As a member of the USM Foundation staff for over 15 years, it remains my great honor and pleasure to assist you with your philanthropy to Southern Miss. Looking back at our humble beginnings, I am amazed and sincerely thankful for your generosity. When Moran M. Pope Jr. and Powell G. Ogletree established the Mississippi Southern Foundation on October 27, 1959, they could only dream of how 10 scholarships totaling $1,279 in 1961 would grow to 2,037 scholarships in 2019, providing $4,071,794 in support to Southern Miss students. In the first decade, just over $1 million was given to benefit USM, and in the most recent decade, we have gratefully received more than $137 million in contributions. It is through your trust and support that the Foundation continues to make a life-changing impact in the lives of Golden Eagles through the gift of education. Under the leadership of 32 presidents of the Foundation Board of Directors, we have experienced many decades of growth and celebrated gifts that transformed the face of our University. I am honored to follow in Moran and Powell’s footsteps, and working at the USM Foundation has held some of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Every day, I am inspired by the generosity of alumni and friends and am fortunate to witness faculty and staff molding the industry and community leaders of tomorrow at a place dear to my heart. Your giving truly changes the lives of our students. I still remember the excitement and anticipation I felt when I crossed the commencement stage in Reed Green Coliseum in 1989. In 2016, my younger daughter completed her bachelor’s degree at USM, and I was bursting at the seams with pride for her hard work and the incredible institution that primed her to achieve her dreams. She was ready to take charge of her career and excel because of the rich experiences USM afforded her. My love for Southern Miss grew even deeper then and continues to do so with each passing semester. As you read this year’s Impact Report, I hope you enjoy the stories of how profoundly your charitable giving, and that of others, impacts the Southern Miss community. Philanthropy is the fabric of Southern Miss, and in 2020 and the years that follow, we have the opportunity to revolutionize education and redefine what it looks like to be a model for public higher education. I ask you to contemplate the next 60 years at USM and how your giving will add to the tapestry. The opportunities to invest in students, faculty and programs are boundless, and there is no greater joy for our team than to help your vision for Southern Miss become a reality through philanthropy. Thank you for your generosity. We look forward to taking USM to new heights together. Southern Miss to the Top!
Stace Mercier ’89, ’96 Executive Director
The University of Southern Mississippi has transformed the lives of our students for more than 109 years, and for six decades, our alumni, our friends, our students, and our faculty and staff have invested in our University with philanthropic gifts through the USM Foundation. Our current level of success would not be possible without your generosity as part of our Southern Miss family – and achieving our vision of becoming the model for public higher education across the country will be a significant challenge without your continued support. Your contributions, financial and otherwise, help ensure USM students have the opportunity to graduate well-equipped with the education and experience to serve communities across Mississippi and beyond. Each of us are woven into the fabric of our enterprise, and I am grateful you have chosen to be our partner in moving our University forward. Again, thank you. Sincerely,
Rodney D. Bennett
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ecause you give, the USM Foundation has impacted The University of Southern Mississippi for the past 60 years. With every fiber of our organization, we maintain a commitment to connecting donors with students through the gift of education. Your contributions show your determination to secure a prosperous future for Golden Eagles, a group cut from a different cloth and bold enough to change the world with their degrees. The generosity of donors is the thread weaving throughout our fabric, with each donation binding and reinforcing our close-knit academic community for continued success. At Southern Miss, philanthropy is foundational to our students, faculty and programs thriving. The collective impact of donors to USM in 2019 was outstanding, with $15.8 million contributed through the Foundation, including $7 million in outright gifts. These contributions empowered scholars across our campuses and research sites as our institution took its place among the nation’s leading research universities. The fabric of Southern Miss was woven stronger with each new gift, regardless of the amount. When a current student made his first gift on our Eagle Fever crowdfunding platform, he helped classmates travel across the country to attend their first national competition with the School of Music’s Advanced Trumpet Ensemble.
Fabric:
the structure of something;
the parts that hold it together and make it what it is CAMBRIDGE DICTIONARY
When a seasoned professor set up a payroll deduction designated for her school’s faculty development fund, she invested in teaching and research excellence in the corner of academia where she is passionate. When an alumnus reconnected with his alma mater after 40 years and supported the new home for the Center for Military Veterans, Service Members and Families, he advanced offerings for the 1,800 military students learning and preparing for their futures at USM. The examples are numerous, and the influence is great. Throughout this report, you will discover the ways philanthropy has created a magnificent tapestry that continues to expand as each gift is stitched into the exquisite fabric of Southern Miss.
