Southern Miss Business at Work | Fall 2025 Issue

CLANCY SLAY FINDING PURPOSE AND BEING YOUR BEST SELF p. 14

SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES TAKE ON

SUPER BOWL LIX p. 10

JASMINE MAGEE PROSECUTOR OF THE YEAR p. 24

Business at Work SOUTHERN

MISS

FALL 2025 ISSUE

DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF SOUTHERN MISS BUSINESS, At Southern Miss Business, we like to say our students are “Ready for Business.” After this year, I’d argue they’re ready for just about anything, whether it’s competing on the world stage, navigating global adventures, or figuring out which button actually dispenses coffee from those unnecessarily complicated office machines (a skill that’s honestly more valuable than most people realize).

This year, our students proved that “hands-on learning” can mean just about anything, from scanning 85,000 tickets at the Super Bowl to pitching new ventures in our Hatchathon. They participated in study-abroad trips across the globe, from ramenmaking in Tokyo to espresso-tasting in Florence, reminding us that business lessons are best absorbed with a side of local cuisine.

And here at home, our professional sales students held their own against the best in the nation, showing that Golden Eagles can close deals with as much energy as they bring to a football tailgate.

Our faculty and staff kept the momentum going with innovative curriculum changes, new graduate programs on the horizon, and a shiny App Development Lab. And our alumni? They continue to set the bar higher, leading industries, mentoring students and, in many cases, making headlines that keep us saying, “Yes, they got their start right here.”

Editor-in-Chief: Bailey Harris Shoemake

Of course, no year would be complete without pausing to celebrate.

The Golden Quills awards have quickly become one of our favorite traditions, spotlighting not just talent and achievement, but also the kindness, grit, and character that define our community.

Through every success, big and small, we’ve been reminded why Southern Miss Business matters. It’s about preparing students not only to thrive in their careers, but to shape the future with creativity, resilience, and integrity.

So, find a comfortable seat, flip through these pages, and join us in reliving a year that stretched us, challenged us, and made us prouder than ever.

Sincerely,

J. Bret Becton Dean, College of Business and Economic Development

Graphic Designer: Hanna Schloemer

Photographers: Ana Ruth Cortés, Paul Lijewski

GOLD PARTNERS SOUTHERN FARM BUREAU LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

®

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We are proud to collaborate with these esteemed organizations whose support helps us achieve our goals and enrich the experiences of our business students. If you are interested in becoming a corporate partner, please reach out to business@usm.edu.

FEATURE STORIES

10

SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES TAKE ON

24 JASMINE MAGEE

PROSECUTOR OF THE YEAR

SUPER BOWL LIX

14 CLANCY SLAY FINDING PURPOSE AND BEING YOUR BEST SELF

30

SOUTHERN MISS BUSINESS RETURNS TO

TOKYO, JAPAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4. Year in Review 6. Remembering Chuck Scianna 8. Scianna Business Leaders Visit Alumni and Professionals in Nashville 12. Inspired Leaders Series: Fred McCallister 18. EAGLE Scholars Program: Learning to Lead by Listening First

SOUTHERN MISS BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 21. Entrepreneurs of the Year: Glenn and Richard Mueller 22. Alumnus of the Year: Jim Estes ‘86 23. Young Alumna of the Year: Catalina Villegas ‘11 28. Center for Entrepreneurship: Innovation Starts Here 34. Business and Culture in Hawaii 35. Business and Culture in Italy 36. British Studies Program 37. International Internship Program: Dublin, Ireland

40. Innovations in Southern Miss Business Curriculum 42. Southern Miss Celebrates First Graduate of the Ocean Engineering Entrepreneurship Pathway Program 44. Outstanding and Unstoppable: Celebrating Business Student Accomplishments 47. A Round of Applause to The Golden Quills 48. Celebrating Business Faculty and Staff

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS 50. Exploring the Perceived Usefulness of Autonomous Trucks in the U.S. Gulf Coast 52. Electronic Propinquity: Design Characteristics and Task Complexity in Modern Information Sources 54. The Role of Innovation as a Mediator Between Firm Capabilities and Performance 56. In Memoriam

38. Southern Miss Professional Sales Program: Competing, Connecting, and Adapting to Tech

Table of Contents | 3

2024-25

take a look

Scianna Hall Spooktacular

Meet the Firms

Southern Miss Business Excellence Awards

Southern Miss Golden Eagles Take on Super Bowl LIX

Experience Business Casually Black and Gold Day

Etiquette Dinner

AUGUST 2024

SEPTEMBER 2024

OCTOBER 2024

NOVEMBER 2024

DECEMBER 2024

JANUARY 2025

Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Dr. Henry Jones

Meet the Firms

Tailgate, Southern Miss v. Louisiana

Southern Miss Business Excellence Awards

Fall Commencement Ceremonies

Business and Culture in Hawaii

Welcome Back Cookout

Tailgate, Southern Miss v. Southeastern Louisiana

Southern Miss Cruisin’ the Coast at Gulf Park

Black and Gold Day Tailgate, Southern Miss v. South Florida

Black and Gold Day Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Kent Oliver

Experience Business Casually Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Keith and Melissa Saucier Business Career and Internship Fair

Homecoming Tailgate, Southern Miss v. Arkansas State

Tailgate, Southern Miss v. Marshall Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Sheena Allen

Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Brook Jones-Sunsdahl

Hatchathon Finale Etiquette Dinner Superdome and Sun Belt Conference Facilities Tour Tailgate, Southern Miss v. South Alabama

Scianna Hall Spooktacular

Southern Miss Cruisin’ the Coast at Gulf Park Welcome Back Cookout 65 | The College of Business and Economic Development

Superdome and Sun Belt Conference Facilities Tour

Business and Culture in Hawaii Section or Article Title | 66

Sport Management Symposium Economic Outlook Forum

Business and Culture in Italy Student Research Showcase

Business Career and Internship Fair

Business and Culture in Asia Golden Idea Pitch Competition

FEBRUARY 2025

MARCH 2025

APRIL 2025

Southern Miss Golden Eagles Take on Super Bowl LIX

Inspired Leader Series, Fred McCallister

Student Research Showcase

Experience Business Casually, Gulf Park

Business Career and Internship Fair

Golden Idea Pitch Competition

Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Robert St. John

Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Max Draughn

Coffee w/ an Entrepreneur, Cathy Steen

University Founders’ Day

Scianna Business Leaders Study Away in Nashville

Economic Outlook Forum

Etiquette Dinner

Sport Management Symposium

MAY 2025

JUNE 2025

JULY 2025

Spring Commencement Ceremonies

Dublin International Internship

British Studies

Business and Culture in Italy Business and Culture in Asia

The Golden Quills

Experience Business Casually Gulf Park

Spring Commencement Ceremonies

University Founders’ Day 67 | The College of Business and Economic Development

The Golden Quills

British Studies Section or Article Title | 68

REMEMBERING

CHUCK SCIANNA

By J.T. Tisdale

On January 14, 2025, The University of Southern Mississippi and the College of Business and Economic Development lost a steadfast champion, alumnus, mentor, and benefactor when Charles C. “Chuck” Scianna passed away peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by his family in Houston, Texas.

Chuck was born in Bay St. Louis as the eldest of nine. After graduating from Bay High, he fought in Vietnam with the 4th Marine Division before returning home to earn his business degree from Southern Miss in 1975. He often credited the university for shaping his success and never forgot where it all began.

He and his wife, Rita, of 49 years reconnected with Southern Miss in 2010 when they agreed to name the College’s new business building, now known as Scianna Hall. This initial investment led to a relationship that impacted many other parts of Southern Miss, from the College of Nursing and Health Professions to the new Center for Military Veterans, Service Members and Families, to The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band.

More recently, Chuck partnered with Dean Bret Becton to create the Scianna Business Leaders Program, designed to recruit, retain, and prepare top students to lead with character and 6 | The College of Business and Economic Development

confidence. While meeting the first two cohorts in the program, he joked that he “probably wouldn’t have qualified” as a student, but his pride for those that did was unmistakable. He hosted the inaugural class in Houston, sharing wisdom from his Marine Corps days and the business lessons he learned during a career that spanned five decades while building SIM-TEX from the ground up.

He also created an investment account through the USM Foundation to empower finance students with real-world investing experience using the Student Managed Investment Fund. This initiative has given the group an opportunity to work with industry professionals to invest real money, building practical knowledge that translates directly to day-one readiness in the workforce.

Chuck often said he “never gave away a penny, only made investments.” The countless investments made by the Scianna family have led the College to new heights, with a state-of-the-art facility, new programs, and numerous opportunities for students and faculty to grow. He truly believed in Southern Miss and often quipped, “If a Southern Miss graduate tells you a rooster can pull a freight train, you better get the harness ready.”

If a Southern Miss graduate tells you a rooster can pull a freight train, you better get the harness ready.”

Remembering Chuck Scianna | 7

SCIANNA BUSINESS LEADERS

VISIT ALUMNI AND PROFESSIONALS IN NASHVILLE

8 | The College of Business and Economic Development

Southern Miss Business has welcomed its second class of Scianna Business Leaders, who joined the returning students in a program rooted in growth, leadership, and real-world learning.

Designed to complement the program’s emphasis on leadership and career development, the group took a regional study away trip to Nashville, Tennessee. The itinerary included visits with alumni and professionals who shared stories about everything from restaurant ownership to performing live on stage. This marked the second annual career exploration experience for the program and follows last year’s visit to Houston, Texas.

