Having the best job in the world is a daily reality for Everett Kennard. Often far from home, but never far from friends, he drives the immaculate MSU buses on trips all over the country. Just call him—,he may answer from anywhere, but if he doesn't, his voice greeting will tell you he "could be in Washington state under an apple tree or I could be in Florida on the beach, all for Mississippi State, of course." The tone of his voice will let you know for sure—he's loving every minute of it.
Kennard, manager of transportation services, has been blazing the highways for 28 years, carrying Bulldog athletes, administrators, faculty, staff, and students of all kinds.
"I've got the greatest job in America. It's a dream job that a lot of people would want. I work with the greatest people, and I work for the greatest people. And I've got the easiest product in America that sells itself, and that's Mississippi State," Kennard said.
"I don't feel old until I haul children of those who I hauled in the earlier days," he said. He explained that freshman baseball player C.T. Bradford is the son of Mike Bradford, who was on the baseball team in 1983. Kennard's memory is like a rolodex of MSU alumni.
Of course, Kennard has been to many memorable events on behalf of the university, including trips to the College World Series, Final Four, SEC Championship, and many bowl games. He said about 59 percent of transportation is related to athletics, but many travels are academic field trips.
Spending about 200 days a year on the road, Kennard is a restaurant and hotel expert. He's never tired of the highway, but still delights in it. "I thank God that he put me in this position, and I really feel sorry for anyone who doesn't enjoy their work like I do," Kennard said.