In a unanimous decision, the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) announced in a press conference today that Dr. Mark Keenum, current Under Secretary of Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, will serve as the 19th President of Mississippi State University, to begin in early January 2009. The announcement was made following day-long interviews with various campus and community constituency groups at Mississippi State University, during which those participants had the opportunity to evaluate Dr. Keenum.

"Dr. Keenum is an excellent choice to lead Mississippi State University to the next level," said Board Search Committee Chair Trustee Scott Ross. "We are looking forward to him coming home to Mississippi State."

Dr. Mark Keenum was sworn-in as Under Secretary on December 20, 2006. In this role, Dr. Keenum provides leadership and oversight for the Farm Service Agency, the Risk Management Agency, and the Foreign Agricultural Service. In 1989, Dr. Keenum joined the Washington, D.C. staff of U.S. Senator Thad Cochran as Legislative Assistant for Agriculture and Natural Resources. From 1996 through 2006, he served as Chief of Staff for Senator Cochran. Dr. Keenum received his Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Agricultural Economics at Mississippi State University, where he joined the faculty in 1984. During his professional tenure at MSU, Dr. Keenum's primary research and extension work focused on the marketing and economics of aquaculture, specialty crops, and forestry. A biographical sketch and photo of preferred candidate Dr. Mark Keenum may be found at http://www.mississippi.edu/ieo/downloads...81104.pdf.

Under the leadership of the Board of Trustees, IHL governs the public universities in Mississippi, including Alcorn State University; Delta State University; Jackson State University; Mississippi State University including the Mississippi State University Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine; Mississippi University for Women; Mississippi Valley State University; the University of Mississippi including the University of Mississippi Medical Center; and the University of Southern Mississippi.

The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) announced in a press conference today that Dr. Mark Keenum, current Under Secretary of Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, is the preferred candidate for the position of President at Mississippi State University (MSU). The announcement was made following a meeting of the Board of Trustees, representatives of the Mississippi State University Search Advisory Committee, and search consultant Jerry Baker.

"We are confident Dr. Keenum's background and expertise makes him the perfect choice to lead Mississippi State University," said MSU Board Search Committee Chair Trustee Scott Ross.

Dr. Mark Keenum was sworn-in as Under Secretary on December 20, 2006. In this role, Dr. Keenum provides leadership and oversight for the Farm Service Agency, the Risk Management Agency, and the Foreign Agricultural Service. In 1989, Dr. Keenum joined the Washington, D.C. staff of U.S. Senator Thad Cochran as Legislative Assistant for Agriculture and Natural Resources. From 1996 through 2006, he served as Chief of Staff for Senator Cochran. Dr. Keenum received his Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Agricultural Economics at Mississippi State University, where he joined the faculty in 1984. During his professional tenure at MSU, Dr. Keenum's primary research and extension work focused on the marketing and economics of aquaculture, specialty crops, and forestry.

On Wednesday, November 12, Dr. Keenum will participate in open, day-long interviews on the Mississippi State University campus with various university and community constituency groups (schedule forthcoming). Individuals attending the open interviews will be given the opportunity to provide feedback to the Board of Trustees regarding their impressions of Dr. Keenum. At the end of the day, the Board will announce either that Dr. Keenum will be the next president of Mississippi State University, or that the search will continue.

Under the leadership of the Board of Trustees, IHL governs the public universities in Mississippi, including Alcorn State University; Delta State University; Jackson State University; Mississippi State University including the Mississippi State University Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine; Mississippi University for Women; Mississippi Valley State University; the University of Mississippi including the University of Mississippi Medical Center; and the University of Southern Mississippi.

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University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Maridith Geuder
Nov. 1, 2008

MSU police investigate report of weapons discharge and attempted abduction

STARKVILLE, Miss.-Mississippi State University police officers are investigating reports of an early morning weapons discharge and attempted abduction Saturday [Nov. 1] on campus.
Police received a report at approximately 4am that a shot had been fired in parking area behind Hathorn Hall, a residence hall on the southern part of the MSU campus.
“Our preliminary interviews with witnesses indicate that a female student, 18, was on the passenger side of a vehicle when approached by a male she described as African-American, wearing black clothing with a bandana covering his face,” said Georgia Lindley, MSU Chief of Police.
“Another student, a male, was some distance away waiting for her,” she continued. “The black male showed the female a gun and asked her to leave with him. She quickly ran toward her male friend, also 18. Both reported hearing a shot fired as they left the area.”
“We are conducting an aggressive investigation to locate the perpetrator,” Lindley said. “We encourage anyone with more information to call us at 325-2121."
She urged individuals on campus to be aware of their surroundings, especially at night, and not to travel on foot alone. MSU provides police escort services at night, and there are highly visible blue-light emergency stations around the campus.
“Safety should always be a top priority,” she said. MSU has announced the incident through its Maroon Alert emergency communication system.
Thousands of football fans are at the university today for the 1:30 p.m. Southeastern Conference football game between MSU and Kentucky at Davis Wade Stadium.
“Our police officers will be very visible, and, as always, we will put the safety of individuals first,” said Mike White, MSU Dean of Students and a member of the university’s Crisis Action Team.

