobility Challenge. The four-year competition included 11 universities competing against each other as they worked to improve different aspects of a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer, including energy efficiency and autonomous vehicle technology.

BCoE now offers more educational opportunities to students through online graduate degree courses in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. These degrees join the numerous

other online program offerings the Bagley College delivers. Students can earn a master’s degree in cybersecurity, a master’s in computer science or a Ph.D. in computer science. With these options, students can achieve their academic and professional goals simultaneously with the flexibility of the online graduate programs.

MSU is often recognized as a top institution for militaryconnected students. The Bagley College is proud to honor the university’s military history with a military engineering concentration in the Master of Engineering program. Graduate students can meet their military and engineering goals in this 30-hour program. Along with a core of engineering courses, the program focuses on military electives, project management, engineering statistics and more.

The Bagley College is home to more than 30 endowed faculty members. Here, the future of engineering education and research in various fields is assured through the generosity of the university’s alumni

OUR STUDENTS ARE PREPARED TO IMPROVE THE WORLD AND HUMAN LIFE THROUGH THEIR WORK.

“ ”

and corporate partners. This commitment to engineering education ensures students receive the best instruction and upholds the Bagley College’s enduring legacy.

“I moved to Mississippi State University eleven years ago because I saw something special among its students, faculty and administration—a supportive, collaborative atmosphere that places learning at the center of the institutional mission,” said Keith. “Our students are prepared to improve the world and human life through their work.”

Enhanced Student Experience

The Bagley College prides itself on creating an environment where any student can come to MSU and better themselves while earning an engineering degree. Although the coursework may be rigorous, BCoE offers its students valuable experiences that don’t exist at other engineering schools within the region. Outside the classroom, students can join more than 50 engineering student groups, be part of more than a dozen student competition groups or teams, participate in undergraduate research opportunities, co-op for real-world experience and more.

Newly admitted students from diverse backgrounds can attend the Summer Bridge Program. The five-week summer residential program gives students an extended orientation and a smooth transition into college life. Consisting of both life skills and academic activities, the program is designed to produce meaningful connections and a strong foundation to support student success. A similar program has been rolled out for all transfer students coming into the Bagley College.

At the core of the Bagley College’s education is the Cooperative Education Program, which allows students to gain real-world experience related to their major. MSU is one of the nation’s leading co-op education

institutions and is accredited through the Accreditation Council for Co-op and Internship. Since 1955, co-ops have given engineering students a competitive advantage by having 52 weeks of professional work experience upon graduation. Engineering students account for more than 80 percent of all MSU’s co-op enrollment.

Student research opportunities at the undergraduate and graduate levels are also instrumental for the Bagley College. BCoE has supported more than 200 students on assistantships across its eight departments and affiliated centers this past year. More than half of these were research assistantships, with the rest being teaching assistantships, service assistantships or fellowships.

Nearly 95 percent of BCoE's projects are federally funded with project scopes spanning from external contracts and grants for government agencies and industries, to collaborations with other universities, organizations and corporate group across the nation.

“Research expenditures have continued to increase within engineering, and student engagement at the graduate and undergraduate level is critical to meeting deliverables,” said Kari Babski-Reeves, associate dean of the Bagley College and Larry G. Brown Endowed Professor. “As an R1 university, BCoE is integral to ensuring that the MSU research enterprise is healthy. The Bagley College engages in interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary research with other colleges, universities, national laboratories and R&D units nationally and internationally.”

BCoE engages in research across many of the college- and universitylevel research centers and institutes, including, but not limited to, the Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems (CAVS); CAVS Extension; High Performance Computing Collaboratory (HPC2); Paul B. Jacob High Voltage Laboratory; Institute for Clean Energy Technology (ICET); Institute for Imaging & Analytical Technologies (I2AT); and the Raspet Flight Research Laboratory (RFRL). Through these innovative facilities, students can grow their research experiences to fulfill degree requirements, participate in meaningful discovery and develop their skillsets.

“Our programs frequently engage industry by incorporating real-world problem-solving activities through the curriculum so students can practice the skills and techniques they learn in the classroom,” said Babski-Reeves. “Graduate student participation in funded and unfunded research leads to innovations and discoveries. Without our student’s engagement in research, we would not be a leader in the state and nation in developing solutions to some of the nation’s most important challenges.”

