Mississippi State University awarded two students who embody the values of the university the titles of Mr. and Miss MSU.

The titles are merit-based honors awarded each homecoming to two students who possess academic excellence, display commitment to the university and are able to distinguish themselves in a series of interviews.

The students crowned Mr. and Miss MSU represent the student body during Mississippi State’s Homecoming and host a variety of activities, such as the Pancakes on the Plaza. They also receive the honor of being presented on the field during the homecoming football game.

Miss MSU 2017 is Anne Marie Currie of Caruthersville, Missouri, a senior biochemistry major. She is the daughter of alumni and said she grew up loving MSU.

“I tried to convince myself some of the other SEC schools were better, but absolutely not,” Currie said. “Mississippi State is home.”

The MSU community means a great deal to Currie. She said being crowned Miss MSU is an honor and a culmination of all the work she has put into the university.

She said she looks forward to representing the student body along with close friend and Mr. MSU, Nicholas Harris, who served with Currie as an orientation leader.

“We’ll truly just be a representation of Mississippi State welcoming alumni, students, friends, family throughout homecoming week,” Currie said.

Currie said she is was very excited about being named Miss MSU and believes she made a difference at the university which has made a large impact on her life.

Currie was a member of the Freshman Forum, the Junior Panhellenic Council, Mortar Board Honor Society and is currently the President of Chi Omega sorority and the Secretary of the Lambda Sigma Honor Society.

Currie said she has cherished her time in the variety of organizations MSU has to offer.

Currie said she encourages people to get involved with campus organizations.

“Any time you have an inkling or wanting, go for it wholeheartedly,” Currie said. “If you are willing to give something your all that won’t go unnoticed. Do your research, be a servant and really show them that you have the passion and drive to be successful.”

Director of Orientation and Events Kylie Forrester said Currie is very deserving of this title.

“She is probably one of the most genuine, caring and compassionate people I have ever met,” Forrester said. “She has a servant’s heart.”

Lauren Blalock, secretary of Chi Omega, also said Currie’s character makes her stand out from the crowd. 

“It’s a blessing (working with her). She’s so encouraging and so positive,” Blalock said. “It makes doing any job ten times easier.”

In addition, Blalock said Currie is able to make time for those she cares for, no matter how busy she may be, which she feels makes Currie the perfect Miss MSU.

“She really embodies the hospitality and generosity that make Mississippi State such a great place to call home,” Blalock said.