Crawfords support philosophy, chemistry with combined gift

Driven by a passion for the humanities and sciences, Mississippi State alumnus Douglas Crawford and his wife, Leigh Jensen-Crawford, are transforming students’ lives through their continued support of scholarships and academic programs.

Douglas’s connection to MSU began when he visited campus while exploring graduate programs. He is a native of Warren, Ohio, and had earned his undergraduate degree from Hiram College nearby. After meeting faculty in MSU’s Department of Chemistry, he knew he had found his preferred academic environment for further study. The university’s dedication to science, combined with its warm, community-oriented character, appealed to Douglas. He made Starkville his home and went on to earn his Master of Science in chemistry from MSU in 1968.

Following his time as a student at MSU, Douglas spent 50 years as an analytical chemist, working at the university’s State Chemical Lab and later at Southern Ionics in Columbus.

“I’ve always been grateful for my time at MSU, and even as a student, I hoped that one day I would be able to give back to the university and its students,” Douglas said.

Leigh built her career at MSU, dedicating decades to supporting students through her work in the university’s Counseling Center. She served as director of Student Counseling Services, where she focused on advocacy, student well-being and programs that promote both personal and academic success.

In recognition of her impact, Leigh received the 2015 Social Work Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, honoring her contributions to the field and her commitment to mentoring future professionals. Now retired, she continues her work through a private practice in Starkville.

The couple’s latest gift establishes the Philosophy Endowed Scholarship in the College of Arts and Sciences, providing support for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in philosophy who demonstrate strong academic achievement.

At the same time, the gift will advance scientific research at MSU by supporting the Department of Chemistry through enhanced laboratory equipment, allowing faculty and students to continue conducting high-level research and development.

The dual focus of this gift reflects the Crawfords’ appreciation for both fields.

“During my time in the chemistry department, I was fortunate to learn from Dr. Donald Emmerich, who had a big impact on my career,” Douglas said. “When I later asked where support was needed, I learned philosophy was underfunded, and I felt that was an area where I could help.”

The Crawfords are not new to establishing endowments that reflect their passions and honor mentors who shaped their lives. Over the years, they have supported programs across campus, including chemistry, music, aerospace engineering, agriculture, social work and special project initiatives.

Both Douglas and Leigh understand firsthand the impact of educational support. While Leigh benefited from scholarships that made it possible for her to attend college, Douglas worked throughout his time as a student and received only limited assistance. Their experiences shaped their awareness of the financial challenges students face today and continue to influence their commitment to giving back.

“I love the university, and I’ve always tried to do what I can to support scholarships and encourage students to come to Mississippi State,” Douglas said. “I believe in emphasizing the strength of our academics, because that’s what truly shapes students’ futures and sets them up for success.”

Today, the couple continues to call Starkville home, where they have made a lasting impact on the university and the local community. Their decades of service include volunteering with the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, Habitat for Humanity and other charitable organizations. Douglas has also contributed to maintaining George Evans Park and participated in local cleanup efforts.

“I enjoyed my time at MSU and in Starkville so much that we never left,” Douglas said. “The people are very friendly, and it’s been a great experience to live here and be so close to the university and the town that once welcomed us.”

In 2025, Crawford was named Alumnus of the Year for the College of Arts and Sciences, an honor recognizing outstanding alumni whose personal lives, professional accomplishments and community service exemplify the mission of MSU.

“The best part of supporting scholarships is meeting the students and seeing what they’re doing with their careers,” he said. “I’ve had the opportunity to talk with many of them, hear how they’ve benefited and learn about their goals. Being able to connect with them and see their progress firsthand is what makes it so meaningful.”

The Crawfords hope students who benefit from their support will carry forward the same spirit of generosity and service that has guided their own lives, giving back to Mississippi through their work in the state. By investing in students’ educational opportunities, they believe MSU, Starkville and the state as a whole will benefit, creating a lasting impact for years to come.