Ben Tkach, an associate professor of political science in the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, has been named a Grisham Master Teacher. First presented in 1993, the Grisham Master Teacher honor is a tribute to classroom and instruction excellence—named for the MSU accounting alumnus and internationally recognized best-selling author who provided funds to endow the award.

“From the moment I first toured Mississippi State University during recruitment events, I knew it was the place where I belonged and where I wanted to pursue my bachelor’s degree,” said Ashley Thompson, 2021 MSU graduate. “Every person I met was genuinely kind, welcoming, and eager to help, making me feel like part of the community long before I officially enrolled. That sense of authenticity and support never faded once I became a student.”

Haley Zelenka’s time at Mississippi State University is marked by both academic growth and formative campus involvement, including her work as an orientation leader. That experience, paired with her English studies in the College of Arts & Sciences, helped shape a successful legal career built on service and communication.