One of the standout visits of the trip was with alumna Whitney Miller, winner of the first season of MasterChef and owner of Whitney’s Cookies. Miller was still pursuing her degree in nutrition at Southern Miss when she appeared on the show and ultimately took home the coveted title.

“My favorite part of the trip was meeting Whitney Miller,” said junior Natalee Parker. “Hearing about her journey and how she went from winning MasterChef to starting her own business was so inspiring!” The students visited her incubator location, where she’s testing her business concept before expanding to additional locations. Although her operation is small, she has already begun shipping her cookies to customers across the country.

During the trip, The Voice finalist and marketing alumna Karen Waldrup met the students while decked out in black and gold in honor of her alma mater. She reflected on her early years navigating the Nashville music scene while pursuing her dream of becoming a country music artist. Waldrup was a top 5 finalist on The Voice, making it all the way to the show’s 25th season finale.

The students shared meals with other notable professionals, including entrepreneur and economic developer Jason McConnell at his renowned restaurant Cork & Cow. McConnell shared insights into how his restaurants continue to innovate and how customer expectations have shifted in the years since the pandemic.

The students also took an exclusive tour of LBMC, a professional services CPA firm. The tour was led by Southern Miss alumna Rachel Pittman, who is now a senior tax accountant. While there, they took part in a panel discussion made up of young accounting professionals who shared what it was like to transition from college to their careers.

The final day of the trip brought students to Cadence Bank, where they met with retired banker, General Steve Ainsworth, and his colleagues to learn about Nashville’s evolving business environment and the role financial institutions play in the city’s continued growth. While there, the group was also visited by Kathy Greene, daughter of Dr. Joseph A. Greene, the first dean of the business school at Southern Miss. She shared personal stories about her father’s legacy and the early days of the college. For both the new and returning leaders, the trip strengthened their skills and brought the values of the program to life.

“I absolutely love being part of the Business Leaders Program!” said Jennifer Gallegos-Trujillo. “It has helped me make some amazing friends and gain exposure to a variety of industries.”

“As an accounting major, one of the highlights of the trip for me was getting a firsthand look at what a day in the life of an accountant looks like,” said William Eubank. “It was an eye-opening

experience that deepened my passion for the field and broadened my perspective on the opportunities ahead.”

Scianna Business Leaders at a Nashville Predators hockey game with General Steve Ainsworth

Scianna Business Leaders Visit Alumni and Professionals in Nashville | 9

SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES TAKE ON

SUPER BOWL LIX A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE IN NEW ORLEANS

While most football fans spend the week leading up to Super Bowl Sunday planning their food spread, more than 50 business students, faculty, and staff from Southern Miss were in the heart of the action—working behind the scenes at the biggest sporting event of the year: Super Bowl LIX.

16 | The College of Business and Economic Development 10

Through a partnership with Allied Universal, a national leader in event security, these Golden Eagles gained real-world exposure to the sport management industry during the Super Bowl Experience before taking on crucial gameday roles inside the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. This opportunity provided the students with invaluable professional experience and was organized as a major fundraiser to benefit the Southern Miss Sport Management Association (SMA). SMA is a student organization that provides educational, social, and practical experiences for students pursuing careers in the sport industry.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to see both pre-event and gameday event setup and operations of the Super Bowl,” said Dr. Chris Croft, associate professor of sport management, who was responsible for making this dream experience a reality. “It was an enormous amount of work for everyone involved, but it gave our students firsthand exposure to all aspects of one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

It’s moments like these that show them what’s possible in their careers.”

Before hitting the ground in New Orleans, our participants spent months preparing by completing extensive security screenings, background checks, and specialized training in event management and security protocols.

Prior to taking their positions at the big game, the group spent four days working the Super Bowl Experience at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Known as the NFL’s immersive football festival, this event offers fans the chance to meet NFL players and legends, shop for exclusive gear at the NFL Shop, enjoy interactive games, and explore countless memorabilia displays featuring the Vince Lombardi Trophy and all 58 Super Bowl rings.

Southern Miss students served in various event management and security roles, including bag checks, guest hospitality, and assisting in the oversight of interactive exhibits. Additionally, a dedicated team from the Southern Miss group took on the responsibility of scanning tickets for guest entry. Over the course of the four days, the group scanned an impressive 85,000 tickets—40,000 of which were scanned on Saturday alone, highlighting the scale and fastpaced nature of the operation.

When Super Bowl Sunday arrived, the students were ready.

They worked in security positions throughout the Superdome, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for an arena full of fans.

Their responsibilities ranged from directing guests to their seats to monitoring elevators—including VIP access points, where some caught glimpses of celebrities and high-profile attendees.

“Working the Super Bowl was an unforgettable experience, where we not only gained hands-on industry knowledge, but also made lifelong memories together,” said Sarah Pazos, an undergraduate student in the sport management program who took advantage of the opportunity. “A huge thank you to the Sport Management Association and the College of Business and Economic Development for providing us with the opportunity to be a part of this incredible event!”

This level of experiential learning wouldn’t have been possible without Ryan McKeough, a two-time Southern Miss alumnus who earned both his undergraduate degree in sport management and an MBA from Southern Miss. Now serving as a regional manager for Allied Universal, McKeough worked with Dr. Croft to create this immersive opportunity for Southern Miss students.

“Allied Universal Event Services was thrilled to partner with the Sport Management program at The University of Southern Mississippi for Super Bowl LIX,” McKeough said. “As an alumnus of the program, I’m proud to give back and provide students with hands-on experience at a world-class event.”

In addition to the tireless work done by Dr. Croft, the success of this opportunity was also made possible thanks to Dr. Alison Hubbard, Dr. Sabrina Reed, Dr. Wei Wang, Dr. Marvin Bouillon, Brenda Tart, and Alexis Cato, the dedicated faculty and staff who attended to support the group throughout the trip, providing guidance, supervision and logistical assistance.

While the bright lights of Super Bowl LIX have faded, the impact of this experience will last a lifetime. Students walked away with more than just a great story; they gained skills that set them apart in the competitive sports industry, expanded their professional networks, and got an inside look at what it takes to manage a high-stakes event. These Golden Eagles proved that when

opportunity calls, Southern Miss students are always ready for the big game—and ready for life.

12 | The College of Business and Economic Development

INSPIRED LEADERS SERIES

“It’s not always about finding your passion. Instead, be passionate about what you find.”

Fred McCallister

FRED MCCALLISTER SHARES HIS PERSPECTIVE ON FINDING INSPIRATION IN THE UNEXPECTED This year’s Inspired Leaders Series welcomed Southern Miss alumnus Fred McCallister, founder and president of Caddo Lake Capital. This series invites industry leaders to share their story with the campus community and answer the question, “What inspires you?”

With nearly two decades of experience advising clients in merger and acquisition transactions, McCallister brings a cross-disciplinary perspective shaped by a career that spans law, engineering, and financial services.

Through his leadership with Caddo Lake Capital, he has represented both buyers and sellers across a wide range of industries. He has been a featured economic commentator on national networks, including CNN, Fox News, and Bloomberg. McCallister holds a Bachelor of Science in construction engineering technology from Southern Miss and a Juris Doctor from Mississippi College School of Law. More than 120 students attended his keynote session, where McCallister reflected on the winding nature of career paths and the value of embracing change with curiosity and discipline. One of the more memorable moments came when he remarked, “It’s not always about finding your passion. Instead, be passionate about what you find.” That message resonated across the room, offering students a new perspective on how to approach the unknowns of their professional journey.

In addition to his keynote, McCallister was a guest lecturer in both an accounting and finance class before joining the EAGLE Scholars for lunch, offering students multiple opportunities to engage with and learn from his experience. By sharing his story, he left students with a deeper understanding that the most fulfilling paths are rarely the most predictable.

Inspired Leaders Series: Fred McCallister | 13

CLANCY SLAY

FINDING PURPOSE AND BEING YOUR BEST SELF

By Bailey Harris Shoemake 14 | The College of Business and Economic Development

Through heartbreak and healing, loss and learning, a Southern Miss graduate reflects on the resilience that carried her and the purpose she’s found along the way.

By the time Clancy arrived on campus as a freshman, she’d already endured five months of chemotherapy, survived Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and somehow managed to complete high school as valedictorian, all while in and out of treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

What no one could’ve known then was that her college years would bring even more heartbreak. She would lose both of her parents, just months apart. But through it all, Clancy moved forward, not knowing exactly where her path would lead.

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything Clancy grew up in Quitman, Mississippi, as the type of teen who never did only one thing. She juggled four sports and tumbling lessons. Her coaches tried to talk her into narrowing it down, but she loved it all—soccer, tennis, gymnastics, and cheerleading.

Her sophomore year brought her first major setback: a torn ACL during a cheer routine. It pulled her away from the sports she loved and introduced a new kind of mental hurdle.

Physical therapy helped her body heal, but the fear of another injury lingered.

Then, as she was beginning to find her footing again, she found a golf ball-sized lump on her neck. Her mother instantly recognized it. She had survived the same diagnosis at the age of 12.

Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

What followed were months of chemotherapy, long drives between home and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and days that blurred into each other. She suffered from severe side effects of the treatment, including agonizing joint pain, dizziness, nerve damage, and hair loss. But she never lost hope.

“Some days, I typed homework with my fingers numb from nerve damage,” she remembers. “Other days, I just slept.”

She stayed on track academically but couldn’t return to school yet due to low immunity. Her scans finally showed she was in remission, on her mother’s birthday, no less. She rejoined life without missing a beat, just in time for the Distinguished Young Women program, something she had looked forward to participating in with her peers for quite some time. She decided to wear a wig for the formalwear portion, but took if off for the fitness portion. “I remember looking up after my routine and seeing the audience standing, clapping and cheering,” she says.

