Reveille 25 Honorees 2024

If the corporate world and immigration law share one commonality, it’s that Ashlee Drake Berry is a force to be reckoned with. Born and raised in Iowa, Berry is an established, licensed immigration attorney who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Mississippi State in 2009 and 2010. She later earned a second master’s degree from the University of Washington and her Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi. During her time at Mississippi State, Berry was a starter on the women’s varsity soccer team while maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. She is currently an Attorney at Vialto Law (US) PLLC, a US-based law firm that is associated with Vialto Partners, the world’s leading global mobility company. She also has prior in-house experience with a Fortune 50 company. Berry uses her expertise and talent to strategically advise business clients and streamline legal processes. She was selected by the U.S. Department of State’s Professional Fellows Program to serve as a representative in the country of Georgia where she developed sustainable partnerships and led a series of co-created legal training programs. She deployed as a Department of the Army Civilian in the expeditionary corps to Kandahar, Afghanistan. In addition to her corporate success, Berry is committed to community service by representing survivors of crimes, advocating for human rights and providing legal expertise for immigration reform.

Mississippi State University provided me a strong foundation for lifelong support and success through the university's academics and athletics programs. During my time at MSU, I was instilled with the community ideals of diversity, service and leadership. Attending MSU has been a transformative experience that has positively impacted both my personal growth and career prospects. The diverse and engaging academic environment fostered my intellectual curiosity and honed my critical thinking skills. Through various extracurricular activities and networking opportunities, I developed invaluable interpersonal and leadership skills that have proved instrumental in my professional journey. The university's commitment to research and innovation also allowed me to delve into cutting-edge projects, enhancing my knowledge and providing a strong foundation for my career. Overall, my time at MSU not only enriched my education, but also shaped me into a well-rounded and confident individual, ready to excel in my chosen career path.

Rayquotez Butler has come a long way from his days as a struggling student from Shelby, Mississippi. Honing his skills and purpose during his time at Mississippi State, he overcame difficulties and achieved success he never imagined as an entrepreneur, motivational speaker and in becoming the youngest senior HR leader of a global company—all before the age of 30. The two-time MSU graduate earned a 2017 bachelor’s degree in communication and a 2019 master’s degree in public policy and administration. He also holds certifications in diversity and inclusion from Cornell University and the University of South Florida. Currently serving as a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion consultant for global business consulting firm Deloitte, Butler facilitates allyship and training programs to ensure equitable opportunities for some 12,000 professionals from diverse backgrounds. Now residing in Dallas, he also founded Relentlessly Better Co. to expand his leadership service through motivational speaking engagements, which include being a featured TEDx speaker in 2022.

During My 2022 TEDx Talk, I spoke about a difficult time I was able to overcome because of the community, inclusivity and resources that Mississippi State University afforded me. The opportunity to connect with other students and university leaders helped me become the only black male consultant on my team, and I am now advocating for that door to be opened for others. My journey at MSU inspired my baby sister to attend and graduate in 2020, as well as my younger cousin, who is projected to graduate in the spring of 2025. I realize that my journey at MSU was not about me but about the influence that I would eventually have on future Bulldogs, encouraging them to attend MSU, go to class and be involved. I am a better professional and person because of the university.

Mantachie native Tyler Camp is a proven leader in public relations and community advancement. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from MSU in 2014 and serves as chief of staff and special assistant to the president of Itawamba Community College in Fulton. In this role, he assists and supports the president with a wide range of executive and administrative responsibilities, including overseeing and leading community relations, recruitment, marketing and press for the college and athletics. He also maintains a working relationship with members of the legislature to tackle complex budget issues and funding for the community college system and workforce development. His community involvement includes selection as a Top 10 Finalist for the North Mississippi Top 40 Under 40 Awards in 2017 and 2018, Itawamba County’s Friendliest Person in 2017 and Itawamba County Ambassador of the Year in 2019. A dedicated community servant and volunteer, Camp also is a graduate of the Community Development Foundation Jim Ingram Leadership Institute and was named the 2019 Grand Champion of the Dance Like the Stars nonprofit fundraiser for raising more than $47,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of North Mississippi. In 2021, the Mississippi Business Journal recognized Camp as a Top 50 Under 40 recipient for the state of Mississippi.

Success is a multifaceted concept and can vary from person to person based on individual goals, aspirations and definitions of achievement. For me, success is measured by happiness and fulfillment in both my personal and professional lives. Thankfully, attending Mississippi State equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary for success. This includes specialized knowledge related to my major, critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, communication skills and the formation of a personal network of individuals I still lean on to this day. MSU enabled me to foster personal growth, independence and resilience. It provided opportunities to explore new ideas, engage in critical discourse and gain exposure to diverse perspectives, all of which contributed to me becoming a well-rounded individual.

John Clemmer, a native of Madison, is at the forefront of converging mathematics with the physiology of the human body to help solve some of today’s most pressing problems in health and medicine. After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in bioengineering from MSU in 2008 and 2010, respectively, he completed a doctoral degree in physiology and biophysics at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). Clemmer now serves as an assistant professor at UMMC, where his research involves using mathematical modeling to understand various aspects of integrative physiology and potential treatments, particularly concerning cardiovascular diseases. One of his significant contributions is using virtual populations for simulating clinical trials. Clemmer earned numerous accolades for his work, including the Arthur C. Guyton Award for Excellence in Integrative Physiology and Medicine.

