Megan Artz
Assistant Director, Cooperative Education
Serving in the role of Assistant Director of Cooperative Education, I oversee our co-op and internship program. While on a co-op or internship, students are able to gain hands-on experience and learn about different industries. I love seeing students confirm their career paths while also growing professionally. Our employers give students the ability to to participate in real-time projects, sit in on meetings, and present to company employees. My favorite part of my job is when a student comes back from completing a co-op or internship and they’ve been offered a job with their company.
I’ve been with the Career Center in Cooperative Education for over 10 years and began as a career advisor for our engineering students seeking co-op opportunities. As an MSU alumni (’07, ’09), I love that I get to work on campus.While I started my career in vocational rehabilitation and then worked for a federal grant, my favorite aspect of those jobs was career development. I quickly realized that was were my passion was and jumped on the opportunity to work at the Career Center, the rest is history!
While students are a large proponent of my role, I also get to work with our amazing employers. Whether it’s helping new employers setting up a co-op or internship program or assisting one of our campus partners with recruitment I love sharing what great candidates our students make. Building a talent pipeline is often the reason employers choose to begin a co-op or internship program and a great benefit from having co-ops and interns. If you’re company is looking to hire MSU talent, I’d love to chat with you!
Favorite Campus Spot: Mitchell Memorial Library. As a lover of books and history I appreciate all our library has to offer and it’s such a great resource for our students. I also have great memories of staying up way too late studying for exams with friends during graduate school. Many cups of coffee have been bought from Einstein Brothers!
Caragh Boyles
Associate Director, Assessment & Internships for PSPA
Student Populations I Serve:
- Department of Political Science & Public Administration
- Washington, D.C. Internships (all majors)
As Associate Director of Assessment and Internships for PSPA I support both the MSU Career Center and the Department of Political Science and Public Administration (PSPA). Through this multifaceted position I serve as a campus contact for Washington, D.C. internships for employers and students, and as a Career Advisor for students in the PSPA Department providing guidance in the areas of resume/CV development, job/internship search assistance, career planning, and graduate school research/preparation. One of the things I enjoy most about my role at MSU is engaging students in the career development process and connecting them with relevant experiential learning opportunities.
Favorite Campus Spot: The Chapel of Memories
Payton Burns
Manager of Data & Technology
As the Manager of Data and Technology at the Mississippi State Career Center, I am primarily responsible for overseeing the First Destination survey, which tracks the career outcomes of our graduates. This crucial survey helps us understand and enhance the career success of Mississippi State students. In addition to the First Destination survey, I manage all internal data and technology needs for the Career Center including external requests while also serving as the system administrator for Connections, our career software.
As a graduate of Mississippi State, I am passionate about our student population and culture and am grateful to have the opportunity to give back to the University that offered me so much. Throughout undergrad, I was heavily involved in various organizations around campus that brought me a beautiful perspective of what MSU truly stands for. Taking that passion and love for the University and combining it with my technology background has given me nothing but joy for the work that we do. With this, my goal is to leverage data and technology to drive informed decision-making and support the Career Center’s mission of providing exceptional career services to all audiences we serve.
If you’re curious just how successful our amazing student population is in finding their place after college, let’s chat!
Favorite Campus Spot: The Chapel of Memories. With all of its history and beauty, it has an iconic presence both on campus and in my life. On top of the hours spent there through college, I proposed to my wife right in front of it! It serves as a gorgeous landmark, but also a reminder of how beautiful our University is.
Toria Carter
Assistant Director of Career Exploration
Student Populations I Serve:
- Office of Academic Affairs
- Undeclared
- University Studies
- Data Science
- Applied Science
- Any student exploring different majors
Joining the MSU Career Center in January 2024, I serve as the Assistant Director of Career Exploration. In this role, I am dedicated to guiding students through the pivotal stages of their career development journey by primarily helping them to choose a major. With a strong focus on personalized career counseling, I help students identify their passions, strengths, and professional goals, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures.
