On September 6, Dr. Mark Keenum, the President of Mississippi State University, made his first visit to West Lauderdale High School to speak in front of the seniors and several juniors. He aimed to promote Mississippi State’s programs and encourage students to plan for their future.

Mississippi State University (MSU) is a world-class research institution located in Starkville, Mississippi. It is well-known for its strong programs in agriculture and natural resources. MSU also offers a wide range of academic programs, including engineering, business, and the arts.

Dr. Keenum encouraged students to think intentionally about their future, saying that high school is “an important time,” and that “life is about making memories.” He was not only trying to recruit students to the university, but also prompting them to consider what they truly want to do and to pursue that.

During his speech, Dr. Keenum highlighted the programs that MSU offers and what the university can provide for seniors applying to colleges. He mentioned a new building in Meridian for those wanting to become nurses and emphasized how students can save money while getting a good education at MSU.

Emily Clay, the school counselor, shared her thoughts on the speech: “It was an honor to be asked if he could come here. I think it went wonderfully. Everybody was excited and very receptive, and we got a lot of good information from him.”

West Lauderdale was thrilled to have a meeting with the president and hopes for more visits in the future. Such events provide encouragement and information for seniors in their college application process and the next steps in their lives.