Mississippi State University

Three Mississippi State graduate students have received awards for innovative research showcased during the College of Education's 2026 Graduate Research Symposium. More than 30 students presented their faculty-guided research during the annual event, with poster presentations formally judged by a panel of faculty. Projects represented the departments of Counseling, Higher Education Leadership, Educational Psychology, and Foundations; Kinesiology; Teacher Education and Leadership; and Technology, Leadership, and Design. Also involved were MSU's Mississippi Institute on Disabilities and MSU-Meridian's Division of Education. The event was hosted by the college during the university's spring Research Celebration. Learn more about the College of Education at www.educ.msstate.edu.

Mississippi State University's Undergraduate Research Symposium engages students in showcasing faculty-guided research and creative activity. This biannual event includes students from diverse departments and colleges who participate in poster and oral presentation sessions, sharing their research with the MSU community. More than 300 undergraduate student projects were evaluated by faculty, graduate students and staff at the spring 2026 event. Feedback can be useful in improving current research projects and preparing for future research endeavors. The event is hosted by the Office of Research and Economic Development and the Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College. In addition, the event is supported by faculty, post docs and graduate students who provide comments on projects and judge special area competitions. Research projects are divided into eight categories: Arts, Music and Design; Biological and Life Sciences; Business and Economics; Education; Engineering; Humanities; Physical Sciences; and Social Sciences. More information can be found at www.urcd.msstate.edu.

Twenty-seven students from Mississippi State's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences were selected as Spring 2026 CALS Dean's Scholars, which recognizes degree candidates who demonstrate excellence in academics, research, experiential learning and leadership.

Eight students from Mississippi State's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, or CALS, were awarded the George M. Hopper Excellence in Undergraduate Research award. Named for the former CALS dean and director of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station, the award demonstrates the college's commitment to recognizing groundbreaking research and innovation while rewarding collaboration between students participating in the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program and their faculty mentors.

Eighteen students from Mississippi State's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, or CALS, were honored with the distinction of induction into the CALS Hall of Fame. The award, established last year, is given to one graduate and one undergraduate student from each of the college's nine departments. Departments nominate and select students based on outstanding academic performance, exceptional leadership, active research participation and a strong commitment to serving both their institution and peers.

Mississippi State recognized 30 students at the recent spring MSU College of Forest Resources Student Awards Banquet for their dedication to academic achievement, research excellence, outstanding service and leadership. Wes Burger, dean of the College of Forest Resources and director of the university's Forest and Wildlife Research Center, presented students in the departments of Forestry, Sustainable Bioproducts and Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture with the honors and congratulated them for their hard work and dedication. "We have the best and brightest students in the College of Forest Resources, consistently leading in both the classroom and the field," he said. "It is an honor to recognize those who distinguish themselves across every aspect of their work. I am incredibly proud of all they have accomplished."

Mississippi State student journalists earned prestigious recognitions--including a first-place national win--for outstanding storytelling and reporting skills at the annual Associated Collegiate Press Media Fest held this past semester in Washington, D.C. The ACP Media Fest is a national conference that celebrates excellence in student journalism, media and storytelling. It brings together college media students, advisors and professionals for workshops, networking opportunities and national award ceremonies. The event offers hands-on training in reporting, editing, design, photography and digital media to prepare the next generation of journalists and communicators. MSU students competed among peers from across the country in the Individual, Best of Show and Pinnacle Award categories, earning multiple top honors.

Mississippi State's Graduate School is recognizing eight students for their superb research presentations given during the university's annual Three Minute Thesis competition. The 3MT event challenges graduate students to present their thesis and dissertation topics in three minutes or less. Student presentations were judged by a panel of academic and non-academic professionals with a wide range of expertise. This year, 41 graduate students competed for the Three Minute Thesis MSU Grand Champion, with nine judges reviewing the presentations.

Twenty-four Mississippi State University students from various majors and backgrounds received 2026 Spirit of State recognition for their exceptional personal contributions to student life at MSU. Organized by the university's Division of Student Affairs and celebrating its 21st year, the award honors students who have made a positive impact on peers and the broader campus community through organization involvement, service to the institution and personal actions promoting school spirit and tradition. This year's class represents eight different states and countries, as well as 20 majors. The Spirit of State program is open to all students, no matter their classification, major or primary campus. Nominees must have a minimum 2.25 GPA and be in good academic and disciplinary standing.