I bring with me a wealth of experience in career services from the University of Georgia, where I served as the Career Consultant for the Terry College of Business and Assistant Director of Career Diversity Programs. These roles encompassed career advising, employer relations, and program development.
I’m so excited to be back at my alma mater to help current Bulldogs create the career paths they desire. I do this by debunking some of the scary myths that come with major selection and career development. Through career assessments, the Career Planning course, or tailored workshops, I thoroughly enjoy helping students figure out their career plans.
Favorite Campus Spot: The Humphrey Coliseum. Both my dad (Greg Carter ’91) and younger brother (Tyson Carter ’20) were members of the MSU Men’s Basketball Team. Growing up my dad also served as an Assistant Coach, so I hold many fond memories in the Hump!
Ricky Clifton
MBA - Coordinator of Employer Engagement
Student Population I Serve:
- College Business Graduate Programs
Working in Employer Engagement with graduate students in the MSU College of Business gives me the occasion to do two things that I love. First, I have the opportunity to apply my own career experience to help our students position themselves in the best way possible to achieve their own careers, and to be strong contributors on Day 1 wherever their career path leads. Second, I am able to connect with employers and recruiters to understand their talent needs and use this information to further assist College of Business students to meet the expectations of tomorrow’s job market.
I joined the MSU College of Business in 2023 as Coordinator of Employer Engagement for the Graduate Programs. Prior to this I spent 30 years in Engineering and Manufacturing leadership roles in the Health Technology sector, working with some of the best and brightest people around the world in both private sector and government agencies. My goal is to utilize this experience and network to assist College of Business students to maximize their preparedness and opportunities as they transition into their own careers.
I hold a B.S. in Electrical Engineering as well as a Master of Business Administration from MSU. I assist College of Business students through resume development, interview preparation, cover letter assistance, job search & strategy, networking opportunities, negotiating skills, taking ownership of their careers, and other job search and career preparation needs.
Favorite Campus Memories: The leaves turning in the Fall, snow covered campus, and baseball season.
Specialties and Interests
Recruiting, Interview Prep, Networking, Engagement, Resumes, Personal Career DevelopmentLavone Cockrell
Career Advisor
Student Populations I Serve:
- College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Human Health)
- College of Forest Resources
I joined the MSU Career Center team two years ago as career advisor for CALS and CFR and I’ve been excited ever since! I’m thrilled to be part of the MSU community and work with such an incredible team. My background experience in the field of education includes, higher education, public K-12 schools, charter schools, and federally funded programs. I am a first-generation, non-traditional college student with a BS in Family Studies and a MS in Educational Psychology.
My experience working with traditional and non-traditional students gave me the opportunity to witness their growth and confidence as they navigated their academic journeys. Their successes, both big and small, continue to inspire me to strive for excellence. So, my pivot to career services was the next step in helping students transition to their careers. Whether the appointment is in-person or virtual; for a resume critique or internship, I love helping students figure out which career path is the best fit for them.
Favorite Campus Memory: My favorite campus memory is the day I interviewed with the Career Center. I met two sweet, smiling ladies, on the elevator, who would later become two awesome co-workers!
Katie Corban
Associate Director for Career Services and Programs
Student Populations I Serve:
- College of Veterinary Medicine
- The Graduate School
- Disney College Program
As the Associate Director of Career Services and Programs, I lead the career advising staff and coordinate career programs and outreach for our MSU students. My goals are to increase student participation in events and improve the visibility of the Center and our services across campus.
As a proud alumna of Mississippi State, I bleed Maroon and White. I hold a Master’s in Student Affairs and a Bachelor’s in Communication with a Public Relations emphasis. My favorite career topic is interviewing, and I love sharing the importance of gaining experiential learning while in school. I didn’t know what I wanted to do after graduation and decided to participate in the Disney College Program, an experience I now enjoy sharing with students!
Favorite Campus Spot: My favorite campus spot while in school was the State Fountain Bakery, which was located where Moe’s now is. I was thrilled to hear that with Perry’s renovation, it will be moving back!