Report of a shot fired early Saturday morning [Nov. 1] on campus and possible attempted abduction outside Hathorn Hall. Police continue to investigate. Be aware of surroundings, take precautions for personal safety, and report any suspicious activity. See msstate.edu for more.

The Annual "Trick or Treat on Greek Street" will be held on Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 from 5:00 pm until 6:30 pm in conjuction with the Halloween Carnival.

The location for this event is Sorority Row on MSU's campus. The event is sponsored by the Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, and National Pan-Hellenic Council.

For more information, contact the Center for Student Involvement at 325-3917.

Mississippi State UniversityMississippi State, MS 39762Main Telephone: 1-662-325-2323

High school junior, senior and other students interested in music are invited to register for the 2008 Music Discovery Day being organized Nov. 24 at Mississippi State.

Sponsored by the university's music department, the free information-sharing program is designed, in part, to help meet a growing shortage of music educators.

Registration should be completed by Nov. 17 at http://music.msstate.edu.

In addition, the department is offering a special audition workshop on campus the following day for brass musicians, regardless of age and experience level.

"Mississippi currently has a shortage of music educators and, with many directors planning to retire in the next five years, the shortage only promises to present a greater challenge for schools in the near future," said Craig Aarhus, associate director of MSU Bands.

"Numerous jobs remain unfilled at this point of the 2008-09 school year," he added. "We are, indeed, at a crossroads with music education in this state,"

Registration for Music Discovery Day is being required only to help organizers with program scheduling, explained Aarhus, also the music department's recruiting coordinator.

"We wish to emphasize that all students interested in music or music education majors are welcomed," he said. "Even those not planning to attend MSU after graduation are encouraged to attend."

The department's brass audition workshop on the 25th is open to musicians at the high school-university levels.

Associate professor Richard Human, workshop coordinator, said the mock audition session should be especially helpful for those seeking to earn slots in Lions, all-state, professional, and university bands.

For more workshop information or to register, visit http://msubrass.info/.

The Mississippi State University Recycling Club and Student Association will be collecting cans at the Oct. 25 Homecoming football game in an effort to raise awareness about recycling on campus.

Blue trash bags will be placed at various locations around Davis Wade Stadium and in The Junction. Students, alumni and friends are asked to place all aluminum cans in the designated blue bags. The bags are for the disposal of aluminum cans only.

Members of the Recycling Club will collect the bags at the conclusion of the Homecoming festivities.

The Student Health Center will be offering flu shots at clinics listed below.
There is a $20.00 charge for the flu shot payable at the time of service.

Tuesday, October 28, Herbert Hall, 8:30 - 12:00
Thompson Hall, 1:00 - 4:00

Wednesday, October 29, Vet School, 8:30 - 3:00

Thursday, October 30, CAVS, 8:30 - 4:00

Friday, October 31, Dorman Hall, 8:30 - 4:00

During its emergency teleconference, the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning accepted the resignation of Mississippi State University Interim President Dr. Vance Watson, effective immediately, and acknowledged his decision to retire from Mississippi State effective October 31. A statement from Dr. Watson is attached to this press release.

"Dr. Watson is a true example of a servant leader," said Board President Amy Whitten. "He has worked for Mississippi State University for over 42 years, and we are grateful for his service to MSU and to the State of Mississippi."



Roy Ruby
The Board also announced that long-time MSU Vice President Dr. Roy H. Ruby will serve as Interim President. Dr. Ruby was raised in Yazoo City and Belzoni. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Mississippi State University, and a doctorate from the University of Mississippi. Prior to his retirement in 2004, he worked for MSU for 40 years, including 17.5 years as Vice-President for Student Affairs, and three years as Dean of the College of Education. For one-and-a-half years, he was both Vice-President and Dean of the College simultaneously. Dr. Ruby has been married to Patricia Randle for 46 years, and they are the parents of two children: Mary, from Hoover, AL, the mother of their two grandsons; and Robert, a special agent with the FBI, stationed in New Orleans.

The Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning governs the public universities in Mississippi, including Alcorn State University; Delta State University; Jackson State University; Mississippi State University including the Mississippi State University Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine; Mississippi University for Women; Mississippi Valley State University; the University of Mississippi including the University of Mississippi Medical Center; and the University of Southern Mississippi.

###

STATEMENT BY DR. VANCE WATSON

In light of the recent landscaping controversy that has arisen, I have decided that it is in the best interest of Mississippi State University and myself if I resign from my position as Interim President of Mississippi State University and retire. I have had the pleasure of working for MSU for over 42 years and I have loved every minute of my service there. I would never intentionally do anything that would be disrespectful nor bring dishonor to this great institution. It is my hope and prayer that Mississippi State will continue to be one of the leaders in education not only in the South, but also in the Nation.