“It was so surreal.”

Clancy went on to represent Clarke County at the state level, placing in the top 10. Her motto, adopted from the

program, was simple and powerful: be your best self.

Clancy Slay: Finding Purpose and Being Your Best Self | 15

Driven by the quality and compassionate care she received at St. Jude, Clancy knew she wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. Dr. Kelli King, associate teaching professor and program coordinator, introduced her to healthcare marketing.

“Dr. King helped me realize that the culture of care starts with administration,” she says. The more Clancy learned, the more she saw how she could someday make a meaningful difference.

After completing her undergraduate degree in healthcare marketing, she stayed to pursue both an MBA and Master of Public Health. Along the way, she served as a graduate assistant in the School of Marketing and continued to build a broader understanding of the healthcare system.

Choosing Southern Miss When it came time for college, Clancy had been accepted to multiple schools, but it was the warmth of Southern Miss that won her over.

“Southern Miss quickly became my home away from home,” she says.

And once enrolled, she welcomed every new opportunity. From Luckyday, Honors College, and Southern Style, to Chi Omega, the EAGLE Scholars Program, and study abroad.

A PASSPORT TO HEALING AND GROWTH Clancy studied abroad three times while at Southern Miss. Her first trip was months after remission through the Château Program in Strasbourg, France.

“I wanted to go because I’d just been through something where I wasn’t guaranteed tomorrow,” she says. “So, when I got the chance to study in France, I didn’t hesitate.”

Though the trip was cut short due to the pandemic, the experience stayed with her. Later trips to London and Italy deepened her love for global perspectives and cross-cultural connection. In each city, she didn’t only study international business—she studied people.

When reflecting on her trips, she mentioned a moment in Rome, when she stood in St. Peter’s Basilica with tears in her eyes. “Standing there, you feel the beauty, the meaning, the history,” she says. “It’s not just

something you see; it’s something you feel.”

16 | The College of Business and Economic Development

As a graduate student, she was chosen as the inaugural recipient of the Scianna Spirit of Business Award. This award is given by the College of Business and Economic Development in honor of Mr. Chuck Scianna to a student who never gave up, was their best self, and stayed true to their personal goals throughout college.

The Loss of Her Parents Clancy’s second year of graduate school brought unimaginable loss when her father passed away, and then her mother six months later. Her mom, a school librarian, passed down a deep love for reading, while her dad instilled a work ethic rooted in kindness, honesty, and humor.

“They taught me to work hard and do the right thing,” Clancy says. “And that is what I’ve tried to keep doing.”

She and her sister, Chelsi, continue to navigate their grief together, leaning on one another and carrying forward the values their parents lived by.

I think I work so hard because I still feel like I’m beating the odds.”

Landing the Fellowship and Beginning the Next Chapter During her final semester of graduate school, Clancy applied for the Finance and Administration Fellowship at Ochsner Health, a post-graduate opportunity she had been eyeing since Ms. Whitney Branch put it on her radar while she was an undergraduate student.

The selection process was rigorous, beginning with a round of virtual interviews before a full day of onsite assessments, group case study presentations, and a panel interview with top executives.

When asked where she saw herself in 10 years, her answer has simple.

“I want to be sitting where you are,” she told them.

She shared her story, her losses, her ambitions, and her pursuit of being her best self. The next day, they called. She had been selected.

“I just kept thinking about my parents,” she says. “I know they’d be proud.”

With the fellowship underway, and her next chapter unfolding in New Orleans, Clancy remains anchored in the values that have carried her this far. Work hard, make no

excuses, and always, always strive to be your best self.

Clancy Slay: Finding Purpose and Being Your Best Self | 17

EAGLE SCHOLARS PROGRAM

LEARNING TO LEAD

BY LISTENING FIRST Throughout the year, students heard from a diverse group of professionals who brought real-world insight to each session.

Among them were three representatives from Cintas: Todd Gregory, a retired executive and Southern Miss Business alumnus; Aaron Baker, regional service director and fellow alumnus; and Kendall Lagasse, market sales manager. Each offered unique perspectives on leadership, ethics, and early career success.

Another meaningful session featured University of Alabama Vice President Bob Pierce, who spoke on leadership in the public sector. Mr. Pierce also supported this year’s programming by providing funds for the scholars’ shared reading selection, The Leadership Challenge.

The EAGLE Scholars Program prepares its scholars to be ready for the challenges and opportunities of professional life through a wellrounded lineup of workshops and guest speakers. Programming for this year's cohort kicked off with a hands-on session led by Southern Miss Business faculty, Dr. Bradley Winton and Dr. Alex Scrimpshire, who conducted interactive exercises to strengthen group dynamics and collaboration. The team-building momentum carried on into the next session with Janea McDonald of Edge Consulting, where scholars completed the FourSight Assessment to better understand their unique working styles and how to collaborate more effectively with others.

“Through these two workshops, the Eagle Scholars began to build the skills needed to be successful in today’s work environment centered around the core concepts of working in teams and collaboration,” said Russ Willis, program director and associate provost for student success. “Scholars learned more deeply about the unique strengths they bring to a team and how to leverage those specific and unique strengths in a team environment. The scholars also learned how to recognize their own weaknesses and how to overcome or minimize those weaknesses.”

18 | The College of Business and Economic Development

During the spring semester, the focus shifted to sharpening communication skills. Dr. Susan Steen, associate professor at the U.S. Air Force Culture and Language Center, led a thoughtprovoking session on cross-cultural competency. Mike Dixon of the Pinebelt Foundation introduced scholars to improvisation techniques as a creative way to strengthen responsiveness and clarity in communication. These sessions helped scholars understand that communication is as much about timing and tone as it is about words.

“This workshop truly brought learning to life,” said EAGLE Scholar Breanna Sykes. “The improvisation activities helped me understand how important it is to build others up while communicating in any environment. I found the ‘yes, and’ exercises especially meaningful because, no matter what your partner said, you had to begin your next sentence with ‘yes, and.’ This approach was particularly helpful for managing

Not Pictured: Faith Kitowski - Merchandising Brady Williams

Breanna Sykes

Human Resources Management

Evan McNally

General Business

Julián Atehortúa Martínez

International Business

Accounting

Alejandro Hung

Finance

Anna Sproles

Marketing

Abby Box

Accounting Aaiyana Bender Marcus Kirkland

Marketing

Marketing

Lainey Bartlett Ashlyn Roché

Accounting

Accounting

disagreements and embracing different perspectives.

It showed me that you can be kind and show understanding while still holding on to your own views. This opens the door to better communication and mutual respect. Overall, the workshop was an eye-opening experience that taught me a lot about effective and positive communication with others.”

“This workshop truly brought learning to life. The improvisation activities helped me understand how important it is to build others up while communicating in any environment.

Breanna Sykes

Dr. Lindsey Lewis, CEO of INGAGE Talent Development, closed out the year’s programming with a workshop on coaching relationships in the workplace, covering topics like how to give feedback, how to receive it, and how to grow from it.

More than just a series of workshops, the EAGLE Scholars Program fosters the growth of a close-knit community, giving scholars the confidence to lead and the courage to ask questions. A few of the workshops were held in conjunction with the Scianna Business Leaders Program, creating opportunities for students across both groups to build meaningful connections.

That sense of camaraderie was especially evident during joint end-of-semester celebrations, where students reflected on the year and enjoyed time with peers who had become trusted friends.

EAGLE Scholars Program: Learning to Lead by Listening First | 19

SOUTHERN MISS BUSINESS

EXCELLENCE AWARDS The Southern Miss Business Excellence Awards honor leaders who have created meaningful change in their communities and whose careers reflect purpose, creativity, and dedication. Three awards are presented during the annual luncheon: Entrepreneur of the Year, Alumni of the Year, and Young Alumni of the Year.

The Boardman Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year award honors business leaders whose success reflects not only vision, but also the grit, strategy, and leadership it takes to build and grow a thriving legacy. The Boardman Distinguished Alumni of the Year and Young Alumni of the Year awards celebrate the incredible stories of graduates who continue to represent Southern Miss Business with distinction.

20 | The College of Business and Economic Development

ENTREPRENEURS OF THE YEAR

GLENN AND RICHARD MUELLER The Boardman Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year award was created to highlight the incredible stories of visionary leaders who have turned their ideas into successful ventures.

This year, the college proudly recognized Glenn Mueller and the late Richard P. Mueller Jr., who built a legacy within the Domino’s Pizza franchise.

Richard’s journey began in 1967, while attending the University of Michigan. Starting as a delivery driver, he worked his way up to a store manager and became known for offering innovative ideas to the Domino’s founder, Tom Monaghan. In 1971, he opened his first franchise near Ohio State University, growing to 60 stores by 1978.

In 1981, Richard invited his brother, Glenn, to join him in his business venture and together they co-founded RPM Pizza. Over four decades, they built and acquired 510 Domino’s locations across nine states and three countries. Richard retired in 2003.

Today, RPM Pizza is recognized as a leading franchise within the Domino’s Pizza brand, achieving record sales of more than $200

million, serving 25 million pizzas annually, and employing 3,400 team members. Additionally, the company has helped more than 155 team members franchise their own stores. In 2024, Glenn received the prestigious Domino’s Chairman’s Circle and Legacy Award.