Martha Jones
Associate Director of Employer Relations & Recruiting
As the Associate Director of Employer Relations and Recruiting in the Career Center at Mississippi State University (MSU), I lead efforts to coordinate the daily operations of on-campus recruiting, job postings, employer-specific career events, and provide oversight for all employers development. I recently celebrated 25 years of service at Mississippi State University, with all those years dedicated to the Career Center.
One area of my position I enjoy the most is building relationships with employers. These relationships help me understand their recruiting needs and advocate on their behalf. Over the years, observing and adapting to recruiting trends has been a fascinating and rewarding challenge.
I truly enjoy working with employers. While they share some similarities, each employer possesses a unique quality that I find engaging. By getting to know employers individually, I am better equipped to assist them in achieving their organizational recruiting needs.
Favorite Campus Spot: Chadwick Lake. When the weather permits, I love my walks around the lake. The beautiful lake is so peaceful and calming. On breezy and mild temperature days, I really enjoy the occasional mist from the fountains.
Tiffany Key
Bulldog Mentor Program Coordinator
As the coordinator for the Bulldog Mentor Program, I work closely with the MSU Alumni Association to oversee our student-alumni mentorship program. My favorite things about my job are being a part of our vibrant Bulldog community and witnessing the connections, relationships, learning opportunities, and shared experiences that are cultivated through mentorship.
Engaging with students is at the heart of my work, and I love hearing their stories, learning about their goals and future aspirations, and cheering them on as they navigate their academic and professional paths. I am passionate about student wellbeing and supporting our students as they create their own definitions of success. My ultimate goal as a program administrator and course instructor is to foster a supportive environment that promotes academic excellence, career development, and a sense of belonging for all students.
Favorite Campus Spot: Hardy Road during the fall when the leaves are changing
Ruthie Lang
Event Coordinator
I come from Orlando Florida with a Masters in Hospitality Management from UCF (Go Knights!) My family moved to Starkville in 2016 and have been here ever since. We are an MSU family through and through with my husband working just across from Montgomery Hall as an Accounting Professor in McCool Hall. It is the greatest privilege I can think of to be here on campus, working to connect our incredible students with the equally incredible employers and opportunities the Career Center works so hard to provide.
As the Event Coordinator, I oversee the logistics of the Career Center’s many events. We host a variety of events including our large multi-day Career Expo, focused college specific fairs and interview days. When our students come to these events they have the opportunity to connect with hundreds of employers and it is a privilege to be a part of bringing these opportunities to our campus. I hope to see you at our next event!
Favorite Spot on Campus: Eckies Pond. When we first moved to Starkville, we lived in faculty housing and spent a lot of time on campus. I have many memories of picnicking with my small children by the pond, watching the turtles and the fish and enjoying the history and beauty of our campus.
Merrie Morgan Lovelady
Business Manager
As the Business Manager of the Career Center at Mississippi State University, I manage, coordinate, and oversee the business operations of the department, I help maintain the smooth functioning of all financial aspects within the department, including budget management, financial planning, and resource allocation, to ensure that we can provide optimal services and opportunities for student career development.
I graduated from Mississippi State in 2017 and couldn’t stay away for long! I came back to join the university in 2019 and have cherished every minute working here. I truly believe this is a special place filled with special people. The Career Center is driven by a passion for serving students, and I am so lucky to be a part of it!
Favorite Campus Spot: Dudy Noble Field. I spent countless hours at Dudy Noble while serving as a Diamond Girl throughout my college career. It also happens to be where I met my husband, who was on the MSU baseball team from ’15-’17. Dudy Noble will always hold a special place in my heart, and it’s so fun to now bring our daughter to a place that holds so many fond memories.
