Malcom Lightsey
Malcolm B. Lightsey
B.S. Mathematics 1961, M.S. Mathematics 1963
College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Executive Advisory Board
“Having played sports all my earlier years, the opportunity to play on the MSU tennis team was a big deal for me. It led to contacts, friendships, and opportunities that continue today,” said Malcolm Lightsey, a 1961 mathematics graduate.
During his time at MSU, Lightsey gained valuable experiences from his classes that directly benefited his personal life. “An English professor gave one homework assignment for which I will always be grateful. I was directed to go to the library, check out and listen to a record, The Grand Canyon Suite, a classical piece, then report. I still like Elvis but have enjoyed many hours of classical music by many different composers, especially Mozart, over the years. My career may not have benefited, but my life certainly did.”
After graduating from MSU, Lightsey led a long, storied career. “I began work in 1963 as a computer programmer in the space program. In 1972, I became manager of computer systems in the medical field. In 1981, I became the executive director and the first employee of a new MS company providing a secondary market in student loans. In 1989, I founded SunTech to provide services to banks that owned student loans. I sold SunTech in 2003 and retired.”
“Starting as the first employee at a new Mississippi company, which continues to operate as the Woodward Hines Education Foundation, and later founding SunTech, I helped grow it into the nation's fourth-largest company of its kind. My contribution was the leadership to set the direction, then recruit and manage staff. Along the way, my wife Joy and I proved that it is possible for wife and husband to work together, usually cordially, and continue to have a great relationship long after the work life has ended.”
Lightsey remains connected to his MSU community through serving on various boards at MSU, including the College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Executive Advisory Board. “I have served on the MSU Foundation Board and will do so again beginning in 2026. I was actively involved in getting the indoor tennis facility built and remain involved in the tennis club. I also serve on the A & S Advisor Committee and am a former member of the Bulldog Club Board of Directors.”
When asked to describe his A&S experiences in one word, Lightsey chose “life changing.”
“So, what if it’s two words,” Lightsey laughed. “I don’t believe I would have had the successful and satisfying life I have now without the education and experience I gained at MSU.”