OUR PROGRAMS FREQUENTLY ENGAGE INDUSTRY BY INCORPORATING REAL-WORLD PROBLEM-SOLVING ACTIVITIES THROUGH THE CURRICULUM SO STUDENTS CAN PRACTICE THE SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES THEY LEARN IN THE CLASSROOM.

Space for Innovation

A renowned engineering program requires an equally distinguished learning environment. With state-ofthe-art labs, classrooms, libraries, laboratories, study spaces and more, BCoE gives its students a home away from home in which they can thrive. Namely, the new Richard A. Rula Engineering and Science Complex that opened in the fall of 2021 provides students access to cutting-edge classrooms, research and chemistry labs, a high bay area and more.

“We are always looking to ensure that our curricula are responsive to the dynamic needs of industry,” said Keith. “Through alumni and corporate support, we can provide students access to outstanding physical facilities and infrastructure to succeed as engineers.”

Another forthcoming development that will help the Bagley College maintain its competitive edge is the Randy J. Cleveland Engineering Student Center. This facility, which occupies the former Materials Testing Laboratory, will give students, faculty and staff a place to collaborate and grow. Equipped with dynamic spaces for learning, the Cleveland Center will foster innovation and connectivity, while also creating a comfortable environment for downtime and networking between classes.

The Bagley College recently announced endowment-level support for the McKay Predictive Analytics and Technology Integration Laboratory, which ensures perpetual support to help the university excel in big data. Housed in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, this lab aims to advance understandings and applications of data analytics, which has become a big industry in recent years thanks to the advancements and reliance on technology, data, machine learning and artificial intelligence.

None of these facilities would be possible without the generosity of the Bagley College's alumni, corporate partners, university friends, faculty and staff. Such investments set MSU apart from other engineering programs and maintain the standard of excellence BCoE is known for.

“What excites me most about Mississippi State University is the sense of pride that our alumni have in their education,” said Keith. “This is reflected not only through active interaction with our students, but also from their SEC-leading philanthropic giving rates. Their gifts directly benefit their respective departments and programs through enhanced faculty and resource support, and also assist current and future students via annual and endowed scholarships.”

I FREQUENTLY MEET WITH OUR CURRENT STUDENTS AND ALUMNI AND COME AWAY IMPRESSED EVERY TIME. THE IMPACT OF THE BAGLEY COLLEGE CONTINUES TO GROW, AND WE ARE THANKFUL FOR ALL THE SUPPORT WE HAVE RECEIVED OVER THE YEARS.

An Experience Unlike

Any Other

For more than 100 years, BCoE has upheld a commitment to the provision of quality, comprehensive educational experiences. Nearly 15,000 students have come to MSU—whether through Starkville, the Gulf Coast campus or remotely—to be challenged and trained by the best engineering minds, and to achieve their full potential.

From research opportunities to competition teams to co-ops, the hands-on experiences MSU engineering students receive deliver a deeper understanding of their chosen discipline. BCoE graduates complete their degree program with the confidence that their education and time at MSU prepared them for success in life outside the university. Ready to take on the industries of tomorrow, their preparedness also translates to progress for those around them as they navigate new technologies and solutions to serve a modern world.

“I frequently meet with our current students and alumni and come away impressed every time,” said Keith. “The impact of the Bagley College continues to grow, and we are thankful for all the support we have received over the years.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON GIVING OPPORTUNITIES TO SUPPORT THE BAGLEY COLLEGE AND ITS PROGRAMMING, CONTACT THE COLLEGE’S DEVELOPMENT STAFF.

