Alumna Linda Brannan
Upholding a Legacy: Women in philanthropy at M SU
When the Mississippi Agricultural and Mechanical College opened its doors to the first class of students in October of 1880, very few women could be found on campus. Like many other higher education institutions of the time, the college climate was predominantly male-oriented—a nationwide trend that ensued until the 1940s and post-World War II era. Today, the setting is much different with females consistently accounting for nearly half of MSU’s student population. However, the figures extend far beyond the demographics of the student population as women have and continue to play a critical role in the success of Mississippi State. In particular, the philanthropic leadership of female members of the Bulldog family has significantly impacted the university over the course of its history. In 1962, the same year construction began on MSU’s first residence hall for women, Thera White, along with her husband Floyd, gave the first gift of land to Mississippi State. Shortly after, Addie
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FOUNDATIONS | Fall 2019
Hester of Amory became the first individual female member of the MSU Foundation’s inaugural donor club, the Patrons of Excellence. Hester was part of the administration of the Mississippi State Extension Service for more than 30 years. Another transformational gift came in 1987 through the trust of Ottilie Schillig following her death. A Port Gibson native who became a critically acclaimed concert singer of the 1920s, Schillig’s gift launched the university’s most prestigious scholarship awards and paved the way for the modern-day Presidential Scholars Program. The 1990s also saw significant female leadership. Jane Perry of Spanish Fort, Alabama, decided to honor her late husband George D. Perry, a loyal graduate and longtime alumni leader, by providing a much-needed gift to update Perry Hall. The building continues to serve as a university cafeteria and as a designated Mississippi Landmark. And a commitment from Winifred B. Hartwig of Leland pledged support for an excellence endowment and an endowed chair position. The endowed faculty
