Mississippi State University’s long tradition of academic innovation has shaped generations of critical thinkers, hardworking professionals, and leaders in health care. Edward Rigdon was well-suited for the university’s legacy of excellence in medicine. He came to Starkville in search of the rigorous, high-caliber education that has come to define MSU.

Mississippi State Assistant Professor of English and African American Studies Kemeshia Randle Swanson is the university’s 2026 Mississippi Humanities Council Teacher of the Year, a statewide honor celebrating her exceptional teaching, visionary scholarship and deep commitment to advancing the humanities across the Magnolia State.

“There are so many reasons I chose Mississippi State University for college. Their psychology program is consistently ranked #1 in Mississippi, and their research department is outstanding, said Destany Taylor, who currently lives in Madison, Miss. “Since I knew I wanted to stay in-state, joining the best program was important to me. The campus itself is vibrant, diverse, and incredibly welcoming—which made the decision even easier. In the end, becoming a Bulldog just made sense.”