Mississippi State and the city of Starkville this week celebrated receiving an authentic Olympic torch used in the 2024 Olympics in Paris. MSU President Mark E. Keenum, left, and Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill, right, also were presented an Olympic medallion and plaque for their dedication to displaying the historic keepsake, a symbol of unity which MSU and Starkville share through their successful town-and-gown relationship. Additionally, four Olympians received the medallion: MSU’s Marco Arop; Isaiah Jewett who trains with Arop; and MSU’s Curtis Thompson and Ilana Izquierdo. After making a full state tour, the torch will be available for viewing in Starkville’s City Hall for one year, with dates announced at a later time. The event was made possible by Coca-Cola and local distributor Clark Beverage Company, a longtime university supporter.