The University of Mississippi

Office of the Chancellor

e-Newsletter

At the Flagship, May 2023

e-Newsletter, Welcome

@TheFlagship May 2023. A group of graduates sit in their blue and red graduation regalia with one student wearing a cap decorated in silver with a red heart and the “Ole Miss” script on it.

CHANCELLOR’S 3 THINGS TO KNOW

This month marked the culmination of a spectacular academic year and a time to recognize the accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff. Check out the special section at the end of this newsletter for highlights of their extraordinary achievements! Here are three things to know right now:
  • Our Unstoppable Grads: The Grove hummed with excitement and joy as we celebrated the more than 5,000 graduates and candidates of the Class of 2023. It’s worth noting that these amazing students persevered as COVID-19 disrupted the world and their expectations for the college experience. Despite tough circumstances, they came back, persisted, and achieved their dreams. The Class of 2023 included 26 staff members who continued their education while working for the university. Earning a degree while balancing work, personal obligations, and outside activities presents unique challenges, and I commend our newest Red and Blue graduates! Their dedication to excellence is evident every day.
  • Purpose Will Find You: Alumna Stephanie Hickman (JD 91) delivered an outstanding Commencement address to our newest graduates. Her inspiring words encouraged the audience members to embrace flexibility, tackle challenges, and ground themselves through service to others. During her address, she said, “Life will surprise you. You can’t know how your story will unfold, and that’s a beautiful thing” and told the graduates “I stand here as an example that purpose will find you.” She pursued a law career before taking ownership of her family’s construction company, and her story is a testament to the incredible feats one can accomplish with drive and confidence. You can watch a recording of the live stream here.
  • 175 Years Forward: This fall, the University of Mississippi will celebrate 175 years ofdelivering education, research, health care, and service to the people and the state of Mississippi. In honor of the anniversary, we invite you to share your stories, experiences, and reflections. Planning is underway, and we’ll share more details soon!
With Memorial Day coming up, please take time to remember our military heroes who have laid down their lives in sacrifice for our nation. One way to do this is to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance, a minute of silence observed at 3 p.m. local time each year on Memorial Day. We are incredibly grateful for their noble dedication to protecting our freedoms and for their enduring love of country.

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At The Flagship, April 2023

e-Newsletter, Welcome

@TheFlagship April 2023. White, pink and red tulips are in full bloom in front of the entrance sign to the Ole Miss campus.

 

CHANCELLOR’S 3 THINGS TO KNOW

April at Ole Miss is fast and fun — a sprint to the finish before we close out another fantastic academic year. Convocation will be Saturday, May 13, and we’re eager to welcome alumna Stephanie Hickman, president and CEO of Trice Construction Co., as this year’s Commencement speaker. Stephanie, a 1991 graduate of the UM School of Law, has had an outstanding career as a labor attorney, utility executive, and lobbyist. Under her leadership, Trice Construction has transformed from a small residential construction company to an award-winning utility infrastructure contractor. Our graduates will learn a lot from her story and the legacy she has built with her life. We look forward to her address, and we’re excited to welcome Stephanie home to Ole Miss. Here are three things to know right now:

  • Brilliant Students
    I’m thrilled to share that junior Madeleine Dotson of Mobile was named a Truman Scholar. The distinguished national program awards merit scholarships to students who pursue careers in government or public service. And, for the second year in a row, we have three new Goldwater Scholars in a single year. Congrats to Christian Boudreaux of Oxford, Noah Garrett of Madison, and Alyssa Stoner of Gulfport. The Goldwater Scholarship supports sophomores and juniors who show promise of becoming the nation’s next generation of research leaders in science, engineering and mathematics. We also welcomed an impressive group of 10 seniors into our 2022-23 Hall of Fame: Preston Antes, Jilkiah Bryant, Andy Flores, Kelly Li, Preston McWilliams, Rabria Moore, Sepp Cecil, Logan Thomas, Margaret Walker, and Morgan Whited.
  • Top Teachers
    We honored two of our most dedicated teachers at the annual Honors Convocation. Jason Ritchie, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, received the 2023 Elsie M. Hood Outstanding Teacher Award for his brilliant and caring presence in the classroom. We also presented the inaugural St. Amand Outstanding Teaching Award to Lou Burney, lecturer in accountancy instruction, who brings joy and enthusiasm to every class.
  • All Roads Traveled
    I traveled to Itawamba and Northwest community colleges earlier this month to meet with students. After serving in leadership roles for more than a decade at a Mississippi community college, I’m proud of how the University of Mississippi creates solid pathways and support services for transfer students. Their success is why we’ve been named each year to the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Roll, and it contributes to why our transfer graduation rates are above 70%. And, during our recent Evening of First Generation Excellence, we     recognized a group whom I deeply admire, our first-generation college students. First-gen students arrive on campus facing many unknowns, and their path to graduation requires a high degree of grit, persistence, and drive.

