Contact: Sammy McDavid
STARKVILLE, Miss.--The associate director of Mississippi State's primary program to aid physically challenged and other special-needs students is being named its interim director.
Julie L. Berry will follow Debbie Baker as head of the university's Office of Student Support Services. Berry has worked in the office since 1991 and served as associate director since 2001.
Baker, who has led the office since 1993, is leaving to accept a similar position with East Mississippi Community College in Scooba. She also will be closer to her family in Meridian.
"Dr. Baker has been a tireless worker for many, many years on behalf of the Mississippi State students in her charge," said Dean of Students Mike White. "The university is saddened by her departure but, at the same time, is happy both for her and East Mississippi Community College in her new role."
White, who was Baker's predecessor in the position, said MSU is fortunate to have an administrator with Berry's experience to continue "this important mission."
Student Support Services is a federally funded department providing academic support and instruction to low-income, first-generation college students. Among other duties, the
MSU staff also works with other students with disabilities who have academic needs and the potential for success in higher education.
Berry is a 1990 MSU English major who went on to complete master's degrees in secondary English education and counselor education/student development in 1992 and 1993, respectively. She also is a certified Mississippi teacher.
The Office of Student Support Services is located on the ground floor of Montgomery Hall.