The Mississippi State University Foundation is pleased to announce recent strategic personnel additions that reinforce the institution’s commitment to fostering strong alumni and corporate relationships.

A woman with short black hair, wearing a navy blue dress, smiles at the camera against a neutral gray background.
NaToya Sanders

NaToya Sanders and Mary Elizabeth Stringer Tate joined the development staff as assistant directors of development in the College of Business in fall 2024. Both bring valuable experience and a deep connection to MSU, making them key assets in advancing the college’s development initiatives.

Sanders is a two-time MSU graduate, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing in 2010 and a master’s in public policy and administration in 2022. Her business and public policy background uniquely positions her to cultivate meaningful partnerships and enhance opportunities for students and alumni.

A woman with long light brown hair smiles at the camera, wearing a colorful, patterned blouse and hoop earrings, against a neutral, textured background.
Mary Elizabeth Stringer Tate

“As a proud alumna of Mississippi State University, I am excited to continue advancing the university’s mission and impact,” Sanders said. “I look forward to building meaningful relationships with alumni and supporters to ensure continued opportunities for our students. It is an honor to be a bridge; to help turn generosity into transformative action that shapes lives and strengthens the university.”

Tate, a 2017 magna cum laude graduate from MSU’s College of Education, brings a passion for higher education and student success to her new role. Her experience in relationship building and program development will play a vital part in securing resources that benefit students and faculty.

“It is a profound honor to return to Mississippi State University and serve the College of Business in this meaningful capacity,” Tate said. “MSU has been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional journey, and I am eager to foster relationships that will help nurture new opportunities for our students, faculty and alumni.”

These appointments highlight MSU’s continued investment in exceptional professionals who are dedicated to advancing the university’s mission and expanding opportunities for its students.

For more on the Division of Development and Alumni’s efforts and milestones, please visit devalumni.msstate.edu.

By Shun Pounds