MC’s Miley, Stout named William Winter Scholars

Coley Stout and Randy Miley display the certificates they received for being recognized as William Winter Scholars.

Randy Miley, professor and department chair of art at Mississippi College, and Coley Stout, a senior English literature major from Memphis, Tennessee, were each recognized as William Winter Scholars during the 37th annual Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration at Copiah-Lincoln Community College Feb. 26-28.

The scholars engaged with leading authors, historians and cultural scholars during the celebration that explored the people, movements and moments that have defined the meaning of freedom in the American story.

“It is truly an honor to receive this award,” Miley said. “I have been teaching art for 48 years in Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida at all grade levels. With all of the changes in my job, one thing remained a constant: I wanted to expose my students to art in the context of culture. It begins in Mississippi, and the rich cultural heritage that we have in this state.”

Miley said the William Winter Scholar carries great personal meaning.

“I have admired and respected William Winter since my youth,” he said. As a young man working in a downtown Jackson law office that shared a building with Winter’s firm, Miley would often ride the elevator with the former Mississippi governor. “I was amazed that he took the time to talk to me and inquire about my interests. During one of my first years at MC, Gov. Winter attended an art exhibition in our Gallery. I was very honored.”

Stout said his selection as a William Winter Scholar is a reflection of the MC English faculty and their didactic method of teaching.

“I have been shaped in how I think, write and analyze, not only within the literary discipline, but also in my approach to the world at large,” Stout said. “I am grateful to represent my institution at this event. It has helped me learn more about literature framed by the freedom we find in our country.

“I hope I have represented Mississippi College well in her commitment to academic excellence and the cause of Christ.”

Each year, community colleges and universities throughout the state select an outstanding faculty member and student from their humanities divisions to be designated as William Winter Scholars. They are selected because of their commitment to the humanities and excellence in teaching and learning.