Foundations Fall 2019

Mississippi State University Foundation

Inside Fall 2019 Women in Philanthropy p. 4 | Why Give p. 16 | Tailgate Recipe p. 20 Fall 2019 | FOUNDATIONS

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Volume 19 | Number 2 PRESIDENT AND CEO MSU FOUNDATION John P. Rush BOARD CHAIR MSU FOUNDATION D. Hines Brannan Jr. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Cathy Lammons MANAGING EDITOR Amy Cagle GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hailey Hannis WRITERS Amy Cagle Addie Mayfield CONTRIBUTING STAFF Erica Way, Marketing Manager CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Megan Bean Logan Kirkland 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 397626149 or phone (662) 325-1006.

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.

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viewpoint contents

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Campus Views Pictorial view of Bulldog tailgates

features 4 | Upholding a legacy: Women in philanthropy at MSU

28 | Dowdle pictures rewarding lifetime of giving

14 | Browns give scholarship recipients clean slate

34 | Ramaswamys honor family through student scholarship

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Noteworthy News 08 | Presidential Scholars Elite students enroll at MSU

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22 | Architecture, Art, and Design Academic college focuses on future 31 | Foundation Ambassadors Learning to lead

In Each Issue 03 | Viewpoint Foundation President and CEO 1 2 | Foundation Favorites Jack McCarty proposes leisure activities 1 6 | Why Give?

Riley Foundation honors Bonner

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21 | Student Perspective Caleb James in his own words 27 | Get to Know Meet P.K. Thomas 32 | Then and Now The evolution of The Junction 37 | Achievements A closer look at research statistics 39 | Foundation Board A complete list of our voluntary board

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Our Cover Montgomery Hall, built in 1902, houses the university's Office of Admissions and Scholarships and the Career Center.

COVER PHOTO MEAGN BEAN

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viewpoint

Always time for homecoming

JOHN P. RUSH

'94, '02 President and CEO MSU Foundation

The first official homecoming at Mississippi State University took place in 1937. Alumni and friends from near and far returned for a weekend of fellowship and festivities, including a barbeque, a dance, and a reunion of the first football team, the “Mississippi A&M Aggies.” Then Governor Hugh L. White and other state officials also attended the inaugural event and joined in celebration as the Maroons defeated Florida to gain their first conference win of the season.

In the 80 years since then, MSU has experienced significant changes. And yet, amid the progress that continues to elevate the university, one thing remains the same—the strength of the Bulldog family. As loyal patrons benefited by the impact of this great institution, we all share a unique bond that keeps us returning to MSU in various ways throughout our lives.

Whether by volunteering and connecting with fellow graduates, recruiting or mentoring promising students, or making a gift, the ways in which we can invest in MSU are endless. And each serves a greater purpose of strengthening our ties and allowing us to play a role in something bigger than ourselves.

Such loyal support upholds our standard of excellence and compels us to be more and do more than we could ever imagine, as evidenced in the successful achievements of our Infinite Impact campaign—the largest in state history. Through this great endeavor, we are collectively transforming the future and carrying on the rich traditions set forth by those who came before us, who are forever Maroon and White.

When I consider the ways my life has been enriched

by MSU, I am profoundly grateful. That which has been invested in each of our lives through this great institution is a gift of immeasurable worth. And in giving back to the place we love, no matter the time of year, we are all taking part in a homecoming of sorts.

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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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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

Brannan's parents, Anna Bufkin and the late Truett Bufkin

position was among the first to bear a woman's name at MSU. From buildings and academic units to scholarships and advancement opportunities, every area at the 141-year-old institution has been shaped and impacted by women in many ways. As women continue to invest in the future of MSU, they are also encouraging others to join in their mission.

Among those inspiring members of the Bulldog family is Linda Brannan, a 1972 graduate of the MSU College of Education.

Along with her husband Hines, a fellow alumnus who currently serves as chair of the MSU Foundation board, Brannan has been a loyal supporter of the university for many years. The Atlanta, Georgia, couple’s gifts have benefited areas across campus, including the College of Business and its Richard C. Adkerson School of Accountancy and the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering. Their gifts also include funds for building and renovation projects,

Brannan visiting the T.K. Martin Center for Technology and Disability

athletics, and student and faculty awards, among others.

Brannan’s love for MSU was first instilled by her father, Truett Bufkin, who earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from MSU in 1950 and 1965, respectively. He led a successful career as a county agent and soybean marketing specialist for the MSU Extension Service for many years. His wife, Anna, also shared his love for MSU. After his passing in 2016, Brannan began considering the ways she could further his legacy at their beloved alma mater.

In 2018, she fulfilled that mission through a gift that established the Truett and Anna Bufkin Scholarship Endowment.

The award creates continuous support in memory of her father and in honor of her mother and assists full-time undergraduates who are residents of the Bufkins’ native Newton County. It also joins the Brannans’ earlier scholarship support for the D. Hines and Linda Brannan Scholarship established in 2008.

In addition to the honorary scholarship, the gift also paid tribute to another way in which Brannan’s family is connected to Mississippi State by supporting the T.K. Martin Center for Technology and Disability.

Bearing the couple’s name, the Brannan Endowment for the T.K. Martin Center directly benefits the center’s Project IMPACT Preschool and IGNITE Dyslexia Services.

“I hope that the endowment will sustain and help raise awareness about the services offered by the T.K. Martin Center,” said Brannan. Having a grandchild with dyslexia, Brannan recognizes the importance of excellent, accessible assistance, especially in rural areas like Mississippi.

Housed in the MSU College of Education, the T.K. Martin Center provides comprehensive, multi-disciplinary evaluations and utilizes assistive technology applications to enable individuals to participate in educational, vocational, and leisure activities

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AKA Sorority alumni members at MSU's Chapel of Memories

without limitations of disabilities.

The Brannans’ endowment will ensure the means for continuous upkeep and enhancement of innovative equipment, facilities, and resources for advanced therapy programming and outreach.

“It is gratifying to support programs that are meaningful to our family and can help others as well,” Brannan said.

Although much of Brannan’s devoted giving is rooted in her family’s connection to MSU, countless other drivers inspire the robust commitments held by patrons of Mississippi State.

This esteemed characteristic is especially evident in the ongoing support from alumni members of MSU’s Lambda Eta chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority Inc. whose support serves as a tangible extension of their loyalty to a shared vision.

While some of these women may share family ties to the university, their collective investments in current and future Bulldog students

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can be traced back to the organization’s chartering mission to serve others. Through their establishment of the Alpha Kappa Alpha – Graduates of Lambda Eta Endowed and Annual Scholarships, these women are upholding one of AKA’s exemplary purposes and creating opportunities for more ambitious youth to make a difference.

“As lifelong members of AKA, service is who we are and what we do,” said Chara Singleton, MSU Lambda Eta alumna. “What better way to demonstrate and share that endeavor than through a scholarship.”

Founded in 1908, the AKA Sorority is one of nine organizations composing the National Pan-Hellenic Council Inc., which represents historically black Greek-letter organizations.

AKA’s presence on the MSU campus initially began in 1975 through the establishment of the Roses Club. Two years later, the club’s journey to form a sorority culminated with the chartering of

the then 13-member AKA Lambda Eta chapter, which today boasts some 50 active members and more than 500 alumni.

As the chapter marked 40 years in 2017, alumni members began discussing ways they could create more significant opportunities for MSU students to navigate their way to graduation. Putting their plan into action, the group united efforts to promote and build support for an endowed scholarship award. The annual award was also established to provide immediate assistance while the endowment grows to maturity.

