Adam Trest, a native of Laurel, earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting with a minor in architectural design from Mississippi State University in 2009. As a fine artist and illustrator, he has contributed to the New York Times bestselling children's book, The Lantern House, and was named the 2023 Thad Cochran Distinguished Arts Educator. He operates his own studio, creating original works and product designs while supporting Laurel’s cultural revitalization. Trest has served on the board of Laurel Main Street and the Jones County Library, and he collaborates with the Mississippi Arts Commission and the Kennedy Center. He stays involved with MSU as a guest lecturer, panelist and exhibiting artist. Trest credits MSU for providing him the foundation to confidently pursue his creativity and inspire future artists through his work and advocacy.
Allison Rogers, a native of Long Beach, earned her degree in geoscience with a concentration in professional and broadcast meteorology from Mississippi State University in 2015. Now an Emmy-nominated meteorologist for WLWT in Cincinnati, Rogers delivers timely weather updates and critical live coverage during severe weather events. She has also reported on major disasters, including tornado outbreaks and flooding. She volunteers with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the American Cancer Society and Found House Interfaith Housing Network. At MSU, she participated in the Broadcast Meteorology Workshop and worked as a student DJ at WMSV. She credits MSU with preparing her for a fast-paced broadcasting career and remains committed to serving the public and supporting future meteorologists.
Anna Claire Tucker, a native of Dubberly, Louisiana, graduated summa cum laude from Mississippi State University in 2021 with degrees in English and philosophy. She earned her Juris Doctor from the Mississippi College School of Law in 2024 and now works as an associate attorney at Blanchard Walker O’Quin & Roberts PLC, specializing in business litigation. Passionate about service, she volunteers at her local church and serves as the Panhellenic advisor to Chi Omega at Centenary College. At MSU, she co-founded No Longer Bound, an organization dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking. She was also involved in the Panhellenic Executive Council, Phi Beta Kappa and the MSU Equestrian Team. Tucker credits MSU with developing her leadership skills and preparing her for success in both law and community service.
Asishana Ajayi, a native of Edo State, Nigeria, has made remarkable impacts in engineering, community service and leadership. Ajayi graduated from Mississippi State University with a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering in 2021, an MBA in project management in 2024 and a Master of Science in industrial and systems engineering in 2024. He is currently pursuing a doctorate at MSU. Ajayi works as an industrial engineering analyst at Waggoner Engineering Inc., contributing to infrastructure improvements in Meridian. While at MSU, Ajayi held various leadership positions, including president of the African Students Association and senator in the Student Senate. His ongoing dedication to service includes mentoring at the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. He has received the Spirit of State Award and has been inducted into MSU’s Greek Hall of Fame. Ajayi remains engaged in the MSU community and credits the university for shaping his leadership abilities and career.
Caitlin Fournier, a native of Pensacola, Florida, earned her Bachelor of Arts and Sciences from Mississippi State University in 2017. She later obtained a master’s degree in adult and higher education from the University of Oklahoma. As the director of fan engagement at OU, she manages marketing and game production for football, softball and gymnastics, making history as the first woman to lead the production of OU football games. She has spearheaded record-breaking attendance initiatives and national championship productions. Fournier volunteers with Meals on Wheels of Norman, OU Children’s Hospital, and Phi Mu sorority. While at MSU, she helped organize Hurricane Harvey relief efforts and served as a Maroon VIP tour guide. She credits MSU with shaping her leadership skills and athletic career and remains committed to empowering the next generation of women in sports.
Christian Good, a native of Macon, is a leader in agriculture and business. In 2016, he graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in agricultural business management and minors in economics and business administration. As the owner of Christian Good Farms and the manager of Philip Good Farms, he oversees the production of soybeans, corn, cotton, beef cattle and catfish while implementing sustainable practices. He also owns Good Billboards and is a partner in Outdoor Investments III and IV LLC, managing digital and static billboards across five states. Good represents agriculture at the national level, testifying before the U.S. Senate Agricultural Subcommittee and participating in trade missions. He serves on multiple industry boards, including the Mississippi Corn Promotion Board, to which he was appointed by Gov. Tate Reeves. At MSU, he was president of the National Agri-Marketing Association, an ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and an Alumni Delegate. A former Mr. MSU and Spirit of State Award recipient, Good credits MSU for instilling values of innovation, stewardship and leadership.
