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Contact: Heath Fisackerly

STARKVILLE, Miss.–The Mississippi State Student Association and Faculty Senate presidents will represent the university next week during the 31st annual HEADWAE (Higher Education Appreciation Day—Working for Academic Excellence) program.

Tyler McMurray, a senior animal and dairy science major from Brandon, and Brent Fountain, an associate Extension professor of food science, nutrition and health promotion, will travel to Jackson Tuesday [Feb. 20] for the event. In addition to representing MSU, both also represent the university’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Administered by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees, HEADWAE annually recognizes students and faculty from 34 public and private universities and colleges for their academic achievement and contributions.

Gov. Phil Bryant will deliver the keynote address at the awards luncheon.

McMurray said that over the past four years, she has developed a stronger appreciation for her university and the state while valuing the opportunities that have helped her learn and grow.

“That appreciation has turned into service in a variety of ways around campus as well as in the Starkville community,” McMurray said. “Being president of the Student Association has given me the chance to interact with diverse groups of students and administrators.”

Fountain said he is honored and humbled to have been nominated by university President Mark E. Keenum and Provost and Executive Vice President Judy Bonner for the HEADWAE award.

“I am also appreciative of the Mississippi Legislature for their continued support of HEADWAE to recognize faculty and students from all of Mississippi’s higher education institutions,” Fountain said.

Fountain added that being recognized alongside McMurray also is an honor because getting to know her during their past year of service has “been a joy.”

For more on the IHL’s HEADWAE program, see .

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