“It’s important to give back to MSU students because as students, we wished for a chance to show we were capable and eager for success,” said Singleton.

A native of Macon now residing in Laurel, Maryland, Singleton earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the MSU College of Arts and Sciences in 2008 and 2010, respectively.

She credits MSU for her positive academic experience, as well

as valuable opportunities and mentors that better prepared her for the future. Accordingly, she, along with her fellow AKA alumni members, feels strongly about giving back to her alma mater.

“I have always held a strong principle of giving back to what has given so much to me,” said Singleton. “Without MSU, I do not know if I would be where I am today.”

The Alpha Kappa AlphaGraduates of Lambda Eta Annual and Endowed Scholarships assist full-time MSU students and give preference to undergraduate students who demonstrate academic achievement. Further bolstering the resounding impact of women in philanthropy at Mississippi State, the award also gives preference to African-American female students in hopes of inspiring new generations of benevolent leaders.

Despite being initially outnumbered by their male counterparts in the land-grant institution’s early years, more and more women are making a real difference and leaving their mark daily at Mississippi State.

Their support bears promises of progress and possibilities that give life to dreams.

It’s difficult to imagine a world without Mississippi State. And it’s even more challenging to imagine Mississippi State without the influence of generations of women who have helped shape it into the outstanding institution it is today. Their dedication has instilled a legacy of leadership and altruism that runs deep in the lifeblood of the Bulldog family that will stay there forever.

STORY ADDIE MAYFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY BETH WYNN/ SUBMITTED

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noteworthy news

a l i t S n e c d h i o s lars e r P An academic heritage of engaging elite students

2019-20 scholars with MSU President Mark E. Keenum

For the next four years, the newest group of Presidential Scholars will take their place at the head of the class at Mississippi State University. The eight new members join more than 39 already in the program that is part of the prestigious Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College.

In the 50 years since its inception, the honors experience at MSU has grown into a university-wide presence that fosters a close-knit community, of which the Presidential Scholars are among the elite students in the United States who enroll at MSU to further their educational goals. Some Presidential Scholars have later received national Truman, Udall, Mitchell, and Goldwater Scholarships, as well as professional internships. They also typically take part in the Shackouls Summer Study at Oxford Program, in Oxford, England, among other enhanced learning opportunities.

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On campus, Presidential Scholars meet with special guest speakers and are expected to serve in various campus leadership capacities.

Alumni, friends, and corporations may establish endowments for Presidential Scholarships in a number of ways. Earnings from the endowment will help cover the cost of tuition, fees, and housing over the course of four years of study. The awards also include a one-time educational enrichment scholarship for study abroad, internships or other qualified educational pursuits, and an undergraduate research fellowship award. Recipients are also eligible for mentoring opportunities.

For more on the Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College experience, visit www.honors.msstate.edu.

Juliet Buckholdt

Madison Dochety

Juliet Buckholdt of Ridgeland is a freshman studying art in the College of Architecture, Art, and Design. She receives the James D. and Kay B. Bryan Presidential Endowed Scholarship, named for the West Point couple who created its endowment. Originally from Washington, D.C., Buckholdt is the first in her family to attend MSU, and she believes it is a great place to creatively pursue her degree. She is preparing for a career in art with a graphic design concentration and plans to work with the Smithsonian Institution in a marketing and advertising role. Buckholdt has worked professionally in film since she was seven, most recently touring festivals with a short stop-motion animation. While in school, she plans to intern with various museums both nationally and internationally. A key to her success, she believes, will be the support system of the Shackouls Honors College.

The opportunity to major in biomedical engineering in the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering led Madison Dochety to MSU from Tullahoma, Tennessee. The Dr. Brad Roderick Moore Memorial Presidential Endowed Scholarship, established by Rod and Jane Moore in honor of their late son, an alumnus and gastroenterologist, makes her studies possible. Both Dochety’s parents attended MSU, and she has other family in Starkville. Her goal is to become an M.D. and later enter a Ph.D. program; she plans to follow her passion for practicing medicine and for medical research. Dochety feels she is already benefiting from her generous Presidential Scholarship because of the close community and the academically-challenging environment of the honors college. At MSU, Dochety is a member of Chi Omega Sorority and the MSU Student Association’s Freshman Council.

Clark Hensley

Mia Robertson

Clark Hensley of Clinton is a freshman computer science major in the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering. He chose the major because of the diversity of the field, and he knows proficiency can open career doors from software development to research with artificial intelligence. With extra coursework, Hensley could also conquer fields like math, physics, or biology. He is the first Bulldog in his family, and his Presidential Scholarship was a great factor in his decision to enroll. As recipient of the Jim and Julia Rouse Presidential Endowed Scholarship that honors the Suwanee, Georgia, couple, Hensley has the privilege to study under faculty in an exceptionally strong Department of Computer Science and Engineering. His goal is to explore his passion and fulfill his potential as an engineer. He is a member of the Climate Reality Project, the MSU Academic Quiz Bowl, and the MSU Student Association’s Freshman Council.

For Mia Robertson, the opportunity to attend college as a Presidential Scholar in the town she has called home for the past five years is exciting. She came to Starkville with her parents from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and her dad’s Bulldog family hoped she’d choose MSU. Although, she had planned to attend college in a larger city, she found welcoming encouragement at MSU. Robertson enters her freshman year majoring in political science in the College of Arts and Sciences because she discovered she was good at debating legislation and public policy in high school.

She receives the Malcolm and Olivia Portera Presidential Endowed Scholarship, which honors MSU’s 16th president and first lady.

Robertson participates in the Chamber Choir, Hail State Speech and Debate Team, Mississippi Model Security Council, and the MSU Student Association’s Freshman Council. She also holds a student research position at the Social Science Research Center.

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Olivia Russell

Southaven resident Olivia Russell is the first in her family to attend MSU. She is studying biochemistry with a pre-medicine concentration in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. As a freshman, she receives the Mark and Cindy Jordan Presidential Endowed Scholarship, named for the Ridgeland couple who created its endowment. Before enrolling at MSU, Russell had opportunities to shadow doctors at both St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. During that time, she became interested in patient care and research. In the future, Russell hopes to attend medical school and eventually research infectious diseases. Russell is grateful for her scholarship and for the research opportunities it presents. At MSU, she is a member of Chi Omega Sorority, the MSU Student Association’s Freshman Council, and MSU's TEDx student organization.

Hutton Smith

Hutton Smith continues a family tradition by studying engineering. His mom is an industrial engineer, and his grandfather is a civil engineer, both with degrees from other institutions.

However, Smith is proud his path has led him to become a Bulldog.

He comes to MSU from Columbia, Tennessee, for his freshman year of study in mechanical engineering in the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering. For the next four years, Smith will receive the Bobby P. and Barbara M. Martin Presidential Endowed Scholarship, honoring the Ripley couple. He decided he wanted to attend an SEC school, and MSU won the competition hands down. Smith had earlier learned of the great engineering program in the Bagley College and when visiting he realized that MSU and the Starkville community provided by far the most welcoming atmosphere. Settling into campus life, he is already a member of Engineers Without Borders and the Spanish Club.

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William “Will ” Jamison

Will Jamison comes to MSU from Germantown, Maryland, as a freshman majoring in mechanical engineering in the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering. At MSU, he is settling into campus life—where he is director of programming for the residential experience at Griffis Hall, a member of the Formula SAE Club Engineering Competition Team, and the Theta Tau professional engineering fraternity. Jamison was drawn to engineering in high school and always had a passion for how things worked. He and his Dad visited MSU, since two family friends had attended, and found the campus and community were just as steeped in tradition and hospitality as was described. He receives the Johnny and Bessie Lynn Crane Presidential Endowed Scholarship that honors the Cranes who are Fulton residents and longtime MSU supporters.

