Message from the President: Fall 2024

Dear Alumni and Friends,

As the leaves change and we welcome another vibrant season on our campus, I am delighted to share with you the latest edition of Visions, which shines a spotlight on the extraordinary ways our university and the greater community engages and advocates for us and those around us.

At The W, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom, and the Columbus community has been supportive of public education with the 1821 founding of Franklin Academy as the first free public school in Mississippi, the 1884 founding of The W and the creation of the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science in 1987. We are thankful to have the support of our community leaders working with us to sustain and foster the continued commitment to these institutions.

Many of you have participated in the Legislative Engagement and Advocacy Partnership (LEAP) rallies we have held across the state. If you have not made it to one of these, there are still opportunities for you to sign up to be a part of the Key Person Network, helping us to advocate for The W as we move into the 2025 legislative session and beyond.

For the second year in a row we have seen an increase in first-time freshman enrolled at The W, and we are strengthening our relationships with high-school counselors and our communications with potential students. Recognizing the strength of the Mississippi Community College system, we continue to forge pathways for community college students to transfer and complete their baccalaureate degrees here at The W. We have seen growth in our graduate degree programs this fall, and with two new MBA concentrations offered, we look forward to seeing that growth continue.

As we celebrate these achievements and our many national rankings, I want to extend my gratitude to each of you. Your continued support and engagement are vital to our mission. Together we can empower the next generation of leaders to effect change and make a difference in the world.

I invite you to explore the stories in this edition and reflect on how you, too, can contribute to our ongoing efforts. Whether through mentorship, volunteering, advocacy or sharing your own experiences and resources, your involvement is invaluable. Together, let us continue to advocate for a promising future.

Warmly,
Nora Roberts Miller, Class of 1983
President