Laurie Williams

Laurie Williams

B.A. Communication

College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Executive Advisory Board 

“It has to be the night I was elected the first woman MSU Student Association President in Mississippi State’s 100-year history,” said MSU alumna Laurie Williams of her favorite stand-out MSU memory. “It was a thrill finally kicking through that glass ceiling––in high heels, no less!”  

A 1979 MSU graduate, Williams earned her bachelor’s degree in communication. “My ultimate goal was to become a defense trial lawyer, and I knew I needed excellent communication skills, not only in speaking but writing. I had the best professors who not only taught me excellent communication skills but were excellent mentors as I navigated my professional careers.” 

During her time at MSU, Williams enjoyed her involvement in the MSU Student Association. “Leading the Student Association was a true labor of love. Working not only with students but staff and faculty was such a rewarding experience. I learned so much by traveling the state and letting people know about the great things happening at MSU. Meeting alumni and friends of MSU was a highlight, and I consider them all to be mentors as I achieved my career path.” 

Since graduating from MSU, Williams has had an incredible career journey that has expanded beyond her original goals. “My goal was to become a trial attorney, and having practiced insurance defense for over 33 years, I accomplished that goal. I wanted to do something with more impact and was given the opportunity to work with the community in making lives better for the underserved with Molina Healthcare of MS,” Williams said. “Without my excellent education in all things communication, I would not have enjoyed the success I have experienced. The power of speaking and engaging people of all walks of life is invaluable, and I owe my success to the MSU College of Arts and Sciences.”

Currently, Williams is the Associate Vice President of Growth and Member Engagement for Molina Healthcare of MS in Madison, MS. She said she stays involved with the MSU community by serving on the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Executive Advisory Board. 

Her advice to current and future MSU students is to take advantage of opportunities. “Take advantage of every intern opportunity and get to know your key professors on a personal level. Planning your career path early and participating in all things that the department offers will give you a well-rounded education and set you up for future success. Getting to know alumni in your chosen career path is a must, as they have great advice and are so willing to help you succeed,” Williams said. 

In one word, she described her experience as “invaluable.” 

“I have used every bit of my mass media communication education in absolutely everything I do and all things I have accomplished. My education truly paved a path to success that I would not have reached otherwise.”