Jayden Smith

Jayden Smith is majoring in biological sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences in anticipation of pursuing a veterinary degree.

Becoming a veterinarian has been an aspiration for her from a young age. A freshman from Jackson, Smith receives the Hal and Linda Parker Presidential Endowed Scholarship, named for the Bolton couple. She is proud of her scholarship because it allows her to focus on academics and alleviates the burden of student loans.

After seeing her family struggle to pay for her sister’s education, Smith was determined to earn a great scholarship. In the future, as a veterinarian, she hopes to own a private practice and provide services at a reduced cost or no cost to some qualifying clients and their pets. At MSU, she is a member of Animals in Focus, the Black Student Association, Day One Leadership, Freshman Groups, PreVeterinary Club, SCUBA Dawgs, Service Dawgs, and the University Christian Student Center.

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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.

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foundation favorites

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.

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Dawgs in Space | Spacecraft and Scholarship In addition to creating an endowed scholarship for fellow community college transfer students in the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering, alumnus Terry Abel is part of the Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company currently working on the Orion Crew Module to send astronauts back to the moon and eventually Mars.

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Road Trip | Mississippi Delta Take a tour of the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi in Cleveland for an exciting, interactive experience.

While you’re there, be sure to keep an eye out for alumnus and MSU Foundation board member Mike Sanders and his wife, Nan, who serves on the museum’s board of directors. Then, head south for lunch at Fratesi Grocery near Leland. Owned and operated by the MSU faithful Fratesi family since 1941, the establishment is well-known for po’boys, homemade sausage, and spaghetti.

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Bulldog Christmas | The MSU Idea Shop Discover unique and meaningful Christmas gifts while showing your support for university-based entrepreneurship at The Idea Shop in downtown Starkville. The innovative space houses the MSU Retail Product Accelerator and the Turner A. Wingo Maker Studio—the latter named for its benefactor, an MSU alumnus and Foundation board member who knows a thing or two about successful retail business.

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Read All About It | Kingfish: The Reign of Huey P. Long by Richard D. White Jr. A brilliant and compelling biographical account of Huey Long’s rise to power and how his radical governance over Louisiana crowned him as one of the most dangerous figures in the history of American politics.

Author Richard White’s vivid description of New Orleans in the 1920s is worth the read alone.

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Listen Up | Your Money’s Worth A personal-finance podcast from Kiplinger that delivers timely and useful advice to help listeners earn, keep, and make the most of their money. Each week, new episodes discuss practical insights to a variety of topics, including tax filing tips, retirement planning, stock picks, and dealing with debt.

Photo courtesy of https://www.kiplinger.com/ fronts/archive/podcast/your-moneys-worth/.

Take It All In | Best Walk on Campus Stretch your legs while taking in the scenic views from the one-mile walking track around Chadwick Lake. Located next to the Joe Frank Sanderson Center on campus, the track was made possible through a grant from the Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation and offers sights of our top-notch athletic facilities and the muchanticipated Starkville Oktibbeha Partnership Middle School at MSU.

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Browns give scholarship recipients clean slate

Fred and MariAnna Brown of Roswell, Georgia, are staying connected to their university and honoring their commitment to higher education in their home state of Mississippi. A recently established deferred gift from the couple will further their support of Mississippi State University, primarily through student scholarships.

The Browns earned degrees from Mississippi State with the assistance of student loans and through their philanthropy hope to help make an education possible and help alleviate debt for future students. The couple’s gift will create

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three academic-based endowed scholarships and provide support for the university’s music department in the College of Education.

A portion of the couple’s support places emphasis on veterans’ education. The Col. Fred N. Brown Jr. Endowed Scholarship will honor students pursuing undergraduate degrees in the College of Business. Recipients of the scholarship must be veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces with a minimum 3.0 GPA, among other criteria.

An ROTC student at Mississippi State, Fred Brown earned a 1967 bachelor's degree in

agriculture followed by a master’s degree in plant pathology in 1969. He later earned another master’s degree in systems management at the University of Southern California. Originally from the Mississippi town of Ethel, Fred spent 30 years in the U.S. Air Force with various national and international assignments before retiring in 1999 with the rank of colonel. Presently, he is vice president of City Light & Power Inc. based in Greenwood Village, Colorado.

In the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the MariAnna and Fred Brown Endowed Scholarship will benefit students following in Fred Brown’s academic footprint by studying in the Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology. Recipients must have a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and meet established criteria.

The couple’s gift also establishes the Mary and Wendell Ladner Endowed Scholarship in the College of Education in honor of MariAnna Brown’s parents. The Ladners were strong proponents of education who lived in Flora, Mississippi, where they raised their daughter. The scholarship will benefit entering students majoring in teacher education with at least a 3.0 GPA who demonstrate financial need and meet other established criteria.

“Neither of my parents had the opportunity for four-year degrees, and they would be thrilled to know their legacy is helping deserving students receive an education from MSU,” said MariAnna Brown, who earned an MSU education degree in 1968 and taught for nearly a decade in public schools before targeting her career toward teaching English as a second language.

The Browns have emphasized and encouraged the pursuit of higher education and have been fortunate to provide the means for their three children to attend college. Now the couple is placing value on assisting a new generation of students.

“Scholarships truly make a positive impact and give people a better life. A student either can be

“Scholarships truly make a positive impact and give people a better life. A student either can be hindered by his or her personal hardships or use hardships as the motivation to reach for success. We want to encourage future recipients to meet challenges in their lives and succeed along their paths toward future careers with our scholarships as incentives.”

- MariAnna Brown hindered by his or her personal hardships or use hardships as the motivation to reach for success.

We want to encourage future recipients to meet challenges in their lives and succeed along their paths toward future careers with our scholarships as incentives,” said MariAnna Brown.

Fred Brown shares the goal of their deferred gift. “Education is important to the quality of life for everyone, and we want students who hold our scholarships to work hard and be rewarded with a clean slate after graduation, free from the financial burdens of education,” he said.

Additionally, support from the couple will assist the university’s Steinway initiative in the College of Education’s Department of Music.

Once an All-Steinway status is achieved, the university will work to maintain and replace these pianos over time. The Browns will help make that possible through their deferred gift. Apart from the deferred gift, the Browns also fund a Loyalty Scholarship in the College of Education and an annual scholarship in the G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans through the MSU Division of Student Affairs.

For the Browns, Mississippi State will always be intertwined with their lives. They hope the same will hold true for each of their scholarship recipients as they graduate and embark on their chosen careers.

STORY AMY CAGLE PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

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Why GIVE ?

Riley Foundation honors Bonner by helping students thrive

During her time as provost and executive vice president of Mississippi State University, Judith L. Bonner wore many different hats. As the second-ranking university administrator, she provided direct oversight for eight academic colleges and two campuses, as well as many academic and non-academic support units. She secured many notable accomplishments for the university; however, her priority remained the success of students.

Through her commitments, Bonner also helped advance the MSU-Meridian campus—a charge that enabled her to strengthen connections with The Riley Foundation, a longtime MSU-Meridian supporter. Upon announcing her retirement from Mississippi State earlier this year, board members of The Riley Foundation sought to recognize Bonner’s hard work and dedication in a way that was most meaningful to her.

“MSU-Meridian is an important partner in our community, and Dr. Bonner was instrumental in adding new programs and increasing enrollment for MSU-Meridian,” said Becky Farley, executive director of The Riley Foundation. “It has been an absolute pleasure working with her, and we are proud to make a gift in her honor.”