I am very thankful for my time at MSU, and the six years of knowledge and skills gained from my undergraduate and graduate training. I use these skills almost every day. Early on, my exposure to different areas of science—including classes in the bioengineering department, experiences as a technician at the Longest Health Center and in the chemistry and forestry departments—helped me get broad perspectives on healthcare and medicine. My early career in research was spent at MSU getting a master’s in biological engineering, where I worked on several projects that resulted in my first two publications. This work gave me experience in animal research, mechanical testing, microscopy techniques, FEA and modeling. Now having over 35 journal publications, I owe a lot of my success to the start of my research career at MSU.

Following a passion for working with college students that originated during his time at Mississippi State University, Rashad Cockrell’s professional journey has exemplified his dedication to lifelong learning and advocacy for students from diverse backgrounds. The Pontotoc native is a 2017 business graduate of MSU who also holds a master’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas and is pursuing a doctoral degree in higher education administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. He currently serves as director of the Wilbur N. Daniel African American Cultural Center at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. There, he is responsible for overseeing and enhancing educational programs, events and services that promote a diverse intellectual and social environment as well as cross-cultural understanding among students and the community. Outside his work on campus, Cockrell invests in his community through volunteer support and has been recognized for his leadership service.

Entering college as a first-generation student, I faced numerous challenges navigating the unfamiliar terrain of college life. As a freshman, I quickly immersed myself in the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center and became an active member of the Black Voices Gospel Choir. This initial involvement opened doors to various student organizations, including Men of Excellence, Peers Assisting with Students, and the Kappa Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, all of which were instrumental in shaping my collegiate experience. Mississippi State University played a pivotal role in my academic journey, guiding me toward discovering my true purpose in life. Through participation in these organizations, I not only honed my leadership and communication skills, but also had the opportunity to collaborate with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. My engagement in student life at MSU ignited a passion for student affairs, which continues to influence my professional pursuits today. The leadership experiences I gained as a student at MSU have seamlessly transitioned into my current professional life, contributing significantly to my ongoing development and success.

Ameka Coleman is on a mission to inspire and teach others the importance of self-love, faith and community. A 2009 biological sciences graduate of MSU, she later earned a master’s degree in business administration from the University of West Georgia and a master’s degree in clinical research from the University of North Texas Health Science Center. In 2017, she founded Strands of Faith, a beauty and lifestyle company specializing in clean and empowering hair products for individuals with textured hair. The Brandon native has since grown the humble startup into a thriving seven-figure business that serves over 40,000 women worldwide. Not content to keep her success to herself, Coleman invests in aspiring entrepreneurs and advocates for STEM fields by providing free business consultations to help steer entrepreneurs along their journeys. Her dedication and hard work have garnered recognition from high-profile organizations such as SBA Thrive Emerging Leaders and the Beyonce Bey Good Foundation, among others. Coleman’s success as a beauty industry entrepreneur and community leader has earned her distinctions including being named the Top CEO of Mississippi in 2021 and the 2023 Best of Mississippi Soar award.

Mississippi State University has been an instrumental pillar in my professional journey. The robust educational foundation at MSU provided me with a strong academic and research-oriented backdrop, which played a pivotal role in shaping my career. My involvement in the forestry department and the research exposure I gained there formed the building blocks of my entrepreneurial endeavors. The mental fortitude and confidence instilled in me during my time at MSU have been cornerstones in my journey from being a student to a CEO. The interpersonal skills, the resilience and the academic expertise I honed at MSU have been invaluable assets, enabling me to navigate the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. At MSU, I cherished the strong sense of community. While Mississippi is known for hospitality, MSU stood out even more. The campus felt like a second home. These experiences at MSU deeply impacted me, and as an alumna, I feel like part of a larger MSU family. Looking back, I'm filled with gratitude for the invaluable experiences and lessons from MSU which has greatly impacted my overall success.

Megan N. Costilow’s life and career have been shaped by her passion for community outreach and commitment to law enforcement. The 2017 MSU graduate earned a bachelor’s degree in political science followed by a Juris Doctorate from the Mississippi College School of Law. She currently serves as director of the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation’s Criminal Information Center, where she leads the oversight of the state’s Sex Offender Registry. A certificated law enforcement instructor by the Mississippi Board on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Training, Costilow is a regular instructor for the Certified Investigator Program of the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers’ Training Academy. Additionally, she routinely travels the state to provide personal public safety measures and community awareness trainings for all ages on topics like cyberbullying, sextortion, stranger danger and child exploitation. Costilow is a strong advocate for professional development and community service and was a finalist for the 2023 National Criminal Justice Training Center Administrative Professional of the Year. The Grenada native also holds the significant role of District XVI Justice within Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, presiding over all law school and alumni chapters in Mississippi and Louisiana.

Mississippi State University has played a pivotal role in shaping my path to success. By earning my bachelor’s degree in political science, I gained a solid foundation in the field, equipping me with critical thinking and analytical skills. Additionally, the rigorous academic environment and diverse perspectives at MSU fostered my personal growth and broadened my understanding of society. Attending the State Executive Development Institute at Mississippi State's Stennis Institute of Government and Community Development in 2023 further expanded my knowledge and leadership abilities. The program equipped me with essential skills, such as effective communication, strategic planning, and decision-making, which have been invaluable in my current role. I am grateful for the comprehensive education and transformative experiences I gained from Mississippi State University. The university's commitment to academic excellence, combined with its supportive community, has undoubtedly played a vital role in my career achievements.