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Last October, the USM Foundation celebrated 60 years of growth, from $13,376 and six endowments in 1959 to $104,877,602 and 972 endowments in 2019. I am in awe of your generosity and express my thanks to all who have contributed to this success! Coming from a robust family of Golden Eagles, I could not be more honored to serve as the USM Foundation Board president this year. Although the Hattiesburg campus has changed a lot since I studied there in the early ’80s, the same traditions and academic excellence I experienced remain strong today, as does the commitment of the University’s Foundation to providing the transformative gift of education. While working on the family farm in Brandon, Miss., I watched my older brothers excel at Southern Miss as first-generation college students. I visited them every chance I could, crashing in their dorm rooms and catching meals with them in the Commons. Following their lead, I enrolled at USM in 1979 and learned the value a college degree held in shaping my future. Although our parents did not have much to contribute to our educational expenses, our mother gave what she could to ensure we gained the wealth of knowledge college affords. Her example made a powerful impact on our lives and continues to inspire me to find my own ways to give back to Southern Miss. From membership in the Alumni Association to the establishment of a scholarship endowment for business students, my wife, Kathy, and I have witnessed how our contributions make a difference at USM. Who was that person for you? Was it a family member or friend, an educator, church leader or perhaps a business mentor? Whoever it was, we are undeniably better today because of the investments they made in us. Our achievements are, in part, a result of their generosity, making the opportunity to pass the gift on so rewarding. With more than 2,000 donor-funded scholarships awarded in fiscal year 2019, it is clear the Southern Miss community understands the power of paying it forward. Charitable giving last year also supported other areas of the University, demonstrating your dedication to taking Southern Miss “to the top” in every endeavor. For that, I thank you on behalf of the Foundation Board of Directors and staff who work diligently to responsibly steward all contributions. Whenever I return to campus, I catch a spark in the eyes of current students that reminds me of the young man I was when I first stepped onto campus. Seeing their potential fills me with pride in USM and reinforces how meaningful the work of the Foundation is to keep those eager minds developing and preparing to leave campus brighter and better equipped for their futures. As you read this year’s Impact Report, I hope you remember how beneficial every single gift is and know how grateful we are for your commitment and generosity to USM. Southern Miss to the Top!
Duane Lock President of the Board of Directors 4
executive committee 1. Duane Lock ’83 President President – River Oaks Energy, Inc.
2. Kristy Gould ’09 Vice President Chief of Corporate Planning and Development – Hattiesburg Clinic, PA
3. Stace Mercier ’89, ’96 Secretary Executive Director – The USM Foundation
4. Gene Gouaux ’07 Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair Attorney – Gouaux Law Firm Assistant Professor of Business Law – Nicholls State University
5. Louie Ehrlich ’81 Member-at-Large President – Ehrlich Capital, LLC Retired CIO – Chevron
6. Kelsey Rushing ’94, ’96 Policy and Bylaws Committee Chair Attorney – Office of Capital Defense, State of Mississippi
7. Chris Inman ’96 Investment Committee Chair Managing Principal and Financial Advisor – Inman Wealth Management, LLC
8. Joseph Quinlan ’73 Resource Development Committee Chair Chairman – First National Bankers Bankshares, Inc.
9. Jim Warren ’84 Immediate Past President Managing Member – Carroll, Warren and Parker, PLLC
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Front Row (Left to Right): Chuck Scianna, Steve Strickland, Verdell Hawkins, Julie Breazeale, Alvin Williams and Duane Lock Second Row: Kristy Gould, Stace Mercier and Haley Broom Back Row: Jeff Bowman, George Openshaw, Gilbert Van Loon, Stephen Carmody, Kelsey Rushing, Louie Ehrlich, Alvis A. Wright II and Joseph Quinlan Not Pictured: Gene Gouaux, Chris Inman, Jim Warren, Shonna Brown, Max Draughn, Stan Harrell, Doc Holliday, Wade Howk, Julie Lennon, Shane McCarthy, Kimberly Nastasi, Jason Sanderson, Tommy Thornton, Sean Tindell and Bill Ward
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board members Jeff Bowman ’93
Kimberly Nastasi ’99, ’01
President – Cooperative Energy
Director of Communications – Huntington Ingalls Industries
Julie Breazeale ’01, ’07 CEO – Polk’s Meat Products, Inc.
George Openshaw ’90
Haley Broom ’02
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management – Morgan Stanley
Shareholder / Attorney – Dukes, Dukes, Keating & Faneca, PA
Shonna Brown ’01
Jason Sanderson ’91 CFO – Brown Bottling Group, Inc.
Associate Commissioner and CFO – Conference USA
Chuck Scianna ’75
Stephen Carmody ’84
Steve Strickland ’86
Attorney – Brunini, Grantham, Grower and Hewes, PLLC
President – Stonehenge Private Client Group
Max Draughn ’84
Executive Director – Hattiesburg Clinic, PA
Owner / CEO – Heartwood Capital, Inc.
Stan Harrell ’78
Owner and President – Sim-Tex, LP
Tommy Thornton ’72, ’78 Sean Tindell ’96, ’98
CFO – United States Chamber of Commerce
Judge (District 5, Position 2) – Mississippi Court of Appeals
Verdell Hawkins ’00
Gilbert Van Loon ’81
Economic Development Manager – Gulf Power Company
Attorney – Butler Snow, LLP
Doc Holliday ’71
Owner – Ward International Trucks, Inc.
Owner – Bruce A. Holliday, CLU Insurance and Financial Products
Alvin Williams ’74
Bill Ward ’68
Wade Howk ’03, ’06
Distinguished Professor of Marketing – University of South Alabama
Corporate Vice President of Strategy – SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment
Alvis A. Wright II ’97, ’00
Julie Lennon ’85
Marketing Programs and Product Development Manager – Alabama Power Company
General Counsel – Gaedeke Group
Shane McCarthy ’99, ’01 CFO – Enhanced Capital Partners, Inc.
