Mike Tonos Retires After Decade of Service to Journalism School

Tonos' path to Ole Miss began as an undergraduate in 1969 with aspirations of becoming a doctor. Inspired by the era of Watergate and fueled by a lifelong habit of reading newspapers, he shifted his focus and earned his journalism degree in 1973.

That decision launched a storied career in Mississippi journalism, one that ultimately led him back to his alma mater as an educator and mentor.

"Looking back, I never expected to teach," Tonos said. "But I've always loved working with people and helping them grow – in the newsroom and in the classroom."

Tonos spent decades in community journalism and held key editorial roles at newspapers across Mississippi, including managing editor of the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal and the Sun Herald. He earned a reputation for developing young journalists.

After a one-year teaching stint at Tulane University, he transitioned into academia full-time at Ole Miss in 2015 following three years as an adjunct instructor.

Journalism professor Charlie Mitchell, a longtime colleague and friend, was the first to call Tonos when the program needed help.

"It seems like I've known Mike all my life, although we never worked together until he came to Ole Miss," Mitchell said. "When we needed a journalism adjunct, he was my first call.

"I have always respected the thoughtful ways he worked with others, and his name has consistently been associated with quality journalism in Mississippi. Everything he has done, he has done well. I admire his devotion to his family and the professions we have been lucky to share."

Beginning as a feature writing instructor, Tonos brought the same real-world approach to his students that once helped him guide reporters.

"Journalism today looks nothing like it did when I started," he said. "But at its core, it's still about curiosity, writing clearly and telling compelling stories. That's what I tried to instill in every student."

He witnessed and adapted to changes in the media industry and in higher education, moving from typewriters and headline counts to smartphones and social media.

Tonos' thoughtful classroom presence made a lasting impact, said Delaney Girard, a senior integrated marketing communications major from Sanford, Florida.

"He always came to class early and propped the door open," Girard said. "He would stand at the front of the class and say hi to every single student. If we had time, he would walk around and ask about your day, your weekend – really anything to get to know you more.

"Taking that student-professor relationship and making it deeper made his class more enjoyable and unique."

Even years after she had taken his class, Girard said Tonos remembered her.

"I took his class two years ago, and I didn't think he would remember me, but he did," she said. "We ran into each other at IMC Connect and he checked in on my time at Ole Miss and my plans for after graduation.

"I have seen him several times since then, and he is one of the most genuine professors I have met in my time here."

Tonos is also known for his quiet, behind-the-scenes leadership. He served as interim chair of the journalism department, guided new adjunct faculty, coordinated course schedules and helped develop new curriculum offerings when the school launched its fashion promotion and media specialization programs.

"There's an old saying: 'If you see a snake, shoot it,'" Tonos said. "I've always tried to take care of what needed doing – because if not me, then who?"

Tonos leaves behind an unmistakable legacy: a student-first ethic, a reputation for institutional service and a deep affection for Ole Miss.

Even in retirement, he plans to remain involved part-time, a testament to his love for teaching and connection to the school.

"I'm not climbing ladders anymore," Tonos said. "But I still want to help students, support the faculty and do my part to make this place better."

Top: Mike Tonos, who has guided Ole Miss journalism students for more than a decade, is retiring from his full-time faculty role. Tonos, who has worked for newspapers across Mississippi, plans to remain involved in the School of Journalism and New Media in a part-time role. Submitted photo