Notable UM alumni encourage leadership, kindness and pursuing passions
When the members of the class of 2023 graduate on May 13, they’ll complete one journey and commence the next. Building on the legacies they’ve established at the University of Mississippi, they are ready to go forth and apply the talents, education and verve they’ve developed as Ole Miss Rebels.
Urging them on are the many successful alumni who have come before them. Whether they’ve entertained us, achieved professional feats, served the better good or blazed new trails, these outstanding alumni from the College of Liberal Arts illustrate what it means to build a legacy. Check out the advice they’re offering the latest graduates:
Heather McMahan
Standup comedian, actress, social media star and podcast host Healther McMahan advises graduates to live life fearlessly to avoid regretting the things they didn’t do. Submitted photo
A standup comedian, actress, social media star and host of the podcast “Absolutely Not,” Heather McMahan (BFA 09) earned a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts at UM and began pursuing her comedic craft soon after graduating. She is traveling the U.S. on her “Heather McMahan: The Comeback Tour.”
“They say one ‘never really leaves Ole Miss’ and that’s true, not because you have an outstanding tab at The Library sports bar, but because the lasting friendships will endure a lifetime. As you embark on this next chapter of life, there will be many unknowns. Live your life fearlessly, you will only regret the things you didn’t do. Show up for others because at the end of the day, you’re only competing with yourself. Always remember your attitude is everything, so strive to be someone people want to emulate.”
Bill Reed
Bill Reed
Senior counsel in the law firm Baker Donelson, Bill Reed (BA political science 72, JD law 77) served as president and COO of the firm from 1998 to 2005. As an undergraduate at UM, Reed was president of the Associated Student Body and a member of the Hall of Fame. In law school, he served as editor-in-chief of the Mississippi Law Journal and graduated first in his class. He is the 2022-23 president of the Ole Miss Alumni Association.
“Graduation from Ole Miss is not the end of your journey to success. It is just the beginning. Whether the next step in your journey is to continue your education in the classroom or in the workforce, true success will require focused effort, patient dedication and the steady support of your friends, family and fellow alumni. So, when the toasts and speeches have ended, resume your journey, knowing your future is bright, and there are countless Rebels cheering for you.”