- March 2018
Advancement Coordinator
College of Veterinary Medicine
MSU Starkville Campus
Years in Position: 15
Years at MSU: 17
Melissa Montgomery is determined to make the world a brighter place through service and stewardship. At the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, she is known as a philanthropist.
Montgomery works alongside the college’s dean, primarily on fundraising projects. She manages the college’s annual giving program, handles gift administration and donor relations, identifies and cultivates donors and coordinates events. Montgomery also crafts and edits press releases and development stories.
Choosing a career so focused on others’ needs was not halfhearted. Both Montgomery and her coworkers chose their positions for a purpose.
“It’s wonderful to know there are many philanthropists from all walks of life who want to enrich the world,” Montgomery said. “Each colleague has different goals in mind, but I notice that they share a common thread – the desire to help others.”
Often, Montgomery’s dedication proves worthwhile through meeting people as passionate as herself. One such person included one of the nation’s leading animal experts, Jack Hanna.
“One of my favorite memories was having lunch with him,” she said. “He’s very personable, and I appreciate his conservation work.”
At the end of the day, Montgomery considers herself grateful for the ways her position allows her to connect with and influence others.
“I enjoy spending my time helping others and making a real impact in the lives of people and animals,” she said.
Outside of work, Montgomery enjoys running, photography and cheering on her children in their endeavors. She and her husband John have two children, Madeline and Nathan.