Chartered in 1998, The Riley Foundation works to improve the quality of life for Meridian and Lauderdale County citizens through charitable grants. Its partnership with MSU-Meridian and prior support for the university has benefited students through the Riley Scholars Program and led to many educational advancements, including developments of the MSU Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts, the I. Alfred Rosenbaum Building, and the Robert B. Deen Jr. Building, all located downtown at the MSU Riley Campus.

Extending such support with its most recent $25,000 commitment, The Riley Foundation has established an endowment within the Thrive Scholars Program bearing Bonner’s name. The Dr. Judy Bonner Endowed Thrive Scholarship will uphold the former provost’s legacy of investing in students by providing perpetual support for the valuable program.

The Thrive Scholars Program was launched at Mississippi State in 2018 to assist students who were previously or currently are a part of the foster care system, an emancipated minor, homeless, had both parents pass away, or any combination of these issues. As an advocate for student success, Bonner was instrumental in the creation of the program.

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“Statistics show that while 84 percent of 17 and 18-yearold foster youth want to go to college, only 2 to 9 percent of former foster youth actually obtain a bachelor’s degree,” Bonner said. “MSU plans to change those statistics, and this program can help with that mission.”

In addition to furnishing students with resources to help them succeed in the classroom, Thrive also aims to alleviate nonacademic stressors that can hinder academic achievement and degree completion by providing a sense of community and belonging. Some 50 Thrive Scholars are currently enrolled for the fall semester, 11 of which are entering freshmen.

“This program would not be what it is today without the vision and direction of Dr. Bonner,” said Le’Roy Davenport, MSU Thrive Scholars Program coordinator and alumnus of the College of Business. “She has gone above and beyond to make sure Thrive has what it needs to support its students. We are truly grateful for The Riley Foundation’s generous support for the endowment on behalf of such an inspiring leader.”

Bonner joined MSU in 2015 after a distinguished career as a longtime senior administrator and former president of the University of Alabama. She holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from that institution, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Ohio State.

Today, thanks to the newly created endowment, the efforts of Bonner’s work will continue to impact lives now and into the future. Recipients of the Dr. Judy Bonner Endowed Thrive Scholarship will be full-time MSU students who are a part of, or eligible for, the Thrive Scholars Program. Candidates may be eligible to receive the scholarship for up to four years and preference will be given to students from Lauderdale County.

“We hope this scholarship will help students overcome some of their struggles, have a good experience at MSU, and graduate,” said Farley.

STORY ADDIE MAYFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY MEGAN BEAN

Judy Bonner, retired MSU provost

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Campus Views

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Bulldog tailgates Sometimes the best parts of the gameday experience at Mississippi State University are the Saturdays spent meandering through the many tailgates present in The Junction and around Davis Wade Stadium, near Dudy Noble Field and Polk-DeMent Stadium, or close to The Hump. The colorful open tents house passionate and loyal alumni, friends, and families—all poised to energetically cheer for the Bulldogs during athletic competitions.

The tradition of tailgating at MSU is stronger than ever, bringing seasonal and relaxing fun for Bulldogs of all ages.

And just as cowbells and all things maroon and white are prominent, tailgate food is not an afterthought, but a focal point. Some menus consist of timeless recipes handed down through generations, while other fare is just beginning the start of what may become a great Southern tailgate tradition.

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Tailgate Eats RECIPE FROM "A MISSISSIPPI PALATE"

Blackened Chicken Pasta Serves six to eight 6 chicken breasts, 5 to 6 ounces each; butterflied 1 cup Italian dressing 2 tbsp olive oil As needed: blackening seasoning 2 tbsp unsalted butter 3 cups sliced mushrooms 1 cup sliced green onions 1 tbsp minced garlic 2 tbsp Creole seasoning 1 ½ cups Parmesan cream sauce ½ cup heavy cream 1 pound dry fettuccine pasta, cooked according to directions As needed: shredded Parmesan cheese Marinate the chicken in the Italian dressing for at least 6 hours or overnight. Heat the oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season each chicken breast liberally with the blackening seasoning and sear for 3 minutes on each side, working in batches. Hold the chicken breasts warm in the oven and make the pasta. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the mushrooms, green onions, garlic, and Creole seasoning, and cook for 4 to 6 minutes. Add the Parmesan cream sauce and heavy cream and simmer for 4 minutes. Toss thoroughly with the cooked pasta and divide among six plates. Top each pasta plate with a blackened chicken breast (cut into strips) and Parmesan cheese.

"A Mississippi Palate,” a coffee-table cookbook with 105 Mississippi heritage recipes by acclaimed chef Robert St. John and 66 beautiful Mississippi watercolors by Wyatt Waters, inspires tradition. Books are autographed by both men and accompanied by an exclusive signed and numbered print of the Bully statue at The Junction near Davis Wade Stadium. Order your special cookbook today at msufoundation.com/cookbook or call 662.325.7000.

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student perspective

My Bulldog Experience:

Caleb James

ssissippi State Being enrolled at Mi ior chemistry major University as a jun s ts and Sciences ha in the College of Ar d rne rience. I have lea been a great expe d de new friends, an important skills, ma f. sel my t ou ngs ab discovered many thi the busy, fast-paced to ted Getting adjus me mpus has also given environment on ca ies. myself and my abilit k me was the more confidence in first thing that struc freshman year, the my U MS at d town of ive When I arr osphere in my home erent from the atm diff ry ve is It to ty. rsi size of the unive ere everyone seems small, quiet town wh a is bia lum Co i. know pp see someone you Columbia, Mississi and you’re likely to ly, ick qu ls ve tra rd ighboring know each other, wo metown and the ne nk that my entire ho thi to ge an str It’s campus. every day. fit into MSU’s main orth could literally nts over 20,000 stude community of Foxw t a university with jus to n itio ns tra r, the adjusting. Howeve For some people, step that took some ge hu a s wa it , for me ak out of my is no big deal. But d me grow and bre because it has helpe ve mo the de et new ma I me I’m thankful have the chance to i State, I feel like I pp ssi ssi Mi At re. shell a little mo ve things every day. . My professors ha people and try new is serious business U MS at on ati uc ed t re us to be the I’ve also realized tha students and prepa mission to educate a on are y , I have the ar made it cle high expectations . To keep up with the rld wo the of ers ways to ak movers and sh also learned helpful h school and have hig in did I n e is tha r had to work harde know this experienc challenging, but I It’s . ge an ch to t adap study smarter and full potential. my see d friends. helping me lp of my family an far without the he s thi it de ma ve ha not give I would not and remind me to to check in on me re the en be s ay and help me My family has alw e me the hard truths ve been there to giv ha s nd frie my from the Asbury d up, an support I received o, the scholarship Als it. ed ed ne st, college is I’ve whenever because, to be hone perience possible ex tire en s thi de ge weight Foundation ma definitely taken a hu n Scholarship has tio da un Fo ry on, bu expensive. The As not only my educati all their support for te cia pre ap ly ep I de off my shoulders. recipients like me. they provide other ce an ist ass the for but also

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noteworthy news

College of Architecture, Art, and Design reaffirms vision and energizes mission

Creating, making, and achieving – the Mississippi State University College of Architecture, Art, and Design (CAAD) collectively brings these components into an environment where students can couple their academic journey with a world of possibilities.

On a daily basis, CAAD promotes and engages students and faculty in conceptualization, craft, media and technology, history and theory, and aesthetics and ethical issues associated with making artifacts in the world. The making of these artifacts and the places individuals live and work, the things they enjoy, the art that enriches their lives, and the ways they communicate graphically – have long been vital knowledge to the college’s mission.