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eyond reminiscing about classes and memories made in the Commons, trips back to USM are heartwarming for Carlos and Judy Tolosa because each visit transports them to their earliest memories together. From their first date at a football game in The Rock to their first kiss on the porch of Hattiesburg Hall, these Southern Miss sweethearts built the foundation of their relationship as students in the early ’70s. USM set the scene for an ambitious young man from Chile to achieve the American dream with an Air Force master sergeant’s daughter by his side. A visit to the United States as a teenager sparked Carlos’ drive to learn English and forge a life for himself in America. His father agreed to purchase a one-way ticket from Santiago to New Orleans, and Carlos left in the middle of winter and arrived in Hattiesburg in the heat of summer. Neither scorching temperatures nor lost luggage curbed his enthusiasm, and he enrolled in the Latin American Institute (now known as the English Language Institute) at USM. Under the wing of Ricardo Mussiett, a Chile native and successful businessman in Hattiesburg, Carlos acclimated to his new surroundings and practiced speaking English. Within 10 weeks, he passed the Test of English as a Foreign Language and enrolled in general university courses. Ralph Siverio, a faculty member from Mexico, also inspired Carlos and helped him start an international student organization. “We were so excited when attendance was strong for our first meeting. Little did I know, Mr. Siverio promised extra credit to the Spanish 101 students for coming,” said Carlos. “That evening, when a beautiful freshman girl from Biloxi, Miss., entered the room, life changed for me.” Judy was drawn to Southern Miss after watching her father, Milton Gussow, commute from the coast to Hattiesburg weekly to complete his education after retiring from the Air Force with 20 years of service. She came to USM seeking a degree in elementary education, but meeting Carlos began to shift her focus. “I didn’t know much about Chile when I met Carlos, so I visited Cook Library to prepare in case we met again,” said Judy. “I thought my plan was smooth until Carlos rounded the corner in the stacks and caught me red-handed with the atlas spread out on the table. I cannot help but smile thinking about that day.” Soon after, the two became inseparable. In February 1973, they wed, and through a desk job at night at the Holiday Inn, Carlos’ work ethic and talent started getting noticed.
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Before Judy could complete her degree, Carlos graduated, and the couple was whisked off to Dauphin Island, Ala., for his first promotion as restaurant manager of the Holiday Inn there. Despite 15 more moves led by Carlos’ career progression, Judy finished her bachelor’s degree at Texas Tech University in 1978. While Judy cared for their daughter and home, Carlos worked his way from the smallest desk in the company to one of the largest. After 40 years with Harrah’s Entertainment, he retired in 2010 as president of the Eastern Division, overseeing one-third of the enterprise. Throughout nearly 50 years of marriage, their love has grown deeper for one another. So has their appreciation for the impact Southern Miss had on their personal and professional success. Giving back is a natural reaction for the Tolosas because they are passionate about the power of education and recognize the opportunity to help others achieve. Through a planned gift worth $7.8 million, they will provide scholarships for business students and student-veterans raising families. They will also support the School of Finance and the Center for Military Veterans, Service Members and Families. “Mr. Mussiett was the first Chilean I saw succeed in America, and I always joked with him saying, ‘I’m going to do better than you!’ That’s what we want other Golden Eagles to be able to say, ‘They did it, and so can I,’” said Carlos. “Our goal is to make it easier for students to come to USM and graduate as better versions of themselves than when they arrived.”
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ome people’s final wish in life is to travel to a country they always dreamed of seeing or attend a loved one’s graduation. Angeline Posey’s final wish was to establish a scholarship at Southern Miss honoring her late husband, James. More than anything, she wanted to pass on a gift no one can take away – education. Knowing how much education meant to their mother and father, who collectively taught over 60 years, Angeline’s children pooled monies to create the James Ray Posey Memorial Education Fund in 1998. Vernetta, Rod, Chlotia, Orlando, Risette and Darrylman’s timely action allowed Angeline to experience the kindness and gratitude of her children during the most challenging season in her battle with cancer. Receiving a letter filled with words of appreciation from the scholarship’s first recipient gave Angeline peace of mind. Aside from the love of her husband and children, this scholarship was the greatest gift she ever received. When Angeline passed away in 1999, the Posey siblings updated the scholarship name to recognize both of their parents’ commitment to learning and dedication to the field of education. The James Ray and Angeline Posey Memorial Education Scholarship is now one of the longest running annual scholarships offered through the USM Foundation, having awarded 29 scholarships and provided nearly $18,000 in support to graduates of the public school system in Covington and Jefferson Davis counties, where Angeline and James taught. “Our parents were the first in their families to graduate from college, and their educational experiences at Alcorn State University inspired them to develop the same passion for learning in others,” said eldest son, Dr. Rod Posey, who retired as a professor in the School of Accountancy at USM after 34 years. 10