Beyond business, philanthropy and community outreach have always been important to both brothers. Glenn assisted in the establishment and served as the first president of the Domino’s Partner’s Foundation, a nonprofit supporting team members in need. In 2020, the Mueller family founded the Mueller Foundation, which focuses on caring for communities by building, inspiring, and unifying neighborhoods. In 2023, the brothers opened the world’s largest model railroad museum in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Glenn accepted the award in memory of his brother, Richard, who passed away in January 2024 surrounded by his family.

Glenn continues their work at RPM Pizza alongside three of his five children.

Southern Miss Business Excellence Awards | 21

ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR JIM ESTES ‘86 Jim R. Estes III was selected as the 2024 Southern Miss Business Alumnus of the Year. After graduating from Southern Miss in December 1986, Jim embarked on a distinguished 37-year career with Ernst & Young’s audit practice, where he served global companies and their audit committees. Jim continues to contribute to the profession as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ (AICPA) governing council.

In 2019, Jim was appointed vice chair – professional practice after previously serving as the assurance managing partner for the Southeast Region. During his tenure, he also led EY’s Assurance Practice for the Florida market while living in the Tampa Bay area.

Jim’s career with EY began in the firm’s Cleveland National Office, where he worked as an accounting and auditing researcher.

He later became a part of the Southeast Area’s Professional Practice Director Group, providing consultation to partners in 15 offices across seven states on complex accounting, auditing, and financial reporting matters. Throughout his career, Jim has been the lead partner on engagements for some of the world’s

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largest companies, including The Coca-Cola Company, Tech Data Corporation, Jabil Circuit, and Newell Rubbermaid.

On a personal note, Jim met his wife, Angela Perusse, during their freshman year at Southern Miss. Together, they are proud parents of two sons: Dr. Nicholas Estes, a surgeon in Connecticut, and Lane Estes, who is preparing for law school. Jim and Angela were both active in fraternity and sorority life, each serving as presidents of Kappa Sigma and Kappa Delta, respectively.

Jim attributes his success in public accounting to the exceptional guidance of his accounting faculty, who helped him build a strong foundation for his career. His connection to Southern Miss runs deep, as part of a legacy that includes his grandmother, Mary Estes, who celebrated her 50th anniversary of graduating from Southern Miss in 1986—the same year Jim earned his bachelor’s degree. Jim’s father, Jim Estes Jr., also earned a degree from Southern Miss in 1960.

YOUNG ALUMNA OF THE YEAR CATALINA VILLEGAS ‘11 Catalina Villegas was recognized as the 2024 Southern Miss Business Young Alumna of the Year. Catalina previously served as the director for diversity, equity and inclusion for Major League Baseball (MLB). A native of Colombia and a former tennis professional and collegiate player, Catalina led cultural engagement and career development initiatives designed to foster an inclusive and belonging culture across the league.

Before her time with MLB, Catalina was vice president of multicultural marketing at LST Marketing, where she specialized in sponsorship sales, consulting, and talent procurement, focusing on both retired and active Latino/a/e athletes and influencers.

Catalina’s journey to the United States began with a tennis scholarship to Northwestern State University. After her collegiate career, she became a tennis coach at The University of Southern Mississippi, where she earned master’s degrees in business administration and sport management.

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Catalina resides in Dallas, Texas, with her spouse, Jennifer, and their beloved pets. In her free time, she enjoys playing pickleball, kayaking, gardening, savoring a good coffee with a great book, and spending quality time with family.

Southern Miss Business Excellence Awards | 23

JASMINE MAGEE PROSECUTOR OF THE YEAR

By Bailey Harris Shoemake

How Southern Miss alumna Jasmine Magee ‘12 found her voice and now fights for others in courtrooms across the Mississippi Gulf Coast

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Long before she stood in front of judges and juries, Jasmine Magee was a reserved student sitting in the front row of her business classes. Soft-spoken and focused, she didn’t realize she was building the confidence that would one day lead her to become Mississippi’s Prosecutor of the Year.

Although she was far from the loudest student in the classroom, she still stood out as a top performer. Just before the start of her sophomore year at Southern Miss, Jasmine was invited to be part of a living-learning community that came to life when a residential house on campus became temporarily vacant. Rather than let it sit empty, Dr. Lance Nail, the dean of the college at the time, saw a chance to pilot something new—a co-ed, living-learning community called the Business Honors House. The idea was simple but ambitious, bringing together 24 of the college’s brightest business students and giving them a space to live, learn, and lead together.

Everything about the Business Honors House was designed to prepare students to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead ethically. When Jasmine and another resident of the house expressed interest in law school, the dean organized a panel of attorneys to share their experiences and answer questions. This level of intentional programming was a standard, connecting students with opportunities and guidance that helped them work toward their future goals. Jasmine continued building professional relationships through the program, one of which resulted in a multi-summer internship with C Spire and eventually a full-time role prior to going to law school.

Dr. Nail, who now serves as the provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs at Southern Miss, speaks fondly of Jasmine when reflecting on the days she was on campus.

“Jasmine is the student that makes you want to be a college professor,” Nail said. “She has an intellectual curiosity and desire to make our world a better place. I was so proud of her when she was a student and even more proud of the accomplished professional and mother she has become. Jasmine represents the best of our university. She is Southern Miss grit defined.”

Becoming Assistant District Attorney When selecting a major at Southern Miss, Jasmine chose business administration with an emphasis in entrepreneurship to keep her options open, knowing it would serve her well if she pursued law school and eventually decided to practice on her own. “I knew I could do a lot with a business degree, regardless of what field I ended up in,” said Jasmine.

Alongside group outings and planned activities, the students naturally became a tight-knit community. Jasmine reminisced on movie nights, backyard volleyball, and a chaotic game they invented that filled the halls of the house with laughter. “You were never lonely,” she laughed. “We formed some really great friendships there, and a lot of us still talk today.”

She thinks back to her time at Southern Miss and the three years she spent in the house with deep affection, returning to campus when she can for game days, mock trials for forensics classes, and even to attend reunions with her fellow Business Honors House classmates. “Seeing everybody and hearing what everybody’s doing, it feels good,” she shared. “I remember thinking, this feels like we’re back in school.”

After being accepted into The University of Mississippi School of Law, she observed that her classmates were from a variety of academic disciplines. “My class had accountants, English majors, people who spoke fluent Mandarin, even a pilot,” she said. “That to me indicated I made the right decision.”

As she got deeper into her studies, a simple piece of advice from one of her previous professors at Southern Miss became a study habit she carried into law school. In his management course, Dr. Bret Becton had encouraged his students to review material week by week instead of cramming before exams, a strategy that would prove effective for Jasmine later.

“When I was in law school, my entire grade was based on one single exam in each class at the end of the semester,” she said. “So, when I thought back to what Dr. Becton had said, it made perfect sense.

Jasmine Magee: Prosecutor of the Year | 25

“Jasmine is the student that makes you want to be a college professor.

She has an intellectual curiosity and desire to make our world a better place. I was so proud of her when she was a student and even more proud of the accomplished professional and mother she has become. Jasmine represents the best of our university. She is Southern Miss grit defined.

Dr. Lance Nail

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“Jasmine is a dedicated, zealous advocate for the State,” said Christopher L. Schmidt ’92, Circuit Court judge and proud Southern Miss alumnus. “She regularly appears in my court, always ready for her cases, demonstrating her knowledge of the law and procedure very well. I have had the good fortune to see her develop her own style in front of a jury, and she is quite persuasive in her arguments. No doubt, Jasmine is a great member of the Mississippi Bar.”

The Personal Side of Purpose Away from the courtroom, Jasmine is a mother to two young daughters, Rahlee and Remi, who often pick up on her work in subtle ways.

Jasmine laughed, “We will be in the car, headed to school, and I’m talking to myself, running through remarks, and my daughter will say from the backseat, ‘Mom, are you practicing your speech again?’”

I may not have taken it seriously at the time, but I was able to use that tip in law school.”

During her second year, Jasmine became a limited-practice attorney, handling real child advocacy and custody cases under the supervision of licensed lawyers. After earning her J.D., she continued her work in Chancery Court handling child support enforcement and custody modifications. Jasmine continued gaining experience as a staff attorney until an opportunity opened in the Harrison County District Attorney’s Office.

These small moments keep her grounded, reminding Jasmine to be present with her family while she carries the stories of those who may not be afforded the same quality time with their loved ones. As

she looks ahead, she hopes that by continuing to use her voice to advocate for those who need it most, her journey will inspire others to discover the power of their own voice and use it for good.

“I kept saying I’d do anything but criminal law,” she laughed. “But here I am. I realized I had only looked at it from a defense angle, and never considered what prosecution could look like. I’m glad I didn’t rule it out because I think this is exactly where I’m meant to be.”

As an assistant district attorney for Harrison, Hancock, and Stone Counties, Jasmine now works in one of the busiest jurisdictions in the state, prosecuting felony crimes in court nearly every week of the year.

“You get to see a lot,” she said when describing the demands of the job. “It opens your eyes to things that you wouldn’t otherwise know are going on in your community.”

She describes the emotional weight of the job with honesty and humility. Some cases are especially hard. But the outcome she’s working toward is always the same. “When a victim or victim’s family can know that this is finally behind them and they can begin to move on, that gives me great satisfaction,” she said.

Jasmine was honored as the 2025 Prosecutor of the Year at the Governor’s Awards Ceremony during the Mississippi Public Safety Summit. She was previously recognized as the 2024 Mississippi Bar Outstanding Young Lawyer of Mississippi and has been selected for the Mississippi Bar Leadership Class of 2026.

