Contact: Heath Fisackerly
STARKVILLE, Miss. – Mississippi State President Mark E. Keenum encouraged incoming and returning students in the university’s Promise Program to “think big and dream big” as they begin the fall semester.
Speaking at a Wednesday [Aug. 23] ice cream social to welcome both new and returning students, Keenum told Promise participants that they are part of a special university program that is a valued part of the MSU family. Not only does Promise benefit from many corporate and private donors, but Keenum said, “You’re going to have a great deal of support. I’m here for all of you.”
The MSU Promise Program was established in 2006 as a way to help bridge the gap between the cost of tuition and fees after financial aid. Promise also provides academic counseling, course-progress monitoring, and networking opportunities to ensure students’ continued success.
The president explained that students who approach college and life with integrity, hard work and respect can accomplish anything with a degree from Mississippi State.
“I urge you to think big, think large, and think of yourself as someone who is going to make a difference and an impact in this world,” he said.
Assisting 110 new Promise students this year – new freshman and transfer students – the program has helped more than 1,100 since its inception.
“The Promise Program is a difference maker for these students,” said Clay Armstrong, director of The Learning Center. “The combined effort of the university and donors has and will continue to impact the students of Mississippi.”
Alison Stamps, coordinator and instructor for the Promise Student Support Program, explained that Promise students are academically talented and the program helps make college more affordable.
“You are a promise while you are here,” she told the gathered students. “I also like to think about how you have a promising future.”
Roshni Patel, a Promise Program sophomore, said exceptional resources and student support are why students in the program have been so successful.
“The Promise Program has not only helped me cover my tuition, but it has given me opportunities to get involved on campus,” Patel said.
For information about supporting the MSU Promise Program, contact Cathy Lammons, executive director of communication and donor relations for the MSU Foundation, at 662-325-7843 or clammons@advservices.msstate.edu.