Over the course of her career, Angeline taught French, literature, grammar, speech and drama. James served as principal, teacher of agriculture and farm mechanics, and advisor on farming, marketing techniques and educational programs for rural Mississippi farmers. It was their expectation that the next generation of Poseys would raise the educational bar even higher. “College was a natural next step for my siblings and me. Mom and Dad wanted us to do our best and never stop learning. They challenged us to ‘step up to the plate’ and do even better than they did. Five of us graduated from USM, and four earned doctoral degrees in our fields of study. As the grandchildren have come of age, many have also completed high school, college and graduate studies. The great grandchildren are still growing, but we look forward to seeing what college majors they will choose one day, too.” Education is a cornerstone of the Posey family. Because of their generosity, they will continue assisting youth eager to learn in the community where they grew up. “Southern Miss has been so good to our family. Each of our experiences were different, but we share the same exceptional impact of an education from USM. The University has been an important part of our lives, making it deeply meaningful to give back and help more students succeed here. Our parents would be overjoyed to see how fruitful their influence has been.” Rod and Eula Posey faithfully give to ensure the Posey annual scholarship carries on. Their 20-plus-year commitment to the University through consecutive annual giving is celebrated with membership in the Aubrey K. Lucas Society. This Society recognizes alumni, parents and friends of Southern Miss who have made gifts for three or more consecutive years, regardless of the amount. This annual support enables Southern Miss to advance academic programs, improve classroom technologies, expand research opportunities and provide scholarships. “When you break down the cost of an annual scholarship over the course of a year, it takes less than $50 a month or roughly $1.37 a day. Eula and I set aside a portion monthly and look forward to visiting the USM Foundation office at the end of the year to ensure my parents’ memory lives on with another group of Golden Eagles.” 11
lthough Louie and Terry Ehrlich now reside in Texas, the smell of saltwater in the air and call of seagulls flying overhead are hallmarks of their home, the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Growing up with 62 miles of scenic coastline in their backyards allowed them to fish, water ski, boat and camp to their hearts' content. From sunrise to sunset, there was a bay to explore, beautiful wildlife to observe and plenty of fresh Gulf seafood to enjoy. The Ehrlichs experienced science daily, not just inside the classroom. Louie’s knack for math led him to pursue a degree in computer science at The University of Southern Mississippi. At a time when personal computers and pocket-sized calculators were just beginning to gain traction, Louie studied computer graphics under Dr. Danny Carter, former chair of computer science and statistics. Dr. Carter’s advice to marry technology with business resonated with Louie as he learned how computers function and how to convey their usefulness to businesspeople. After graduation in 1981, this mindset, and a reference from Dr. Carter, secured Louie a job as programmer analyst for Chevron in New Orleans.
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Louie’s education and drive allowed his career to take off as rapidly as the information technology industry. He progressed through management before being promoted to chief information officer of Chevron Corporation and president of its information technology company in 2008. He was instrumental in defining, planning and executing Chevron’s world-wide strategic vision and operations for digital technology until he retired in 2015. “As a child, I had an affinity for music and math but never imagined computers. Television was still black and white, so a career in computer science was something out of science fiction novels,” said Louie. “I am fortunate to have experienced such a challenging and rewarding career where I was pushed to innovate and break ground in a field I enjoy. Terry and I want to make sure other children from the communities where we grew up get every opportunity to do the same.” The Ehrlichs’ desire to develop the next generation of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) professionals was a perfect match for the USM Gulf Coast Research Laboratory’s Marine Education Center (MEC). Its location in Ocean Springs places it between their hometowns of Pascagoula and Biloxi, allowing children growing up down the street from where they did to benefit. The MEC offers youth a variety of immersive educational experiences. Students can explore the coastal salt marshes and barrier islands aboard research vessels before learning to fish, crab, seine and sieve. The Center’s laboratories allow
them to examine their findings under the lens of a microscope and dissect specimens with instruction from marine educators. Situated on 100 acres, the Center provides a unique setting for students, educators, parents and community members to learn about the science surrounding the coastal environment and how to be effective stewards of it. “The Mississippi Gulf Coast played a key role in our upbringing and success. So did Southern Miss, and now we have the chance to give back. Immersive STEM experiences at an early age are paramount to growing Mississippi resident STEM graduates, leading to improved livelihoods and a more competitive state and country,” said Louie. “We want to help turn on the light bulb for students so they realize STEM is not just for summer camp; it can become their careers. The greatest legacy we can leave is helping children be inspired by STEM in ways they never dreamed before.” Through the first gift of its kind, the Louie and Terry Ehrlich STEM Education Endowment provides funding for K-8 grade students from Jackson, George and Harrison counties to visit the MEC and participate in tailored activities and programming. “The moment we arrived at the Marine Education Center for the first time, we could tell it was a special place. The facility and offerings are worldclass, and we are so proud it is located on our Coast,” said Terry. “You do not have to be a STEM expert to understand and appreciate the impact this Center is making on the youth of Mississippi. If you have not been yet, I encourage you to go see the amazing work taking place. The students and staff are ambitious, and their excitement is contagious.”
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size 15, Dr. Joseph A. Greene left big shoes to fill at Southern Miss, literally and figuratively. As founding dean, he laid the foundation for today’s College of Business and Economic Development. Countless faculty, students and community leaders profited from Dr. Greene’s teaching, wisdom and ability to help others see the humor in it all. Fortunately for Southern Miss, Dr. Greene’s daughter perpetuates their family’s impact through her philanthropy. There is no denying Kathy gained her height from her towering 6-foot-6 father. She also credits him with her wit and grit. “My father raised me to believe I could do anything I set my mind to. He gave me the knowledge to succeed and encouraged me to spread my wings,” said Kathy. “I pleasantly surprised him by choosing to attend USM and major in economics. I was proud to continue my education within the program my dad helped build.”