Don’t miss the special section at the end about our robust research enterprise — it’s incredible how our university applies our research to educational advancements, real-world applications, and economic growth. Until next month, take care!

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At the Flagship, March 2023

e-Newsletter, Welcome

@TheFlagship March 2023. Ole Miss Women’s Basketball celebrates after their win vs Stanford in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, March 19, 2023, in Stanford, CA

CHANCELLOR’S 3 THINGS TO KNOW

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the communities impacted by the tornadoes. The widespread devastation destroyed many homes and businesses, and we are incredibly saddened by the tremendous loss of lives. We have contacted students from the affected areas to offer support and resources. For those wishing to support the recovery efforts, please visit Volunteer Mississippi for how you can volunteer and for needed disaster supplies and drop off locations.

As we look back at the last month, our campus community has much to be grateful for including the outstanding performance by Ole Miss Women’s Basketball in toppling top-seeded Stanford and reaching the Sweet 16 round the NCAA Tournament. We also honored the 20th anniversary of the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, the 25th anniversary of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, and the 25th anniversary of the Croft Institute for International Studies. Check out the special section at the end of this newsletter for great information about Croft’s interdisciplinary, academically rigorous program. Here are three things to know right now:

  • Mark Your Calendars: April 15 will be an exciting day on campus as we host the second annual Mississippi Day, Junior Preview Day, and the Ole Miss Grove Bowl. Mississippi Day is a family-friendly festival featuring dozens of interactive games and activities. Join us to experience the creativity and ideas of our faculty, staff, and students as they put their ingenuity on display with demonstrations that showcase our impact on the state in education, the arts, service, and more. You’ll enjoy great food, live music, and fun for the whole family. Hope to see you there!
  • Spring Break Recap: Beth Spencer, Mississippi Humanities Council’s Teacher of the Year, led a group of students to the United Kingdom for a distinctive program focused on British fantasy fiction and creative writing. Students experienced the magic of Scotland, including a stay at Alnwick Castle, an iconic filming location featured in several Harry Potter movies. In public policy leadership, students traveled to Tel Aviv, the Golan Heights, Jerusalem, and the Dead Sea, delving into ancient history and participating in discussions and lectures on the country’s role in the Middle East region. After exploring other cultures, broadening their horizons, and creating lifelong memories, our students returned to campus enriched with new perspectives and a deeper understanding of the world.
  • Make an Impact: Giving Day 2023 states our aspirations clearly with the theme “The Time is Now.” The annual online event, set for April 4-5, unites our community in support of the people, places, and programs that make the University of Mississippi such an incredible institution. We’re better together, and together, we can make a powerful, positive impact. No matter the size, your gift will make a difference. Your gift can go further when you participate in a challenge or match. Want to do more? Amplify Giving Day by signing up to be an influencer! Mark your calendar and show your love for Ole Miss!

Until next month, take care!

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At the Flagship, February 2023

e-Newsletter, Welcome

Group of young individuals on stage in a dark arena cheering towards the audience

