Maroon MEMO: Employee News (Mississippi State University)

Mississippi State recently hosted the inaugural Food and Agriculture as National Security Conference, with more than 250 experts gathering from the military, agriculture and global food sectors to examine their interconnectivity in promoting stability and resilience in the U.S. and globally. President Mark E. Keenum welcomed the group and told them the university is well positioned to lead discussions such as this one -- with a top 5% ranking in agriculture research for over two decades from the National Science Foundation. PHOTO: Beth Wynn | Public Affairs

Ramirez-Avila receives SHPE Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award
Mississippi State’s John J. Ramirez-Avila, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering and co-graduate coordinator, has been recognized for his dedication to STEM and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers with the SHPE Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award. This recognition is awarded to SHPE chapter advisors who have demonstrated STEM advocacy, commitment and support to SHPE’s mission and vision, and dedication to their chapter’s success and development. As MSU’s SHPE advisor, Ramirez-Avila and his chapter members have worked with other student organizations to promote outreach projects including the Catalpa Stream cleanup, Tarde de Ciencias, Water Day, Se Habla Español, Teaching Water and more.

Fred Carl Jr. Small Town Center, Gulf Coast Community Design Studio featured in Italy’s famous Venice Biennale
Both Mississippi State’s Fred Carl Jr. Small Town Center and the Gulf Coast Community Design Studio are selections among 54 national finalists featured this year in Venice, Italy, at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, a premier international architectural showcase. “It is such an incredible honor to have not one, but two projects selected as finalists. Inclusion in the Biennale is an excellent indicator of the strength of the longstanding cultural impact of the Fred Carl Jr. Small Town Center and the Gulf Coast Community Design Studio. I am amazingly proud of our people and their work, both of which are extremely deserving of this international acknowledgement,” College of Architecture, Art and Design Dean Angi Bourgeois said.

Annual International Fiesta brings array of music, food, activities to MSU
The 33rd International Fiesta, sponsored by Mississippi State’s Holmes Center for Student Success and the World Neighbors Association, hosts its annual event on the university’s Drill Field on Saturday [April 12]. MSU celebrates a variety of vibrant cultures 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring the Parade of Flags, global performances, games and activities from around the world. Campus organizations, clubs and departments will have informational displays, international cuisine and an array of entertainment including dancing, live instrumental music and singing.

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Historic Mill at MSU dedicated home of Division of Development and Alumni
The 90,000-square-foot historic cotton mill, a landmark on Russell Street since 1902, is officially home to the Mississippi State University Division of Development and Alumni following a ribbon cutting last Friday [April 4]. “The Mill stands as a symbol of what we can accomplish by working together. I am grateful for the generous donors who believe in Mississippi State University and the work we are doing to move our state and nation forward who made this project possible,” said MSU President Mark E. Keenum. “In many ways, The Mill is the front door for welcoming guests and visitors to our campus, Starkville and Oktibbeha County. It’s a win-win-win for all of us.”

Service support: MSU earns national Top 5 Military Friendly School designation
Building on the university’s generations of support for America’s veterans, Mississippi State is being recognized this year as a Top 5 Military Friendly School. “The distinction simply validates the work we are doing across the university to support and care for our military-connected students, faculty and staff,” said Andrew Rendon, MSU executive director for Veterans and Military Affairs. “Through our award-winning programs, expertise in benefits, incredible space at the G.V. ‘Sonny’ Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans at Nusz Hall, and our passionate and dedicated staff, we are taking care of what matters -- our military-connected students.”

University recognized as national leader in advancing first-generation student success
FirstGen Forward is recognizing Mississippi State as one of only 18 U.S. institutions of higher education among its newest class of FirstGen Forward Network Champions. Nearly 38% of MSU students are “first generation.” “We are extremely honored to be selected as a Network Champion in the FirstGen Forward Network,” said MSU Vice President for Access, Opportunity and Success Ra’Sheda Forbes. “MSU has a long record of supporting student success in a wide variety of ways, and we strive to help our first-gen students with practical and meaningful programs and resources.”

Celebrating excellence: College of Arts and Sciences honors distinguished faculty at annual awards ceremony
Mississippi State’s College of Arts and Sciences honored eight faculty members -- Emily Stafford, Ryan Folk, Lourdes Cardozo Gaibisso, Allison Jaeger, Gary Ervin, Stacy Haynes, Amy Knight and the late Deb Mlsna -- for outstanding achievements in teaching, research and service at its annual spring awards ceremony in March. “These faculty members exemplify the dedication and excellence that define our college,” said Rick Travis, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Their achievements in research, teaching and service not only advance their respective fields but also enrich the academic experience for our students and the university as a whole. We are proud to celebrate their hard work and commitment.”