MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2025 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Senator(s) Jordan, Jackson, Hickman, Brumfield, Blackmon, Simmons (13th), Frazier, Norwood, Butler, Barnett, England
A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND HONORING MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY ON THE COMMEMORATION OF ITS 75TH ANNIVERSARY, AND COMMENDING THE INSTITUTION'S CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI AND THE NATION.
WHEREAS, Mississippi Valley State University, originally established as Mississippi Vocational College by enactment of the Mississippi Legislature in 1946, has played a pivotal role in higher education within the State of Mississippi for 75 years; and
WHEREAS, the institution was founded with the express purpose of training teachers for teaching in rural and elementary schools and providing vocational training, beginning its legacy of academic excellence and service to the community; and
WHEREAS, the groundbreaking ceremony on February 19, 1950, marked the beginning of an institution that opened its doors to 205 in-service teachers in the summer of 1950 and 14 regular students during its inaugural academic year, 1950-1951, under the leadership of its first President, Dr. James Herbert White; and
WHEREAS, Mississippi Valley State University has undergone transformative growth, including its name change to Mississippi Valley State College in 1964 and, subsequently, to Mississippi Valley State University in 1974, reflecting its expanding mission and academic offerings; and
WHEREAS, "Valley," as it is affectionately referenced by current and prospective students, alumni and supporters alike, has contributed significantly to higher education by offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs, including its first master's degree program in 1976 and current offerings in fields such as environmental health, criminal justice, business administration and education; and
WHEREAS, Mississippi Valley State University's leadership has been marked by a succession of visionary presidents, culminating in the tenure of its eighth and current President, Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr., who, like his presidential predecessors, continues to advance the university's mission under the mantra, "ONE GOAL. ONE TEAM. ONE VALLEY . . . IN MOTION"; and
WHEREAS, MVSU has extended its reach through off-campus centers such as the Greenwood Center and Greenville Higher Learning Center, thereby enhancing access to education in the Mississippi Delta; and
WHEREAS, Mississippi Valley State University remains dedicated to its mission of providing quality undergraduate and graduate programs to a diverse community of learners, contributing to the betterment of the Mississippi Delta and beyond through teaching, learning, research and service; and
WHEREAS, Valley's accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and other prestigious bodies, ensures the university's performance at the highest standards of academic excellence; and
WHEREAS, we acknowledge and commend the exceptional investments made by our state's public institutions of higher learning:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby recognize and honor Mississippi Valley State University on the occasion of its 75th Anniversary, commend the institution's contributions to the State of Mississippi and the nation, and extend heartfelt congratulations to its students, faculty, alumni and administration for their achievements over the past 75 years.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Mississippi Valley State University and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.