Devan Torrence-Pollitz, an instructor in MSU's Department of English, guides students through an interactive escape room while costumed as renowned Magnolia State author William Faulkner during the Mississippi in the World English Expo Thursday [Oct. 22]. The event welcomed junior and high school students from across the state for immersive activities, including acting out and filming literature-inspired scenes, movie poster design, escape rooms and creative writing sessions. Through these experiences, the expo highlights Mississippi’s rich literary and artistic heritage while exploring how the humanities connect local communities to the wider world.