Stephanie Cummins is a successful broker associate and owner of Front Gate Realty LLC, based in Brandon. She graduated from Mississippi State in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a minor in real estate. As one of the top producing agencies in the state with 35 active Realtors, Cummins’ business has sold over one billion dollars in real estate since opening in 2010. Cummins, a top-producing Realtor in Rankin County, has also served on numerous Realtor committees and assumed leadership roles in professional organizations. She currently serves as treasurer for the Mississippi Association of Realtors (MAR), was the previous central Mississippi Realtor liaison to the Mississippi Mortgage Bankers Association and has served multiple terms on the boards of the Home Builders Associations of Jackson and Mississippi. She has received several awards and recognitions for her contributions, including being named to Realtor Magazine’s 2013 30 Under 30, MAR’s 2014 40 Under 40 and Mississippi Business Journal’s Top 50 Leading Business Women in 2016. She also has served as a governor appointed member of the Personnel Board for the State of Mississippi since 2017.

My time at Mississippi State impacted my success in countless ways, both personally and professionally. I have been a real estate broker since I graduated in 2007. The education I obtained at Mississippi State helped me have the knowledge to open my own company. I also met my husband, Wally Cummins, while attending Mississippi State, so Mississippi State personally gave me more than I ever could have imagined. Additionally, several of the realtors that work for my company were people I met at Mississippi State. Over my 15+ years in real estate, I have represented hundreds of clients that I met either at or through Mississippi State.

From keeping information systems secured and effective to mentoring, Roderick Erby has a knack and passion driving success through efficiency and strategic thinking. The New Albany native is a 2016 business information systems graduate of MSU’s College of Business. He also earned an MBA with an emphasis in project management from Louisiana State University-Shreveport and is a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). After working for several years in various positions within International Paper (IP) in Memphis, Tennessee, he relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where, after a short time working in non-profit, he now continues to serve as an information technology audit advisor for IP. Erby also works as an adjunct professor at DePaul University’s Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media, where he teaches a graduate course in IT auditing. Through his profession and commitment to civic service and mental health advocacy, he regularly mentors students and peers and has previously been influential in recruiting fellow Bulldog students into employment opportunities in information technology at IP. For his accomplishments, he has received IP’s CEO and Global Excellence: Pillar awards and was recognized as a Memphis Flyer Top 20 Under 30 in 2020.

My transformative journey at Mississippi State University was pivotal for my success. The academic offerings extended beyond textbooks, delivering practical insights and skills crucial for my career. This esteemed institution encouraged innovative thinking, empowering me to set ambitious goals and pursue them with unwavering determination. Engaging in diverse extracurricular activities expanded my perspective, unveiling varied viewpoints and fueling my aspiration to contribute meaningfully to society. The connections I formed with fellow students and faculty evolved into an invaluable support network, stretching beyond the classroom. Their guidance and camaraderie proved instrumental in navigating the complexities of post-college life, facilitating profound growth—both personally and professionally. Mississippi State University played a vital role in shaping not only what I know, but who I am, and provided a solid foundation for a successful future.

Brandon native Dr. Blake Forte is driving quality care for others through a successful career in medicine. He is a 2014 biological engineering graduate of MSU. He later earned a master’s degree in biomedical sciences from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, followed by both a master’s degree in health sciences and Doctor of Medicine from Meharry Medical College. Dr. Forte currently is a third-year emergency medicine resident physician at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, where he is exposed to a variety of patients through rotations in the adult and children’s emergency departments, labor and delivery unit, operating room, and intensive care units. Recently, he was selected to become one of the chief residents for his last year of residency. He also works shifts in the emergency departments of two community hospitals in the Greater St. Louis area. Dr. Forte works hard to help others, as seen by his extensive involvement in several volunteer organizations. He is a member of the American Medical Association and the American College of Emergency Physicians and has volunteered at local community resource programs and at local elementary and high schools.

MSU has definitely played a huge part in my success. From the beginning of my collegiate career, as a member of the Bagley College of Engineering IMAGE Summer Bridge program in 2010, I was motivated to work and study hard to achieve my career goals. There were faculty mentors along the way who were great role models of what a leader should be, and this encouraged me to also want to mentor junior students that came after me, as I was a Summer Bridge Counselor in 2013. Through MSU, I was able to attend several regional and national conferences, which allowed me to network with other individuals across the country who had careers in STEM. During the summer before my senior year, I was able to study abroad at the University of Surrey in Guildford, England, an experience I will never forget. I still keep in contact with many of the colleagues, teachers, administrators, mentors and mentees that I met while attending MSU. In 2020, in conjunction with my mentor Dr. Verdell and the IMAGE program at MSU, I was able to create, organize and host a virtual panel for students interested in going to medical school, which was a full-circle moment for me. I have so much pride in being a graduate of Mississippi State University, which I have taken with me everywhere after graduating in 2014.