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A storied history of 50 years of the Department of Art, nearly 45 years of the School of Architecture, a rising interior design program, and a burgeoning building construction science program — are core areas that creatively comprise CAAD. Within the college, the School of Architecture, the Department of Art, and the Interior Design Program are fully accredited nationally with their respective disciplines, and the Building Construction Science Program is currently in candidacy status for accreditation.

What lies ahead for the college? The focus of CAAD, under the new leadership of Professor Angi Bourgeois, dean since 2018 and faculty member since 2002, is threefold at present revolving around reputation, environment, and growth. And private gifts are bringing a new threshold of opportunity for CAAD to create an even greater impact for MSU through its endeavors.

Over time, outstanding CAAD graduates have become

owners and leaders in many professional firms and organizations, and the college utilizes their support to differentiate itself from programs at other universities across the nation. Financial commitments from these alumni, along with friends, corporations, and foundations must grow stronger in the future to extend the positive impact of CAAD worldwide.

Reputation: CAAD is a recognized leader in all of its disciplines.

Many of its faculty and students are also individually being recognized for their achievements as they gain exposure to art, design, construction, and culture abroad. There are multiple opportunities that allow students to have interaction and network with alumni and other art, design, and construction professionals.

The School of Architecture began as the first selfcontained, fifth-year architecture program in the nation.

Today, the school continues to grow its reputation, housing a professional undergraduate Bachelor of Architecture program. The school has the state’s only curriculum leading to a professional licensure in architecture and continues growing in reputation. Design Intelligence ranked the school as the nation’s 25th best in 2016 among some 140 architectural programs in North America accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. Of late, the school stands out as one of the country's best for its work on storm-resistant change and development projects to protect and enhance communities damaged by hurricanes.

The Department of Art is also thriving as it distinguishes itself as home of Mississippi’s largest undergraduate studio art program with concentrations in fine arts, graphic design, and photography. The college focuses its efforts on educating professional artists and providing active art galleries to serve the university, the community, and the region. Seven areas of emphasis are offered: ceramics, drawing, graphic design, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. MSU art students consistently garner more than 180 individual recognitions from regional, national, and international competitions annually.

Also growing in reputation is the college’s Interior Design Program, which is already known as one of the best in the South. The program trains students to create functional, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing residential and commercial interior environments. The program stresses studio-based learning, and students work with clients on real spaces. Graduates of the program work in diverse environments, including exclusive residential firms, large hotel chains, and the furniture industry.

Additionally, the Building Construction Science Program was added to the college’s offerings in response to the state of Mississippi’s needs. Students in this program learn by approaching projects from a comprehensive design and construction perspective. It is one of just two studio-based

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construction programs in the nation, and the only program in the nation teaching construction management in a studio environment collaboratively with architecture students for a full year.

And furthering CAAD’s mission are two thriving research centers that provide opportunities for student involvement.

These are the Gulf Coast Community Design Studio within the School of Architecture, which provides architectural services, city planning, and landscape design along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and the Fred Carl Jr. Small Town Center, which has become the community design center for the state of Mississippi.

Environment: A strong merit and need-based scholarship program allows CAAD to compete for the brightest students, while maintaining high academic standards in an environment enriched with diversity. These scholarships often make the difference in students’ success, as they alleviate some of the financial burdens and allow recipients to focus on their studies. Through Infinite Impact, more annual and endowed scholarships are sought to assist outstanding students in becoming the state’s talented artists, designers, and construction professionals of the future.

In all, some 760 students comprise the enrollment of CAAD. These students study and graduate with these degrees: Bachelor of Architecture, Bachelor of Fine Arts,

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Bachelor of Science in Building Construction, and Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. Many majors in CAAD boast a 99 or 100 percent placement rate for graduates.

CAAD offers its students, from freshmen to seniors, a great environment in which to learn. All majors within CAAD engage in studio-based, hands-on learning. The studio learning concept is a unique experience, and students have a designated studio space with 24/7 access.

As freshmen, CAAD students can live and learn together by residing in either Earnest W. and Mary Ann Deavenport Hall or Hull Hall. With studio-based learning as the predominant teaching methodology in the college, this community provides CAAD students a context in which to network, study, and work together as they acclimate to this unique learning format. Students can also tutor on-site with access to study areas where they can gather and form a support network. As they begin senior study, all CAAD students work in teams on an industry-sponsored competitive design project with a real-world client for two weeks each year. The college values collaboration between CAAD majors and other majors across campus, along with alumni and other industry professionals.

A number of opportunities are available for CAAD students to gain professional experience through either an internship, externship, or co-op. Field trips are another important component of education for CAAD students as they engage in research and produce case studies in

preparation for these excursions. Additionally, students can explore academic opportunities outside the United States.

CAAD encourages students to gain exposure to art, design, construction, and culture abroad.

One of the smaller colleges of campus, CAAD prides itself on low student to faculty ratios (average 15:1) and considers itself a close-knit community. CAAD has a faculty base of nearly 50 and continues efforts to attract innovative faculty from a global marketplace. The college is continuously at the top of MSU rankings on a national student survey relation to educational experience and engagement with faculty.

For CAAD, endowed chairs and professorships can heighten the scholarly and research environment. For many years, CAAD benefited from the Johnny Crane Endowed Professorship in Architecture, with an endowment created by the Crane family; however, other endowed positions are needed. A rigorous environment of hiring high-caliber faculty in a competitive marketplace of peer institutions and commercial organizations has made endowed chairs and professorships, which supplement salaries and research, even more important. Through Infinite Impact, the college hopes to establish more endowments for chairs and professorships to lift the overall environment and reputation.

Growth: CAAD is currently housed in some eight buildings across campus, from Etheredge Hall by the Drill Field to Giles Hall by Davis Wade Stadium to the Visual Arts Center Gallery on University Drive. The innovative pedagogy of studio-based programs requires unique facilities. In the coming years, a single, sizable facility is needed to draw the college together to enhance its goal of collaboration.

The university believes a larger, centrally-located facility can bring core components of the college into a cohesive space that will drive creative, collaborative direction and accommodate growth.

One reason for a larger facility is to specifically prepare for anticipated growth in CAAD programs. The Department of Art's graphic design program has been singled out by a national publication, HOW magazine, as an "under the radar" program of excellence. The Interior Design Program's work and accreditation presentation has been used by the national accreditation body as an example for other programs to emulate. And the Building Construction Science Program has implemented a studiobased undergraduate program unique in the country.

Additionally, a number of state-of-the-art specialty resources are provided by the college to help students have the tools they need to excel in unique, studio-based CAAD programs. These resources are possible through individual and corporate support, and more opportunities exist for alumni and friends to connect their names with the college.

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By endowing existing studios, contributors can heighten the student experiences available there.

Philanthropy for CAAD is essential on an annual basis to sustain its strengths and for the long term. Ultimately, a cornerstone gift through Infinite Impact can create a comprehensive endowment for CAAD that would grow the entire college in perpetuity. Such a gift would transform the college into a preeminent design institution in the Southeast, attracting more nationally prominent faculty and the most creative students. A leading endowment for the college would carry a significant naming opportunity and give the state of Mississippi the latitude to become a national leader in design and build, sustainable design, economic development, and innovative construction practices.