BENNETT EVANS, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

662-325-0386

BEVANS@FOUNDATION.MSSTATE.EDU

JORDAN SMITH, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

662-325-0461

JSMITH@FOUNDATION.MSSTATE.EDU

PAUL ZIMMERMAN, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

662-325-0009

PZIMMERMAN@FOUNDATION.MSSTATE.EDU

Bennett Evans, a thirdgeneration MSU alumnus and Columbus native, holds a 1989 bachelor’s degree in political science and a 1991 master’s degree in public policy and administration. He worked for eight years with the Boy Scouts organization, where he found his passion for fundraising. Wanting to put his passion to work in a more meaningful way at his alma mater, he joined the MSU Foundation in 2002 as a fundraiser for the College of Architecture, Art and Design. Bennett later transitioned to the development position for the Bagley College, where he serves as senior director of development. This November will mark his 20th anniversary working for the Foundation. In his free time, Bennett enjoys wildlife photography, watching movies and exercising. He and his wife Heather have two daughters, Adaline and Caitlin.

Paul Zimmerman is a 2000 MSU business graduate with a degree in business administration. Hailing from a family of Bulldogs, Paul’s parents and brother are also proud MSU alumni. The Starkville native’s grandparents dedicated their careers the university, from which they retired, and his children, Sarah Bailey and Henry, are

current students. Prior to joining the MSU Foundation in 2011, Paul worked in sales for Flexsteel Industries. He is an avid MSU baseball fan who has many fond memories cheering on the Diamond Dawgs from Left Field Lounge and is proud to serve his alma mater as assistant director of development for the Bagley College.

Jordan Smith is a 2019 MSU business graduate and second-generation Bulldog from Saltillo. As a student, he interned with the university’s athletic department in the areas of communication broadcasting and football recruiting. He also served as a broadcaster for Starkville High School’s football program from 2017-2018. After graduation, Jordan worked as a recruiter for Itawamba Community College. He returned to MSU to assume his current role as assistant director of development for the Bagley College last year. Jordan also recently completed the Master of Education in Student Affairs in Higher Education degree program through the University of West Alabama. He enjoys playing golf, being outdoors and cheering on the Dawgs with his wife, Farris.

Favorite Movie?

Bennett : Shawshank Redemption

Paul: Any movie by the Coen Brothers

Jordan: Top Gun—the old one, not the new one

What do you usually listen to on the way to work or when traveling?

Bennett: Spotify music and podcasts. I really like Conan O’ Brien Needs a Friend—funny stuff!

Paul: Jason Isbell, Turnpike Troubadours and Tedeschi Trucks Band are probably at the top of my Spotify playlist. A couple good podcast for the road are Broken Record and Revisionist History.

Jordan: I am a big podcast guy—everything from outdoor shows to MSU and SEC athletics.

Favorite place on campus?

Bennett: Our development office in McCain—it’s a favorite hangout for our dean. We all can tell some good stories and get some work done.

Paul: South Farm at sunrise on a Saturday morning on my bike.

Jordan: The Left Field Lounge at Dudy Noble. In my opinion there is no better venue in all collegiate athletics.

Tell me something you admire about the college you fundraise for?

Bennett: There are so many cutting-edge technologies and programs within the Bagley College that are moving the needle in a positive way, and each offers a unique investment opportunity for our donors to make a significant impact.

Paul: It’s impressive to me how hard the students work for their degrees, especially the ones involved in extracurricular activities, and how much it means to them. A lot of the students receive scholarship support and are happy to reciprocate that support after graduation.

Jordan: I enjoy getting to visit with people from so many different careers and career paths. With eight different departments, the Bagley College of Engineering is very well rounded. No two days are the same for me. And as someone who has experience in recruiting, I understand just how life changing private gifts can be for our students.

Fresh vegetables aren’t just for the summer. With abundant colors, flavors and varieties, a winter garden is the perfect DIY project for the cold weather months. The Mississippi State Extension Service recommends planting greens anywhere from September to March. Starting your garden in the early fall will ensure you’re ready to harvest by wintertime.

Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts are hardy and can endure colder temperatures of 28 degrees Fahrenheit and below. Semi-hardy vegetables like beets, cauliflower and parsnip can grow well in the 28 to 32-degree range.

1. Consider your garden’s location. Make sure it’s in a spot that will receive ample sunlight and won’t be cast in shadows during the short winter days.

2. Keep plants watered, fertilized and groomed. Fertilizer and weed-free garden beds are just as important in the winter as in the spring.

