Maroon MEMO: Employee News (Mississippi State University)

Guests are dazzled by the vocal talents of the Black Voices Gospel Choir, a Mississippi State student group featured during the university's Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Dinner on Jan. 17 as university and Starkville community leaders honored King's life and lasting legacy. PHOTO: Grace Cockrell | Public Affairs

Breazeale to lead MSU Office of the Ombuds
Mike Breazeale, professor of marketing in Mississippi State’s College of Business, is the new ombudsperson for the university. In his role, Breazeale will lead MSU’s Office of the Ombuds which is an independent, confidential, impartial and informal resource for university employees in the resolution of concerns that arise in the workplace. MSU Provost and Executive Vice President David Shaw said, “It’s essential that members of our community have a neutral setting where they can seek objective advice for concerns or issues. I’m anticipating this office will be a trusted and valuable presence, and I’m confident Mike not only brings experience to the ombudsperson role, but also discretion and empathy.”

Lance named Mississippi Outstanding Band Director of the Year
Elva Kaye Lance, Mississippi State’s director of bands, is the Magnolia State’s Outstanding Band Director of the Year for the second time in her career. The award is given by the Mississippi chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Honorary Bandmasters Fraternity to recognize outstanding work in the profession. “It is humbling to have your work recognized and supported by your colleagues,” Lance said. “Elva Kaye is a consummate professional and a leader within our profession, not just in Mississippi but nationally,” said Daniel Stevens, professor and head of the Department of Music. “This is a very well-deserved honor.”

Free learning opportunities via LinkedIn Learning available to faculty, staff and students
Sharpen skills. Explore new interests. Increase professional value. These and other results are now available via no-cost learning opportunities to Mississippi State faculty, staff and students through MSU’s new agreement with LinkedIn Learning. A popular, online education platform, LinkedIn Learning’s 20,000-plus courses are available to campus via a quick login using their MSU NetID email addresses. With self-paced learning, courses are presented in various formats, including bite-sized video, audio only and in-depth content. The platform is directly integrated with Canvas, the university’s learning management system. MSU faculty can use it to supplement course material or even develop and load their own content onto the platform.

Website provides support, resources for free speech
Mississippi State offers a website dedicated to supporting and promoting freedom of speech and expression within our university. You can access the website at www.freespeech.msstate.edu. This platform has been created to provide accessible resources and guidance to foster a campus environment where open dialogue, respectful debate and diverse perspectives can thrive. All members of the MSU community -- students, faculty and staff -- are encouraged to explore this site and take advantage of the materials and opportunities it offers. Whether you are seeking to deepen your understanding of free speech principles, enhance your ability to engage in thoughtful dialogue or learn more about your rights and responsibilities, this resource is here to support you.

Smoke-free policy enhances healthy environment
Mississippi State University is a smoke-free campus. Official policy prohibits the use of any combustible or vapor products anywhere on campus property including university buildings, university grounds, university vehicles, parking areas and sidewalks. The smoke-free campus policy is part of the university's commitment to creating a healthy environment for all members of the campus community. Use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, pipes, hookah or other similar devices are prohibited by this policy. The complete policy is available at www.policies.msstate.edu/policy/91301.

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New College of Integrative Studies at MSU to transcend traditional classroom education
Mississippi State University announced this month the addition of its 10th college and its first with a focus on cross-disciplinary, tailored education to prepare students for solving some of the nation and world’s greatest challenges. The new College of Integrative Studies was approved Jan. 16 by the Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning. “This new college broadens horizons for Mississippi State students by immersing them in a dynamic academic environment and helping them gain a broader, global perspective they can apply in real-world work environments,” MSU President Mark E. Keenum said. “Today’s workforce requires this kind of skill set and knowledge, and we’re proud to be a leader among institutions taking this integrated approach.”

Dapper makes history as first MSU faculty member to receive prestigious Presidential Early Career Award
Mississippi State University is celebrating a groundbreaking achievement as Associate Professor Amy Dapper becomes the university’s first recipient of the prestigious Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, or PECASE, the highest U.S. government award for early-career scientists and engineers. Dapper’s work in MSU’s Department of Biological Sciences places her among a select group of nearly 400 exceptional scientists from across the country, representing 14 federal agencies and top research institutions. Angus Dawe, head of the Department of Biological Sciences, said, “This is quite a remarkable award and incredible recognition for Dr. Dapper."

MSU-Meridian seats fifth Master of Physician Assistant Studies cohort in Mississippi’s only public program
Mississippi State University-Meridian’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program seated its fifth cohort this month with students selected from the most competitive applicant pool to date. Program Director and Associate Clinical Professor Shey Washburn said the cohort boasts an average GPA of 3.7, the highest average since the program began in 2021. Associate Vice Provost of Health Sciences and Interim Head of Campus David Buys said the program's graduates are vital in filling healthcare gaps in Mississippi’s rural areas. The program has graduated 42 students since 2023, all completing 10 five-week clinical rotation blocks in hospital and clinic settings. Another 21 are expected to graduate this May.

School Psychology Program earns prestigious 10-year APA reaccreditation
Mississippi State’s School Psychology Program has reached a significant milestone, earning a 10-year reaccreditation from the American Psychological Association. “This milestone reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff and students who strive daily to advance the science and practice of school psychology,” said Kayla Bates-Brantley, assistant professor and program director. “This 10-year reaccreditation, in addition to a 100% match rate for internships at APA-accredited sites over the past decade, highlights the exceptional quality and dedication of our faculty, students and staff,” said Daniel Gadke, College of Education associate dean of research, professor and department head. Teresa Jayroe, dean of the College of Education, added, “I am incredibly proud of this School Psychology Program’s remarkable achievement."