Infinite Impact:

The Infinite Impact campaign will afford CAAD the means to attract additional support from alumni and friends and corporations and foundations that desire to increase the caliber of graduates in the workforce and ensure responsiveness to the needs of communities. Gifts through Infinite Impact are enabling CAAD to grow its vision by refining the quality of its existing efforts and extending the reach of its impact globally with significant influence in the areas of design and construction. There is always an opportunity to assist the students, faculty, and programs of CAAD. Alumni and friends can learn more about the College of Architecture, Art, and Design at www.caad.msstate.edu, as well as via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @CAADatMSU.

PHOTOGRAPHY MSU OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS/SUBMITTED

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Get to know

P.K. THOMAS

Perry K. “P.K.” Thomas IV has always had his sights set on Mississippi State University. A Tupelo native, P.K. earned two degrees from MSU—a 2003 bachelor’s in communication and a 2008 master’s in physical education and sport administration. After graduation, P.K. was an MSU admissions counselor before joining the Yocona Area Council of Boy Scouts of America as a district executive.

However, the passionate pull of his alma mater inspired him to return to the MSU campus, and in 2010, P.K. became assistant director of development for the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering. Four years later, he became director of development for the College of Architecture, Art, and Design (CAAD). P.K. and his wife, Mary Brook, live in Starkville with their children, Will, Henry, and Lillian. He enjoys watching MSU sporting events and coaching his kids’ sports teams.

Now, more about P.K.: Favorite spot on campus?

Dudy Noble Field—there is nothing better than visiting with friends while watching the Diamond Dawgs play baseball.

What’s it like to build support for MSU? I have great pride in MSU as an institution and a sense of gratitude for what it has given me. Playing a small part in securing gifts that make an impact on our faculty and students is the least I can do to help repay MSU for all it has done for me.

Favorite thing about the job?

I love seeing donors interact with those they have made an impact on—the satisfaction they gain from making a positive difference in someone else’s educational experience is really powerful.

What’s unique about CAAD? CAAD alumni designed many of the buildings on MSU’s campus. I think that’s really inspiring to current students and serves as a tangible expression of the quality of education offered through the college.

Dowdle pictures rewarding lifetime of giving It has been said that it is better to give than to receive.

However, Walter Dowdle knows that sometimes it’s possible to do both.

A native of Grenada, Dowdle graduated from Mississippi State University in 1967 with a degree in petroleum engineering. He began his career as a reservoir engineer and well log analyst with Chevron Oil and continued his education to earn a master’s degree from Stanford University in 1970.

After six years with Chevron, Dowdle joined Intercomp Resource Development Engineering of Houston, Texas, where he assumed the role of vice president. Throughout his career, Dowdle continued to serve in various leadership positions within the oil and gas industry. In 1991, Dowdle made the ultimate decision to put his experience to work and established his own independent consulting firm, Dowdle & Associates.

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Despite living and running a business nearly 600 miles away in Katy, Texas, Dowdle has always felt close to his roots at Mississippi State. When the petroleum engineering degree was re-established at MSU in 2015, Dowdle was eager to show his support for the program, but wasn’t sure how he could actively contribute. When a few of his former classmates and fellow Bulldog engineers suggested he join the program’s advisory board, he jumped at the opportunity.

“I’ve always tried to stay close to MSU and have maintained many connections over the years,” said Dowdle, who enjoys returning to campus and growing his involvement with students, faculty, and fellow alumni.

“It’s an honor to be able to be a part of the petroleum engineering advisory board and to be back at Mississippi State.”

As a Legion of Honor inductee in the Society of

“I realized that although my gift might not be much, every little bit counts. You don’t have to make a onemillion-dollar gift—you can do a small gift and still make a difference.”

Framed illustration of YMCA building by MSU alumna Tracie Grace Riesgo

Petroleum Engineers, Dowdle understands the importance of building professional relationships to advance knowledge and build new opportunities. This quality has not only benefited his career endeavors, but also brings valuable insight to his commitments at MSU. In 2017, the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering honored Dowdle’s accomplishments and dedication to the field of engineering by recognizing him as a Distinguished Fellow.

In addition to his service at his alma mater, Dowdle has also been an avid financial supporter of the university for more than 30 years. Along with his wife Margaret, a Jackson native and graduate of the Mississippi University for Women, Dowdle has contributed to various areas across campus, including the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering, Student Affairs, and the Petroleum Engineering Advisory Board Excellence Fund, among others. The couple also created the Walter and Margaret Dowdle Legacy Scholarship in 2017.

Seeing his gifts as a way of “giving back” to MSU, Dowdle never expected anything in return. However, when his lifetime giving to Mississippi State reached a qualifying level for membership in the Legacy of Leadership earlier this year, he was pleasantly surprised to receive a framed print from the MSU Foundation.

The print, featuring an original illustration of the historic YMCA building on MSU’s campus, is one of four in the “MSU Foundation Series,” crafted by fourth generation and fine arts alumna Tracie Grace Riesgo of Nashville, Tennessee. Also included in the series are architectural drawings of Lee Hall, the Chapel of Memories, and the Industrial Education Building, nicknamed the “Twin Towers.”

- Walter Dowdle Each of these framed prints is presented to donors as they reach a certain amount within MSU’s Legacy of Leadership giving program. Beyond the framed-print series, other gifts are also associated with the MSU Foundation’s additional giving societies.

Donor recognition programs exist at a variety of levels to acknowledge gifts to Mississippi State University.

Benefactors within these levels have made significant contributions that will leave a lasting impact on the land-grant institution. Each year, the names of all Legacy of Leadership members are published in the MSU Foundation's annual report publication, recognizing them at their highest level.

The Legacy of Leadership program for which Dowdle was acknowledged, is based on a donor’s cumulative giving to the university and recognizes lifetime support from $50,000 and above. However, it doesn’t take a large gift to make a real and lasting impact. Many contributors, like Dowdle, gradually grow their giving over time and become Legacy of Leadership members through smaller commitments.

“I realized that although my gift might not be much, every little bit counts,” said Dowdle. “You don’t have to make a one-million-dollar gift—you can do a small gift and still make a difference.”

Thanks to the dedication of Bulldog alumni and friends like Dowdle, Mississippi State University continues to move forward and reach greater heights. The commitments of each donor become a legacy—an investment in the ongoing endeavors in education and outreach and also in rising opportunities, which leaves the donor’s mark on the

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students, faculty, and programs of Mississippi State and ensures a bright future.

“Mississippi State always has been a great institution,” said Dowdle. “But it’s really grown and experienced a lot of progress in recent years. I’m grateful to be able to contribute and give back, and I am excited about the future of our university.”

STORY ADDIE MAYFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY LOGAN KIRKLAND

Legacy of Leadership The Legacy of Leadership at Mississippi State University consists of eight levels from $50,000 to over $25 million. Membership is based on the donor's cumulative lifetime gifts.

This recognition also includes the Old Main Society, acknowledging donors who include MSU as a primary beneficiary in their wills or who make other deferred gifts. Donors in both the Legacy of Leadership and the Old Main Society are placed at their highest membership level. These levels are:

DONALD W. ZACHARIAS ROUNDTABLE $25 million and above The Donald W. Zacharias Roundtable honors MSU's 15th president, Donald W. Zacharias, who served from 1985-1997.

STEPHEN D. LEE SOCIETY $500,000 to $999,000 Originally MSU's highest donor club, this level honors MSU’s first president, Stephen D. Lee, who served from 1880-1899.

JAMES D. MCCOMAS BENEFACTORS $10,000,000 to $24,999,999 The James D. McComas Benefactors honors MSU's 14th president, James D. McComas, who served from 1976-1985.

J. CHARLES LEE ASSOCIATES $250,000 to $499,999 The J. Charles Lee Associates honors MSU's 17th president, J. Charles Lee, who served from 2002-2006.

