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The John C. Stennis Institute of Government
ABOUT THE INSTITUTE
Elected to the United States Senate in 1947 with the promise to "plow a straight furrow to the end of the row," |ohn C. Stennis recognized the need for an organization to assist governments with a wide range of issues and to better eouip citizens to participate in the political process. In 1976, Senator Stennis set the mission parameters and ushered in the development of a policy research and assistance institute which was to bear his name as an acknowledgment of his service to the people of Mississippi.
Created as a service and research arm of Mississippi State University, the |ohn C. Stennis Institute of Government was established on Februaiy 9, 1976. Announcing its formation during a two-day Forum on Politics honoring U.S. Senators |ohn Stennis and Margaret Chase Smith, MSU President William L. Giles outlined the Institute's mission and goals. According to Giles, the Institute would seek to integrate research, service, and teaching activities to improve government in the state, as well as promote the training of students who seek careers in public service.
Twenty-fouryears later, the Institute has remained true to that initial charge. By providing meaningful, applied research to both local and state units of Mississippi government, the Institute brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to bear on real-world issues. Through its executive development programs, training opportunities, and technical assistance programs, the Institute provides support for today's policy-makers from the courthouse to the classroom. And, by playing an active role in the development of tomorrow's governmental leaders, the Institute is working to ensure that Mississippi's future remains strong.
Like the majority of public servants in the State, the staff of the Institute are generalists, bringing the wide range of their experiences and talents to bear on a diverse range of issues. From political analysis and commentary to economic development activities, the topics delineated on any list of ongoing Institute projects clearly illustrate this diversity. In addition, by utilizing the considerable resources available in the various departments and colleges of the University, the Institute brings considerable expertise and experience to bear upon its individual projects and activities.
Recent project partners include the lackson County Board of Supervisors (related to water management issues), the Public Service Commission (related to water supply and distribution issues), the Mississippi Judicial Advisory Study Committee (related to redistricting of chancery and circuit court districts), and numerous state agencies, including the Department of Corrections, the Office of the Secretaiy of the State, the Department of Marine Resources, and the Mississippi Legislature.
In addition, the Institute maintains strong ties with all local government organizations within the state, working on a daily basis with both the Mississippi Association of Supervisors and the Mississippi Municipal League.
Post Office Drawer LV *The Depot Building • Mississippi State University* Mississippi State, MS 39762 www.sig.msstate.edu • (662) 325-3328 voice • (662) 325-9199 fax