CHANCELLOR’S 3 THINGS TO KNOW

February has been fantastic at Ole Miss. Our reigning NCAA champions kicked off a new baseball season, U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón visited campus, and our students danced the night away to raise more than $211,0000 for Children’s of Mississippi at the 2023 RebelTHON. It is inspiring to see our students channel their energy into supporting fantastic causes. As we head into March, we look forward to celebrating major anniversaries of the Croft Institute for International Studies, the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, and the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, which is featured in the special section below. Here are three things to know right now:
  • THE COLLEGE CHOICE: Following our largest freshman class ever this past fall, the growth continues — we are up 1,025 students, or 5.7%, this spring compared to spring 2022, and we are optimistic about the coming year. We welcomed thousands of prospective students and their families to campus for the first three Admitted Student Days. These events allow visitors to experience Ole Miss up close and personal to learn about our academic excellence, vibrant campus experience, and life-changing opportunities – the core reasons why more students are choosing Ole Miss.
  • THANK YOU, JUDY MEREDITH: This month, we continued the celebration of James Meredith’s legacy and the 60th anniversary of integration with a Black History Month keynote featuring his wife, Judy Meredith. Dr. Meredith is a former TV and radio news reporter and anchor and a retired college mass communications professor. We’re grateful for the Merediths’ presence on campus as speakers and guests at commemorative events and for their willingness to engage with our campus community and share their deep wisdom and experiences.
  • LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCES: In February, we also hosted several distinguished military leaders. Lt. Gen. Maria R. Gervais, Rear Adm. Nancy Lacore, and Brig. Gen. Stacy Jo Huser shared great insights of their experiences as women leaders in the military with our students. We are committed to our legacy of leadership, and there are countless rising leaders among our student body. This was an invaluable opportunity for them to see and hear firsthand the role models who are breaking barriers, leading our nation, and making a difference in our world. Many thanks to the Trent Lott Leadership Institute and ROTC for organizing the visit of this esteemed panel!

Until next month, take care!

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At the Flagship, January 2023

e-Newsletter, Welcome

@TheFlagship November 2022. The City of Oxford held its Annual Christmas Lighting Event on Nov. 8 in front of City Hall.

CHANCELLOR’S 3 THINGS TO KNOW

As we kick off a new semester, I’m excited about all that spring brings us: the energy of student activities like RebelTHON and the Big Event, beautiful weather, Double Decker, and — last, but not least! — the return of all of our spring sports including our national championship baseball team to Swayze Field for another exciting season. All of it culminates in the most important event on our calendar, Commencement. Check out the special section for dates you won’t want to miss.
READ ABOUT OUR SUBSTANTIAL IMPACT: To start 2023, I contributed an op-ed about the University of Mississippi’s substantial impact on our state. What a great way to share with readers far and wide how we develop future leaders, drive job and business creation, pioneer new solutions and serve our neighbors and communities. See the three things below from the op-ed, and be sure to go read it in its entirety!
  • WE EDUCATE TOMORROW’S LEADERS: The University of Mississippi has long been committed to shaping future leaders, and these efforts extend beyond the boundaries of our campus with programs that engage K-12 students. The “Pathways to Leadership” program, run by the Trent Lott Leadership Institute, provides valuable training for high school students on the Mississippi Gulf Coast so that they can drive positive change in their hometowns. Also, the McLean Entrepreneurial Leadership Program provides a weeklong summer program for high school students to develop action-oriented solutions to issues in their communities.
  • WE CARE FOR MISSISSIPPI: As the state’s only academic medical center, the University of Mississippi Medical Center provides indispensable services to all Mississippians. UMMC is home to Mississippi’s only children’s hospital, only Level I trauma center, and only organ transplant program. This month, the IHL board of trustees added to that list by approving a new Mississippi Burn Center on the UMMC campus in Jackson. After the closure of the state’s only burn center in October, UMMC leaders stepped up to preserve a critical service for our state and keep burn care for Mississippians in Mississippi.
  • WE PIONEER NEW DISCOVERIES: Our researchers tackle pressing national and regional concerns every day. Our physicists are “listening” to tornadoes to develop technology that could revolutionize how we detect and track them, thereby saving lives by improving early warning systems. In biomedical engineering, our researchers are examining cytoskeletal diseases such as cancer and heart disease as well as new treatments for metastatic breast cancer. These are just a couple of the many ways in which we’re addressing challenges that touch all of us: protecting our environment, finding remedies for diseases, and building a more prosperous and stronger future through technology and innovation.
Until next month, take care!

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At the Flagship, December 2022

e-Newsletter, Welcome

Text reads: ''Ole Miss on the Rise.'' Illustration of column. UM crest and ''@ The Flagship, December 2022''

This past year graced our university with exceptional achievements, and one thing is clear: Ole Miss is on the rise! Our successes — and our future growth — spring from the deep dedication, contributions, and belief of our entire university family. Read on for some of the many ways that talent and excellence define the University of Mississippi.

Hotty Toddy and best wishes for a joyful holiday season and a happy new year!