Dr. Seth Ladd, a Laurel native, is ensuring quality healthcare in his hometown and across the state through his work as a skilled general surgeon. The 2009 kinesiology graduate of Mississippi State completed his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from William Carey University. He then completed his general surgery residency at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in Queens, New York. He also obtained a fellowship in burn and reconstructive surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital. He has won many accolades for his research and presentations during his education. Dr. Ladd currently practices as a general surgeon at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, where he specializes in minimally invasive, robotic and acute care surgery. He has a passion for education, and he serves as an adjunct clinical professor at William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he mentors current medical students and provides lectures to the medical school. Outside the operating room, he actively participates in community service and has enjoyed serving as a camp doctor for Camp Ridgecrest for Boys during summers. He also stays involved with MSU by being a clinical advisor and preceptor for MSU’s pre-med students and being a part of the Bulldog Mentoring program. He also serves Jones County by being a part of the advisory board and speaker for the Jones County Vocational School Allied Health Program. Dr. Ladd’s dedication and achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including being selected as a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons.

Mississippi State helped mold me into the person I am today. Without my time at State, I would not be the man I am or have the career and life I have today. While there, I received the highest education and guidance through mentors in the kinesiology department. With this, I was able to succeed academically in medical school, residency and beyond. Through my experience serving in MSU’s student organizations, such as the Student Association and Roadrunners, I matured and developed skills in leadership, communication and working with peers. I am so thankful and proud of my time at Mississippi State and without its influence and connections, I would not be where I am today.

Trey Leonard has combined his MSU education and entrepreneurial skills to distinguish himself as a leader in the engineering industry. He is a three-time MSU graduate who earned double bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering and mathematics in 2018, and a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering. In 2021, he founded Standard Mechanics, a nationally acclaimed mechanical testing research lab in Starkville, where he specializes in data that influences the development of cutting-edge products across the automotive, electronics and power tools industries. The company was recently celebrated as the Best Metal Testing Service Company by Metals and Mining Review. Additionally, Leonard has developed patented technology and contributed to special projects at prestigious institutes like the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences, National Science Foundation, Army Research Lab and others. Alongside running his own business, he volunteers with a group based at Johns Hopkins with members around the globe in developing the first dynamic mechanical testing standards for ASTM. The Huntsville, Alabama native has remained involved at MSU, where he has mentored several mechanical engineering senior design teams and capstone projects in both engineering and business.

During undergrad, the mechanical engineering department armed me with the engineering prowess to excel. During my internship at GATR technologies in Huntsville, Alabama, I used the tools I learned to solve problems in unique ways. The math department opened the door to me as a young researcher starting my sophomore year, where I was able to work on a mathematical model of Alzheimer's disease. I was able to present this work at multiple conferences and my professor presented on it in Seattle. The Honors College ensured I was well-rounded in academics by strengthening my reading and writing skills. It also created an opportunity where I could study structural dynamics one-on-one with a professor in Oxford, England. MSU’s Office of Technology Management also helped me learn what it takes to write and license multiple patents during my doctoral studies. These patented technologies are what gave me the inspiration to start a company to provide one-of-a-kind mechanical testing services. Finally, MSU’s Entrepreneurship Center helped me to take this aspiration and break it down into smaller bites so I could graduate and immediately start a self-sustaining company with Standard Mechanics LLC, where I have now been working for three years.

Born and raised in Pontotoc, Anne Hollis Lipscomb has made substantial contributions to behavior analysis and pediatric psychology. After earning her bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from the MSU College of Education in 2015, 2017 and 2020, respectively, she pursued her pre and postdoctoral training at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine’s Kennedy Krieger Institute. As a licensed behavior analyst and psychology fellow, Lipscomb recently returned to campus to work at MSU’s T.K. Martin Center for Technology and Disability and the future Mississippi Institute on Disabilities. In her new role, she provides a variety of assessment and treatment services to individuals with developmental disabilities to meet their educational, social and behavioral needs. She also works to provide training and consultative services to schools and community stakeholders so that they can better serve students with disabilities. Her research on increasing patient access to therapies in service deserts, mainly through parent training programs and waitlist workshops, demonstrates her commitment to improving the lives of others. Aside from her work duties, Lipscomb has been actively involved in various community service projects such as the rEcess program, a monthly respite night for families of children with disabilities.

I am incredibly grateful for the eight years I spent at Mississippi State and for the friendships developed during that time. During both my undergraduate and graduate careers, I was able to work with so many incredible individuals who impacted my education and career. Specifically, Dr's Dan and Kasee Gadke played a pivotal role in my success. Their mentorship, encouragement and support not only enriched my learning experience, but also helped shape my passion and hone my skills in this field. Beyond the classroom, Mississippi State offered many opportunities for personal and professional growth, engaging in extracurricular activities, joining student organizations and building a valuable network of colleagues and resources. The support system I developed at Mississippi State has been invaluable to me and I love nothing more than seeing fellow Bulldogs when out of town. There is nothing like the camaraderie and instant friendship that happens when you hear someone say "Hail State" while walking down the street in your MSU apparel.

Audrey Jarvis McCarty is passionate about serving others. Just three days before graduating from MSU’s Fashion Design and Merchandising program in 2018, she purchased The Bridal Path, a well-established bridal business in Jackson. Using the knowledge and skills she gained as a student, as well as her previous experience in retail, McCarty made her dreams of owning a bridal store a reality. She works hard to procure the best inventory in the South and to create unforgettable experiences for all her clients. Under her guidance and direction, the Bridal Path has grown significantly. Business sales have tripled, and McCarty recently completed construction on a second, larger facility to expand the business in her hometown of Madison. Furthering her drive to serve people outside of business, McCarty volunteers with organizations like the American Cancer Society, Mississippi Children’s Museum, and Distinguished Young Women Program, leads mission trips and serves people experiencing homelessness. McCarty’s experiences at Mississippi State helped her develop her leadership skills, which have been instrumental in managing her employees and serving her customers effectively while inspiring her to serve diverse groups with the utmost passion and respect.

