The University of Mississippi announced on Apr. 17 that its Department of Political Science will be named in honor of former Mississippi Governor Ray Mabus, following approval by the Institutions of Higher Learning board of trustees. The naming recognizes Mabus’ long career in public service and his connection to the university as an alumnus.
The decision is significant for the university community, highlighting the impact alumni can have through public service and philanthropy. More than 120 donors, including alumni, friends, foundations, and businesses, contributed to an endowment supporting teaching, research, and student opportunities within the department.
Chancellor Glenn Boyce said, “One of the tremendous hallmarks of our alumni is how they take their Ole Miss education and build lives of service and purpose. Alumnus, former Mississippi governor and former secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus is one of our highest examples of a lifetime of achievement. We are grateful to him and the many alumni and friends who generously contributed to this deeply meaningful naming of our Department of Political Science.”
Mabus served as U.S. Secretary of the Navy from 2009 to 2017 under President Barack Obama—the longest tenure since World War I—and was previously appointed ambassador to Saudi Arabia by President Bill Clinton in 1994. He was elected governor in 1988 at age 39 after serving as state auditor.
Reflecting on the honor, Mabus said: “This naming is deeply touching. This has moved me in ways very few other things have.” He added: “To have my name associated with the school that gave me my start – the school that I love and remain closely connected to – means the world to me.”
Lee Cohen, dean of Liberal Arts at Ole Miss said: “Secretary Mabus has long embodied the value of a liberal arts education… Those capacities have clearly served him well throughout a lifetime of leadership and service to others.” John Bruce, chairperson for political science at Ole Miss noted that private support like this endowment will help expand opportunities for students and faculty.
Former state Representative Cecil Brown praised Mabus’ achievements: “Very few Mississippians have achieved Secretary Mabus’ level of success in both state and national politics,” Brown said.
Mabus concluded by encouraging students: “Do something to make a difference… Public service isn’t the easiest or most lucrative path but I can’t think of anything more fulfilling.”
