In fall 2024, Mississippi State University honored its distinguished endowed faculty during the inaugural Medallion Ceremony at The Mill. The event celebrated the exceptional teaching, research and service that drive the university’s academic excellence.

MSU President Mark E. Keenum opened the ceremony by expressing his deep appreciation for the university’s dedicated faculty, alumni and friends whose generous gifts make endowed positions possible.

“For this inaugural event, our Medallion Ceremony, we were able to recognize some truly outstanding individuals within our Mississippi State family—our distinguished, world-class faculty who’ve been designated as either endowed professors or endowed chairs during their impressive careers at Mississippi State University,” Keenum said.

A man speaks at a podium while four men sit on chairs to his right on a stage in a conference room.
Tommy Nusz, longtime MSU supporter and benefactor, speaks at the inaugural Medallion Ceremony, highlighting the transformational impact of endowed faculty on students, the university and the broader community.

Established through private gifts, endowed faculty positions are crucial in attracting and retaining top scholars. These positions provide faculty members with vital resources to advance research, enhance teaching and mentor students who will shape the future.

Tommy Nusz, a longtime university supporter and benefactor, emphasized the impact of endowed faculty members on students and the greater community.

“Our endowed faculty have a transformational impact on young people’s lives and provide a foundation for a lifelong journey of learning. These faculty members are among the leaders of our university who are enhancing our lives, our environment and our state while driving transformational leadership and emphasizing exceptionalism,” Nusz said.

Keenum highlighted how MSU’s reputation for academic excellence is deeply tied to the strength of its faculty.

Two people hug in front of a maroon and white university seal, with one person smiling and wearing glasses and a smartwatch.
Dean Angi Bourgeois shares a congratulatory moment with a faculty member during the ceremony, celebrating her appointment to an endowed position in recognition of 
exceptional teaching, research and service.

“Students want to be here because of the quality of education and the reputation we have for providing our young learners with the best education possible,” Keenum said. “These endowments enable us to attract exceptional candidates who will become part of our university family and join our faculty ranks.”

MSU extends its heartfelt gratitude to the alumni and friends whose support of endowed faculty positions strengthens the institution’s mission. Their generosity elevates faculty members and enriches the academic landscape, fostering innovation and inspiring future generations. The university currently has 87 endowed professorships and chairs that help drive this momentum forward.