Ole Miss Staff Celebrate Milestones and Academic Achievements Together

"The Red and Blue Celebration, which kicks off our commencement ceremonies schedule is a joyous occasion that celebrates the accomplishments of our people," Provost Noel Wilkin said. "These employees have earned their degrees while working for our institution.

"It is heartwarming to see our own employees take advantage of the wonderful educational opportunities that we offer."

Launched in 2018, the Red and Blue Celebration of Achievement honors staff members pursuing their education while working at the university. Each graduate received a red-and-blue cord to wear when they cross the stage during this year's Commencement ceremonies.

For Le'Catherine Ivy, school has never come easy. Her struggles discouraged her from pursuing a bachelor's degree, until her family encouraged her to reach her goals while working in the Ole Miss telecommunications office.

"From someone who wasn't supposed to graduate from high school due to academic struggles to someone who not only earned a high school diploma but also completed an associate degree – and now a bachelor's degree from the University of Mississippi – I can say that this journey has been nothing short of miraculous," Ivy said.

While reflecting on her academic journey, Ivy said it was the faculty and her family that helped her never give up.

"I faced the same academic struggles, but I had incredible professors who pushed me to keep going," she said. "Along with the support of my village, I wouldn't be here without them. It's overwhelming to think about how far I've come, especially knowing the odds I faced.

"Walking across that stage feels surreal."

Le'Catherine will celebrate her graduation alongside her mother, Vernita Ivy, operations coordinator in the Department of Aerospace Studies. The two will graduate with degrees in multidisciplinary studies. Le'Catherine's degree includes minors in disaster sciences, psychology and social work, and Vernita's degree includes psychology, recreation administration and social work.

"I wanted to give up," Vernita Ivy said. "I sat up there, working full time, and it was really difficult. What I'm most proud of is that we are sitting side by side earning the same degree.

"I love that I can spend this time with my daughter."

This year's Red and Blue Celebration class included seven bachelor's degrees, 18 master's degrees, two certificates and three doctoral degrees. Participating employees represented departments across campus, including the schools of Applied Sciences, Education, Engineering and Pharmacy.

Deborah Dunn, who has earned a master's in hospitality management while working in the Department of Student Housing, said she set out to accomplish everything others said she couldn't.

"I got pregnant with my son while attending Northwest Mississippi Community College, and many people told me I wouldn't finish school because I was going to be a mother," Dunn said. "My ultimate goal was to prove them wrong, and I did, three times with three degrees.

"After a short break, I plan to pursue my doctorate."

All staff members who earn degrees while working full time should be applauded, Wilkin said.

"Not only does this expand their opportunities, but it also advances their abilities and perspectives, which enables them to advance in roles that they have on our campus," he said.

The Red and Blue Celebration is part of the 2025 Commencement activities. For more information about Commencement, click here.

Top: Deborah Dunn (right) shakes hands with Provost Noel Wilkin during the Red and Blue Graduation ceremony. Photo by Srijita Chattopadhyay/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services.