Rob Jenkins, Director of Development

The Richard C. Adkerson School of Accountancy has a longstanding tradition of producing industry leaders. Mississippi State University transforms lives through education, research and service – continually becoming a greater force in preparing new generations of leaders who will have an infinite impact on the world around them.

Capital campaigns are about excellence, about aspirations and about the future. A fundraising endeavor is a time for alumni, friends, parents, corporations and foundations to join those who have already stepped forward and placed their confidence in our mission and vision. With your help, the impact can be broader and deeper and be felt sooner.

In accordance with our strategic plan, I’m extremely excited to announce a $10 million Strategic Initiative in Accounting as part of Infinite Impact: The Mississippi State University Campaign.  Our fundraising efforts revolve around 1. Academic Program Enhancements, 2. Faculty Support and 3. Student Scholarships.

To jumpstart our initiative, an anonymous donor has made a generous gift in memory of lifelong supporter and graduate H. Devon “Von” Graham, Jr. This $1 million memorial gift to the Adkerson School of Accountancy will be used to match and leverage other gifts as it pertains to our fundraising priorities.

As an example, a KPMG Endowed Professorship has been recently established to support MSU accounting faculty. One of the biggest attractors for quality students is high-caliber faculty members. The marketplace for such individuals is competitive, and an edge in recruiting and retaining them is needed. Endowments for chairs and professorships provide additional funds for salaries and research, as well as adding to the prestige of the faculty member and the School. Our University competes nationally and internationally for faculty expertise, and private endowments improve our ability to attract the best teachers.

There are many exciting things happening in the Adkerson School of Accountancy, and with that comes many more opportunities to give. Another recent gift comes in the form of a bequest to Mississippi State University and the Adkerson School of Accountancy. A gift from Mr. Robert Hardin of Tupelo, MS, a 1973 accounting major, will support student scholarships and will also establish an endowed professorship. Many outstanding students have the desire and knowledge to enroll in the School of Accountancy. Through Infinite Impact: The Mississippi State University Campaign, the school is seeking both annual and endowed scholarships to reward high academic achievers. With these student scholarships, we can put competitive offers together to compete for top performing students.

There are many different ways to make a meaningful and lasting impact. You can read more about specific needs and ways to give by clicking here. I encourage each of you who might be interested in supporting our Strategic Initiative in Accounting to contact me or Zack Harrington, Assistant Director of Development, at 662-325-1888.

Thanks so much for supporting Mississippi State University and the Adkerson School of Accountancy.

Sincerely,

Rob Jenkins
MSU College of Business
Director of Development