PRO TIP: Where a water source is not close to the garden, partially bury 1-gallon plastic milk jugs between widely spaced plants. Punch a few small holes near the bottom of the jug before burying. Fill the jug periodically with water hauled to the garden and 1 to 2 tablespoons of fertilizer as needed. The water will slowly seep into the soil, providing moisture to the root zone and reducing your watering trips.

3. Pay attention to the weather and don’t abandon the garden when freezing temperatures come. Protect and keep roots warm by adding mulch or other coverings.

PRO TIP: Several sheets of newspaper make a good mulch after plants are established. Hold newspaper to the soil surface with soil, sticks, or coat hanger wires. You could also use a thin layer of pine needles to hold the newspaper down. Like other organic mulches, newspaper decomposes rapidly and adds organic matter to the soil.

Hardy

• Broccoli

• Brussels Sprouts

• Cabbage

• Collards

• Kale

• Garlic

• Rhubarb

• Rutabaga

• Radishes

• Turnips

• Leeks

• Onions

• Spinach

Homemade shelters can help protect vulnerable plants from frigid temperatures and icy winter storms. Here are a few simple ideas:

• Wire tomato cages wrapped with breathable burlap or newspaper. You can also use plastic but be sure to leave the top of the cage unwrapped to prevent moisture from being trapped inside.

• Paper grocery bag pinned down over the plant

• Cardboard box

• Upside-down flowerpot or basket

• Milk jug or plastic container with bottom cut off

semi-Hardy

• Beets

• Parsnip

• Cauliflower

• Celery

• Chard

• Chicory

• Napa Cabbage

• Endive

• Lettuce

The Impac T of one: a p rom I se of success

The Promise Student Support Program (PSSP) at Mississippi State is a testament to the university’s traditional role as The People’s University. In addition to tuition assistance, the program also offers opportunities for academic support, counseling, career preparation, networking and progress monitoring to freshmen and community college transfer students from economically challenging situations.

The collective programming goes above and beyond to deliver extensive assistance aimed at helping students adjust to life on campus and ensuring their goals of completing a degree at MSU become a reality. As such, PSSP is a hallmark program at MSU. Since establishment in 2006, this one program has directly impacted the success of more than 600 students in the classroom and life beyond.

One of those students is Jasmine Daniels, who was a Promise Scholar at MSU from 2015-2019. Daniels grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, but after losing her mother to breast cancer, she and her siblings were relocated to Columbia, Mississippi, to live with their grandparents. As a junior in high school at the time, it was not only a heartbreaking loss, but also a difficult transition to reckon. However,

Daniels was determined to overcome the trials for herself and in honor of her beloved mother.

“My mom was very big on education, so there was no doubt I was going to college somewhere,” said Daniels. After moving to Mississippi, she had no idea where she wanted to continue her studies. “My mom always told me to find a school that felt second to home because that is the only way for students to really be successful. I never understood what that meant until I started touring different colleges.”

After touring a few campuses, Daniels initially committed to the another university. However, a letter from the director of MSU’s PSSP sparked her interest in Mississippi State.

“The letter ‘promised’ that this program and the people involved would make sure I succeeded,” said Daniels, who had never previously visited MSU. “The fact that they would be so bold to make me a promise like that without having met me really made me want to check it out.”

She scheduled a campus visit to MSU and the rest is history. Within 20 minutes of arriving at the land-grant, she realized what her mother meant when she told her

“RARELY DOES A SCHOOL PROMISE YOU NOT ONLY A BETTER EDUCATION, BUT A HOME AWAY FROM HOME AND PEOPLE WHO WILL TRULY ADVOCATE FOR YOU, BUT MISSISSIPPI STATE DID THAT FOR ME."

daughter to “find a school that feels second to home.” Daniels found that home at MSU and immediately changed her decision about where she was going to pursue her degree.

“Rarely does a school promise you not only a better education, but a home away from home and people who will truly advocate for you, but Mississippi State did that for me,” she said.

Taking advantage of every opportunity MSU presented, Daniels made a point to follow up with professors and leaders of class sessions and special guest lectures whenever the chance arose. She recognized each resource as a new door that could lead to her future—many of which would not be possible without the generous support of alumni and friends who have contributed to PSSP from the beginning.