Mississippi State gave me innumerable opportunities to serve the university and the surrounding community. I started volunteering during my freshman year through the Day One Leadership Community. We served at Rolling Hills Developmental Center and planned a series of community service projects throughout the year. My membership in Kappa Delta Sorority led me to serve at The Sally Kate Winters Home for Abused and Neglected Children, Girl Scouts of America and Prevent Child Abuse America. Through my involvement in the Mississippi State Student Association, I planned and served at numerous community events, such as the costume carnival and trunk-or-treat. As an alumna, I have served the Alumni Association by writing postcards to potential students, attending recruitment events and serving as a panelist for the Mississippi State E-Center. I have enjoyed volunteering my time in the Fashion Design and Merchandising program by speaking to classes and individual students, advising professors on curriculum and taking student interns.

Ian T. McKay has a heart for supporting families and children going through psychological difficulties and experiences. A current resident of Columbus, Ohio, McKay earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from MSU in 2019 and 2021, respectively. He currently serves as a pediatric acute treatment psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and as a clinical assistant professor at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He serves as the attending psychologist on the adolescent inpatient unit and recently co-founded and co-developed an outpatient clinic, where his team provides specialized services for individuals ages 10 to 17 experiencing symptoms of psychosis or mood disorders. He has made significant research contributions, with multiple peer-reviewed publications and ongoing projects, and has been recognized with numerous honors and awards for his excellence in teaching, research and community service. After his mother’s passing in 2011, he founded Have a Big Heart, a nonprofit that supports the American Heart Association and scholarships for students. McKay’s passion for people and involvement in community service demonstrate his dedication to enhancing the landscape of pediatric mental health.

Mississippi State University has been instrumental in shaping my professional journey and personal growth. Pursuing my doctorate was a transformative experience that laid the foundation for my career at a nationally ranked children's hospital. The exceptional education and clinical training I received at MSU have been invaluable in shaping me into the clinician and scientist I am today. While at MSU, I was privileged to learn from dedicated faculty who imparted their knowledge and nurtured my passion for clinical psychology and research. MSU also allowed me to use my creative skillset to develop and research innovative treatments for vulnerable populations that continue to be utilized. This entrepreneurial spirit that MSU helped to instill has remained with me as I have developed several clinical programs in my current role. Moreover, MSU's supportive and collaborative environment fostered a sense of community among my peers and mentors, which continues to be a source of inspiration and shape the way I approach my career and team dynamics. In summary, Mississippi State University has been a pivotal force in helping shape my professional identity.

Mary Chase Breedlove Mize is a 2013 communication graduate of MSU who continued her education in clinical mental health counseling at Georgia State University, where she earned two master’s degrees and a doctoral degree. The Somerville, Tennessee native now serves as an assistant professor of clinical mental health counseling for graduate and post-baccalaureate studies at Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Georgia. She also is director of counseling and supervision at Seek and Find Counseling and Consulting, LLC, a small private practice that specializes in grief counseling, coping with aging-related challenges, suicide intervention and prevention training and clinical supervision. She has contributed to many articles, manuscripts and other publications, and co-authored the book Keep Watch: Suicide, Christ, and Community, which was published in 2022. A member of many professional organizations, advisory boards and task force committees, Mize also has been a frequently invited speaker and training lead, sharing her expertise and experience with others in her field.

Two words in the mission of Mississippi State University – access and opportunity – are threads that wove an unyielding foundation for my professional and personal success in the last decade. MSU has impacted my success in every way imaginable. As a first-generation college student, I had no framework or understanding of what college would “look like,” nor did I know what to expect. That changed the moment I entered campus as a student in the fall of 2009, specifically when I reported for my first day as a member of the Famous Maroon Band (FMB). This was the first experience of access afforded to me by MSU. Without the financial support of my band scholarship, I certainly would not have been able to engage in the opportunities I was able to pursue that have deeply contributed to my personal and professional development. The FMB was where I first belonged in college. I was immediately thrown into a community who wanted to know me and support me. I learned transferrable skills such as time management, self-discipline and strong communication that continue to enhance my skills as a clinician, writer and assistant professor. My community expanded vastly during my four years as a student, and these opportunities were places I made lifelong friends and learned invaluable life lessons. My cowbell in my office reminds me of everything MSU has given me to both find and thrive in the work of my life’s calling.

Chelsea Ladner Morea is defining what it means to be a successful businessperson who puts others first. Hailing from Brandon, Morea is a manager in strategic marketing at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital/ALSAC in Virginia Beach, Virginia. In her role, she leads a team that creates and manages audience and campaign strategies to raise funds and awareness for the hospital, which was ranked the Most Trusted Nonprofit in 2023 by Morning Consult. With nearly eight years dedicated to the mission, her team works cross-divisionally with stakeholders who, together, support nearly 75 percent of organizational revenue. Inspiration for her career path came from her time as a student worker for the MSU Foundation, where she discovered her passion for fundraising and development. Morea is a 2015 business administration graduate who also earned an MBA in 2016. Aside from her professional ventures, she is actively involved in her local community through serving in several capacities at her church and supporting the military community. Upon marrying a Commanding Officer in the U.S. Navy and relocating to Virginia Beach in 2020, she took on the role of president of the Officers Spouse Group to provide a support system and fellowship for spouses of active-duty service members who are currently away for training or deployed. During her time in this role, Morea directly assisted families during loss, hardships and medical crises throughout a 10-month deployment overseas. Other responsibilities included community outreach and fundraising to provide 150+ sailors with household supplies and essentials upon their return from deployment. Morea has received several awards including the Highest Award for Achievement in Emerging Leaders by Dale Carnegie, however, she is most proud of the role she is able to play in supporting military families.