Jasmine Magee: Prosecutor of the Year | 27

CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP

INNOVATION STARTS

HERE

This year’s Coffee with an Entrepreneur series brought students face-to-face with successful founders, innovators, and changemakers. Guests included Dr. Henry Jones (The H L Jones Group, Kopis Mobile LLC), Keith and Melissa Saucier (Keith’s Superstores, Mississippi Made and More), Kent Oliver (Laughs 4 Life), Sheena Allen (CapWay, GRITS), Brook Jones-Sunsdahl (Red Door Marketing Agency), Max Draughn (Heartwood Capital Inc.), Robert St. John (New South Restaurant Group, Extra Table), and Cathy Steen (Green River Spirits Company, Terressentia Corporation).

The fall series and spring series closed with standout alumnae—Allen and Steen—whose stories demonstrate the powerful role women play in shaping the future of entrepreneurship.

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Women Leading the Way Research shows that female-led startups receive less than 3% of venture capital funding, despite delivering higher returns on average. At Southern Miss, we’re working to close that gap.

Sheena Allen, raised in rural Mississippi, saw firsthand the financial roadblocks faced by underserved communities. That experience fueled her launch of CapWay, a digital banking platform designed to increase financial access and inclusion. She became the youngest Black woman in the U.S. to own and operate a digital bank, and following the sunset of this venture, she launched GRITS (Girls Raised in the South)—a new enterprise offering executive coaching and a vibrant founder community for fellow startups.

Cathy Steen built her reputation in the luxury wine and spirits industry by identifying growth opportunities and leading transformative strategy. After executive roles at Moët Hennessy and Green River Spirits, she now mentors entrepreneurs and speaks widely on bold brand leadership. Her approach is rooted in one simple philosophy: do different, do better.

This momentum extends far beyond alumni. Through programs like CheckPoint and the Southern Entrepreneurship Program (SEP), the Center is supporting a growing number of women-led ventures. This year, student founders like Smarika Neupane (Cohesion) and Shantel Smith (Ethereal Body Co.) earned startup funding, while high school students Lauren T. and Celeste T. (CrowdSync) claimed top honors at SEP’s statewide pitch event.

Even our board members are leading by example. Dr. Nina McLain (McMed Consulting, Orodrain LLC) retired from her faculty role in nurse anesthesia in 2024, opening the door to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. Dr. Fan Zhang, faculty in construction and design, earned seed funding for her AI-powered edtech startup, MagnoliaEd.

From classrooms to boardrooms, women at Southern Miss are not just launching businesses. They’re building the future.

GOLDEN IDEA PITCH COMPETITION 77 student participants 20 academic disciplines represented $5,000 awarded WINNING TEAM: Automated Insurance Fraud Detection

HATCHATHON 2025 Reclaiming Time with AI

Scan the QR code to view the Center for Entrepreneurship annual report.

83 student participants 60% year-over-year growth $5,000 awarded WINNING TEAM: Cohesion Center for Entrepreneurship: Innovation Starts Here | 29

SOUTHERN MISS RETURNS TO

TOKYO

Tokyo drifted into the hearts of these business students, and there are no signs of the memories fading any time soon.

By Tiffany Gunther

This summer, 14 students explored the vibrant culture and commerce of Tokyo, Japan.

Over the course of two weeks, the group indulged in authentic cuisine, toured corporate facilities and headquarters, and collected memories that will stay with them long after the flight home.

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Dr. Kimberly Goodwin and Dr. Gallayanee Yaoyuneyong led the group, planning every detail of the trip before providing academic guidance and mentorship while abroad. Together, they brought context and perspective as the students navigated a culture that combines centuries of tradition with forwardthinking innovation.

Their daily schedule was full and dynamic, visiting a mixture of culturally significant locations and international businesses. The itinerary included some familiar names, such as Nissan’s Global Headquarters and Uniqlo, as well as leading organizations like Uchida Tokyo Global Co. Ltd., Tokyo Stock Exchange, Navagis Inc., and Tokyo Innovation Base.

Between business visits, students found themselves exploring historic sites like the Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace, wandering through captivating museums, dressing in traditional kimonos as part of a guided tour experience, and winding through the colorful streets of Harajuku. They also spent time with students studying English at Kaetsu University, an experience that sparked meaningful conversations and new friendships.

students used green bamboo to roll out the noodles.

Additionally, their beloved local guide, Nico, showed them how to make Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food.

Students had ample free time to sightsee independently based on their personal interests, some choosing to visit Pokémon Center, Tokyo Disneyland, and Mishima Sky Walk. As the students reflect on their time spent abroad, Japan has left a mark in ways that can’t be measured but won’t be forgotten.

Meals became adventures all on their own as the students sampled everything from street snacks to traditional dishes, taking part in making some of their meals themselves. The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum included a ramen-making experience, where Southern Miss Returns to Tokyo | 31

Each moment in Japan taught me about the importance of keeping to tradition even in a world of innovation and advancement. This trip was truly a perfect blend of culture, connection, and discovery. I am so glad I was able to go on such a life-changing trip with some pretty awesome people!”

Ashlyn Le, marketing major, media and content strategy minor

Studying abroad in Japan has been one of the best decisions I’ve made during my time at Southern Miss. I felt fully immersed in a brand-new world and gained knowledge I would have never been exposed to. I walked away from this program with newfound confidence and an appreciation for things I may have never known existed.”

Olivia Keys, sculpture major, merchandising minor 32 | The College of Business and Economic Development

“Although it is difficult to summarize my study abroad experience, its impact has lead me to heavily recommend students to take advantage of the opportunities we have at Southern Miss to go and see the world! I am grateful to my wonderful professors for curating such an incredible experience.

Ngan Trat, finance major

Studying abroad in Japan has been an utterly lifechanging experience. From my fellow classmates to daily life in the country, the experience taught me a lot about myself and how to stay true to one’s roots in a changing world. From visiting businesses like Uniqlo, to seeing cultural landmarks like Shibuya, the program is one that I would absolutely recommend to any student, business major or otherwise. I’m glad to have gone on the trip with amazing professors and classmates!”

Rodney Bridgeforth, entrepreneurship major

Section or Article Title | 39

BUSINESS AND CULTURE IN

HAWAII Several students started 2025 with a two-week study away adventure in Hawaii, led by Dr. Brigitte Burgess and Dr. Alison Hubbard. The group was immersed in local business and culture while taking in the island’s natural beauty. Their journey started on Oahu, touring Jams World, Dole Plantation, and Crazy Shirts. They also visited stunning landmarks like Manoa Falls, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, and the Arizona Memorial.

On the Big Island, highlights included a tour of Mahi’ai Chocolate Farm, a visit to the black sands of Punalu’u Beach, and an unforgettable camping experience at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

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BUSINESS AND CULTURE IN

ITALY From Milan to Florence, students experienced Italy’s dynamic blend of business, culture, and craftsmanship on a study abroad journey led by Julia Bradley and Dr. Wei Wang. Their time in Milan included exploring fashion technology at D-House Milano, studying design strategy at the Istituto Europeo di Design, and visiting Galleria Campari to learn about brand storytelling.

They also enjoyed a chocolate tasting at Guido Gobino’s factory before touring Sofidel, a leader in sustainable paper manufacturing.

In Florence, students rowed on the Arno River, learned the art of espresso, and tried their hand at paper marbling. They rolled up their sleeves for a three-course cooking class, observed master leather artisans at work, toured an olive oil mill, and spent a day on a family-run organic farm in the Tuscan countryside.

Business and Culture in Italy | 35

BRITISH STUDIES A group of business students experienced an enriching blend of history and culture during their month-long study abroad in the United Kingdom. Under the guidance of Dr. Brigitte Burgess, the students explored business practices in the city of London through visits to Salvation Army International headquarters, Lloyd’s of London, Fortnum & Mason, Twinings Tea, The Chelsea Bindery, Fuller’s Brewery, House of MinaLima, and Deloitte UK. Additionally, the students cruised the Thames River, toured the Chelsea Football Club, strolled through Notting Hill, took day trips to Bath and Cambridge, and attended the New Designer’s Trade Show. One of the highlights of the trip included an evening spent at the London Coliseum to see The Great Gatsby Musical.

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REMEMBERING DR. BILL SIRMON Dr. William A. “Bill” Sirmon ’60, ’61 was many things—a devoted husband, a wise mentor, and a steadfast champion of Southern Miss students. After earning his doctorate from Mississippi State University, Dr. Sirmon returned to Southern Miss to teach finance, later serving as associate dean for the School of Business. Dr. Sirmon retired in 1995 after 26 years with the college, though his love for learning and traveling never faded. He and his wife, Marilyn, shared that joy with students by funding scholarships for the British Studies Program, among others. Because of him, many Golden Eagles have had the opportunity to walk the streets of London. Known for his quick wit and steady guidance, Dr. Sirmon leaves a legacy that continues to shape the lives of those who follow, reminding us that the world is meant to be explored, and that there’s no place like Southern Miss.

INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM: DUBLIN, IRELAND Two Southern Miss Business students went on the adventure of a lifetime this summer through a seven-week internship program in Dublin, Ireland, combining professional growth with the excitement of living abroad.

Ella King, a senior majoring in human resources management, interned with the People Team at Brown Thomas Arnotts, Ireland’s iconic luxury department store chain. Her days consisted of assisting in job interviews, helping lead workshops, participating in initiatives to boost employee morale, and updating training modules to support staff development.

Parker Breal, a senior majoring in hospitality and tourism management, interned at the Stephen’s Green Club, a historic private members club in the heart of Dublin. From welcoming guests at the front desk to managing check-ins, reservations, and daily inquiries, Parker’s role placed her at the center of the club’s warm Irish hospitality.

