Callings: A Lifelong Passion and a Lasting Legacy

Charles Overby changes face of journalism in Mississippi

OXFORD, Miss. – Tucked away on the second floor of Farley Hall is an office that not many people know about. The building’s facade may carry his name, but the man who sits behind the desk doesn’t look for notoriety or recognition, despite the fact that his legacy changed the landscape of journalism across Mississippi.Read the story …

Alumnus Helps Improve Facilities for Ole Miss Student-Athletes

Dustin Todd cites myriad of experiences, importance of athletics for regional economy as motivators

OXFORD, Miss. – A young University of Mississippi graduate’s desire to give back to his alma mater was borne from a myriad of experiences, including memorable football games he attended, involvement in campus politics and family ties to Ole Miss. Dustin Todd, who earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and history in 2007, hasRead the story …

Payne Esports Facility Dedicated

Ceremony honors family who provided major support

OXFORD, Miss. – A Hattiesburg family was honored Thursday (Nov. 2) with the dedication of the Payne Family Esports Facility at the University of Mississippi, celebrating a Division I program that serves as a strong student recruitment tool. Jennifer and Abb Payne and their children Ford and Arden were the focus of a tribute fromRead the story …

Callings: ‘Let’s Work Through This Together’

Student, professor pursue their callings at Ole Miss

OXFORD, Miss. – Overcome with the burden of earning a master’s degree, Randy Morgan decided in 2020 that he’d had enough. He would quit and perhaps go back to his hometown or to his part-time job. Either way, he was done. Then the Sherman native spoke with Kirk Johnson, University of Mississippi associate professor ofRead the story …

Callings: ‘No Excuses’

Tidwell, Jones enjoy UM's educational environment, take on role as advocates for education

OXFORD, Miss. – For anyone who has a question about the University of Mississippi, Kathy Tidwell almost certainly has an answer, and, on the off chance she does not, she always knows who to ask. Tidwell has gained her knowledge over a 54-year career at the state’s flagship institution, but she is prouder of anotherRead the story …

Kelly English is Cooking for the Cause

Alumnus chef donating talents for benefit dinner Nov. 17 at the Johnson Commons ballroom

OXFORD, Miss. – Renowned chef Kelly English will be serving a gourmet meal Nov. 17 as part of a benefit dinner at the University of Mississippi. The event, hosted by the School of Applied Sciences, begins at 6:30 p.m. in the ballroom of the Paul B. Johnson Sr. Commons. Proceeds will help fund the renovationRead the story …

Callings: Master of Clay

UM alumnus celebrates five decades of creating one-of-a-kind pottery

OXFORD, Miss. – Driving down Main Street in Madison, one might overlook the little tan building that houses Pickenpaugh Pottery & Gallery. To step inside, however, is to be greeted by a colorful array of clay birds, flowers, pots, mugs, mushrooms and more.  The warmest welcome comes from Robert Pickenpaugh himself. A 1973 Master ofRead the story …

Annual First-Generation College Student Celebration Begins Nov. 7

First-gen alumni to return to campus for panel, parties and more

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi kicks off national First-Generation College Student Week on Nov. 7 with a panel discussion between alumni and students, a celebration on the Union Plaza and opportunities for students to learn about ways the university can help support them. “We embrace First Gen Week as a fantastic opportunity toRead the story …

Martins Remain Rebels at Heart After Career Journey

Couple donates to scholarship fund and athletics

OXFORD, Miss. – Even after spending decades away from Oxford and the University of Mississippi, Don and Cathy Martin always felt that the town and school were home. The couple recently honored the long-term love they’ve had for the university with donations to a scholarship fund and the Vaught Society, a fundraising program of theRead the story …

Building an Army of Philanthropists

Film subject, writer and UM alumnus to share mission of service at Khayat Lecture Series

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi alumnus Bill Courtney is a devoted husband and father, the operator of a successful manufacturing plant in Memphis, Tennessee, and a coach. He is also a celebrated servant leader and subject of an Academy Award-winning documentary. The 1991 graduate will discuss his mission to promote philanthropy and help othersRead the story …