Mississippi State University has always been at my core. Between attending classes, Greek life, various associations, the College of Business, the MBA program, working at the MSU Foundation and a graduate assistantship in Health Promotion and Wellness, I never took for granted how lucky I was to be a part of a university I loved so much. It is my prayer that other young students and professionals find that in MSU, too. Had I not been offered the job at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, I am convinced I would have found a reason to pursue a doctorate and perhaps never left. For now, my gratitude can be shown through the way I serve in my career and more importantly, those around me.

After earning a degree in architecture in 2011, Victoria Parker began working for ESa of Nashville, Tennessee, where she currently serves as senior project manager. In this role, she oversees a team of architects, interior designers and engineers on the creation of project design and construction documents. Parker is also responsible for schematic design studies, building systems’ coordination and construction administration. Her portfolio of completed and current projects represents over $700 million of construction. Notable projects for the Madison native include 17th and Grand, a high-rise commercial office building in Nashville, and Baptist Memorial Hospital of North Mississippi, both of which earned Awards of Excellence from the Associated General Contractors of Tennessee. Outside her career, she is involved in her community as a member of the Warhol Society, a non-profit organization focused on the arts. In 2020, she founded the Nashville Art Company that sells art to benefit the Nashville Rescue Mission for the homeless population in Nashville. She maintains her involvement at MSU through the Bulldog Mentor Program, mentoring students furthering their study of architecture.

Academically, the College of Architecture, Art and Design prepared me well for the field of architecture. Specifically, abilities gained through collaborative projects and the courses in building systems and structural design are skills I apply daily. Opportunities like the study abroad program to Vincenza, Italy, with students in the art and architecture programs gave me a wider perspective and increased my confidence to try new things. Studio critiques with professors and fellow students also helped hone my presentation skills and taught me how to problem solve in the moment. Personally, MSU is where I met my wonderful husband and so many friends. I absolutely wouldn't be where I am or who I am without Mississippi State.

Shemeka Phipps, CFLE, is an accomplished leader, educator and practitioner pursuing a career devoted to student, family and community support services, mainly in higher education. The Mound Bayou native earned a bachelor’s degree in educational psychology at MSU in 2013. She later earned a master’s degree in human development and family studies from the University of Alabama and a doctoral degree in professional leadership from the University of Houston. Phipps is a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) and faculty member at Lee College in Baytown, Texas. In addition to her academic career, she is deeply involved in community service, serving as a speaker for the Delta Educational Opportunity Center, Avance-Houston and the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Houston. She has served as an at-large council member of the National Learning Communities Association (NLCA). Phipps has received many awards and recognition, such as the Heart of a Cougar Award, Coordinator of the Year, Outstanding Student in Family Studies Award and the Crimson Legacy Award. Her work on first-generation college students, student success, community building and leadership has been presented at international, national, state and local conferences. Phipps' dedication to advocacy and education led her to establish the Center for First-Generation Excellence, a non-profit organization that provides support services to first-generation college students and their families. With the community's support and notable corporations such as Ross Dress for Less, Tiff Treats, Wal-Mart, Target, Dollar Tree and TDECU Credit Union, the nonprofit has supported over 150 students/families. Her journey from a first-generation college student to a changemaker in education and non-profit leadership is a testament to her determination and heart to help people of diverse circumstances.

While at MSU, I learned many life skills that helped me become a better person. Additionally, I joined some of the top student organizations, which allowed me to gain transferable skills that helped me secure career opportunities. These experiences had a profound impact on my life. After graduating, I embarked on a mission to fulfill MSU's core values of learning, research and service. I founded a non-profit, the Center for First-Generation Excellence, which empowers first-generation college students through resources and programs. Earning a doctorate expanded my knowledge, allowed me to contribute to research and instilled self-belief. Becoming a college professor at a young age provided an opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders. In summary, my journey from a first-generation college student to a changemaker in education and non-profit leadership was made possible by MSU's unwavering support. These accomplishments demanded hard work, dedication and sacrifices, but the ability to impact lives and effect positive change in the world brings me immense joy. I owe it all to MSU.

For the last decade, Starkville native Missie Smith has applied her expertise in human factors to the safe design and development of novel augmented and mixed reality technologies across industry and academic positions. The two-time MSU graduate holds a 2010 bachelor’s and 2012 master’s degrees in industrial engineering. She later earned a doctoral degree from Virginia Tech and currently serves as a senior research scientist on the user experience research health and safety team for Reality Labs (Meta) in Redmond, Washington. In this role, she leads multidisciplinary teams in identifying and solving critical problems through research and informed communication efforts that further technological development. Her research spans from foundational to applied research, enabling both knowledge generation and product development, and has been internationally recognized through 24 awards, 14 invited speaking engagements and 24 publications that have been collectively cited over 480 times. A dedicated community servant, she also is involved with multiple professional and volunteer organizations and has mentored over 100 early career professionals and students since 2013.

