Honors Convocation spotlights student, faculty exceptionalism at Mississippi College

MC's 2026 Honors Convocation celebrated the achievements of students who have demonstrated 'discipline, character and sense of purpose' at the Christian University.

Mississippi College students and faculty who have distinguished themselves through excellence in scholarship, service and leadership were recognized during the 2026 Honors Convocation on April 23 in Swor Auditorium in Nelson Hall on the Clinton campus.

MC Provost and Executive Vice President Michael J. Highfield said the event, which highlights student and faculty excellence, is especially meaningful during the University’s bicentennial year.

“Honors Convocation is one of the most meaningful moments in the life of Mississippi College because it gives us the opportunity to pause and recognize the very best of our students and faculty,” Highfield said. “We are celebrating achievements, but we are also recognizing the discipline, character and sense of purpose behind those achievements.

“For 200 years, this University has been shaped by individuals who pursued excellence in ways that made a lasting difference. The individuals we honor today are continuing that legacy and helping define what the next chapter of Mississippi College will become.”

Christopher Weeks, MC associate professor and director of the Honors College, said the ceremony reflects what takes place in the University’s classrooms every day,

“MC can take pride in the education and instruction that students are receiving,” Weeks said. “To think that a high-level, rigorous university education has been provided at this place for 200 years is astounding. To think of all the students and professors who have come before – all their labor and learning, and all they experienced and achieved – is mind-boggling.

“To now be a part of MC’s ongoing story, to be incorporated into its history, and to know that years from now, people will reflect back on what was, is an honor. It’s also a joy to know that these students will one day be out in the world doing what the Lord has gifted them to do.”

Reed Travelstead, who received the Perry Academic Award in Accounting during the ceremony, said it was an honor to be part of Honors Convocation.

“This recognition was something I did not expect, but I was humbled to accept the award among so many great students,” Travelstead said. “The Honors Convocation gave me a new perspective and appreciation for honoring those who achieve.”

MC President Blake Thompson and Highfield recognized the Perry Award recipients and the Carol C. West Faculty Advocate Award. Winners of the Pittman Young Faculty Award, the Distinguished Professor of the Year Award, the Student Government Association Faculty of the Year, individual MC school awards and the recipient of the Tribesman dedication were also revealed during the ceremony.