UM-DeSoto Outreach Day held in Southaven
Photo: Jason Shifflett of Domino’s Pizza speaks on leadership and taking bold steps in their careers during Outreach Day at UM-DeSoto. (Courtesy photo)
Oct. 7, 2024 – On Friday, Oct. 4, the University of Mississippi-DeSoto campus welcomed Outreach staff from across the state for a dynamic and successful Outreach Day, strengthening partnerships and fostering collaboration between regional campuses and community leaders. Staff members from Oxford, Tupelo, Grenada, and Booneville gathered to build connections and share ideas, all while celebrating the spirit of community that defines the DeSoto area.
The day began with a warm welcome from campus staff, complete with a coffee bar sponsored by UM-DeSoto’s on-campus partner, Beans & Leaves. Local high schools joined in the fun, sending mascots and cheerleaders to represent their schools. Once the music started, an impromptu mascot dance-off broke out in the atrium. While there was no clear winner, as everyone brought their best moves, the energy and fun were undeniable.
One of the day’s highlights was the presence of valued NWCC partners, including DeSoto Campus alumni and Dean, Dr. Keith Reed, who remains a steadfast supporter of UM-DeSoto’s mission. NWCC President Dr. Michael Heindl also shared exciting updates on the future growth of the Ranger Center, providing insight into the expansion of workforce training and health sciences programs.
One of the day’s highlights was a presentation by April Armstrong from Chick-fil-A, who offered a behind-the-scenes look at how Chick-fil-A cultivates a strong and inspired workforce. After engaging the audience with a competition and prizes, she leapt into service mindset by serving lunch and sending us out in the mini-grove for lunch.
The afternoon festivities featured “Trash Can Friday,” with music, games, and DeSoto-themed trivia. Jason Shifflett of Domino’s Pizza delivered an inspiring message about leadership and fearlessness, encouraging all to take bold steps in their careers.
“We had a great day reinforcing those strong connections between our local high schools, Northwest, and Ole Miss Outreach,” said Dr. April Holifield-Scott, Director of UM-DeSoto and Grenada campuses. “This was an excellent opportunity to show our Ole Miss colleagues from across the state what the DeSoto Campus is all about, and we’re so grateful to everyone from the community who showed up to help us tell that story.”
The event underscored the commitment of UM-DeSoto and its partners to supporting students and building a strong educational community. Outreach Day was not only a celebration of collaboration but also a reminder of the shared mission to foster growth and opportunity in DeSoto County and beyond.