International Internship Program: Dublin, Ireland | 37

SOUTHERN MISS PROFESSIONAL SALES PROGRAM

COMPETING, CONNECTING, AND ADAPTING TO TECH

The Southern Miss Professional Sales Program continues to earn national recognition for its student talent, competitive success, and innovative use of technology. In just three years, the program has grown into a recruiting and training pipeline for top employers while providing students with immersive, career-launching experiences.

TECH-DRIVEN GROWTH This year, students embraced tools and experiences at the intersection of sales and technology. From AI-powered platforms like ChatGPT SalesCoach and Second Nature AI to competitions sponsored

by Oracle, Gartner, and HubSpot, Southern Miss students trained like real-world professionals.

Global Bilingual Sales Competition Miami, FL | Sponsored by HubSpot

Alejandro Hung and Alondra Abad reached the semifinals in their divisions—competing in both English and Spanish.

National Tech-Sales Competition Nashville, TN | Sponsored by Oracle Business students sold SaaS solutions in a hybrid team format alongside computer science majors. Jordan Sullivan earned a competitive sales internship with Oracle in Austin, Texas, that only accepted 20 participants across the nation.

National Collegiate Sales Competition Atlanta, GA | Sponsored by Gartner Prepared to negotiate with chief technology officers, Sierra Greene fought her way to the Top 16 out of 144 competitors.

Locally, the program partnered with Howard Technology Solutions to support their annual Conference and Expo, where technology and business students gained firsthand experience networking with IT leaders from healthcare, education, and government sectors.

Students and faculty from business and computer science with Southern Miss alumni at Howard Technology Solutions.

SIGNATURE CAMPUS EVENTS

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Selling Seymour Elevator Pitch

Senior Sales Challenge

40+ business students pitched Southern Miss to “prospective students” in a fun, high-energy challenge judged by Southern Miss Admissions and employer partners.

The Advanced Sales students represented Cintas in a threeround roleplay event with both in-person and virtual judging from corporate recruiters.

NATIONAL COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS Southern Miss students competed against more than 140 universities in several major events across the country.

Sierra Greene • Sweet 16 (Semifinalist) – National Collegiate Sales Competition (NCSC) • Top 10% (Semifinalist) – International Collegiate Sales Competition (ICSC)

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Anna Grace Gieger ‘23 started a new position as a large enterprise account executive at Dell Technologies.

• Sierra will continue to coach competitors as the sales and healthcare marketing graduate assistant while she pursues her MBA at Southern Miss.

Caroline Vought – Quarterfinalist and Wildcard Winner, ICSC Logan McLemore – Media Sales Academy awardee hosted by the National Association of Broadcasters in Washington, D.C.

Jobs and internships were secured at competitions and through the program from Lennox, Orkin, Nexstar Media, Illumibot, Gartner, Tom James Clothing, and Alcon.

Students were able to attend these national competitions, thanks to the support from our 2024-25 partners:

For more about the Southern Miss Professional Sales Program, contact Kevin Buckley at Kevin.Buckley@usm.edu.

Southern Miss Professional Sales Program: Competing, Connecting, and Adapting to Tech | 39

INNOVATIONS IN SOUTHERN MISS BUSINESS CURRICULUM Staying competitive requires continuous innovation and adaptability. That is why Southern Miss Business is constantly evolving our curriculum to ensure students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to stand out among their peers. Emphasizing innovation, accessibility, and personalized learning, we are thrilled to share the following updates.

The App Development Lab: Bringing Ideas to Life Opening in fall 2025, the new App Development Lab will expand the Center for Entrepreneurship’s capacity to help students bring bold ideas to life. Made possible through a generous donor gift and equipped with cutting-edge Apple technology, the lab will offer hands-on learning through coding workshops, interdisciplinary classes, and collaborative app development.

Whether supporting a student startup or advancing a class project, the lab will provide a natural extension of the Center’s programming by adding technical depth to its existing business and innovation support.

Developed in partnership with the School of Computing Sciences and Computer Engineering, the space is designed to bring students together across disciplines—business, computer science, graphic design, and more—to transform ideas into working digital products.

Redesigned Undergraduate General Business Program In coordination with the Office of Student Success, the School of Management revised the BSBA in general business curriculum to give students the flexibility to choose 21 semester hours of upper-level courses from any of the College of Business and Economic Development programs. With more than 200 options, the students' tailored degrees will be more focused on their career interests and objectives.

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The Master of Science in Business Analytics Program Launches Fall 2026 Recognizing the increasing market demand for advanced analytical skills in business, the School of Finance is launching a new graduate degree program. The M.S. in Business Analytics will be a fully online degree program focusing on developing analytical skills that students will apply to data in a variety of business disciplines. The curriculum includes courses and electives in math, computer science, and geography, in addition to business. The first cohort is expected to begin in fall 2026.

Students Can Now Earn Their Master of Science in Economic Development Fully Online Beginning in spring 2026, the M.S. in Economic Development will be available in both traditional face-to-face and fully online formats. This nationally recognized program has been a hybrid program with traditional lecture, synchronous online, and executive education components. While the program will still be taught in a similar format for traditional students, there will also be a fully online degree that will make the M.S. in Economic Development available to students around the nation and around the world.

Rebranding to the Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management The Master of Science in Logistics, Trade, and Transportation has been officially renamed to the Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. This strategic change reflects the university’s broader initiative to modernize academic programs and align them more closely with evolving industry standards and expectations. The new name better represents the program’s core focus and resonates more effectively with current terminology used in the logistics and supply chain sectors.

Renaming the program enhances its visibility and relevance in the job market, ensuring that graduates are more competitive and easily identifiable to employers. It also aligns with language commonly found in industry certifications and professional pathways, potentially easing the process for students pursuing licensure or certification in related fields. Beyond compliance and competitiveness, the updated name is more intuitive and appealing to prospective students, making the program easier to find and understand. By highlighting supply chain management—a widely recognized and in-demand discipline— the program is positioned to attract a broader audience.

Innovations in Southern Miss Business Curriculum | 41

SOUTHERN MISS CELEBRATES

FIRST GRADUATE OF OCEAN ENGINEERING ENTREPRENEURSHIP PATHWAY PROGRAM THE

By Gabriela Shinskie

Glenn Anglada dreamt of owning his own 3D printing business and using his engineering knowledge to make an impact along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Anglada’s dream is now a reality because of The University of Southern Mississippi’s Ocean Engineering Entrepreneurship Pathway (OEEP) program, which prepares graduates for success in the state’s blue economy. Anglada put his skills to the test and became the first graduate of the program, which is committed to establishing the Mississippi Gulf Coast as the nation’s leader in ocean science, engineering, and technology.

Southern Miss is the only institution in the state to offer the OEEP program, which sets students on a unique five-year path to earn a Bachelor of Science in ocean engineering (OE) in four years, as well as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in one additional year–all while acquiring the necessary skills for a career in the blue economy. The program supports workforce development and job creation along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, allowing students like Anglada to chart a path forward by combining his passion for business ownership and knowledge of 3D printing.

During his time in the OE program, Anglada applied his research and 3D printing skills to a senior project focused on using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) for underwater applications. FDM is a popular 3D printing method, where a digital model is transformed into a physical object by melting and layering thermoplastic material. For his project, Anglada designed 3D models to create

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watertight, pressurized parts capable of withstanding harsh marine conditions. Through the program, he learned how to strengthen printed parts, explore different printing techniques, and incorporate those parts into his business models.

“I like the entrepreneur side of things. The program offered a chance to develop something I can truly be proud of. This was a great way to take the next step forward,” said Anglada.

“I like the entrepreneur side of things. The program offered a chance to develop something I can truly be proud of.

This was a great way to take the next step forward.

Dr. Steven Stelk, MBA director in the College of Business and Economic Development, and Dr. Gero Nootz, professor in the School of Ocean Science and Engineering, encouraged Anglada to enroll in the program to enhance his senior project, build business skills, and delve into new technologies.

After earning his bachelor’s degree, Anglada accepted a full-time position at Ingalls Shipbuilding, but felt compelled to keep moving forward. Through the OEEP program, he pursued an MBA to further develop his senior 3D printing project. The program also empowered him to launch his own business, Anglada 3D, in Gulfport, Miss. He credits the MBA portion of OEEP with providing advanced business knowledge and the confidence to follow his passion.

“Watching Glenn grow into a standout entrepreneur, first through the OE and now the OEEP program, has been inspiring—his final project is one of the best we’ve seen, continues to draw attention, and shows exactly how homegrown innovation can help drive Mississippi’s future,” said Nootz.

“This program provides students with the opportunity to combine engineering and business knowledge to find solutions that are both technically and economically feasible. In the OEEP, Glenn developed an innovative 3D printing technique for underwater applications and built a business around it. I am excited to see how

Glenn and future OEEP students build Mississippi’s economy,” said Stelk.

“This program has benefitted me in a few ways as an entrepreneur, owning my own business and being a working engineer in the industry. Having my MBA has opened a lot of doors to move up.

I’m pleased with what the program allows me to do to grow as a person and in my business, as well,” said Anglada.

The OEEP program was announced in 2019 as part of 15 restoration projects through the RESTORE Act. Funds were distributed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and the U.S. Department of Treasury in the state’s restoration efforts related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Chris Wells, MDEQ executive director, is a proud supporter of the program and its boost to the state’s blue economy.

“This innovative program is a great example of how RESTORE funding can create real, long-term impact for Mississippi. We’re proud to support efforts like the Ocean Enterprise Entrepreneurship Program at Southern Miss, which prepares students not only to excel in ocean engineering, but to launch their own ventures and grow our coastal economy,” said Wells.