Mississippi State students earned recognition on the global stage by competing in two major robotics competitions. The university's MSUAgRobot team was named a finalist in the 2025 Farm Robotics Challenge in Davis, California, while MSU's Team Torque earned first place in the navigation task and fifth overall at the 2025 American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers Student Robotics Challenge in Toronto, Canada.

Student participants in Mississippi State's BRIDGES Undergraduate Research Opportunity gain valuable experience preparing them to take the next step toward the workforce or continued studies in graduate school. BRIDGES is short for Building Relationships that Intentionally Develop Generations of Excellent Scholars, and it engages students in meaningful, paid work at various MSU research centers, such as the Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems, Center for Cyber Innovation, Raspet Flight Research Laboratory and Social Science Research Center, among others. The program was established by the university's Office of Research and Economic Development and the Division of Access, Opportunity and Success. It expands MSU's robust opportunities for undergraduate research. For more, visit https://www.research.msstate.edu/initiatives/bridges and https://www.urcd.msstate.edu/.

The Reflector student journalists at Mississippi State took home three first-place awards this spring at the Mississippi Press Association's O.C. McDavid Journalism Summit and walked away with a dozen top awards. The summit, hosted annually since 1998 by the Mississippi Press Association, honors excellence in collegiate journalism across the state. Named for longtime Mississippi journalist and artist O.C. McDavid, the event features professional workshops, networking opportunities and the presentation of student awards through the MPA's Better News/Media Contest. "I'm proud of our excellent reporters for earning these hard-to-get accolades," said Josh Foreman, Reflector advisor, who also is an instructor in MSU's Department of Communication, Media and Theatre.

Mississippi State is recognizing eight undergraduate researchers as 2025 George Hopper Excellence in Undergraduate Research Award winners. The award, established in 2022, honors top undergraduate researchers in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Named for the longtime CALS dean and director of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station, the award reflects Hopper's legacy of leadership and commitment to student research. He also launched the CALS Undergraduate Research Scholars Program to support hands-on learning alongside faculty mentors. "The Undergraduate Research Scholars Program, funded through MAFES and CALS, is an amazing opportunity for CALS students to explore and enrich their educational experiences," said Cory Gallo, CALS assistant dean and MAFES assistant director. "Through hands-on, real-world research opportunities, our students work alongside world-renowned faculty to help find solutions for the most pressing global issues in agriculture and life sciences."

Twenty-seven Mississippi State University students from a variety of majors received Spirit of State Awards this past week for their exceptional personal contributions to student life at MSU. Organized by the university's Division of Student Affairs and celebrating its 20th year, the Spirit of State Awards honor those who have made a positive impact on peers and the broader campus community through organization involvement, service to the institution and personal actions promoting school spirit and tradition. This year, MSU Vice President for Student Affairs Regina Hyatt and award-winning students also presented President Mark E. Keenum a Spirit of State watch, the award given to recipients, to recognize his continued support of MSU students. "As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Spirit of State Awards, we are proud to honor these outstanding student leaders-individuals whose selflessness, service and integrity exemplify what it means to be a Bulldog," Hyatt said. "This recognition also extends to the families, mentors, faculty and staff who have supported and uplifted these students along the way. It truly takes a village, and it was exciting to be able to celebrate the entire community that helps shape and inspire student success at Mississippi State." The Spirit of State Awards are open to all students, no matter their classification, major or primary campus. Nominees must have a minimum 2.25 GPA and be in good academic standing. "I would describe Mississippi State using the analogy of a wide-open field with nutrient-rich soil where students can form strong roots and a firm foundation that allow them to bear fruit and cultivate qualities to positively impact the lives of others and make a change for good in the world," said August Jones, a junior biochemistry major and 2025 Spirit of State Award recipient from Bay Springs. "During my time here at Mississippi State, I am grateful to have made and continue to make many incredible memories. Along with these memories and all the fun that accompanies them, my fellow students and I have learned valuable lessons, principles and qualities that we will use for the rest of our lives."

Mississippi State University's College of Education is honoring eight graduates for their exceptional work as teacher interns in Magnolia State school districts. The recipients of the Outstanding Teacher Intern Award were nominated for exceeding expectations while completing internships at public schools across the state. The honorees demonstrated exemplary professionalism, performance and a high level of commitment to the teaching profession.