WILLIAM L. GILES PARTNERS

$5,000,000 to $9,999,999 The William L. Giles Partners honors MSU's 13th president, William L. Giles, who served from 1966-1976.

EUGENE BUTLER FELLOWS $100,000 to $249,999 The Eugene Butler Fellows honors the 1913 graduate who demonstrated his love and support by contributing generously to various programs and projects.

DEAN W. COLVARD FOUNDERS $1,000,000 to $4,999,999 The Dean W. Colvard Founders honors MSU's 12th president, Dean W. Colvard, who served from 1960-1966.

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BEN F. HILBUN TORCHBEARERS $50,000 to $99,999 The Ben F. Hilbun Torchbearers honors MSU's 11th president, Ben F. Hilbun, who served from 1953-1960.

noteworthy news

MSU Foundation Ambassadors learning to lead The Mississippi State University Foundation Ambassadors is a student organization created to support the MSU Foundation. The organization’s core purpose is the development and sustainability of student leaders who promote and encourage scholarship, leadership, and service activities that will stimulate commitment and philanthropy.

Members promote the university's positive image and serve as liaisons between students, administration, alumni, and friends of the university.

Officers of the 2019-20 MSU Foundation Ambassadors include:

Jes Miller Office: President | Hometown: Houston, TX Major: Finance (Risk Management and Insurance) | Class Year: Senior Scholarships: Academic Excellence, Alumni Non-Resident Tuition, and Non-Resident Tuition Campus Involvement: MSU Student Association Treasurer, Co-Director of Recruitment for Interfraternity Council, Treasurer of Gamma Iota Sigma RMI Society, and Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity Favorite Maroon Moment: Attending the Legacy of Leadership dinner and dancing with donors

Matthew Roberson Office: Vice President | Hometown: Crystal Springs Major: Chemical Engineering | Class Year: Junior Scholarships: Academic Excellence Scholarship, Valedictorian Scholarship, and James P. Applewhite Engineering Scholarship Campus Involvement: Director of Fundraising for MSU Student Association, and Vice President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity Favorite Maroon Moment: Crawfish boil at our annual Foundation Ambassadors retreat last year

Mary Catherine Sobiesk Office: Secretary | Hometown: Hattiesburg Major: Finance (and pre-dental) | Class Year: Senior Scholarship: Academic Excellence Scholarship Campus Involvement: Kappa Delta Sorority, and Pre-Dental Society Favorite Maroon Moment: The opportunity to invest my time in MSU, meet many new people, and make great connections

Bryson Marretta Office: Recruitment | Hometown: Destrehan, LA Major: Mechanical Engineering | Class Year: Senior Scholarships: Academic Excellence Scholarship, Academic Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship, Litton Industries Scholarship, and New Orleans Alumni Chapter Scholarship Campus Involvement: Vice president of three organizations: Phi Gamma Delta, Men’s Club Soccer, and New Maroon Camp Favorite Maroon Moment: In 2017, MSU beat LSU, my hometown’s favorite team. After a long game, the entire stadium huddled and sang MSU’s Maroon and White alma mater.

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Then and Now The Junction becomes leisure epicenter of campus

The “Don’t Never Ever Enter” sign from the 1960s (top) was removed as five congested MSU roadways known as “Malfunction Junction” gave way to The Junction in 2006. What once was known as the Five Points intersection, and, earlier, a rail line, was extensively redesigned and re-landscaped into a green space inspired by students.

Anchored by Davis Wade Stadium and the Cullis Wade Depot and Welcome Center, which honor the late MSU graduates and supporters for which they are named, The Junction area has become an epicenter for leisure in the more than decade since its transformation. This pedestrian-friendly focal point is now a significant gathering place for students and alumni. Also located at The Junction is the Compass Scholars Walk, of which engraved bricks and pavers can be secured with contributions benefiting the university’s Compass Scholarship Program.

The Junction and Compass Walk are linked by other walkways that take the MSU family and visitors to the university’s other “lawn, the historic Drill Field.

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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.

The most popular choice is to engrave a brick with your name and class year, but many other opportunities exist. You could: • memorialize a loved one, • recognize a family member, or • pay tribute to an influential faculty member.

TO ORDER: Visit msufoundation.com/ compasswalk, scroll to the bottom, and click “purchase your brick here.” Secure as many as you like and include your inscription(s) (subject to approval by the MSU Foundation).

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

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Ramaswamys honor family through student scholarship

Sonny Ramaswamy and Gita Ramaswamy will always hold Mississippi State University in high regard. Although they make their home in Redmond, Washington, for a time their life centered around Starkville and Mississippi’s largest research university. A new endowed student scholarship now connects them in perpetuity with MSU, where they spent the early years of their distinguished careers.

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Originally from India, the couple has been married almost 40 years. The Ramaswamys came to the United States to study for their doctorates; Sonny in 1976 and Gita in 1978. They moved to Starkville in 1982 for faculty positions at MSU. In the years that followed, they held numerous roles over some 15 years in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Sonny was a professor of entomology, and Gita was a professor of human environment and design.

The Ramaswamys are strong proponents of education and longtime financial supporters of educational institutions in the United States and India. Their most recent gift at MSU establishes the Padmavathi and P.R. Narasimhan Endowed Scholarship in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in tribute to Gita’s late parents.

In their native India, P.R. Narasimhan, Gita’s father, had a long career with his country’s government as chief engineer for All India Radio and was instrumental in creating the transmission grid for the state-owned television network. Her

“Mississippi State University is a phenomenal institution that places focus on helping change the human condition through education, through discovery, and through the application of knowledge that positively changes lives. We are very pleased to offer this scholarship at the university.”

- Gita Ramaswamy mother, Padmavathi Narasimhan, was instrumental in Gita’s education in the United States. She motivated Gita to achieve her Ph.D. in toxicology from Mississippi State, after her Bachelor of Science with honors in zoology from Bangalore University and Master of Science in entomology from the University of Agricultural Sciences, both from her native India, and a Master of Science in textiles from Michigan State University. Earlier gifts from the Ramaswamys supported student travel at MSU by also honoring the Narasimhans with a named fund.

At MSU, recipients of the Padmavathi and P.R. Narasimhan Endowed Scholarship will be students studying in a wide array of fields—entomology, plant pathology, agricultural education, leadership and communications, fashion design and merchandising, human development and family sciences, and agricultural and extension education. Preference will be given to students from underrepresented backgrounds with financial need.

“Mississippi State University is a phenomenal institution that places focus on helping change the human condition through education, through discovery, and through the application of knowledge that positively changes lives,” said Gita. “We are very pleased to offer this scholarship at the university.”

Sonny echoed her sentiment in citing why the couple wanted to establish the scholarship.

“A Mississippi State University education is important.

We hope the recipients of our scholarship will use their education from the university to change the human condition for the better and impact the world around them,” he said.

The Ramaswamys fondly recall their time at MSU and Starkville, and the academic scholarship strengthens their university connection. Future Bulldogs can take pride as holders of the Padmavathi and P.R. Narasimhan Endowed Scholarship because of the impeccable reputations and strong work ethic shared by the couple that it honors and also by the couple who make it possible.

Over their careers, the Ramaswamys have mentored numerous high school, undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral students, along with many colleagues. They enjoy helping others seek knowledge that can create global impact.

In 1997, the Ramaswamys left MSU as they were recruited by Kansas State University. Sonny became head and distinguished professor of the Department of Entomology, and Gita served as professor and interim head of the university’s Apparel, Textiles, and Interior Design Department. From there, they held administrative leadership positions at Purdue University and Oregon State University.