Southern Miss Celebrates First Graduate of the Ocean Engineering Entrepreneurship Pathway Program | 43

OUTSTANDING AND

CELEBRATING BUSINESS STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS

SOUTHERN MISS GRADUATE SCHOOL HALL OF FAME Owen Nordan

|

Peter Kalejaiye

EAGLE SPUR RESEARCH GRANT, DRAPEAU CENTER FOR UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH IMPACT AWARD, STUDENT EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARDS SOUTHERN MISS CITIZEN SCHOLAR EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH AWARD, HONORS COLLEGE Gracie Lewis

2024-25 PUBLIC COMPANY ACCOUNTING OVERSIGHT BOARD (PCAOB) SCHOLAR MSCPA RALPH F. NEELY GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP

SUSAN A. SILTANEN GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM Haeden Overby

Susan Dobson

Tied for 2nd place oral presentation, Social and Educational Sciences and Business category

2nd place poster presentation, Social and Educational Sciences and Business category

Olivia Boleware

UNDERGRADUATE SYMPOSIUM ON RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACTIVITY Gracie Lewis 1st place in the Business category

Marcus Kirkland 2nd place in the Business category

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MSCPA UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP

CFA SOCIETY OF MISSISSIPPI AWARD

Anna Grace Purser

Andrew Myers

UNSTOPPABLE SUN BELT CONFERENCE ELITE AWARD Matt Adams

SUN BELT PLAYER OF THE YEAR FIRST TEAM ALL-SUN BELT FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICAN, NATIONAL COLLEGIATE BASEBALL WRITERS ASSOCIATION 126TH PICK IN THE 2025 MLB DRAFT, HOUSTON ASTROS Nick Monistere

SUN BELT TOURNAMENT INDIVIDUAL CHAMPION – WOMEN’S GOLF SECOND TEAM ALL-SUN BELT Momoka Ando

SECOND TEAM ALL-SUN BELT Matthew Russo Ozzie Pratt

TONY ROBICHAUX LEADERSHIP AWARD FIRST TEAM ALL-SUN BELT Carson Paetow

Outstanding and Unstoppable: Celebrating Business Student Accomplishments | 45

SOUTHERN MISS HOMECOMING COURT Kade Leader

Gracie Lewis

Will Mitchell

Freshman Beau

Senior Maid

Student Body Beau

NEW STUDENT ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR OFFICE OF LEADERSHIP AND STUDENT INVOLVEMENT Golden Eagle Pickleball Club

2024-25 PUBLIC COMPANY ACCOUNTING OVERSIGHT BOARD (PCAOB) SCHOLAR

SOUTHERN MISS CITIZEN SCHOLAR Holly Eckman

Haiden Lowery

Ashlyn Le

Ngat Trat

President

Vice President

Treasurer

MISSISSIPPI YOUNG BANKERS ORRIN H. SWAYZE SCHOLASTIC AWARD FINALIST Jake George

Ebony Hill

UNIVERSITY STUDENT AWARDS CEREMONY Kade Leader

Tyler Saul

Most Outstanding Freshman

Who’s Who

Lainey Bartlett

Who’s Who

Who’s Who

Ashlyn Roché Who’s Who

Brady Williams Who’s Who

46 | The College of Business and Economic Development

Kelly DeVoe Sarah Pazos Who’s Who

Shayla Price Transfer Excellence Award

Muhammad Huzaifa

Dylan Littles

Outstanding Freshman

Who’s Who and Hall of Fame

Abigail Brown Who’s Who

A ROUND OF APPLAUSE TO

THE GOLDEN QUILLS Now in its second year, The Golden Quills continues to celebrate the spirit of Southern Miss Business in a way that feels both meaningful and personal to those in attendance.

What started as a fresh take on our traditional awards ceremony has quickly become one of the college’s most anticipated nights, recognizing excellence not only in achievement, but in character and community impact.

Two new awards made their debut this spring, each honoring a student whose story and contributions brought the intentions of the award to life.

The Culture of Kindness Award celebrates a recipient who goes above and beyond to contribute to the positive culture we strive to build each day, making our college a better place simply by being a part of it. This comes naturally to the inaugural recipient, Ana Ruth Cortés, who serves as a graduate assistant in the college. A native of Honduras and a doctoral student in the Human Capital Development program, Ana Ruth’s quiet acts of generosity, encouragement, and genuine care for others has left a lasting impact on our community.

The Scianna Spirit of Business Award pays tribute to the life and legacy of Mr. Chuck Scianna, whose name has long been associated with integrity, resilience, and generosity. The award's first recipient, Clancy Slay, has embodied those values in every way. Her time at Southern Miss was marked by deeply personal challenges—but also by strength and a quiet commitment to finish strong.

Scan here to learn more about The Golden Quills and view a full list of the award recipients

Turn to page 14 to read Clancy Slay’s story, Finding Purpose and Being Your Best Self.

A Round of Applause to The Golden Quills | 47

CELEBRATING BUSINESS FACULTY AND STAFF Dr. Nell Adkins Gold Leaf Society Medallion Founders’ Week

Dr. Casey Maugh Funderburk Business and Economic Development Service Award The Golden Quills

Julia Bradley, MPA

Dr. Ke Gong

2025 Faculty Leadership Institute Fellows

Business Advisory Council Research Award

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Alexis Cato

The Golden Quills

Dr. Abubaker Haddud

Outstanding Staff Member Award

Business Advisory Council Research Award

The Golden Quills

The Golden Quills

Dr. Chris Croft Joseph A. Greene Excellence in Teaching Award The Golden Quills

Business and Economic Development Service Award The Golden Quills

Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Summer Grants for Improvement of Instruction Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Dr. Katharine Howie Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Summer Grants for Improvement of Instruction Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Dr. Banu Elmadag Business Advisory Council Research Award The Golden Quills

Dr. Alison Fridley Hubbard ACUE Distinguished Teaching Scholars Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

48 | The College of Business and Economic Development

Dr. Melinda McLelland Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Summer Grants for Improvement of Instruction Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Dr. Wei Wang Louis K. Brandt Publication Award The Golden Quills

Business Advisory Council Research Award The Golden Quills

Dr. Chao Meng Aubrey Keith Lucas and Ella Ginn Lucas Endowment for Faculty Excellence Award Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Aubrey Keith Lucas and Ella Ginn Lucas Endowment for Faculty Excellence Award Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Provost Faculty Fellows Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Dr. Chad Miller Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Summer Grants for Improvement of Instruction Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Mentor of the Year Honors College

University Research Innovation – Multidisciplinary Research Award Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Dr. Sabrina Reed

Dr. Reginald Wilson

ACUE Distinguished Teaching Scholars

2025 Faculty Leadership Institute Fellows

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Dr. Carsten Schmidtke

Dr. Bradley Winton

Provost Faculty Fellows

Business Advisory Council Research Award

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

The Golden Quills

Alexis Stoner, MBA

Dr. Yuanyuan Zhang

Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Summer Grants for Improvement of Instruction

Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Summer Grants for Improvement of Instruction

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

University Research Innovation – Basic Research Award

Brittney Tellefsen Gulf Coast Outstanding Staff Award Gulf Coast Awards Day Ceremony

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Dr. Zikai Zhou Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Summer Grants for Improvement of Instruction

Dr. Joanne Tran

Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony

Mentor of the Year Drapeau Center for Undergraduate Research

Celebrating Business Faculty and Staff | 49

EXPLORING THE PERCEIVED USEFULNESS OF AUTONOMOUS TRUCKS IN THE U.S. GULF COAST Based on research by Drs. Yuanyuan Zhang and Abubaker Haddud

50 | The College of Business and Economic Development

To read the full research article, scan below or see: Zhang, Y., & Haddud, A. (2025). Exploring Perceived Usefulness of Using Autonomous Trucks in Logistics. Transportation Journal, 64(1), Article 12039.

The U.S. Gulf Coast region, comprising Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, faces a unique set of transportation challenges, including heavy freight traffic, environmental degradation, and frequent flooding. These longstanding issues underscore the need for innovative solutions to make freight transportation more efficient and sustainable. In response, a recent study examined the perceived usefulness of Autonomous Trucks (ATs) among industry professionals in this critical region. Researchers surveyed 72 members of state-level trucking associations to gather insights into their views on implementing ATs in logistics operations. The survey was structured around the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and utilized a 14-item Likert scale to measure perceptions of ATs’ usefulness across three categories: efficiency, effectiveness, and overall satisfaction.

The study revealed a mixed perception of AT adoption. Most participants agreed with statements related to the efficiency of ATs, such as saved time, more work accomplished, etc.

However, they were largely neutral about ATs’ effectiveness in supporting critical aspects of logistics, enhancing logistics effectiveness, and making it easier to do logistics. When asked about overall satisfaction with the idea of incorporating autonomous trucks into their operations, participants showed low levels of agreement, signaling persistent skepticism or uncertainty. Further analysis identified specific demographic and professional factors influencing these perceptions. Participants who showed higher agreement with the usefulness of ATs typically •

Worked in larger companies (500+ employees),

•

Had greater familiarity with autonomous technology,

•

Held roles in sales,

•

Had two years or less of experience in the trucking industry, and

•

Operated in markets with international reach.

In terms of cargo types, those transporting agricultural, food, and livestock goods expressed more positive attitudes toward ATs than those dealing with construction materials, machinery, fuel, waste, or mixed freight. These differences suggest that perceived value may vary based on operational complexity, cargo sensitivity, and business size. This study offers important implications for a wide array of stakeholders. For autonomous vehicle developers, understanding industry skepticism can guide product design and user education. For supply chain managers and logisticians, the findings highlight potential areas of resistance and acceptance within their teams. Policy makers may also draw on this research to craft incentives or regulations that promote adoption in sectors most likely to benefit.