“I was very blessed because the people I met through Promise and my degree program were valuable connections that moved me farther toward my goals,” she said. “That’s one of the things that was so special about Promise—if I showed an inch of interest, the leaders and mentors of the program gave a mile to help get me where I wanted to go.”

Actively involved in and out of the classroom as a student, Daniels is especially proud of one organization she was involved with from the ground up. MSU’s Thrive Program, launched in 2018, provides resources and promotes success among students like Daniels, who have lost their parents or been placed in the foster care system. She met with MSU Vice President for Student Affairs Regina Young Hyatt to discuss the needs of independent students, and later participated in a focus group that led to the development of the program, which continues to impact students on campus today.

Daniels graduated from MSU in 2019 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing and assumed a job in facilities management with Aramark Services at Baylor University. Wanting to build off her own experiences to help shape similar ones for other students, she was initially drawn to the position because of the opportunities it presented for her to serve and mentor students through Baylor’s career program. In addition to upholding her job duties, Daniels also completed her graduate degree during her time there.

In 2020, COVID brought major changes to Daniels’ career plans. She was reassigned to serve as a project manager for ResCare, a community-based service provider of BrightSpring Health Services. But eventually, as accounts began to close amid the shifting health care industry, she realized her position would be short-lived. She began looking for job opportunities that would allow her to balance her passion for student support with her experience in facilities management.

Through shared connections, she was able to interview for and secure a temporary position as an interim director of facilities for the Oyster River Cooperative School District (ORCSD) in Durham, New Hampshire. Despite her lack of experience in the field, Daniels’ personality, work ethic and dedication to her work transformed the temporary position into a permanent one.

Two months after accepting the interim job, she was offered the full position. She is now the youngest facilities director, and first female and African American to hold the position, at ORCSD.

“When I started, there was definitely a huge culture shock because I’d never been to New Hampshire and wasn’t sure what to expect,” said Daniels. “I was nervous about the responsibility of leading such a huge program while figuring out how to fit in, but Promise gave me the resources and confidence I needed to be successful.”

Today, as Daniels navigates each new task—from meeting with veteran board members and making decisions on million-dollar contracts, to managing large staff teams and strategizing capital improvement plans that meet the needs of the district’s growing student population—she is honoring the memory of her mother and living out the promise of the investments made in her life.

“I never thought I would be where I am today, and I give so much credit to the Promise Program at MSU for helping me get this far so early in my career,” she said. “Promise gave me every opportunity and exposed me to so many things that prepared me for the future. I wasn’t just a student that was passed off. Mississippi State gave me a home and people who genuinely cared about me, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the support and the people who made it all possible.”

STORY ADDIE MAYFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

Daniels at MSU

February

Enjoy beautiful pictures of familiar campus scenes that bring back special memories of your time at Mississippi State. The official State calendar has become a Bulldog tradition. With pictures by MSU’s own award-winning photographers, it’s truly a one-of-a-kind treasure. Order online today at msufoundation.com or call 662-325-7000.

The YMCA Building Then Now and

The YMCA Building has stood on Mississippi State’s campus since 1914. The Young Men’s Christian Association first came to the university in 1882, but as membership grew, the need for a dedicated space became apparent. With a $40,000 pledge from John D. Rockefeller, MSU students led a fundraising campaign to build the YMCA Building. The building housed a post office, an auditorium, office spaces and a gathering space in the lobby that once hosted dances, holiday parties and study sessions. Today, the building is home to the Dean of Students, Vice President for Student Affairs, the Vice President for Finance, faculty for the College of Arts and Sciences and more. A $9.8 million renovation updated the 28,000-square-foot space in 2018, and more recently, was the addition of the new plaza in front of the building that provides a pedestrian-friendly gathering space for students and visitors enjoy.

Development team welcomes new staff

The MSU Foundation is proud to announce Mathis McGee and Allie Ware as the newest members of the development staff.

McGee joined the annual giving office as associate director of annual giving in August. He is a spring 2022 graduate of MSU with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering technology and business and a concentration in enterprise management. The Corinth native also holds an associate’s degree from Northeast Mississippi Community College. McGee is an Eagle Scout who previously served as a landscaping associate for Avent Landscaping Services in Corinth.