As a fourth generation Bulldog, it was easy to decide to attend MSU, but I had no idea how much MSU would shape who I am. My time at MSU gave me the strong technical foundation for a career spanning from working in a Mississippi manufacturing plant to teaching future engineers as a professor in Michigan, and now working in Washington to ensuring the safe development and use of novel augmented reality technology. Looking back, I see that the people at MSU enabled me to make these major pivots, as scary as they were at the time. Each pivot challenged me to learn new things and ultimately changed me, but I was able to take those leaps because I had a group of advocates—often from my MSU network of friends, family, classmates and professors—who encouraged me along the way. As a result, one of the constant things throughout all of these pivots has been my desire to help others, just like my Bulldog family continues to help me. I know the value from having just one person that openly believes in you and so I invest my own belief back in others. I have paid it forward by investing in over 100 mentees and by establishing an endowed scholarship to financially support students at MSU. My time at MSU helped me become the person that I am now—someone who likes to have fun, do excellent work and most importantly, support other people. It's the Bulldog way!

Recognized for her dynamic process modeling and simulation expertise, Bianca Thomas Stamps is a multi-talented engineering professional with a strong ability to lead. The Gautier native earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from MSU in 2018. She later earned an MBA from Loyola University and currently serves as a process simulation and control engineer at Chevron in Houston, Texas. At Chevron, she has successfully led product trials and campaigns, improved product quality, discovered lab testing opportunities and reduced plant downtime while enhancing plant start-ups. Stamps is also passionate about diversity and inclusion and actively leads in Chevron’s Black Employee Network, where she has held numerous local and global leadership roles. She is also invested in student success and currently has several university partnership roles that allow her to facilitate recruitment, mentoring and career workshops with several universities, including MSU. For her outstanding career achievements and contributions, she has earned several awards including Human Energy Measurable Value Awards, which are awarded to those whose performance adds unquantifiable value.

MSU taught me the importance of using what makes you different to make a difference. There were plenty of times in my engineering classes where I felt as though I stood out because I was a double minority. It made me very visible and at first, I shied away from the experience. However, I eventually learned to lean into that. It made me memorable in those large classes. It helped me find friends and maintain those connections easily. I have maintained this mindset in my professional career and my ability to make connections has placed me in rooms and positions that my experience could not. Also, the MSU alumni network is so large I have been able to leverage those relationships as well. I am constantly drawing on how the engineering program prepared me to be a real engineer. Just knowing the importance of gathering information and critically thinking to solve problems has made a world of difference in plant troubleshooting. The Career Center prepared me for how to conduct myself in interviews and meetings. Moreover, having the opportunity to lead and be a part of so many organizations taught me how to conduct meetings myself. I still am complimented on how well I take notes and follow parliamentary procedures in meetings, and these are habits I learned while attending MSU. These organizational skills led to my being a network president in less than a year and joining a global network team shortly after that. MSU fully prepared me to go out into this world and make it better.

Mark Talley is putting his education and passion to work to create environments that benefit the people who occupy them. The Southaven native earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Mississippi State in 2010. He is a principal architect of Tall Architects in Ocean Springs, which he co-founded with his wife in 2014. Together, they lead a team of architects and designers—all of whom are MSU graduates—to bring a forward-thinking and inclusive voice to architectural design, particularly in the Southern region. Under their leadership, Tall Architects has received numerous awards from the American Institute of Architects for their innovative and impactful architectural designs. He is dedicated to his community, volunteering his time and expertise to organizations including the MSU School of Architecture’s advisory board and Gulf Coast Community Design Studio, the Bethesda Free Clinic, the American Institute of Architects- Mississippi Chapter, the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra and more. Talley has also actively engaged with local schools and organizations through free talks, workshops and educational sessions. Tall Architects’ professional achievements were also highlighted with Architect Magazine’s 2023 Next Progressives award, which honors firms that have made significant contributions to the industry in a short time.

Mississippi State positively and radically changed the course of my life. In 2005, I was the first person in my family to attend a major university. In addition, I graduated from a public high school in Southaven, Mississippi, where the majority of my friends’ parents had not attended college. Some had not graduated high school. So, I had very little guidance or preparation for a real college experience. I immediately loved Mississippi State. I remember feeling as if the world was now available to me. All the experiences and perspectives that had been foreign were now part of my life. They were informing who I would become, what food I would want to eat, what books I would want to read, where I would want to travel and live. I was determined not to squander a single day. I would participate in as many school organizations as possible and travel as often as I could afford to—often the organizations would pay for travel, so that was a hidden perk of school spirit. I was also transformed into a voracious student, which I had not previously been. I did fine before college, but I was transformed. As a professional, I co-own an architecture firm with my wife. We met on the first day of college. We started Tall Architects in 2014, and we have only hired Mississippi State graduates. Needless to say, Mississippi State has not simply impacted my success, but rather I am the person I wanted to become because of Mississippi State.