By shedding light on the nuanced attitudes toward autonomous freight solutions, this research contributes valuable data to the growing academic literature on logistics innovation. It also sets the stage for future investigations into workforce readiness, regional adoption patterns, and technology integration in freight systems. As the transportation sector navigates a path toward greater automation, studies like this offer a grounded perspective on the road ahead, balancing technological promise with the realities of industry perception and readiness.

Dr. Abubaker Haddud is an associate professor in the School of Leadership at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Yuanyuan Zhang is an associate professor in the School of Leadership at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Exploring the Perceived Usefulness of Autonomous Trucks in the U.S. Gulf Coast | 51

ELECTRONIC PROPINQUITY

DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS AND TASK COMPLEXITY IN MODERN INFORMATION SOURCES Based on research by Dr. Christopher Zimmer

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To read the full research article, scan below or see: Zimmer, J. C. (2024).

Electronic Propinquity: Design Characteristics and Task Complexity in Information Sources.

The Journal of Computer Information Systems, 1–15.

Dr. Zimmer’s study revisits and extends the Theory of Electronic Propinquity (TEP), which originally described how mediated communication can create a sense of psychological closeness. While previous work mostly focused on human-to-human interactions, Zimmer’s research uniquely explores electronic propinquity (e-propinquity) in nonhuman information sources, such as websites and digital tools.

According to Dr. Zimmer, three design characteristics—interactivity, vividness, and customizability—can significantly enhance a user’s perception of psychological closeness to an information source. The study poses two central research questions: 1. What source design characteristics lead to the development of e-propinquity when consulting a nonhuman information source?

2. How does e-propinquity influence user preferences for information sources during tasks of varying complexity?

Theory of Electronic Propinquity is but one of three main theories used to understand how people perceive and interact with communication media, the other two being media richness theory and social presence. While media richness focuses on matching media to task complexity for effective information transfer, and social presence emphasizes nonverbal cues in fostering a sense of presence, TEP is distinctive in its focus on psychological closeness regardless of the channel’s richness or social cues. Additionally, TEP uniquely applies even to nonhuman information sources.

The comparison of TEP with media richness and social presence theory is important because it highlights how each framework addresses different dimensions of mediated communication and why TEP is uniquely positioned to meet the demands of modern digital environments. Unlike media richness theory, which focuses on selecting the right medium for effective task completion, or social presence theory, which emphasizes human cues and interpersonal warmth, TEP expands the conversation by centering on psychological closeness, even in interactions with nonhuman information sources. This matters because users are increasingly engaging with systems like websites, dashboards, and AI tools. In each of these systems, no human is present, yet a sense of connection and trust remains critical. While media richness promotes efficiency and social presence fosters realism, TEP zeroes in on emotional accessibility and perceived closeness, offering a more flexible and user-centric design approach. It provides practical guidance for creating digital tools that feel engaging and supportive by enhancing interactivity, vividness, and customizability, regardless of the communication channel. This means in a world full of AI, dashboards, apps, and bots, psychological closeness to a system matters, and TEP is the best framework we have to study it.

This research offers both theoretical and practical contributions. Theoretically, it extends TEP beyond human communication, showing that digital design elements can evoke feelings of closeness. Practically, it offers clear design guidelines: high interactivity fosters responsiveness and rapport; vividness enhances clarity and sensory engagement; and customizability empowers users, making the system feel more personal and trustworthy.

These insights are especially relevant in remote learning, telehealth, and digital customer service contexts. As digital communication becomes increasingly pervasive, designing systems that foster psychological closeness will be key to enhancing user trust, satisfaction, and effectiveness across digital environments.

Dr. Chris Zimmer is an associate professor in the School of Finance at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Electronic Propinquity: Design Characteristics and Task Complexity in Modern Information Sources | 53

THE ROLE OF INNOVATION AS A MEDIATOR BETWEEN FIRM CAPABILITIES AND PERFORMANCE Based on research by Drs. Ali Dogru, Ke Gong, Joseph Peyrefitte, Alex Scrimpshire, and Fujun Lai

54 | The College of Business and Economic Development

To read the full research article, scan below or see: Dogru, A. K., Gong, K., Peyrefitte, J., Scrimpshire, A., & Lai, F. (2025). The contextdependent role of innovation as a mediator between firm capabilities and performance.

Innovation: Organization & Management.

Dr. Ali Dogru is an associate professor in the School of Management at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Ke Gong is an assistant professor in the School of Management at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Alex Scrimpshire is an assistant professor in the School of Management at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Joseph Peyrefitte is a retired professor and director for the School of Management at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Fujun Lai is a professor in

This study examines how firms turn their dynamic capabilities into financial success, and the answer, it turns out, depends heavily on innovation. Drawing from a meta-analysis of 280 empirical studies published between 2001 and 2022, the research examines how three firm capabilities (absorptive capacity, export orientation, and sustainable practices) impact financial performance through innovation.

Absorptive capacity refers to a firm’s ability to acquire, assimilate, and apply new knowledge. Export orientation captures the firm’s engagement with international markets. Sustainable practices reflect the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and stakeholder expectations. While all three capabilities are widely recognized as important, previous studies offered mixed and often context-specific results on how each contributes to innovation or financial outcomes. To clarify these relationships, the research combines classical meta-analysis with structural equation modeling, creating a more complete picture.

The central finding is that innovation plays a mediating role between the three firm capabilities and financial performance. That is, firms with strong internal or external capabilities tend to innovate more, and it is this innovation that drives financial gains. Whether it involves new products, processes, or business models, innovation transforms firm resources into competitive advantage. However, the strength of the relationships varies depending on industry type, country context, and the kind of innovation being pursued.

For example, in knowledge- and technology-intensive industries, absorptive capacity has a stronger effect on innovation. Firms operating in these industries rely on expertise and R&D to stay ahead, and their success often depends on how well they convert knowledge into marketable innovations. In contrast, in labor-intensive industries, sustainable practices emerge as more powerful drivers of innovation, particularly eco-innovation. The authors argue that firms in labor-intensive industries should not view sustainable practices merely as a compliance requirement. Instead, they should leverage stakeholder-driven environmental pressures as a strategic opportunity to drive innovation and enhance operational efficiency.

Country context also matters. The study finds that firms in developing economies benefit more from absorptive capacity and export orientation than those in developed markets. These firms are often in a “catching-up” phase and can gain competitive ground by adopting and localizing advanced technologies. Innovation, in these settings, becomes a key channel for growth and differentiation.

The type of innovation pursued also influences outcomes. Conventional innovations, focused on improving efficiency or product features, are more directly linked to short-term financial performance. Eco-innovations, while slower to yield returns, create long-term value and strengthen a firm’s alignment with environmental and societal goals.

For business leaders, the takeaway is clear: investing in innovation is essential to turning capabilities into competitive advantage. Exporting or embracing sustainability by themselves is not enough. Firms must translate those strategies into innovative outcomes that improve products and processes, meet customer needs, or open new markets. Moreover, innovation strategies should be tailored to the firm’s industry, location, and strategic goals.

By revealing the context-dependent role of innovation, this research offers practical guidance for firms seeking to enhance financial performance. It also contributes to broader academic theories like Resource-based View, Exogenous Growth Theory, and Stakeholder Theory by showing how internal capabilities and external pressures are connected through innovation to financial results.

the School of Leadership at The University of Southern Mississippi.

The Role of Innovation as a Mediator Between Firm Capabilities and Performance | 55

IN MEMORIAM DR. WILLIAM A. “BILL” SIRMON 1938 - 2024

Dr. Sirmon began a long tenure of teaching, research, and service in 1969 as a finance professor at Southern Miss. He retired in 1995 as the associate dean of the College of Business Administration and continued to give back to the university in many ways, including scholarship funding for study abroad and the EAGLE Scholars Program.

MR. CHARLES C. “CHUCK” SCIANNA 1952 - 2025

Mr. Scianna was a steadfast champion, alumnus, mentor, and benefactor of Southern Miss, who invested in many important initiatives that impacted countless students, including the business building, Scianna Hall, the Scianna Business Leaders Program, and the Student Managed Investment Fund.

DR. CARSTEN SCHMIDTKE 1962 - 2025

Dr. Schmidtke joined Southern Miss in 2022 as an assistant teaching professor and program coordinator of Applied Technology, making many important contributions to the program, its students, and his colleagues. He brought care, curiosity, and a global perspective to his teaching and scholarship, and he will be deeply missed.

56 | The College of Business and Economic Development

SOUTHERN MISS BUSINESS

VISION, MISSION, VALUES VISION

VALUES

We will be a recognized leader in providing business educational experiences that inspire and empower business scholars and students to fearlessly lead on the national and international stage.

Passion We nurture passion and inspire boldness.

Authenticity

MISSION Our purpose is to develop leaders who leverage an entrepreneurial mindset to create value and innovative business solutions. We ensure that all students have applied experiences that build the knowledge and develop the skills needed to succeed and lead in the global marketplace. We support economic development by advancing knowledge through influential scholarship and collaboration with our communities.

We stay true to who we are and always act with integrity.

Unity We respect others’ perspectives and work together to strengthen our community.

Resiliency We persevere by being relevant, tenacious, and adaptable.

Resourcefulness We foster curiosity, creative problem-solving, and forward thinking to meet challenges head-on.

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