Contact: Bill Wagnon
Richard Armstrong
A Meridian native and Mississippi State graduate will lead the university's efforts to raise private funds through charitable estate planning.
Richard Armstrong, who assumed his new duties as director of planned giving on May 10, previously was director of development for the MSU College of Business and Industry.
"I'm delighted to announce Richard Armstrong's appointment to this critical position within the Office of Development," said Dennis Prescott, vice president for external affairs.
"With the enormous transfer of wealth that will occur in this country over the next 20 years, Mississippi State needs to be well positioned in the charitable estate planning arena. I'm confident that Richard possesses the skills necessary to position Mississippi State effectively in this area," Prescott said.
Armstrong received a bachelor's degree in general business administration in 1968. A retired Marine Corps colonel, he served as president of the local MSU Alumni Association chapter while on active duty in Montgomery, Ala.
For his achievements as chapter leader, he received the alumni association's Distinguished Service Award and J.E. "Red" Ruffin Annual Fund Award.
Armstrong joined the development office in 1993 upon concluding 25 years of active military service. He since has served as the fund-raising professional for Mitchell Memorial Library, the School of Architecture, and the College of Business and Industry.
During his tenure with the business college, alumni and friends gave more than $21 million in gifts, pledges, and deferred contributions. Armstrong also will continue in his duties with the college until a replacement is named.