Jacob Tschume is working to advance education and shift perspectives by helping others see math as an approachable and fulfilling concept. A two-time MSU graduate, he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics in 2010 and 2012, respectively, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in higher education leadership. In 2012, he joined the Department of Mathematics and Statistics faculty at MSU, where he serves as an instructor and academic advisor for undergraduate math majors. In addition to having taught over 12,000 students across a variety of majors and disciplines, Tschume also serves on the Robert Holland Faculty Senate, is a faculty fellow for the university’s Luckyday Scholars Program and chairs the College of Arts and Sciences Curriculum Committee. Throughout his career, he has been involved in mentoring programs, workshops for standardized tests and community service, and is an active member of the Mississippi Collegiate Mathematical Association. For his outstanding contributions to teaching, he has received several accolades including the 2020 College of Arts and Sciences Outstanding Teacher in STEM award and the 2022 Grisham Master Teacher award.

Mississippi State University has played a huge role in my success as a young professional and has helped shape my journey that is yet to come. My time as a student, both undergraduate and graduate, was some of the best in my life. I met some of my closest friends that helped shape my identity as a faculty member and what I believe an educator should entail. The connections that I made during my graduate school time led me to being considered for a position at MSU and eventually hired upon completion of my master’s degree. The colleagues and mentors that I have had the opportunity to connect with and learn from have led me to taking on leadership roles within my department and college at MSU and to become an award winning teacher on the college and university level. If it wasn't for my time at MSU, I would never be where I am today. I hope to be able to give back to MSU and its students the same way that I felt that I was helped along the way. Upon finishing my doctoral degree., I hope to move into an administration role at MSU, where I can have even more hands-on interaction with prospective and current students as they go through their MSU journey.

A skilled veterinarian and experienced educator, Mandy Wallace enjoys helping people just as much as animals. The Jackson native is a two-time MSU graduate who earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences in 2006 and a DVM in 2010. She also earned a master’s degree in veterinary medical sciences from the University of Florida and is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. She serves as an associate professor in small animal surgery at the University of Georgia (UGA), where she uses her vast expertise in soft tissue surgery to research wound healing, congenital liver disease and septic peritonitis. Her primary role is to educate veterinary students, interns and residents by sharing her knowledge and teaching them the latest surgical techniques. Wallace is committed to community service and has contributed her surgical skills to animal shelters and rescues in Mississippi, Florida and Georgia. Her achievements have earned her numerous awards, including the A.M. Mills Distinguished Professor Award, American Bouvier Rescue League’s 2014 Veterinarian of the Year and being selected as a Graduation Hooder by UGA’s veterinary classes of 2021 and 2023, among others. She credits her success to the exceptional professors and innovative courses she experienced during her undergraduate and veterinary studies at MSU, which inspired her teaching approach and mentorship style emphasizing student success and compassion.

MSU has played a major role in my current career and success in life. As a professor, I benefitted from having incredible and innovative professors in both my undergraduate and veterinary courses at MSU that enjoyed teaching and student success. I draw inspiration from those professors every day when planning my lectures and in my mentorship of students. The veterinary professors at the MSU-CVM taught me how to be a compassionate and competent doctor and gave me the confidence and experience needed to become a surgeon. In my role co- coordinating the Basic Surgical Techniques course at UGA, the experiences I had with the shelter medicine and mobile veterinary program at MSU-CVM have been invaluable as I navigate teaching students how to perform their first spays and neuters in shelter animals. The benefits I witnessed for the shelters in Mississippi because of that program have also led me to be active in assisting local shelters with more advanced surgeries and helping to build the confidence of the veterinarians in those shelters to perform more advanced procedures. Being a Roadrunner during my undergraduate years and an MSU-CVM Envoy during veterinary school built my confidence as a person and helped me to better appreciate the university that I had already loved for many years. I am very grateful for the education I received at Mississippi State as I would not be where I am today without the wonderful people that I met during my time in Starkville.

Kimberly Renee Watson is an accomplished alumna of Mississippi State who is making significant contributions to language education and community service. She obtained bachelor’s degrees in history and Spanish with a minor in political science in 2011, followed by a master’s degree in secondary education in 2013. She is currently part of the Rankin County School District, where she teaches Spanish and other world languages, sponsors the Pelahatchie High School World Language Club, is the lead teacher for Poetry Out Loud and supports fellow educators early in their career as a R.I.S.E. mentor. She also is a member of the Teacher Advisory Council at both the district and state levels and an American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Leadership Initiative for Language Learning Cohort 4 advocate. She has presented at local, state and regional workshops and conferences regarding rural world language education and practices in the secondary world language classroom. Outside the classroom, Watson actively participates in community service through her involvement in the Junior League of Jackson and the Mississippi Children’s Museum. In recognition of her dedicated service, she has been honored with such distinctions as the 2022-23 Rankin County School District Secondary Teacher of the Year, 2022 Pelahatchie High School Teacher of the Year, 2023 Mississippi Foreign Language Association, Teacher of the Year and 2023 Star Teacher.

The greatest lesson I learned at Mississippi State University that has impacted not only my professional career, but life, is that there is no limit to what I can achieve. Mississippi State University has played a pivotal role in shaping my success as a secondary world language educator. It provided me with the academic foundation, cultural exposure, community engagement and leadership opportunities necessary to grow in my career and make positive impacts daily. My experiences at MSU have not only shaped my teaching practice but have also contributed significantly to my personal growth and development as a responsible, well- rounded member of a community that works tirelessly to make positive differences through positive impacts. Mississippi State reinforced the importance of community leadership, something I strive to instill in my learners.