Ware, a former Division I lacrosse player and experienced fundraiser, joined the fundraising team in September as an assistant athletic director for development. Raised in Alpharetta, Georgia, she began her career with sports entertainment firm, The Aspire Group, in 2014. Ware earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Richmond, where she was a student athlete and captain of the women’s lacrosse team. She later earned a Master of Education in Higher Educational Leadership at Mercer University. Before coming to MSU, she served as an assistant athletic director of development at Yale University, and also has previous experience in athletic fundraising at both the University of Richmond and Mercer University.

For more on the work of the Division of Development and Alumni, visit devalumni.msstate.edu.

Ware

McGee

FY 22 ends with new milestone in fundraising success

Support from alumni, friends and partners enabled Mississippi State University to raise a record $125.3 million in cash and gift commitments for the 2022 fiscal year, exceeding MSU’s previous fundraising record and marking the ninth consecutive year of private gifts totaling $100 million.

The success of FY 22, which ended on June 30, was fueled through the generosity of 21,189 unique contributors. Their gifts strengthened support for areas across the university and are helping to uphold the 144-year-old land grant’s standard of excellence.

“The Bulldog family prioritized their support for MSU more than ever this past year, providing incredible momentum to drive the success of our students, faculty and the wider communities we serve,” said John P. Rush, president and CEO of the MSU Foundation. “We are grateful for their generosity and commitment to our university and look forward to building on this success together."

Alumni participation again reached over 19 percent (19.7), enabling MSU to maintain its ranking ahead of several major peer institutions in the measure of support among former students. Additionally, nearly 7,000 individuals contributed to MSU for their first time and more than $5.3 million of the total funds raised were accounted from gifts of $1,000 or below.

Such generous investments enabled more than 4,000 private scholarships to be awarded to students in FY 22. Other gifts from the just-ended year will support fundraising priorities such as scholarships and academic initiatives, enhanced research and outreach engagements, faculty support and campus infrastructure, among others that collectively contribute to more enriching student experiences and strategic overall success.

Most of the institution's fundraising is conducted by the MSU Foundation that was established in 1962 to help attract support from private sources.

More information about the MSU Foundation can be found online at www.msufoundation.com.

“The Bulldog family prioritized their support for MSU more than ever this past year, providing incredible momentum to drive the success of our students, faculty and the wider communities we serve.”

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:

David Abney | MSU Bulldog Club President | Executive Director of the Board, United Parcel Service (retired) | Atlanta, Ga.

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.

George H. Bishop | Chairman of the Board for GeoSouthern Energy Corporation | Sealy, Texas

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

George W. Bryan Sr. | Owner of Old Waverly Golf Club | West Point, Miss.

Frederick V. “Fred” Buie | President and CEO of Keystone Electrical Manufacturing Co. (retired) | Des Moines, Iowa

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.

Randy J. Cleveland | Vice President, Americas for ExxonMobil Production Company (retired) | Fort Worth, Texas

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

Timothy S. "Tim" Duncan | President and CEO of Talos Energy Inc. | Houston, Texas

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

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

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

Mark S. Jordan | Real Estate Developer of Mark S. Jordan Companies | Ridgeland, Miss.

Francis C. "Franc" Lee | President and CEO of Tower Loan | Flowood, Miss.

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

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

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

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

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

Thomas B. "Tommy" Nusz | Chairman and CEO of Oasis Petroleum Inc. (retired) | Madison, Miss.

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. | Flowood, 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

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

William A. "Lex" Taylor III | Chairman and CEO of The Taylor Group Inc. | President of Taylor Machine Works Inc. | Louisville, Miss.

Douglas T. "Doug" Terreson | Head of Energy Research for Evercore ISI (retired) | Point Clear, Ala.

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.

Laurie R. Williams | Assistant Vice President of Growth for Molina Healthcare of Mississippi Inc. | Madison, Miss.

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

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

Nonprofit Organization

U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MS Permit No. 134

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.

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

8” x 4” brick: Gifts of $500 each