I have met with the State Auditor's office and cooperated with them in every way regarding their investigation of this landscaping matter. I settled the matter with the State Auditor's office by paying the full amount that they determined was due. It is important that you realize that this was a civil claim by the State Auditor's office and not a criminal one. I never derived any personal gain out of this matter. I have great confidence that any further investigation will substantiate that fact and clear me of any alleged criminal responsibility.

My retirement will be effective as of October 31, 2008. I will assist the new Interim President in every way necessary to ensure a smooth transition. It is my hope that Mississippi State University can now have closure on this matter and continue the important mission of higher education in Mississippi.

Sincerely,

Dr. Vance Watson

MSU's Spring 2009 Master Class Schedule is now accessible. Students can access the schedule through OnCampus or Banner.

The College of Arts and Sciences today launches a new college wide initiative to further its commitment to excellence for its students and the university community. Under the acronym, EDGE, the college will promote Enquiry through research and teaching, Diversity in faculty, student and university relations, Green through both resource-sustaining or preserving practices and intellectual endeavors, and Ethics in both personal and professional activities.

This new initiative positions the college as an educational leader for the 21st century. It merges the often separate activities of academics with real world experience and so provides students and faculty with the opportunity and skills necessary for success in our new world environment.

"All 14 of our departments are very excited about the EDGE initiative and have been working on new and creative ideas to further its influence on students, faculty, and the community," said Gary Myers, Dean of the college. "We believe that working together under the EDGE concepts will provide a greater context in which to view our diverse disciplines and college. It will also make students aware of the interconnection of ideas--how they span many disciplines."

Initial EDGE activities include the Research Showcase to be held Thursday and Friday of this week, continued support for both the African American Studies program and the Gender Studies program, conservation of resources within departments, and additional certificates similar to the Diversity Certificate recently introduced, to name a few.

Students:

It is time to learn the 5 D's of Dodgeball: Dodge, Dip, Duck, Dive, and Dodge!

Stride Gum: The Ridiculously Long Lasting Gum is hosting the Fall 2008 Intramural Dodgeball League/Tournament, and we want you to be a part of it.
Stride has chosen Mississippi State as one of 19 schools in the NATION to host their tournament, and Intramural Sports is challenging you to prove that we are the best.

Along with gum, Stride will be sending the Stride Gum Girls to pass out t-shirts, wristbands, and other cool stuff for players and spectators. The winning teams from the mens, womens, and co-rec leagues, will not only win an IM t-shirt, but an awesome prize package from Stride Gum and MSU Intramurals.

Sign up in the Intramural Office in the Joe Frank Sanderson Center between October 21st-23rd.

The entry fee is $15 per team.

Mandatory Managers' Meeting Tuesday, October 28th @6:15pm in the Sanderson Center OTC Classroom

Play Begins Monday November 3rd

Playoffs Start Tuesday November 18th

Stride will be on campus November 17-18 with tons of giveaways

Remember, you can dodge but you can't hide!

Shaherazad's unnamed camel was stolen, mutilated and left on the front porch of the Delta Gamma sorority house early Thursday morning.

Shaherazad's manager Kenny Price said whoever took the camel tore its legs off, cut its throat, gouged out its eyes, ripped its ears off, tore its tail off and stole its bridle.

"They ruined him," he said. "They absolutely trashed him. There was no sense in that."

Lisa Dakhlalla, wife of Shaherazad's owner, Oda, said she was the person who noticed the camel was missing.

"I knew it was there the night before," Dakhlalla said. "I opened up that morning, and I did kind of a double take and I realized it was gone. I called Kenny so he could get after it and see what was going on."

Delta Gamma house director Mitsy Bailey said the girls originally did not know how to respond to the camel.

Read more at The Reflector.

The MSU Student Association will sponsor a "Maroon Out" for the MSU vs. Kentucky football game on Saturday, November 1, 2008.

The event is titled "True Maroon" and t-shirts are available for $10 through Barnes and Noble on the Mississippi State University campus. T-shirts may be purchased on campus at Barnes and Noble at MSU, on their website at http://www.shopmissstate.com, or by calling (662) 325-1576.

T-shirts may also be purchased inside Davis Wade Stadium during the MSU vs. Middle Tennessee State University and MSU vs. Kentucky football games. Partial proceeds of the t-shirt sales will go to the Golden Triangle Area United Way.

True Maroon and Maroon Out are sponsored by the Student Association History and Traditions Committee in hopes to encourage students and alumni to support MSU football by 'marooning out' Davis Wade Stadium on November 1.

The Student Association is located in the Colvard Student Union on the campus of MSU. It serves as the governing body and liaison between students and university officials.

For more information about True Maroon contact Sarah Stone.