Families Strengthen MSU’s Future Through Record-Setting Giving

The Shepard's Legacy

For Maxine and Mike Shepard, family has always included four paws. The couple has shared 32 years of marriage with four Shetland Sheepdogs—Star Pooka, Star, Remy, and Sparky. They are, as the couple said, “our children.” And their love for them led to a gift to Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine that will create a legacy impacting generations. 

While Mike built a career in plumbing supply sales and Maxine worked for the National Cotton Council, their shared passion for animals remained at the heart of their lives. They told their veterinarian, Dr. James Perkins, about their dream of making a difference in veterinary medicine. Dr. Perkins, an MSU alumnus, suggested a tour of MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, even offering to accompany them. When they made the trip, what they saw was an "eye-opener."

“I was absolutely amazed after touring the facility,” Mike recalled. “Seeing the care, the students’ training, and the way all kinds of animals are treated—it was wonderful. We were thoroughly pleased.”

That one visit inspired a gift through the Shepard’s estate to establish two endowments: the Maxine and Mike Shepard Endowed Scholarship and the Maxine and Mike Shepard Endowed Excellence Fund.

The scholarship, carefully designed by the couple, rewards students for strong academic performance, with support that grows each year until tuition is fully covered by their senior year.  

“I wanted to be sure the students stay in school,” Maxine explained. “Our intention is to have one student in each class, helping four students every year.”

The excellence fund was born out of a midnight realization. 

“I woke up one night thinking about it,” Mike said. “This way, students, professors, or labs can request funding through the dean for whatever is needed. It helps the whole facility, not just one part."

For the Shepards, the gift is both practical and deeply personal. They hope it relieves the burden of student debt, inspires others to give and strengthens the care available for animals far into the future.

"I'm just grateful that we can do this, and specifically for Mississippi State University. Having the opportunity to tour the facility was not only amazing, but it's inspiring to really see what the college is doing for the students and others in the community," Maxine said.

"There are a lot of organizations that you can give to, but I wanted something that would last," Mike said. "This will help a lot of people—and a lot of animals—forever."

The Shepards' generous gift highlights the many meaningful connections that helped the MSU Foundation reach a milestone of over $102 million in private gifts raised for FY25 in the Division of Agriculture, Forestry, and Veterinary Medicine.

A Family Tradition of Giving

The Ishee family also contributed to this record-breaking year. 

Mississippi State has been part of Harold Ishee’s life since he enrolled after returning from military service, earning his degree in agricultural economics. MSU became a family tradition—his son Sid and grandson Zack followed his path, each earning undergraduate degrees from the same department. One month before Harold passed away, he and his wife, Jimmie, established a scholarship fund in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences’ Department of Agricultural Economics. Jimmie has since increased the scholarship. 

“Harold and I, neither one of us had very much growing up, so we feel like the scholarship is a way for students to attend Mississippi State; otherwise, they may not have the opportunity to further their education,” said Jimmie Ishee. “My son and grandson have also given to this scholarship, which we hope to build and keep going. I don’t think you would ever regret giving to help another child get an education.” 

Stewarding the Land for Future Generations

The work in the MSU Division of Agriculture, Forestry, and Veterinary Medicine is rooted in the state’s largest industries, creating an impact that resonates with donors. 

“They see what you do every day, and they place value in what you do,” said MSU Foundation President and CEO John Rush to faculty and staff at the division's annual Summer Summit this August. 

Nearly 20 years ago, Rush helped establish the Bulldog Forest, which now covers 12,600 acres. Another comes through the MSU Foundation through legacy forests. Properties like Andrews Forestry and Wildlife Laboratory and Bowen Spirit Hill Farm support research, conservation efforts, and hands-on learning experiences. Growing up in the outdoors with a father in the timber business, Rush understands the love of the land.

“Our donors enjoy their land,” said Rush. “They take their children and grandchildren to their land. It’s a passion for them, so when they’re at a point to find someone to steward that land and teach the next generation the value and appreciation of that land, there’s no better place than Mississippi State University.”

Those interested in creating a lasting impact at Mississippi State University can visit msufoundation.com.