dr. greene was known for enjoying a good pipe. in a portrait commissioned for the dedication of joseph greene hall in 1985, a pipe gifted from kathy can be seen in his right hand. this portrait now hangs prominently in scianna hall. 14
Kathy’s transition to a student opened her eyes to how esteemed her father was at the University. She realized the same man who took her to swim in the campus pool and read her books before bed was also a man who helped the College earn its first accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (1976) and was founder and past president of the Southern Business
Administration Association, among many other achievements. His professional example and investment in her life were great sources of inspiration for Kathy. She excelled as a student on her own merit, as a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, the Student Government Association and the women’s business fraternity. She was named to the Student Hall of Fame and Who’s Who before graduating with a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1971. Southern Airways in Atlanta hired her fresh out of college as a personnel representative, then promoted her as the company’s first female sales representative. After excelling in the industry, Kathy desired a career change. At the age of 37, she entered stockbroking, building her portfolio from the ground up. To no surprise of her father, Kathy became a trailblazer as a female stockbroker. Dr. Greene’s passing in 1990 rocked Kathy to her core, but she found comfort in cherished memories. Knowing his legacy carried on at USM also brought her peace. Along with numerous memorial gifts, Kathy helped create the Joseph A. Greene Excellence in Teaching Endowment and the Joseph A. Greene Jr. Beta Gamma Sigma Scholars Endowment. Recently, Kathy grew concerned about the endurance of her father’s memory. As those who knew him left USM and the College transitioned into a new state-of-theart facility in 2015, Joseph Greene Hall was renovated for use by the College of Education and Human Sciences. “While I was excited to hear the College was gaining an exceptional new facility, it shook me up a little. Parting with Greene Hall stirred a lot of emotions about how dad’s memory would persist through the next generation.” The two areas Dr. Greene was most passionate about were faculty and students. By designating the USM Foundation as the beneficiary of her IRA, Kathy secured a way for future Golden Eagles to connect with her father’s story and preserve his memory. Her planned gift will more than double the impact of these endowments, allowing the College to recognize students who demonstrate outstanding academic and leadership achievements, while also rewarding highachieving faculty and encouraging their continued growth. “I wish my dad could see how far the College has come. He would be so proud. I know I am. I’m proud to be his daughter, proud to be a Southern Miss alumna, and proud to pass on the influence he and USM have had in my life.”
additional information about dr. greene and the history of the college of business and economic development can be accessed in a digital collection through university libraries. visit usmfoundation.com/greene to learn more.
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ach football game day, 300 band members march across Carlisle-Faulkner field playing The University of Southern Mississippi’s Fight Song, Alma Mater and other melodies. While a clear blue sky is ideal, at times this occurs in the pouring rain. Ponchos deflect water from soaking into their uniforms, and the instruments dry out over the course of the weekend, but the rain-soaked pages of music in each member’s flip folder hardly stand a chance. As students rush to turn from one stand tune to the next throughout the game, 300 lyres wobble left and right under the weight of soggy sheets of music becoming nearly illegible with each added shower. Since the founding of The Pride of Mississippi in 1920 as a 20-piece brass ensemble, how many sets of sheet music have been ruined by rain, wind or sweat from the sweltering Mississippi heat? With the drill and performance needs of the band requiring approximately 30,000 printed sheets of music each year, the total climbs to 1.5 million sheets over the past 50 years. Driven by the need for efficiency, The Pride went paperless in 2019, thanks to the support of a Southern Miss Fund Grant through the USM Foundation. The Tonal Innovation: UNISON mobile application, along with e-flip lyres to attach students’ mobile devices to their instruments, is not only saving the program thousands of dollars each year, it is also a significant and visible step in USM’s desire to become more eco-friendly. Ready access through their cell phones and tablets makes it easier for students to prepare for rehearsals, game days, parades and concerts, increasing their confidence and performance level. 16
“The benefits of the switch from paper to the app are substantial. From a sustainability perspective, we are extremely happy to reduce our paper consumption dramatically,” said Dr. Colin McKenzie, director of The Pride of Mississippi. “Even more important is the way our band students have immediately taken to the app. Their music and drill sheets are instantaneously available and stored in a platform that is intuitive to them. Our staff can make alterations to the music and formations during rehearsal time, and the students can instantly access the updates on the field. We no longer have to waste time, energy and funds printing updates that could change again the very next day. It is incredible!”
“I like using this technology over paper flip folders because it allows for a faster turnaround time when the drum major cues the next song. When we had paper flip folders, I might have had to flip through the whole book before finding the right piece, missing the entire song at times due to the fast pace of football games,” said Claire. With members of The Pride representing nearly every college and school at USM, the collective reach of donors to the Southern Miss Fund is broad. As seniors pass down their e-flip lyres to incoming freshman to prepare for the next marching season, the generosity of annual donors will continue to make a difference.
Claire Gray, a senior music education major from Montevallo, Ala., has been using the app on her mobile phone attached to her clarinet with the e-flip mechanism since last summer. 17
icking a favorite memory at Southern Miss is challenging for Bill and Marilyn Sirmon. Having experienced USM as undergraduate and graduate students, alumni, faculty members and donors, the 1950s to the present have been filled with a multitude of wonderful moments at their alma mater. Although they cannot pick just one, their times accompanying students in the British Studies Program to London in the summers of ’81, ’83 and ’84 rank pretty high. While Bill was serving as chair of the Department of Finance, the invitation to venture across the pond was too good to pass up. Bill worked with the business majors while Marilyn joined the groups of students studying English. Highlights of these trips include touring Lloyd’s of London, the British Parliament, the Bank of England and the Stock Exchange, in addition to numerous side trips to places like Stonehenge, Glastonbury and the Lake District.
