Breelyn Davenport Thaggard
Breelyn Davenport Thaggard
B.A. Anthropology, 2023
“I chose Mississippi State University and the College of Arts & Sciences because of their strong academic reputation, supportive learning environment, and emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary education,” said Breelyn Davenport Thaggard, a 2023 MSU graduate. “The College of Arts & Sciences provided a solid foundation in the sciences while also encouraging intellectual curiosity and professional growth. MSU’s commitment to student success, research opportunities, and community engagement aligned well with my academic goals and long-term aspirations in healthcare. The resources, mentorship, and diverse coursework within CAS prepared me to succeed in a rigorous graduate program and continue developing as a well-rounded professional.”
During her time at MSU, Thaggard served in many different areas of campus life: president of Dance Marathon, president of the CASA Student Association, research in both the anthropology and chemistry departments, as well as involvement in her sorority, Chi Omega. Thanks to her involvement, Thaggard was able to hone useful skills in leadership, communication, community service, professionalism, critical thinking, analytical, problem-solving skills and much more.
“I was incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by mentors at MSU who genuinely invested in me and helped shape my path. My CASA advisor, Hannah Coleman, and my Dance Marathon advisor, Staci Franklin, consistently encouraged me to lead with compassion and reminded me why service matters. My biological anthropology advisors also played an important role by challenging me academically and helping me see how my interest in human health could translate into a meaningful career. Their guidance and belief in me gave me the confidence to keep pursuing my dream of becoming a physician assistant and serving others through medicine.”
Since graduation, Thaggard has worked as a phlebotomist and medical assistant at an infertility clinic and is also currently enrolled in the physician assistant program at Mississippi College.
Thaggard currently resides in Jackson with her husband David Thaggard. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, baking, binge-watching a good TV series, and tuning in to MSU sporting events. She is active in her church and stays connected with mission work.
“Meaningful” is the word Thaggard said best describes her years at MSU as a CAS student. “My MSU/CAS experience was meaningful because it shaped me both academically and personally. It challenged me to grow, pushed me outside of my comfort zone, and gave me relationships and memories that continue to influence who I am today.”