Gita is the recipient of several awards and honors for her research and teaching efforts, and she’s the author of numerous research articles. In particular, her research on textiles was funded with grants from federal and state agencies, commodity groups, and industry.

Likewise, as a faculty member at Mississippi State and Kansas State, Sonny’s research was funded with grants from federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, U.S. Agency for International Development, and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, along with funding from state agencies, commodity groups, and industry. Sonny has published a book, book chapters, and over 150 journal articles, and he also holds a patent.

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“We sincerely hope our recipients will graduate and embark on fulfilling careers in service of society. Mississippi State is a leading university in many areas, and the accomplishments of its graduates are greatly needed in helping society, which is garnering greater attention to the institution.”

- Sonny Ramaswamy Sonny Ramaswamy visits with MSU President Mark E. Keenum.

The two have crossed paths for projects of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

For his accomplishments, Sonny is the recipient of a number of awards and honors, including Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Fellow of the Entomological Society of America, the Hutchinson Medal from the Chicago Botanic Garden, and the Agriculture Future of America’s Leader in Agriculture Award. Like Gita, Sonny earned two of his degrees in his native India — Bachelor of Science in agriculture and Master of Science in entomology, both from the University of Agricultural Sciences in Bangalore. His doctorate is in entomology from Rutgers University, and he has certificates from the University of Nebraska’s New Academic Chair’s Program and Harvard University’s Management Development Program.

Following roles in academia, the couple moved to the Washington, D.C., area in 2012, where Sonny served for six years as then President Barack Obama’s appointee as the director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, which catalyzes transformative discoveries, education, and engagement to solve societal and agricultural challenges. Since 2018, he has been the president of the Northwest Commission on

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Colleges and Universities, which accredits higher education institutions in seven northwestern states and in Canada.

Following her distinguished career in academia, Gita served as a senior advisor to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Chief Scientist in then President Barack Obama's administration, during which time she was instrumental in developing the scientific integrity policy for USDA. In 2015, she retired professionally to devote time to her family.

As longtime supporters, the Ramaswamys continue to promote Mississippi State University and its growing reputation. In the years ahead, they look forward to corresponding with future recipients of their scholarship.

“We sincerely hope our recipients will graduate and embark on fulfilling careers in service of society,” said Sonny. “Mississippi State is a leading university in many areas, and the accomplishments of its graduates are greatly needed in helping society, which is garnering greater attention to the institution.”

STORY AMY CAGLE PHOTOGRAPHY BETH WYNN/SUBMITTED

achievements

Mississippi State University National Science Research Rankings

Rankings are based on the most recent NCSES FY17 Data.

The complete NSF report may be read at https://ncsesdata.nsf.gov/herd/2017/.

Fall 2019 | FOUNDATIONS

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Make your giving go further for MSU. There is no better time to consider Mississippi State University in your yearly charitable giving plans. Annual gifts benefit MSU immediately; however, by adding a planned gift, such as including us in your will, you can:

• • • •

I ncrease the impact of your giving.

Receive greater tax savings.

Preserve wealth for you and your family.

Leave your legacy for Mississippi State’s future.

For more information on creating a planned gift, contact the MSU Foundation Office of Planned Giving.

Wes Gordon, Director of Planned Giving (662) 325-3707 | wgordon@foundation.msstate.edu 38

FOUNDATIONS | Fall 2019

MSU is an AA/EEO university.

foundation board

Officers:

CHAIR — D. Hines Brannan | Managing Director of Accenture (retired) | Atlanta, Ga. VICE CHAIR — Anthony L. Wilson | Chairman, President and CEO of Mississippi Power Company | Gulfport, Miss.

TREASURER — Mike M. McDaniel | President of Saber Power Services LLC | Houston, Texas PRESIDENT AND CEO — John P. Rush | Vice President of Development and Alumni, Mississippi State University | MSU SECRETARY — Jack R. McCarty | Executive Director of Development, Mississippi State University | MSU CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER — David D. Easley | Executive Director of Finance, Mississippi State University | MSU

Members:

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

William B. “Bill” Berry | Executive Vice President of ConocoPhillips (retired) | Katy, Texas Sherri Carr Bevis I National Alumni President I Assistant Secretary of State for External Marketing, Mississippi Secretary of State's Office I Gulfport, Miss.

Robert P. “Bob” Bowen | Partner-in-charge for Mid-South Audit Practice of Arthur Andersen & Co. (retired) | Holly Springs, Miss.

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

Helen M. Currie | Chief Economist for ConocoPhillips | Houston, Texas John D. Davis IV | Neurosurgeon/Founding Partner for NewSouth NeuroSpine | Flowood, Miss.

Earnest W. “Earnie” Deavenport Jr. | Chairman and CEO of Eastman Chemical (retired) | Greenville, S.C. John N. “Nutie” Dowdle | Chairman of the Board of Dowdle Enterprises | Columbus, Miss.

Timothy S. “Tim” Duncan | President and CEO of Talos Energy Inc. | Houston, Texas Hassell H. Franklin | Chairman and CEO of Franklin Corporation | Houston, Miss.

S. Bryce Griffis | President of Sturgis Timber Company (retired) | Starkville, Miss.

Jan L. Gwin | Managing Director of Raymond James & Associates | Memphis, Tenn.

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

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

Wilbert G. “Mickey” Holliman Jr. | Chairman and CEO of Furniture Brands International (retired) | Tupelo, Miss.

Herbert V. “Herb” Johnson | President of HVJ Associates Inc. | Houston, Texas Rodger L. Johnson | President and CEO of JKC Holdings Inc. | Atlanta, Ga. Paul J. Karre | Senior Vice President Human Resources/Communications for International Paper (retired) | Pawleys Island, S.C. Malcolm B. Lightsey Sr. | President and CEO of SunTech Inc. (retired) | Ridgeland, Miss.

Rusty C. Linton | Orthopedic Surgeon for Columbus Orthopaedic Clinic P.A. | Columbus, Miss.

John. R. Lundy | Partner with Capital Resources LLC | Jackson, Miss.

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

Bobby P. Martin | Chairman of The Peoples Bank | Ripley, Miss.

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

Janice I. Nicholson | Professor Emerita for University of North Alabama (retired) | Florence, Ala. Thomas B. “Tommy” Nusz | President of the MSU Bulldog Club | Chairman and CEO of Oasis Petroleum Inc. | Houston, Texas Linda F. Parker | Secretary of Sunbelt Wholesale Supply (retired) | Bolton, Miss.

George D. Pillow Jr. | Chairman of Senators Coaches Inc. | Killen, Ala. 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.

Gregory C. “Gregg” Rader | CEO of Columbus Recycling Corporation | Columbus, Miss.

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

M. Diane Roberts | Associate Professor of Business of Indiana University East (retired) | Louisville, Ky. James J. “Jim” Rouse | Vice President of ExxonMobil Company (retired) | Suwanee, Ga. Richard A. Rula | President of Hemphill Construction Company | Florence, Miss.

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

Wallace L. “Lee” Seal | President of North Beach Investments LLC | Bay Saint Louis, Miss.

Bobby S. Shackouls | Chairman, President and CEO of Burlington Resources Inc. (retired) | Houston, Texas Allen K. Sills Jr. | Chief Medical Officer for NFL/Professor of Neurosurgery, Vanderbilt Medical Center | Franklin, Tenn.

Cynthia M. “Cindy” Stevens | Management Principal Government Relations of Deloitte LLP (retired) | Alexandria, Va. Turner A. Wingo | Owner of Sherry’s Hallmark (retired) | Colliersville, Tenn.

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

Fall 2019 | FOUNDATIONS

39

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