Glenn F. Boyce
Chancellor

Largest Freshman Class; Fall 2022; 4,480

Enrollment Flourishing

We are serving a larger student body, including more students from Mississippi. Overall enrollment grew 5.1% this year, and the university welcomed its largest-ever freshman class of 4,480 students. These numbers buck national trends, and we expect to grow again next year.

Freshman Retention Rate Highest in Ole Miss History

Students Staying on Track

This year, our retention rate for first-year students reached a record high 89.3%, well above state and national averages. This record reflects our ability to attract new students as well as support those who already call Ole Miss home.

Best Job Placement in Mississippi; 91% Employment Rate after 10 years; *Zippia

Building Professional Legacies

The university’s six-year graduation rate is 68.4%, 10 points higher than Mississippi’s overall rate and higher than national averages. Once they enter the workplace, our grads are the best in the state at finding employment and keeping it with a 91.4% rate of employment 10 years after graduation.

Seizing Student Accolades

Our students received exceptional awards that reflect their talents and offer opportunities to make valuable contributions to society. We celebrated three Goldwater Scholars, six Fulbright recipients (the highest number ever at Ole Miss), one Boren Scholar, one Rangel Fellow, and two Truman Scholars (only six universities nationwide had multiple Truman Scholars this year).

STEM Taking Center Stage

Our brand new Jim and Thomas Duff Center for Science and Technology Innovation is more than halfway complete and on track to open in fall 2024. The building will be one of the nation’s transformational facilities for STEM education.

Now & Ever; The Campaign for Ole Miss

Growing Resources

We are well beyond the $1.2 billion mark toward our $1.5 billion goal for the Now & Ever campaign, the largest fundraising campaign in the history of Mississippi universities. Helping reach this milestone, supporters gave more than $150.6 million in gifts during the university’s 2022 fiscal year. One of these commitments close to our hearts is the $3.5 million dedicated to build a new marching band practice field for The Pride of the South to support the spirit and enthusiasm that the band’s 300-plus members inspire!

Top Ranked University in Mississippi; Top 10% public university in the U.S. *U.S. News & World Report

Staying on Top

The University of Mississippi is the top-ranked university in Mississippi and among the top 10% of public universities in the nation, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. The ranking also places us in the top 6% nationally for best value and tops in the state for veteran support programs.

Contributing to the Greater Good

Our faculty and researchers make amazing contributions to Mississippi, the scientific community, and society at large. One research project funded by the National Institutes of Health is examining cytoskeletal diseases such as cancer and heart disease. A grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse supports research seeking to reduce HIV-related pain through cannabis. And, the American Cancer Society is funding a study for new treatments for metastatic breast cancer.

60 Years of Integration; Building Upon The Legacy ;The University of Mississippi

Making History

In commemorating the 60th anniversary of the university’s integration, we honored distinguished alumnus James Meredith and his family during an inspiring week of programs and events. We also celebrated big anniversaries marking the founding of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College (25 years) and the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts (20 years).

Caring for Mississippi

Our University of Mississippi Medical Center leads the way in creating a healthier Mississippi. A $3 million gift to Children’s of Mississippi will help UMMC make the most advanced cleft and craniofacial treatment available to Mississippi’s children. More Mississippi students will have access to telehealth providers from UMMC, thanks to a $17.6 million grant from the state Department of Education. And, the UMMC School of Nursing plays a vital role in supplying our state with nurses and is ranked No. 67 out of more than 650 programs by U.S. News and World Report.

Rebelthon $1M; Over 10 Years

Serving Communities

Ole Miss students are driven to support their community and serve others. A record number of participating students raised more than $225,000 at the 10th annual RebelTHON, a 12-hour danceathon benefiting Children’s of Mississippi. A month later, more than 1,000 students participated in the Big Event, our universitywide day of service, offering hands-on help throughout the Lafayette-Oxford-University community.

Ole Miss National Champions 2022; NCAA Baseball

Rebs Are Hot

What a roller-coaster season for our Ole Miss baseball team that was defined by resilience and culminated with a defining moment in Omaha: the university’s first-ever men’s NCAA team title. And, for the second straight season, Ole Miss Athletics earned a program-record finish in the LEARFIELD Directors’ Cup standings at 20th place. Our student-athletes are performing tremendously on and off the field as Ole Miss Athletics achieved a record-high Graduation Success Rate (GSR) of 88 percent in 2022.