Contact: Denise M. Cosper
Tupelo furniture executive W.G. "Mickey" Holliman Jr. is Mississippi State University's 1998 National Alumnus of the Year.
A Noxubee County native, Holliman received the honor Friday night [Jan. 30] at the Mississippi State Alumni Association's annual awards banquet on campus. The 1960 industrial management graduate from Shuqualak also was named the College of Business and Industry's Alumnus of the Year.
Holliman is president and chief executive officer of St. Louis, Mo.-based Furniture Brands International, the nation's largest residential furniture manufacturer and parent company of Action Industries in Tupelo.
In presenting the award, alumni association executive director John V. Correro said the association is "delighted to be able to honor such an active supporter of the university.
"Mickey's leadership has helped expand the furniture industry in Mississippi and strengthened the state's market share in the residential furniture market," said Correro.
"Throughout his hectic professional career, he has remained steadfast in his support of the university," Correro added. "He has been a leading supporter of both academics and athletics and his corporate partnerships and personal contributions have helped the university grow."
Holliman began his career as an industrial engineer with Futorian Corp. in New Albany, now known as the Stratford Co. In 1970, with Alvin E. "Bo" Bland, he co-founded Action Industries, specializing in upholstered reclining chairs.
Under his leadership, Action expanded its product line to include motion furniture, sleeper sofas and a complete line of reclining chairs.
Holliman assumed his current position in 1996 with the conglomerate that also manages the Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville furniture industries.
In addition to serving the business college as "professor for a day" and an adviser for curriculum, research and service, Holliman is a leading corporate partner with the furniture management/general business administration bachelor's degree program. In 1993, he was named an Alumni Fellow of the college.
Holliman also supports his alma mater through his membership in the Bulldog Club and his service on the board of directors of the university's foundation.