President and CEO Message

President and CEO Message

John P. Rush, Vice President for Foundation and Alumni

The Mississippi State University Foundation, Inc. Is a nonprofit organization that assists the university in accomplishing its goals and mission by soliciting private support and ensuring stewardship for all contributions benefiting Mississippi State University. Created in 1962, the Foundation has served as an excellent steward of the university's gifts for more than 60 years.

In that time, the MSU Foundation has conducted three comprehensive major gift campaigns in the history of the university. The first campaign, The Campaign for Mississippi State: Serving Mississippi and Beyond, raised $143 million from 1992 to 1997. The second campaign, State of the Future: The Mississippi State Campaign, raised $462.5 million from July 2001 to December 2008. The most recent campaign, Infinite Impact: The Mississippi State University Campaign, raised $1.07 billion from July 2010 to June 2020, marking an extraordinary milestone for the university and the state as the most ambitious fundraising endeavor achieved by any educational institution in Mississippi at the time. 

Another momentous milestone was reached during the 2022-2023 fiscal year, which culminated with a philanthropic achievement that eclipsed all previous single-year fundraising records among the state’s public institutions of higher education. With unwavering support from its dedicated alumni, friends, and partners, the university raised an astounding $259.9 million in gift commitments and secured the tenth consecutive year of private gifts totaling $100 million or above. 

The success of these momentous endeavors continue to provide a margin of excellence and further enhance the university’s endowment, which now surpasses $639 million. As we continue to propel our university forward through purposeful philanthropy and meaningful engagements, continued support from the Bulldog family is more important than ever.

On behalf of the MSU Foundation and the MSU Alumni Association, I want to personally thank you for your investment in Mississippi State. I continue to be honored to have the opportunity to serve my alma mater in this capacity as we collectively strive to take care of what matters each and every day. If you have any questions about the workings of the MSU Foundation, please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our dedicated development staff awaits the opportunity to serve you.