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“I remember being amazed at how quickly the students adapted. For some, it was their first time out of Mississippi and the first time out of the country for most. Within three days of arriving, they were thriving,” Marilyn said. “It was fun to watch them confidently ride the Tube, discover a new favorite pub, and learn from art, architecture and lecturers.” The world is an open door, and Southern Miss students are standing on the threshold. From South America to Europe and Asia, USM offers study-abroad programs in over 20 countries, giving students the opportunity to expand their horizons while earning academic credit. Annually, more than 400 students participate in study-abroad programs and experience an individualized academic journey led by distinguished scholars, artists and professionals.
Desiring to help more students afford to participate, the Sirmons established the Bill and Marilyn Sirmon Business British Studies Scholarship Endowment. As program costs for British Studies continue to climb, the Sirmons will help students gain real-world experience regardless of their financial circumstances. “The groups of students we brought from Southern Miss to the U.K. were not the same students we brought home. Their eyes were opened to an entirely new perspective on the world,” said Bill. “A lot has changed in the 40 years since then, but the impact of that program has stayed fresh on our minds. That is why we want to help business students continue gaining the transformative experience study abroad affords.” Some students are already benefiting from their generosity, including Lacey Wallace, senior marketing major from Jayess, Miss. “If someone told me five years ago that I would spend a month in London, I probably would have laughed. I desired to travel but struggled to see how a 20-something-year-old girl from the piney woods of Mississippi would have the guts to cross the Atlantic Ocean,” said Lacey. “Living in London last summer taught me more than I could have ever learned inside a classroom, and I thank Mr. and Mrs. Sirmon for that opportunity. Their scholarship support made my dream to study abroad a reality.” Many more Golden Eagles will also be able to thank Bill and Marilyn Sirmon for showing them the world, broadening their minds and preparing them for a job market that is increasingly global in nature.
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rom baking soda and vinegar volcanoes to animal science and mathematical modeling, roughly 1,000 K-12 students from South Mississippi compete in regional science fairs in Biloxi and Hattiesburg each spring before advancing to the Mississippi Science and Engineering State Fair. With assistance from the C Spire Foundation, these students will continue sharing their unique discoveries, while gaining inspiration for job opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Through a gift of $25,000, the C Spire Foundation is enhancing the USM Center for Science and Mathematics Education’s ability to support student exploration by better equipping their leaders. “Developing students’ and teachers’ knowledge and understanding of science is critically important for their futures. Through the science fair, children learn about data collection, evidence, presentation and oral and visual communication skills, in addition to the scientific
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material they are investigating,” said Dr. Julie Cwikla, interim director for the Center for Science and Mathematics Education. “We are extremely grateful for the C Spire Foundation’s gift, which is impacting the lives of many students, their families and teachers across South Mississippi. The C Spire Foundation is helping us present fairs that match the potential of the bright students competing and encourage their STEM interests.” In addition to hosting science fairs for Regions 1 and 6, the Center for Science and Mathematics Education staff also provide teacher and parent workshops throughout the school year to help students plan, conduct and report their findings clearly. The C Spire Foundation’s contribution is expanding the frequency and variety of these offerings. Since designing and conducting a science fair experiment is frequently completed outside of school, investing in parents and educators is crucial for students to achieve. Without guidance, parents are left alone to figure out what to buy and how to help their children conduct meaningful experiments. Increasing parent learning and helping them develop creative projects with their children fosters an appreciation and deeper understanding of science for them both. “With all that parents must juggle between work and home life, the science fair is one more thing on a long list of responsibilities. The C Spire Foundation is helping us remove barriers for parents and teachers in South Mississippi, so they become more prepared while learning quite a bit of science alongside their children,” said Dr. Kendrick Buford, chair of the Region 1 Mississippi Science and Engineering Fair. As STEM-related employment increases in Mississippi, the demand grows for high school and college graduates with expertise in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Philanthropic support from corporate and foundation partners assists Southern Miss in equipping the youth of Mississippi for success in STEM.
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etty Boland Baker and Martha Boland Bryon are 1954 graduates of Mississippi Southern College (MSC), known today as The University of Southern Mississippi. They are also identical twins, making their shared years in college twice as enjoyable. While college was not top-of-mind for the majority of cotton farmers in rural Pontotoc County in the late ’40s, it was a priority for the Bolands. Fortunately for these baton-twirling and horn-playing sisters, a promised $800 in scholarships was enough to secure their place as coeds. “When the band program began at Pontotoc High School in 1947, we became majorettes in the marching band and played French horns in concert band,” said Betty. “Senior year, Charlie Newman became our band director. He was a proud graduate of Mississippi Southern College, a school of which few people in our Northeast Mississippi town had ever heard. The way he spoke so fondly of the campus in Hattiesburg and the opportunities a college education provides set our plans in motion.” Martha and Betty were each awarded $100 a year in band scholarships to Mississippi Southern College. Although the scholarships only covered tuition, their parents highly valued education. They left farm and family, uprooted to Hattiesburg and acquired other employment so the twins could live at home while attending school. In 1952, Dr. Raymond Mannoni was hired as the College’s band director. Recruited from the University of Topeka, his directive from University President Robert C. Cook was simple: build a strong marching band with lots of majorettes. Thus, the band increased in size, and the precision dance twirl team was formed, later becoming the Dixie Darlings. Martha reminisces about the differences Mannoni’s appointment made. “Our halftime programs changed dramatically. Creating one formation in the middle of the football field and playing a single tune was no longer enough. The improvements required a demanding practice schedule, but we worked our way up to marching complex maneuvers from one end of the field to the other while performing simultaneously. Oh, what fun those days were!”
