UM Libraries Hires Archivist to Focus on University History

Speck-Thompson to document university's history, serve as liaison to departments

OXFORD, Miss. – Jeannie Speck-Thompson, a native of Ecru, has been named university archivist, the first faculty member devoted to this position in two decades at the University of Mississippi. An assistant professor, Speck-Thompson will process multiple formats of archival materials that document the history and operations of the university, including correspondence, departmental newsletters, memoranda,Read the story …

Original Library Collection Provides Insights Into UM’s Early Days

Archivist working on project ahead of University Libraries' anniversary next year

OXFORD, Miss. – A celebration of the University of Mississippi‘s 175th anniversary this month would be incomplete without a nod to its academic underpinnings: the library and its original books. The original collection of the library, dating from 1849 to 1858, reflects the classical curriculum of the era with a large number of Latin, GreekRead the story …

Meet the Man Behind ‘First Down, Ole Miss’

Alumnus Glen Waddle still enjoys announcing games after 25 years

OXFORD, Miss. – Glen Waddle (BPA 77, JD 80), public address announcer for Ole Miss football for more than a quarter-century, has no plans to quit anytime soon. “If they don’t want me anymore, that’s a different thing,” the University of Mississippi alumnus said. “But as long as I’m ambulatory, I want to keep workingRead the story …

Grenada Classmates Recall Tribulations During Civil Rights Movement

Eva Lemon, known as MLK’s ‘Poster Child,’ discusses experience at UM event

OXFORD, Miss. – Nearly 60 years after her photo with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. made its way around the world, Grenada native Eva Grace Lemon joined classmate Charles Latham in discussing their hometown experiences during the height of the civil rights movement at a University of Mississippi event. The Feb. 27 talk atRead the story …

University to Honor Diversity Excellence

April 11 ceremony marks a final event in university's 60th anniversary of integration observance

OXFORD, Miss. – As one of the final events in the University of Mississippi‘s 60th anniversary of integration commemoration, the university will honor faculty and staff achievements in diversity and inclusion. The Honoring Diversity Excellence ceremony and reception is set for 3 p.m. April 11 in the Ole Miss Student Union Ballroom. “Throughout the year,Read the story …

Study USA Offers Courses Tied to UM’s 60th Anniversary of Integration

Topics include minorities in health professions, politics of inequality

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi‘s Study USA program is offering five intersession courses with themes related to the university’s 60th anniversary of integration. “My vision is for students to understand that what happened here concerning integration isn’t just about the university,” said Laura Antonow, director of the Office of College Programs in theRead the story …

Professor Launches LGBTQIA+ Emergency Fund

Sarah Isom Center director organized nonprofit to address concern

OXFORD, Miss. – Reggie Willis, who is transgender, will never forget when he lived in his truck on a diet of bagged cereal.  He grew up in a middle-class family and lived a privileged life. He started at the University of Mississippi in 2013 as an accountancy major and received a scholarship to be inRead the story …

Generations: The University of Mississippi Then and Now

Four Black families share perspectives on their UM experience

OXFORD, Miss. – When civil rights activist James Meredith (BA 63) integrated the University of Mississippi in 1962, he made it possible for thousands of other Black people to follow him, including his late son Joseph, who received a doctorate in business administration in 2002, and granddaughter Jasmine, who received a master’s degree in integratedRead the story …

Legacy Celebration Honors Meredith, African American Firsts

Alumni return to alma mater for recognition and reflection

OXFORD, Miss. – Memories and laughter filled the air and a few tears filled some eyes as dozens of African Americans who achieved “firsts” at the University of Mississippi returned to their alma mater for the Legacy Celebration. Drawing more than 300 people, the Friday (Sept. 30) event in the Johnson Commons Ballroom was partRead the story …

A Seat for Everyone at the Longest Table

UM hosts students, faculty, staff, community members for dinner and diverse discussions

OXFORD, Miss. – Throughout much of the University of Mississippi‘s history, students such as James Meredith have been an integral part of spurring the change seen on campus today. To honor such students and promote conversation and fellowship, the Longest Table returns from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 2) in the Circle. The freeRead the story …