Dr. Emily Nations Bufkin, a Clinton native, is both a physician and an educator. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in biological engineering from Mississippi State University in 2012 and completed her Doctor of Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2016. She is an assistant professor and program director for the Combined Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she trains 16 resident physicians and focuses on health care transition and disability health equity. Bufkin is also the clinical director for Special Olympics Texas in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where she advocates for inclusive health care. At MSU, she was actively involved in the Student Association, Shackouls Honors Council, and Chi Omega, where she co-founded Limelight, a flagship fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She also helped develop Cowbell Yell and MSU’s nighttime shuttle service, DD – The Downtown Dawg. Honored with the Spirit of State Award and Phi Kappa Phi membership, she credits MSU for shaping her leadership and problem-solving abilities.
A native of Amory, Grant Nerren has established a strong career in higher education leadership and student recruitment. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in 2015 and a Master of Public Policy and Administration in 2018 from Mississippi State University. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in higher education leadership, which he expects to complete in 2025. As the regional assistant director of recruitment at MSU, he leads a team of remote recruiters and develops data-driven strategies to enhance the university’s national presence. He has held leadership roles in professional organizations, including the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling and the Mississippi Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers. Nerren actively participates in alumni relations, serving previously on the Central Mississippi Alumni Association Board, and the Young Alumni Advisory Council. Recognized for his academic achievements, he is a member of Phi Kappa Phi and Beta Gamma Sigma. Nerren credits MSU for fostering his passion for student advocacy and leadership and he remains dedicated to connecting future Bulldogs with the opportunities that MSU offers.
Dr. Hudson Frey, a native of Hollandale, is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon dedicated to restoring and enhancing facial aesthetics. He earned a Bachelor of Science in microbiology from Mississippi State University in 2013, followed by a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2017. Specializing in cosmetic facial surgeries to restore facial harmony, he also performs reconstructive surgery after MOHS procedures for skin cancer and complex nasal reconstruction to restore nasal breathing. Frey’s commitment to service includes medical mission work, during which he completed 17 surgeries in Kenya in 2024, and volunteer work in the Austin, Texas community. At MSU, he served as a senator and the chief administrative officer of the Student Association and actively participated in the Stennis-Montgomery Association. He took part in The Big Event, MVNU2MSU, and voter awareness initiatives, showcasing his dedication to service. A member of the Alpha Omega Alpha and Gold Humanism Honor Societies, he has received the Resident Teacher of the Year and Resident Academic Award. Frey credits his experiences at MSU for preparing him for medical school and instilling a lifelong commitment to helping others.
Jensen Bosarge Jacquet, a native of Biloxi, is an educator and mentor. In 2017, she earned a Bachelor of Science in secondary education with a minor in psychology from Mississippi State University, followed by a Master of Science in educational psychology from the University of Memphis. Jacquet teaches English and AP psychology within the Harrison County School District and serves as the head cross country coach and the lead sponsor of the Beta Club. She actively engages her students in various service projects, including the Buddy Walk for children with Down syndrome, Coastal Cleanup, and Salvation Army bell ringing. Jacquet maintains a strong connection to MSU as the founder and leader of the Coast Dawgs Young Alums group, organizing events to involve her fellow alumni. Additionally, she serves as the chapter’s social media coordinator and a writer for Maroon Mail. As a National Board-Certified Teacher and a two-time Teacher of the Month honoree, she credits MSU’s Mississippi Excellence in Teaching Program for shaping her teaching philosophy. Through her dedication to education and service, she continues to inspire both her students and alumni.
Jeronn Parker, a Brookhaven native, has built a successful career in corporate compliance and risk management. He earned a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences from Mississippi State University in 2016 and later obtained a Master of Business Management from Faulkner University. As the lead compliance analyst at AT&T, he oversees regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and employee training. Parker is deeply involved in community service, mentoring through Kappa League and volunteering with voter registration drives, Minnie’s Food Pantry, and The Stewpot Dallas. During his time at MSU, Parker participated in the Student Association, the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, and several leadership programs. In recognition of his dedication to service, he received the 2016 Spirit of State Award and AT&T’s Service Excellence Award. Parker credits his experiences at MSU with developing his leadership skills and passion for community engagement, which continue to inspire his personal and professional growth.
