From land to sky, from sea to space, and in countries around the world, Mississippi State University is taking care of what matters during an action-packed summer.

In the realm of things that matter, global food security ranks at the top. For years, we’ve been recognized as a leading research institution in this critical area. In June, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations designated MSU as a Reference Center for Antimicrobial Resistance and Aquaculture Biosecurity—one of only four institutions worldwide to achieve this distinction.

I’m thankful I was able to travel to Rome with a delegation of MSU leaders to participate in this momentous announcement. As a Reference Center, we’re supporting FAO’s mission to promote the responsible use of antimicrobials in aquaculture, which will advance global food and nutrition security.

We’re leaders in the marine world, too. MSU’s Global Center for Aquatic Health and Food Security recently received a $2 million grant to monitor the restoration of marine mammals and sea turtles in the Mississippi Sound. Continued research in this area is critical in reducing world hunger by supporting sustainable aquaculture and the ecological health of aquatic resources.

From national security to study abroad opportunities to scientific innovation, MSU students are leaders who continue to excel in highly competitive scholarship programs, including those awarded by the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright U.K. Summer Institute and the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.

We’re also taking care of what matters on campus as we prepare to welcome students in the fall. Summer orientation was especially meaningful for my wife Rhonda and me this year because it was our first time to experience it as parents. Rett, Mary Phillips and Katie Keenum entered the world together as triplets, and in the fall, they’ll start their MSU journeys together as freshmen.

There’s so much going on at Mississippi State and so much to look forward to. No matter how you’re spending your summer, make sure you stay connected with us on our exciting journey into the future!