Jenny Mehri
Career Advisor, Cooperative Education Program
Student Population I Serve:
- College of Engineering
Hello! My name is Jenny Mehri, and I joined Mississippi State University in 2021 with over 8 years of experience in higher education and student affairs. I currently serve as the Cooperative Education Career Advisor for several majors within the Bagley College of Engineering at Mississippi State University, including Aerospace, Biological, Biosystems, Civil, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Technology. Prior to my appointment at Mississippi State, I served in numerous roles at Mississippi College and the Mississippi University for Women that included advising, proctoring, admissions, planning and implementing student orientation, and developing student accommodations plans. My background also includes several years of experience working with Federal Grants, and management of both grant-related and departmental finances. I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Mississippi State University, a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Mississippi College, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Favorite Campus Spot: Dudy Noble Field
Bethany Mills
Executive Director
As the Executive Director of the Career Center at Mississippi State University, I lead efforts to connect students with career opportunities and foster partnerships with employers. I am passionate about ensuring accessible services for all students and guiding them towards meaningful careers. As we continue to find new and innovative ways to serve students, I look forward to continuing to partner across campus and in the community to ensure students’ career success.
While I spent over a decade of my career at the University of Georgia’s Career Center, it feels great to come back to my alma mater (’06, ’09) to support our vibrant community through career services that prioritize experiential learning and industry integration. If you’re an MSU alum or an employer looking for diverse, talented individuals, let’s connect!
Favorite Campus Spot: The Drill Field. Each time I walk across campus for a meeting, I remember my first time setting foot on the Drill Field with my Roadrunner and immediately feeling as if I was “home”. That feeling continues as I have found my work “home”.
Daniel Morgan
Career Advisor
Student Populations I Serve:
- College of Education
- College of Arts & Sciences (Physical Sciences)
- Pre-Health | Liaison to the Health Professions Resource Center
As a Career Advisor, I believe a person’s core values and professional skill development play a prominent role in their career success and satisfaction. I thrive to help students connect with professional paths and resources to get them closer to their goals.
Through my role at the Career Center, I have the privilege of serving students within the College of Education, Physical Science majors within the College of Arts & Sciences, as well as students within Pre-Health paths. It is absolutely a thrill to work with amazing students and alumni providing resources, guidance, professional skill-development best practices, and more to help individuals recognize their own goals and vision.
From working at MSU’s campus radio station, 91.1 FM WMSV, to providing academic resources and support to Bulldog student-athletes within the Office of Athletic Academics, to my time at the Career Center, I have enjoyed every moment of being a part of the Mississippi State family.
If there is ever anything I can do to help benefit your professional journey in any way, just let me know!
Favorite Campus Building/Spot: The on-air studios of 91.1 FM WMSV. Not only did MSU’s campus radio station allow me to be surrounded by one of my biggest loves (music!), it was also where I met my future wife!
Leslie Neal
Manager of Employer Engagement & Events
With over 16 years of experience here at Mississippi State University (MSU), I’ve worn many hats in the Career Center! While my journey started with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies focused on Graphic Design in 2004, I quickly found my passion for employer engagement and student career development during my time at the Career Center. As Manager of Employer Engagement and Events, I collaborate with the Associate Director of Employer Relations and Recruiting to support our MSU Career Center Employer Partners and promote career opportunities for students. I thrive on overseeing high-visibility career development events like our Career Expo, crafting marketing strategies, and networking with employers, making every day impactful.
Earning my Master of Arts in Teaching with an emphasis in Community College Education from MSU in 2017 has been invaluable. This degree has sharpened my ability to design effective career education initiatives and offer insightful consultations for students and employers alike. Guiding students through their career journeys and helping employers discover top talent fills me with pride and drives my commitment to MSU’s community!
Favorite Campus Building: My favorite campus building, hands down, is Critz Hall! Back in my undergraduate days, I met some incredible people at MSU – including my husband! But it was as an RA at Critz where I built lifelong friendships. Even though students nowadays jokingly call it “Crusty Critz” (which always cracks me up!), back when I was there, it had just been newly renovated. I’m truly grateful for the connections and memories made at Critz, and it will always hold a special place in my heart!
Peyton Pigott
Employer Recruitment Coordinator
As Employer Relations Coordinator, I am here to make recruiting on campus as easy and seamless as possible. Having worked in the recruiting space in third party and corporate recruiting, I understand and appreciate the needs of those who go out of their way to recruit top talent at colleges and universities. I also graduated from Mississippi State University not long ago, which also allows me to consider the habits and needs of the applicants.