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“We look back with fondest memories of the four happy years we were privileged to spend at MSC. Without those band scholarships, we could not have achieved the successful lives we have enjoyed,” said Betty. Both women studied secondary education to become teachers. Betty focused on math, which she taught at the high-school level for 35 years, 33 of which were in Pasadena, Texas, where she still lives. Martha favored history and taught her first year in Natchez, Miss., before teaching in New Orleans while her husband attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. From the late ’60s through the late ’80s, she accompanied her husband coast to coast from one Army post to the next while he served as a chaplain. She now lives in Copperas Cove, Texas, near Fort Hood. Inside both of their Texas homes, Golden Eagle decorations fill the shelves and walls. Martha prides herself on a great collection of black and gold stuffed animals, statues, pictures, stickers and buttons celebrating her beloved USM. Both Life Members of the Southern Miss Alumni Association, a story in The Talon sparked the twins’ idea to start a scholarship together. The opportunity to help others at their alma mater led to the creation of the Martha Boland Bryon and Betty Boland Baker Education Scholarship Endowment to support future educators. “We are thrilled,” said Betty. “Oh, so pleased,” chimed in Martha. Smiling, Betty finished, “To endow this scholarship for history or math majors seeking licensure in mathematics or social studies and planning to teach. It is our hope they will come away with similar memories like the many good times we had on campus. We are so grateful for the scholarships we received, and though they were small, those funds, and the great sacrifices our parents made, put us through college.”
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your generosity, and that of others, has impacted golden eagles over the past 60 years through the usm foundation, allowing philanthropy
to be the fabric that binds and reinforces the university of southern mississippi for continued success.
24
25
T H E U S M F O U N DAT I O N P R OV I D E D
$7.9 MILLION I N S U P P O RT TO T H E U N I V E R S I T Y.
NAMED IN HONOR OF PRESIDENT EMERITUS
Aubrey K. Lucas, the Aubrey K. Lucas Society recognizes alumni, parents and friends of Southern Miss who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the University through consecutive years of giving through the USM Foundation.
THERE ARE
2,304 MEMBERS
$15.8 MILLION
Academic Divisions Faculty and Staff Support Financial Aid Libraries Operation and Maintenance of Plant Other Restricted Purposes Unrestricted
The Honor Club celebrates the philanthropy of the University’s most generous benefactors.
This distinguished group of alumni and friends has made a profound impact at Southern Miss by making significant financial gifts to the area of the University most meaningful to them. Honor Club membership is achieved when a donor reaches $25,000 or more in cumulative giving to Southern Miss through either the USM Foundation or the Southern Miss Athletic Foundation. Corporate or organizational membership is achieved at a minimum giving level of $125,000.
THERE ARE
2,582 MEMBERS 26
CONTRIBUTED THROUGH THE FOUNDATION, including $7 MILLION in outright gifts
ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents Accrued Earnings Prepaid Assets and Other Receivables Pledges Receivable, Net Investments Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Amounts Due from Externally Managed Trusts Property and Equipment, Net Total Assets
$
2,675,234 109,697 448,576 8,871,876 117,093,651 2,651,456 7,944,900 286,111
$
140,081,501
$
675,423 236,281
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS LIABILITIES Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses Gift Annuities Payable Total Liabilities
911,704
NET ASSETS Without Donor Restrictions With Donor Restrictions
11,751,897 127,417,900
Total Net Assets Total Liabilities and Net Assets
139,169,797 $
140,081,501
27
Without Donor Restrictions REVENUES, GAINS AND OTHER SUPPORT Contributions Net Investment Gain Change in Value of Split Interest Agreements Change in Value - Other Other
$
$
Total
5,334,784 3,236,130 1,846,055 65,167 30,713
$
7,579,312 5,987,330 1,846,055 67,043 103,036
Total Revenues, Gains and Other Support
5,069,927
10,512,849
CHANGES IN RESTRICTIONS Change in Restriction by Donors Net Assets Released from Restrictions
(5,000) 7,323,151
5,000 (7,323,151)
-
7,318,151
(7,318,151)
-
Total Changes in Restrictions
15,582,776
EXPENSES Program Services: Contributions and Support for The University of Southern Mississippi Supporting Services: General and Administrative Fundraising
7,855,923
-
7,855,923
1,786,389 1,475,832
-
1,786,389 1,475,832
Total Supporting Services
3,262,221
-
3,262,221
11,118,144
-
11,118,144
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS
1,269,934
3,194,698
4,464,632
Net Assets - Beginning of Year, as Previously Reported
7,356,738
126,883,748
134,240,486
Prior Period Adjustment
3,125,225
Total Expenses
Net Assets - Beginning of Year, as Restated NET ASSETS - END OF YEAR
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2,244,528.00 2,751,200 1,876 72,323
With Donor Restrictions
$
(2,660,546)
10,481,963
124,223,202
11,751,897
$ 127,417,900
464,679 134,705,165 $
139,169,797
Program Services Grants and Other Assistance Salaries and Wages Legal Fees Accounting Fees Professional Fees and Services Advertising and Promotion Office Expenses Information Technology Occupancy Travel Meetings, Activities and Receptions Depreciation Insurance Capital Outlay Dues and Subscriptions Meals and Entertainment Training and Development Bad Debt Expense Total Expenses
General and Administrative
Fundraising
$