Mississippi State recently honored a new cohort of first-year Luckyday Scholars with a pinning ceremony featuring MSU President Mark E. Keenum and the Board of the Luckyday Foundation. Established by the late Frank Rogers Day, the Jackson-based Luckyday Foundation provides scholarship funding up to $6,000 per year for a total of up to $24,000 over four years to each student selected for the program. Luckyday Scholars are exemplary students with the goal of becoming college graduates who possess invaluable leadership skills, a strong work ethic and a commitment to community stewardship. Applicants must have a minimum 3.5 high school GPA and participate in an intensive application process. The Luckyday Foundation is continuing its pledge of student support and assistance to MSU students as 74 first-year Luckyday Scholars began their academic journey at the university this fall. Luckyday Scholars are actively engaged in this holistic program, which includes a freshman-year seminar and mentoring, designated housing to encourage connections, and opportunities to grow as leaders through servant leadership programming. Participants commit to a minimum of 10 service hours per semester with a single agency, which enhances the program's fundamental principles: scholarship, community, service and leadership.

Mississippi State's Graduate School is recognizing eight students for their superb research presentations given during the university's 11th annual Three Minute Thesis competition. The event challenged graduate students to present their thesis/dissertation topics in three minutes or less. Student presentations were judged by a panel of academic and non-academic professionals with a wide range of expertise. This year, 28 graduate students competed for the title of MSU Grand Champion, and nine judges reviewed presentations.

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is proud to announce the recipients of a 2024 Love of Learning Award. The awards help fund post-baccalaureate studies and career development for active Society members.

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is proud to announce the recipients of a 2024 Pioneer Award. The awards are designed to reward undergraduate members for developing the research, engagement and leadership skills necessary to become a successful scholar

Student members of Global Game Changers, an interdisciplinary Mississippi State program in its third year, recently traveled to Italy for a two-week study abroad trip. Participants ventured through Milan, the Amalfi Coast, Florence and ended the trip in Rome. Students from six of the university's nine colleges traveled abroad with customized itineraries specific to their field of study, meeting daily to enjoy broader cultural activities as a group. Faculty advisors from MSU's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Architecture, Art and Design, Bagley College of Engineering and College of Business include Gallery Director Lori Neuenfeldt, Assistant Teaching Professor Aswathy Rai, Lecturer Rachel Woodward, Associate Professor Harish Chander, Assistant Professor Erik Markin and former MSU Associate Professor Charles Freeman, who coordinated and hosted the study abroad trip. "This is a life changing trip for students. They can study abroad with their peers from campus who soon turn into friends and see sights that you maybe wouldn't be able to see as a regular tourist. Many of my students come back from these trips saying it changed their perspective on everything in life," said Freeman, the trip's faculty lead.

Phi Kappa Phi recently announced the recipients of a 2024 Fellowship. The prestigious $8,500 fellowships were awarded to 54 students nationwide.

Mississippi State University's Department of Aerospace Studies is adding 13 commissioned officers to the U.S. Air Force. Lt. Col. Christopher S. Evans, professor of aerospace studies, recognized the achievements of the graduating cadets of MSU's Detachment 425 during its spring commissioning ceremony. Retired Lt. Col. Russell A. Matijevich, a 1988 alumnus of MSU and Detachment 425, delivered a keynote address highlighting resiliency, adaptability and core values in today's armed services. Matijevich served more than 20 years in the Air Force, working on space operations, testing and space policy. He praised the new officers for their graduation achievements and dedication to joining the Air Force, advising them to be prepared for unexpected opportunities. The graduates were individually administered their oath of office by an officer of personal significance to them and had their new rank pinned by friends and family members. The traditional first salute and the significance of the silver dollar exchange were highlighted, symbolizing the respect and gratitude between the new officers and enlisted soldiers. To learn more about joining or supporting Air Force ROTC at MSU's Detachment 425, visit www.afrotc.msstate.edu.

Mississippi State University's Undergraduate Research Symposium allows students to showcase faculty-guided research and creative activity. This bi-annual event includes students from diverse departments and colleges who participate in poster and oral presentation sessions, sharing their research with the MSU community. This past spring, URS had the highest number of student presenters and attendees. More than 270 undergraduate student projects were evaluated by faculty, graduate students and staff. This feedback can be useful in improving current research projects and preparing for future research endeavors. The event is hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Discovery, the Shackouls Honors College and various undergraduate research sponsors. In addition, the event was supported by 90 faculty who helped provide comments on projects and judge special area competitions. Research projects are divided into eight categories: arts, music and design; biological and life sciences; business and economics; education; engineering; humanities; physical sciences; and social sciences. Eleven special area competitions awarded prizes. More information can be found at www.urcd.msstate.edu.