Dr. Kollin Napier, a native of Petal, is a prominent figure in artificial intelligence (AI) education and workforce development. He earned a Bachelor of Science in 2016, a Master of Science in 2017, and a Doctor of Philosophy in 2023 from Mississippi State University, where he was involved in the Preparing Future Faculty Program. As the director of the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, he leads the nation’s first statewide AI initiative, collaborating with colleges, universities and global technology leaders. Under his leadership, MAIN has trained thousands of workers, established AI labs throughout the state, and provided professional development for K-12 educators. He advises state leaders on AI policy and represents Mississippi on the Southern Regional Education Board’s AI Commission. The Jackson Chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals honored him as the 2024 Mississippian of the Year, underscoring his dedication to advancing AI innovation. He mentors students through MSU’s Bulldog Mentorship Program and volunteers in K-12 classrooms. Napier attributes his values of integrity, innovation and service, which guide his mission to empower individuals and transform communities, to his time at MSU.
A native of Jackson, MaCall Morgan Chastain, Esq., advocates for mental health policy and legal compliance. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in pre-law from Mississippi State University in 2016, followed by her Juris Doctor from the Mississippi College School of Law in 2019. As general counsel and bureau director of the division of certification for the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, she oversees legislative affairs, policy development and service certification standards. Her work focuses on improving crisis care, expanding community-based programs and ensuring compliance with behavioral health regulations. Chastain remains active in professional organizations, including the Mississippi Women Lawyers Association and the Jackson Young Lawyers Association. During her time at MSU, she served as vice president of the Student Association, a senator in the College of Arts and Sciences, and a Gamma Chi recruitment counselor. A recipient of the Benton Fellowship and the Women in Law Scholarship, she credits MSU for shaping her leadership and advocacy skills. Inspired by MSU’s commitment to service, she continues to work towards enhancing mental health services for Mississippians.
Mrs. Randall Journeay White, a native of Leland, has built a successful career in financial planning. She earned two bachelor’s degrees, one in Marketing and one in Business Administration with a focus on risk management, insurance and financial planning, as well as an MBA from Mississippi State University. Currently, she works as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional at American Seniors Benefit Inc., specializing in retirement strategies and comprehensive financial planning. White serves on the Rankin First Economic Development Authority Board and is a member of the national board of Women in Insurance & Financial Services. Additionally, she acts as a FINRA non-public arbitrator and remains actively involved with organizations such as the Junior League of Jackson and Rankin County Chamber. She previously oversaw the Mississippi Army National Guard Special Forces Family Readiness Group. A dedicated alumna of Pi Beta Phi, she has held leadership roles at both local and regional levels. White maintains a strong connection to MSU through her leadership positions in the MSU Alumni Association, which included her role as president of the Central Mississippi Alumni Chapter. Recognized with the 2019 Golden Cowbell Chapter Award and the 2020 Ridge Thomason Award, she attributes her career and leadership development to her experiences at MSU.
A native of Grenada, Dr. Rob Dambrino has built a distinguished career in neurosurgery. After earning a Bachelor of Science in biomedical engineering from Mississippi State University in 2013, he completed a Master of Public Health at Vanderbilt University and a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He is currently the chief resident in neurosurgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, specializing in open and endoscopic skull base neurosurgery. His research includes over 30 peer-reviewed publications and more than 50 national and international presentations on neurosurgical techniques and genomic studies of brain tumors. Dambrino is also dedicated to medical education, mentoring students in neuroanatomy and surgical techniques. At MSU, he served as an Alumni Delegate, participated in The Big Event, and mentored first-generation college students. He credits MSU for providing the academic rigor and leadership training that equipped him for medical school and a career in neurosurgery.
A third-generation Mississippi State University graduate, Ross Weems of Jackson has built a distinguished career in banking and community leadership. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from MSU in 2009, a Master of Business Administration from MSU in 2010 and a degree from the Graduate School of Banking at LSU in 2024. In his role as first vice president of the BankPlus Private Client Group, he provides tailored financial solutions to individuals, corporate executives, medical practices and professional firms. Weems is deeply involved in nonprofit leadership, serving on boards for the Mississippi Children’s Museum Partners, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mississippi and the Mississippi Early Learning Alliance. Recognized as a Mississippi Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 finalist and a Leader in Finance, he has made significant contributions to financial literacy and fundraising initiatives. At MSU, he served as a Student Association senator, held leadership roles in Sigma Chi Fraternity and was inducted into the MSU Greek Hall of Fame. He remains actively engaged with the MSU Alumni Association, mentoring fellow Bulldogs and supporting university initiatives. Weems credits MSU with instilling the leadership, service and excellence that have guided his career and community involvement.