Favorite Campus Spot: I may be biased since I manage them, but I genuinely love the Mezzanine in Montgomery Hall. Being housed in one of the oldest buildings on campus, it holds so much history as well as providing arguably the best views of Davis Wade Stadium and the Junction.
Kate Pratt
Administrative Assistant
As the Career Center’s Administrative Assistant I have the privilege of interacting with both students and employers. While most of my role is internal, I can see the effects of our work on the most minute level as well as marvel at our impressive long-term accomplishments. I genuinely enjoy coming to the office every day and I am so pleased to be able to help set the tone of welcoming inclusiveness.
I have chatted with freshmen on their first visit to explore their own future career options, seen them polish their resumes with our student worker team, and assisted with our workshops and career events. Freshmen quickly become familiar faces over the next few years as they return to follow along with our career readiness services- eventually checking in as seniors to meet with on-campus recruiters in our interview spaces. Working with recruiters results in hearing the overwhelmingly positive feedback from companies that hire our well-prepared candidates. Seeing students go through this process really emphasizes the importance of the work we do!
Favorite Campus Spot: I love walking through the Cullis & Gladys Wade Clock Museum. The entrance is through the lobby of the Cullis Wade Depot. I love to stand still, close my eyes, and listen to the rhythmic ticking.
Haley Pritchard
Program Assistant, Cooperative Education
As the Cooperative Education Program Assistant at Mississippi State University’s Career Center, I’ve had the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by overseeing student records, and assisting students with the process of both finding a co-op or internship and ensuring that they are on the correct path with our program. I’m passionate about empowering others and helping them achieve their goals, and I take pride in being a part of an organization that shares that same mission.
My journey at Mississippi State University started in 2017 as a student worker for the Office of the Registrar. I quickly realized that working with students and being apart of the MSU family was my passion. Upon beginning my career with the Career Center in 2022, I have been able to build upon that passion through career services and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to develop strong relationships with both employers and students, and I’ve been inspired by the countless stories of success and growth that have resulted from our collaborative efforts. I’m committed to continuing to learn and grow alongside my colleagues, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for our program and for those we serve.
Favorite Campus Spot: Davis Wade Stadium and The Junction. There is nothing quite like spending a Saturday during the Fall watching MSU football with family and friends. Hail State!
Amy Skelton
Career Advisor
Student Populations I Serve:
- College of Architecture, Art & Design
- College of Arts & Sciences (Social Sciences)
- Military-Connected
- Student-Athletes
As a Career Advisor in the MSU Career Center, it is my joy to assist students with their professional development. Through one-on-one appointments, class presentations, career fairs, and workshops, I help students with resume writing, interviewing, job searching, career fair prep, and so much more. It is my desire to meet every student where they are in their career journey – from their first steps on campus to walking across the stage at graduation- and anywhere in between.
I’ve been a member of the Career Center team since 2016, becoming a Career Advisor in 2019. Before this, I taught Kindergarten for a few years, Preschool for a few more, did medical transcription from home (working remote before “working remote” was a thing!), and then as a Counselor Assistant with the MS Department of Rehabilitation Services. While each of these work experiences varied greatly, one thing remained constant – my desire to help others.
That desire is met daily while advising students in the College of Architecture, Art & Design, the College of Arts & Sciences (Social Sciences), Military-Connected Students, and Student Athletes. I could be helping an Art student with a resume one moment and then a football player with interviewing the next!
Favorite Campus Memory: My first Men’s Basketball game back in the ’90s! I was still in high school and went to the game with my sister and brother-in-law. Our opponent was the #1 Kentucky Wildcats, and the Hump was like nothing I had ever experienced. I can still remember how loud the boos were when Rick Pitino came onto the court! To this day, one of my favorite things to do is enjoy a game in the (newly-renovated, state-of-the-art) Humphrey Coliseum!