Mississippi State University welcomed its first Black graduate back to campus this week, almost 60 years after becoming a university alumnus.

A new book by Mississippi State English Professor Ted Atkinson explores the Tennessee Valley Authority, a New Deal agency that reshaped parts of seven southern states through flood control, rural electrification and social programs. The work highlights TVA’s enduring relevance at a time when the U.S. continues to debate climate change, fossil fuel dependence and sustainable development.

Mississippi State’s Cobb Institute of Archaeology is celebrating its 50th anniversary Oct. 16-18 with a weekend of special events highlighting a half-century of groundbreaking research, student engagement and community outreach.