A native of Louisville, Sarah Beth Jones is a founding partner at Gay Jones & Kuhn PLLC, a women-owned law firm with offices in Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama and Louisiana. She graduated summa cum laude from Mississippi State University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Jones specializes in mass tort and product liability litigation, representing clients including Fortune 500 companies. She is licensed to practice in Mississippi and Alabama, and provides guidance to businesses on corporate governance, trademarks and employment law. She has been recognized among the Best Lawyers in America and as a Mid-South Super Lawyers Rising Star; additionally, the Mississippi Business Journal named her a Top 50 Under 40 Business Leader. She gives back through the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project and supports organizations like the Mississippi Children’s Museum and the Junior League of Jackson. During her time at MSU, Jones served as a Student Association senator, was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority and held a leadership role in Mortar Board, among other involvement. She continues to engage with her alma mater by mentoring students and speaking on professionalism and employment law. Jones credits MSU with providing the foundation for her success, including both academic preparation and lifelong connections.
Sarah Morgan, a passionate educator and author, has dedicated her career to faith-based outreach and literacy advocacy. A native of Brazil, Indiana, she graduated from Mississippi State University’s College of Education in 2013 and began her career as a third-grade teacher before transitioning into homeschooling and nonprofit leadership. Inspired by her personal experiences, she founded He Breaks Chains, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that distributes devotional books to inmates nationwide. Her book, Chain Breaker, became an Amazon No. 1 New Release and has won multiple literary awards, including the Readers’ Favorite International Book Award and the Christian Book Award. Morgan speaks at correctional facilities, using faith and literacy to encourage rehabilitation and transformation. At MSU, she was a philanthropy leader in Pi Beta Phi Sorority and a member of the MSU Literacy Council and Kappa Delta Pi. She credits MSU with giving her the confidence to embrace unexpected opportunities in education and ministry. Through He Breaks Chains, Inc., she continues to use her background in education to bring hope and encouragement to incarcerated individuals.
Born in Starkville and raised in Taichung, Taiwan, Dr. Sharon Yang has dedicated her career to veterinary pathology and biomedical research. She earned a Bachelor of Science in wildlife, fisheries, and aquaculture from MSU’s College of Forest Resources and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the College of Veterinary Medicine. Currently, she is an assistant professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she provides pathology expertise for cancer biology, infectious diseases, and genetic disorder research while overseeing diagnostic services for laboratory animals. She directs graduate-level courses, mentors veterinary students and residents, and serves on several committees for the American College of Veterinary Pathologists. While at MSU, Yang was a resident advisor as an undergraduate and took on a leadership role in the veterinary program, experiences she credits with developing her resilience and leadership skills. She remains connected with MSU by mentoring students and delivering guest lectures in veterinary pathology. Yang is dedicated to promoting biomedical research and nurturing the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Shelby Balius Tschume from Cumming, Georgia, has built a career in organizational strategy, most recently serving in higher education leadership. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in 2013 and her Master of Business Administration in 2023 from MSU before becoming the director of strategic initiatives in the Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President. In this role, she leads university-wide projects designed to enhance academic and operational effectiveness. She collaborates closely with senior leadership to expand student opportunities and develop new programs. Tschume has also contributed to nonprofit initiatives, serving with Taste of the South and the Mississippi Society of Washington, D.C., to support charities based in Mississippi. At MSU, she was the Student Association president, spearheading service initiatives for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and promoting student engagement efforts. Honored as one of the College of Business’s 100 Most Distinguished Alumni in its 100-year history, she remains active in student mentorship and advisory board service. Returning to MSU in a professional capacity allows her to give back to the university that shaped her success. Tschume credits MSU for cultivating her leadership skills and passion for higher education.
