Brian and Misty Thompson, alumni of Mississippi State University, are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of current MSU students. The Thompsons have established a memorial scholarship in honor of Brian's grandmother, Ruth Everhart Cochran. Although Ms. Cochran passed away in November 2004, her memory remains a profound source of inspiration for Brian and his family.

According to Brian, his grandmother held education in high regard and was a remarkably strong and independent woman. Brian is employed at Gulfstream Aerospace in Savannah, Georgia, and recognizes the significant influence his grandmother had on his own education and career path. Consequently, the Ruth Everhart Cochran memorial scholarship will be awarded to students in any STEM discipline with preference given to female students pursuing degrees in aerospace engineering, aligning with Brian's professional background.

Brian explained, "Given my engineering background, I felt that directing this scholarship toward aerospace engineering would be a meaningful way to give back to the field. Conversations with my wife and daughter, coupled with my fond memories of my grandmother, reinforced the idea of supporting scholarship opportunities (for female students).”

Recently, Brian was able to meet the first recipient of the Ruth Everhart Cochran memorial scholarship. Jenna Rittman is a freshman student majoring in aerospace engineering. She was delighted to meet with Brian and thanked him for providing financial assistance for her education.

Brian remembers his grandmother's impressive work ethic, which left a lasting impression on him. The Thompsons hope this scholarship will benefit a deserving student who not only demonstrates financial need but also shares the same strong work ethic that defined his grandmother's life.