6,528,660 151,721 94,945 36,102 11,476 175,049 236,762 19,164 12,304 452,571 36,662 84,508 15,999 -
$
1,001,660 56,252 78,700 24,519 62,634 33,673 49,607 124,886 21,103 72,907 48,494 11,203 32,043 39,538 5,651 16,429 107,090
$
855,957 313,664 26,204 17,991 48,626 89,016 48,564 737 326 37,239 23,105 14,403 -
$
7,855,923
$
1,786,389
$
1,475,832
Total $
6,528,660 1,857,617 56,252 78,700 489,904 183,783 87,766 109,709 124,886 285,168 358,233 67,658 24,244 484,940 113,439 113,264 46,831 107,090
$ 11,118,144
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CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Change in Net Assets Adjustments to Reconcile Change in Net Assets to Net Cash Used by Operating Activities: Depreciation Realized and Unrealized Gains on Investments, Net Gain on Disposal of Furniture and Equipment Restricted Contributions to be Held in Perpetuity Restricted Dividends and Interest to be Held in Perpetuity Change in Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Change in Amounts Due from Externally Managed Trusts Change in Gift Annuities Change in Life Estate Payable Present Value Adjustments in Annuities Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities: Accrued Earnings Prepaid Assets and Other Receivables Pledges Receivable, Net Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses Net Cash Used by Operating Activities
$
67,658 (3,939,942) (11,721) (3,169,843) (8,300) (67,043) (1,835,410) (10,104) (31,107) 40,431 43,911 935,348 1,799,272 217,484 (1,504,734)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchases of Property and Equipment Purchases of Investments Proceeds from Sales and Maturities of Investments Net Cash Used by Investing Activities
(40,800) (26,735,020) 24,829,709 (1,946,111)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Receipts of Restricted Contributions to be Held in Perpetuity Restricted Dividends and Interest to be Held in Perpetuity Annuity Payments Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities
3,169,843 8,300 (48,334) 3,129,809
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
(321,036)
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Beginning of Year CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - END OF YEAR
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4,464,632
2,996,270 $
2,675,234
N U M B E R O F F U L LY F U N D E D E N D OW M E N T S
19% INCREASE SINCE 2013
GROWTH OF THE MARKET VALUE OF THE ENDOWMENT
( BY C A L E N DA R Y E A R )
767
803
2013
2014
866
836
916
893
FY17
$94,547,679 2015
2016
2017
FY18
$100,767,722
FY19
$104,865,677
2018
The USM Foundation administers a variety of scholarships for eligible students through the
In 1995, Oseola McCarty forever changed USM with the announcement
GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES (GO) SCHOLARSHIP AND COMPETITIVE PROGRAMS APPLICATION SYSTEM.
who lived frugally, this gift represented the majority of her life savings.
Students can easily search, review requirements, apply and accept awards for available scholarship opportunities.
THE USM FOUNDATION HONORS THE GENEROUS SPIRIT OF
of a planned gift of $150,000 to the institution. As a washerwoman
Ms. McCarty
THROUGH
The McCarty Legacy ,
A SOCIETY THAT RECOGNIZES THE FORESIGHT OF THOSE WHO
2,037
SCHOLARSHIPS WERE AWARDED TO SOUTHERN MISS STUDENTS, TOTALING OVER
$4 MILLION
ARE H E L P I N G S EC U R E T H E F U T U R E O F S O U T H E R N M I S S THROUGH PLANNED GIVING. THIS YEAR WE WELCOMED 4 NEW MEMBERS A N D C E L E B R AT E D $8.8 MILLION IN NEW PLANNED GIFT COMMITMENTS 31
CHARTERED IN 1959, The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to serving the University community by overseeing fundraising efforts to raise private support for scholarships and other academic needs at Southern Miss. The Foundation manages donor contributions from alumni and friends of Southern Miss to provide our students with the most advanced educational opportunities. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, whose members serve as advocates for the University, its colleges and programs. Foundation Board members are committed to building successful partnerships with Southern Miss and its many generous supporters.
location and office hours The USM Foundation is located on the third floor of the Trent Lott Center. Alumni and friends are encouraged to stop in while visiting the Hattiesburg campus during regular business hours from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
donor recognition THE USM FOUNDATION HONOR CLUB The philanthropy of the University’s most generous benefactors is recognized with membership in the Honor Club when an individual reaches $25,000 and an organization reaches $125,000 in charitable contributions through the USM Foundation or the Southern Miss Athletic Foundation. Donors are acknowledged for giving at various levels.
THE MCCARTY LEGACY The McCarty Legacy is the planned giving recognition society of the USM Foundation. Membership is reserved for those alumni and friends who have included the Foundation in their estate plans through bequests, life income gifts, trusts, life insurance policies, retirement plans or other arrangements.
AUBREY K. LUCAS SOCIETY
contact information The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation 118 College Drive #5210 | Hattiesburg, MS 39406 601.266.5210 | foundation@usm.edu | usmfoundation.com
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E O E / F/ M / V E T S / D I S A B I L I T Y U C 8 168 6
Named in honor of President Emeritus Aubrey K. Lucas, the USM Foundation’s Aubrey K. Lucas Society recognizes alumni and friends of Southern Miss who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the University through consecutive years of giving to the USM Foundation. Membership in the society is maintained by making annual gifts for three or more consecutive fiscal years, regardless of the amount.