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About the Mississippi Geographic Alliance

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  5. Empowering Mississippi Through Geographic Literacy​

Empowering Mississippi Through Geographic Literacy​

The Mississippi Geographic Alliance (MGA), based at the University of Mississippi, is dedicated to enhancing geographic understanding across the state. We promote hands-on exploration of the world and foster geographic literacy through dynamic educational programs and resources.

MGA partners with civic leaders, policymakers, and educators to:​

  • Support K–12 Teachers with professional development and classroom resources​
  • Inspire Students through innovative outreach programs and experiential learning​
  • Inform Decision-Makers with geographic insights that shape smarter policies​

Our mission is to prepare Mississippi students to thrive in a diverse, interconnected world—equipping them with the knowledge to succeed in the global economy and the responsibility to care for our planet by Empowering Mississippi Through Geographic Literacy​.

Stay Connected

Keep up with the latest MGA news, events, and opportunities. Follow us on social media, browse recent press releases, and check our calendar to stay informed and engaged.

MGA Upcoming Events

Yazoo City Conservation Day

The Conservation Camp takes place on July 17 at the Ricks Memorial Library in Yazoo City, MS. This event is part of the library's "Unearth A Story" Summer Reading Program.

  • July 17, 2026 - July 17, 2026
  • 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
  • Ricks Memorial Library. Yazoo City, MS

Rankin County Professional Development

Session 1/2Geography in the Real World: Integrating Math & ScienceParticipants will explore how geography connects math and science through the hands-on Critter Cubes activity. Teachers will experience the lesson, discuss classroom adaptations, and leave with practical strategies for integrating geographic thinking into STEM instruction.Session 3National Geographic Slingshot Challenge: Local Solutions to Global QuestionsEducators will learn how to guide students in identifying local issues, developing innovative solutions, and creating one-minute solution videos for the National Geographic Slingshot Challenge.Session 4/5Where and Why Do We Care?: Integrating Geography Across ELA and Social StudiesParticipants will discover ways to incorporate geographic thinking into ELA and Social Studies to strengthen literacy, civic engagement, and connections between local communities and global issues.

  • July 27, 2026 - July 27, 2026
  • 8:30AM to 3:30 PM
  • Rankin County, MS

MGA Past Events

From hands-on learning experiences to community partnerships, MGA has had the opportunity to engage students, educators, and communities across the state. Visit our Past Events page to explore photos and highlights from previous events and see the lasting impact of our work in action.
Check out our past events

MGA Staff

Meet our Mississippi Geographic Alliance staff.
Ellen Foster

Ellen Foster

  • Professor of Teacher Education
Angelique Stallings

Angelique Stallings

  • Project Manager

Partnerships

The Mississippi Geographic Alliance (MGA) is made possible through the support, collaboration, and shared vision of our valued partners. These partnerships help expand educational opportunities, strengthen community connections, and bring meaningful geographic, environmental, and civic learning experiences to students and educators across Mississippi.

Through grant funding, collaborative projects, and strategic partnerships, MGA is able to extend its reach and create impactful programs that inspire stewardship, exploration, and lifelong learning. We are grateful for the organizations that invest in our mission and help make our work possible.

Explore the partnerships below to learn more about the organizations helping MGA make a difference throughout our state.

The MGA is a collaborative partner with Delta Health Alliance with the DOE American History and Civic Education Grant and Delta Health Care Services Project. Through this partnership the MGA provides civic stewardship education and environmental science opportunities for students in Washington, Leflore, and Issaquena Counties.

MEEA is a Collaborative partner with MGA serving on the board. Through this network MGA is able to connect with other informal educator, share MGA’s mission, and grow our partnerships.

MGA Collaborated during our 2025 Summer Camps. Stoneville hosted a career day for our students during summer camp.

Join the MGA for Free

Become part of the Mississippi Geographic Alliance community at no cost. By joining MGA, you'll stay connected with upcoming events, professional development opportunities, educational resources, partnerships, and the latest news from across the state. Complete the form below to join our network of educators, students, and community partners who are passionate about geography and learning.