Mississippi News
USM President Rodney Bennett to step down
USM President Rodney Bennett to step down
Rodney Bennett, who made history as the University of Southern Mississippi’s first Black president, announced his intent to step down in June 2023.
“The time is coming for me to step aside for another individual to chart the path for the next chapter in our Southern Miss Story,” Bennett wrote in a campus-wide email Friday afternoon.
Bennett, 55, wrote that he intends to explore new professional opportunities this spring. He said he will work closely with the Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees to “develop a strong transition plan.”
“I am excited about what lies ahead for me and for my family, but this transition will certainly be bittersweet,” he wrote.
The Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees selected Bennett to lead USM, a predominately white institution, in 2013, when the university was struggling financially. Bennett downplayed the significance of his selection, according to a report from Gulf Life.
“I don’t know what message it sends, other than don’t let any barrier that other people may place in front of you, and label that people place on you, stop you from pursuing your dream,” Bennett said at the time. “Race wasn’t going to be an issue for me.”
Bennett started his resignation email by listing USM’s accomplishments under his administration, from “facilitating tremendous growth all along the Mississippi Gulf Coast” to “stabilizing the University’s overall financial position.”
This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
SUMMARY: This weekend (August 1-3) in Mississippi offers diverse activities across the state. In Central Mississippi, enjoy Latin music and salsa at Fondren Fiesta in Jackson, family fun at 042 Nights in Brandon, food trucks in Byram, art exhibitions in Natchez and Jackson, and farmers markets in Jackson, Natchez, and Vicksburg. Special events include hurricane remembrance, back-to-school drives, and community wellness fairs. In the Pine Belt, Hattiesburg hosts Denim & Diamonds Casino Night, live music, themed balls, 5K fundraisers, and movie screenings. Laurel offers karaoke, art workshops, and a family farmers market. Activities cater to all ages, promoting culture, health, and community engagement.
The post Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: August 1-3 appeared first on www.wjtv.com
SUMMARY: Mississippi is packed with events this weekend (July 25–27), including the JXN Film Festival, interactive exhibits, and art showcases in Jackson. Clinton screens *Train to Busan*, and Vicksburg features live events, a catfish tournament, and farmers markets. Natchez hosts its Food & Wine Festival and community celebrations, while Ridgeland offers art parks and dinner theater. In the Pine Belt, Hattiesburg offers comedy, musical theater, a Jane Austen tea, and a murder mystery dinner at Ross Mansion. Toy, gun, and farmers markets span multiple cities, while special events like the Little Miss Black Mississippi Pageant round out a diverse, festive weekend.
The post Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: July 25-27 appeared first on www.wjtv.com
SUMMARY: Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to four consecutive life terms without parole for the brutal 2022 stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students. He pleaded guilty in July 2025 to avoid the death penalty. During sentencing, families shared emotional testimonies of loss and anguish. Kohberger, a criminology graduate student, broke into the victims’ home and killed them without known motive, remaining silent at the hearing. Police used DNA and genetic genealogy to identify him. The case deeply affected the community, with misinformation spreading online. Kohberger waived his right to appeal. Some victims’ relatives offered forgiveness and sought answers.
The post Bryan Kohberger sentenced for murdering four University of Idaho students appeared first on www.wjtv.com
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