Stanley Blackmon, a Madison native, is an accomplished litigator and appellate attorney. He earned a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences from Mississippi State University in 2012 and completed his Juris Doctor at the University of Alabama in 2015. Currently, he is a partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP, where he represents clients in complex litigation and has argued cases before the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Fifth and Eleventh Circuits. His practice includes product liability, pharmaceutical litigation, fraud, and construction disputes. Blackmon serves on the Alabama Supreme Court’s Standing Committee on the Rules of Appellate Procedure and is the immediate past president of the Birmingham Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section. While at MSU, he was an Alumni Delegate, a member of the Student Association Cabinet, and vice president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He remains actively involved with the Shackouls Honors College Advisory Board. Blackmon credits MSU for shaping his leadership and analytical skills, which continue to guide his legal career.
Stedmond Ware, a native of Greenwood, has dedicated his career to promoting opportunity and success. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in psychology in 2012 from MSU and a Master of Science in community development at Delta State University. Currently, he serves as a portfolio manager III at AmeriCorps’ North Central Regional Office in Kansas City, Missouri, where he manages millions in federal funds and provides strategic guidance to AmeriCorps grantees. In this role, he supports project sponsors in grant planning, compliance and program effectiveness while fostering partnerships to expand national service initiatives. Previously, Ware was the senior advisor for equity at AmeriCorps’ Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, where he collaborated with national leaders to develop equitable service opportunities. His leadership extends beyond his profession as he has chaired the board of directors at the Kansas City Center for Inclusion and hosts Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives, a nonprofit radio program that highlights community leaders. While at Mississippi State University, Ware advocated for students through the Student Association Senate and Cabinet, the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, and the President’s Commission for the Status of Minorities. His commitment to service has earned him national recognition, including the Bronze Congressional Medal and the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Ware remains engaged with the Kansas City Alumni Chapter, strengthening connections among fellow Bulldogs.
A native of Learned, Taylor McNair is a committed advocate for agriculture and public policy. In 2017, she earned a Bachelor of Science in agricultural business from Mississippi State University and subsequently obtained her Juris Doctor from Mississippi College School of Law. As the deputy general counsel and public policy coordinator for the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, she provides legal counsel and legislative advocacy for the state’s agricultural community. McNair played a key role in passing the Mac Huddleston Rural Veterinarian Scholarship Program and securing additional funding for MSU’s agricultural research. She also mentors young women through Miss Rodeo America and supports advocacy initiatives for 4-H and FFA. During her time at MSU, she was involved in the Student Association, Block and Bridle, and Chi Omega Sorority, and served as Miss Rodeo America in 2019. Magnolia Tribune recognized her as one of its Top 50 Most Influential Mississippians, and she continues to advocate for agricultural policy. McNair credits MSU for equipping her for a career centered on advocacy, leadership and service.
Tonie B. Williams, a native of Memphis, Tennessee, has dedicated her career to social work and veteran services. She earned a degree in social work from Mississippi State University in 2018 and is currently the coordinator for the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program. In this role, she develops programs, provides clinical interventions and leads outreach efforts to support veterans and families affected by domestic violence. Williams also coaches for Girls on the Run DFW, helping young girls build confidence and resilience. At MSU, she served as president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., was a scholar in the Montgomery Leadership Program, and mentored in the Day One Leadership Community. She remains connected to MSU through the social work program and alumni initiatives. A two-time World Major Marathon finisher, she credits MSU with providing the mentorship and leadership training that shaped her career and commitment to service. She will be competing in her third World Major Marathon in Tokyo on March 2.
A native of Bengaluru, India, Dr. Vineetha Maya Menon is a leader in artificial intelligence and data science. She earned a doctorate in electrical and computer engineering from Mississippi State University in 2016 and currently serves as the Dr. Terence Reed Endowed Associate Professor of Computer Science at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. As the director of the Big Data Analytics Lab, she specializes in Explainable AI, AI-driven drug discovery, cybersecurity and human-AI trust in autonomous systems. Menon co-founded Cirkle LLC, an AI-powered consulting firm, and BiobankingAI, which optimizes the software management of biosample data. Recognized with awards from IEEE and the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM), she also mentors women and minorities in STEM fields. At MSU, she revitalized the IEEE-HKN Gamma-Omega Chapter, led the IEEE-Women in Engineering chapter, and was inducted into the Graduate School Hall of Fame. She credits MSU for shaping her leadership and research skills and inspiring her commitment to AI innovation and ethical technology development.
