Mississippi State University student journalists earned 28 awards at the 2026 Southeast Journalism Conference earlier this semester, securing high-ranking placements in more than two dozen categories and demonstrating excellence across student media platforms.

Mississippi State University Assistant Clinical Professor of Theatre Jesse Wade has received the Adult Playwriting Award from the Mississippi Theatre Association for his original play, “Touch,” the story of a scientist who gives emotions to an android she has created, exploring themes of technology, humanity and connection.

“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.”