MISSISSIPPI
Front Row (left to right): Dr. Carol Weems; Amy Carter, Gail Lindsey, Mary Graham, Dr. Linda Coats (Coordinator)
Back Row (left to right): Dr. George Thomas (Coordinator), Tyson Elbert, Debbie Fremin; Terry Cox, Jimmy Henderson, Dr. James Burnham, and Dr. Matthew Boggan
Not Pictured: Edna Waller
The Mississippi EPFP site was established in 1996 and has graduated over 125 alumni. Fellows are sponsored by human service agencies, private sector organizations, school districts, universities, and community colleges. A special effort is made to recruit from a broad range of agencies. The diverse range of Fellows’ backgrounds and experience has facilitated exploration of the systemic nature of major educational and social issues facing the state. In terms of Mississippi’s future, collaborative leaders who are "boundary spanners" are required for real progress to occur. The goal of the Mississippi site is to build a statewide cadre of diverse leaders who understand educational policy issues and processes. All training is designed to build common ground and common values and, most importantly, to nurture a new generation of leaders willing to confront public policy issues facing the state. A positive example of Mississippi’s commitment to education and future development is embodied in the state’s EPFP program. Mississippi’s program and research is currently focused on pre-kindergarten and its potential effect on the state’s future economic growth. This vision looks twenty years into the future with the goal of making sure Mississippi is competitive in a growing global economy. Mississippi EPFP meets monthly, usually in Jackson, the state capital, for a period covering parts of two days. The typical program starts with a dinner and speaker on the first evening and concludes in the afternoon of the second day. Speakers include education, business, legislative, political and government leaders. Additionally, case studies, simulations, personal assessments, and group assignments allow Fellows to reflect on their personal leadership styles and their ability to bring about change. Recruitment is statewide. The Mississippi site is affiliated with Mississippi State University and the Montgomery Institute.
MISSISSIPPI COORDINATORS
George Thomas
Professor and Chair
Department of Education
Mississippi State University – Meridian
1000 Hwy 19 N
Meridian, MS 39307
(601) 484-0178
FAX (601) 484-0279
gthomas@meridian.msstate.edu
George M. Thomas is chairman of the Education Department on the Meridian campus of Mississippi State University. He is a Professor and teaches in the area of Counselor Education. George also serves as a member of the Meridian city council and is entering his sixth four year term. In his professional activities he has served as the international president of Phi Delta Kappa and continues to serve as an author-lecturer for PDK. He was previously a member of the board of examiners for the Mississippi licensure board for counselors and is a Licensed Professional Counselor and also a National Board Certified Counselor. His professional experience includes positions in schools and universities in several other states. George has spoken and presented workshops in thirty two states and has led numerous international study travel seminars. His consulting experiences include work with public and private schools, mental health facilities, and industry.