Mississippi State's Department of Sustainable Bioproducts celebrated outstanding students at the annual College of Forest Resources Student Awards Ceremony, honoring undergraduate and graduate students for academic excellence. The department, housed in MSU's College of Forest Resources, is preparing students for a career creating innovative products while protecting natural resources. Graduates enjoy 100% job placement in a high-tech, high-paying industry focused on sustainability. The awards showcase the best and brightest within the department.

Mississippi State's Department of Forestry celebrated outstanding students at the annual College of Forest Resources awards ceremony, honoring undergraduate and graduate students for academic excellence. The department is part of the only nationally accredited educational program in the state for educating and developing future leaders in natural resources. Established in 1954, the forestry department has prepared students for meaningful science-based careers in management and use of forested ecosystems for 70 years. CFR graduates enjoy a 98% job-placement rate upon completion. The awards demonstrate excellence among graduate and undergraduate students within the department.

Mississippi State's Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture celebrated outstanding students at the annual College of Forest Resources student awards ceremony, honoring undergraduate and graduate students for academic excellence. The department is dedicated to training the next generation of wildlife and fisheries leaders. CFR graduates are making a difference in nature and society.

Mississippi State University's College of Education is honoring 16 graduates for their exceptional work as teacher interns in Magnolia State school districts. The recipients of the Outstanding Teacher Intern Award were nominated for exceeding expectations while completing internships at public schools across the state. The honorees demonstrated exemplary professionalism, performance and a high level of commitment to the teaching profession. "We are very proud of our Spring 2024 Outstanding Teacher Interns," said Donna Shea, MSU's Office of Clinical/Field-Based Instruction, Licensure and Outreach director. "It was inspiring to read the recommendation letters from their mentor teachers. There was a common theme around positive attitude, superior initiative, strong content knowledge and positive relationships with students. Many mentors shared that they learned so much from our interns." MSU's College of Education is home to five academic departments, a division of education, one research unit and numerous service units. Learn more at www.educ.msstate.edu.

Nine Mississippi State University students have been selected as 2024-2025 Student Association Executive Council and Cabinet members and will serve as the governing body and voice for students for the upcoming academic year. Carson McFatridge was elected SA president, and Lucy Mellen will serve as vice president. Maggie Chen and Lewis Fuller will serve as secretary and treasurer, respectively. Mackenzie Sherrell received appointment as the chief of staff, with Hayden Anderson occupying the deputy chief of staff role. Hunter Yelverton was named director of policy, and Joseph Bailey and Amaya Downs-Hameed were tabbed directors of marketing and programming, respectively. The SA, which consists of representatives from academic colleges and at-large members, oversees matters regarding academic policies and other areas of student interest. It also provides opportunities for students to engage in fun, imaginative, diverse, educational and entertaining events and programs at MSU, including Bulldog Bash, Cowbell Yell and Homecoming.

Five Mississippi State graduate students are receiving awards for innovative research displayed during the College of Education's 2024 Graduate Research Showcase. More than two dozen students participated in the annual symposium, which allows students to present faculty-guided research to a broad audience. The poster presentations were formally judged by a panel of faculty with monetary awards given to the winners. Research projects represented the Department of Counseling, Higher Education Leadership, Educational Psychology, and Foundations; Department of Kinesiology; and Department of Teacher Education and Leadership. Winning students received $100 for first place, $75 for second place and $50 for third place presentations. The event was hosted by the College of Education during the university's annual Research Week.

Thirteen teams of Mississippi State students in the College of Architecture, Art and Design's innovative Collaborative Studio recently created a master plan for a hypothetical cultural campus. The plan included a freestanding museum, which would hold the university's collections currently housed at the Cobb Institute Museum, Dunn-Seiler Museum and Department of Art galleries. Located adjacent to The Mill Conference Center, the cultural campus also would include the new Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library. The studio is funded by the PCI Foundation, and its projects are focused on the use of precast concrete for structure and cladding for museum designs.