Contact: Maridith Geuder
STARKVILLE, Miss.--In ceremonies Monday [Aug. 22], Mississippi State President Charles Lee recognized two university employees with the first advising awards funded by a longtime institution benefactor.
Biological sciences professor Donald N. Downer and Jamie C. Inmon, a staff member with the University Academic Advising Center, received the Irvin Atly Jefcoat Excellence in Advising Awards. Each honor was accompanied by a $5,000 stipend.
Established earlier this year by 1950 chemical engineering graduate Hunter Henry of San Marcos, Texas, the honors are named for the university's current Hunter Henry Endowed Professor in Chemical Engineering. Jefcoat has been recognized nationally by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers as its outstanding student adviser.
"Mississippi State has a continuing commitment to the academic success of its students, and the Jefcoat Advising Awards are an important recognition of the positive impact faculty and staff members make," Lee said. "We are pleased that a longtime supporter of Mississippi State has provided the means to reward those who have been outstanding mentors to our students."
A faculty member since 1978 and a former department head who returned to teaching several years ago, Downer earlier this year was among 10 selected for special recognition in competition sponsored by the Kansas-based National Academic Advising Association. He formally receives the prestigious honor in October during the association's annual meeting.
"We're proud that Mississippi State professors consistently have earned this national honor," Lee said, noting that university professors have been among the top U.S. student advising group in each of the last five years.
Jamie Inmon, who is receiving the staff advising award, directed the University Academic Advising Center 1993-2000. For the past five years, she has continued to work as a center adviser, assisting some 300-400 students each school year.
"Both Dr. Downer and Mrs. Inmon are recognized widely for their genuine concern for students, and we believe are outstanding examples of the dedication this new award honors," Lee said.