History and Mission

History and Mission

Our History

On June 17, 1885, members of the first three graduating classes of Mississippi Agricultural and Mechanical College met in the Philotechnic Literary Society Hall at the College to discuss ways and means of "perpetuating the memories of college life that would bind the classes of different years and at the same time strengthen the good influence the College might exert through her graduates." After several informal discussions, a motion was made to establish an Alumni Association. Without a dissenting vote this motion was carried and by acclamation a committee was appointed to "retire and frame a report on offices and officers." Another motion was made to establish a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws, which were adopted a year later.

Since its beginning, the university and the MSU Alumni Association have seen many changes. However, what remains the same is the spirit and loyalty of our graduates and friends. Now known as Mississippi State University, there are over 157,000 living graduates who share the same love and devotion as the inaugural group of graduates who established our Association. With more than 100 chapters and clubs around our state, nation and world, our MSU alumni stand strong and are truly "forever maroon and white."

Our Mission

The MSU Alumni Association activates and supports the Bulldog Family, encouraging alumni, students, and friends to grow a lifelong connection with Mississippi State University and inspire their ongoing support toward each other and the university.

Our Vision

To advance Mississippi State University by providing a valued network to the Bulldog Family while cultivating their passion and loyalty to the University and each other through meaningful engagement.

Our Core Values

Service:  We lead through service. We serve our university. We serve the Bulldog Family. We serve our partners. We serve each other. Above all… we serve.

Respect:  We work to create a culture built on the foundation of treating all individuals with mutual respect that is committed to diversity, inclusion, and the belonging of all Bulldogs.

Collaboration:  We are better when we support each other and those we serve. We believe in teamwork and collaboration that lead to greater creativity, coordination, superior solutions, and better outcomes.

Innovation:  We inspire, empower, and provide the resources and environment for innovative ideas to flourish. We welcome new concepts and approaches that lead to creative ideas and solutions.

Integrity:  We conduct ourselves ethically and with honor.  We act in good faith and do so in all our interactions — with the Bulldog Family, with the University community, and within our workplace.

Our Strategic Goals

Build our Community:  Strengthen our alumni community by promoting service, sustaining lifelong relationships, expanding access, and advocating all Bulldogs.

Deepen our Impact:  Increase the impact and reach of the Alumni Association and Mississippi State University through collaborating with Alumni, the University, friends, and partners.

Plan for our Future:  Invest in the tools, skills, processes, and people that will enhance the Alumni Association’s organizational capacity to meet future needs and perform at a high level.

Governing Documents

Constitution of the MSU Alumni Association (PDF)

Bylaws of the MSU Alumni Association (PDF)

Former National Presidents of the MSU Alumni Association 

Maroon and White - Alma Mater

Words by T. Paul Haney Jr.
Music by Henry E. Wamsley

In the heart of Mississippi,
Made by none but God's own hands,
Stately in her nat'ral splendor
Our Alma Mater proudly stands;
Mississippi State we love you,
Fondest mem'ries cling to thee,
Life shall bear thy spirit ever,
Loyal friends we'll always be.

Maroon and White! Maroon and White!
Of thee with joy we sing;
Thy colors bright our souls delight,
With praise our voices ring.