Historic Mill at MSU dedicated home of Division of Development and Alumni
Contact: Kevin Tate
STARKVILLE, Miss.—The 90,000-square-foot historic cotton mill, a landmark on Russell Street since 1902, is officially home to the Mississippi State University Division of Development and Alumni following a ribbon cutting Friday [April 4].
The division previously called the Hunter Henry Center, on the western edge of campus, home until January of 2024. It moved into the more spacious Mill as final renovations were taking place, having outgrown its prior facility. The division engages graduates and friends of the university to support the betterment of its students, faculty and future, also stewarding gifts that strengthen the mission of the institution, while serving as a rallying force to help alumni interact with the university and one another.
“The Mill stands as a symbol of what we can accomplish by working together. I am grateful for the generous donors who believe in Mississippi State University and the work we are doing to move our state and nation forward who made this project possible,” said MSU President Mark E. Keenum. “In many ways, The Mill is the front door for welcoming guests and visitors to our campus, Starkville and Oktibbeha County. It’s a win-win-win for all of us.”
(Video by Sarah Kirk)
The building became a fixture of the Starkville skyline upon its construction in 1902 and has served in a number of capacities since. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
Housing the MSU Division of Development and Alumni in its easily accessed location just off campus, the building also features ballrooms, meeting facilities, gathering centers and professional offices. Officially dubbed The Mill at MSU, it stands adjacent to a three-story, 461-slot parking garage and 104-room Courtyard Marriott hotel. Accordingly, its halls and breakout rooms have already hosted many conferences, banquets and conventions.
“We’re honored to call The Mill home,” said John Rush, vice president for development and alumni. “It’s a classic building and a place anyone who’s spent much time on campus or in town knows on sight. It was built to weave natural fibers into fabric to clothe a nation. In some ways, that’s a good metaphor for the work we’re doing here today.”
To learn more about The Mill at MSU or to book event space, visit www.devalumni.msstate.edu/mill-msu.