The dean’s office at Mississippi State University administers a student relief fund for students in crisis to help them achieve their educational and career goals when they need it most.
Thomas Bourgeois, MSU dean of students, said MSU is such a special place, and this fund is another way the university and its supporters step up to help students in times of crisis.
“We hope that student groups looking for fundraising opportunities on campus will remember the student relief fund. There is no overhead. One-hundred percent of money donated goes directly to students,” Bourgeois said.
Tyler Camp, chief administrative officer of the MSU Student Association, said this fund allows for a collaboration of the Division of Student Affairs, Dean of Students’ Office, MSU Foundation, the Athletic Department and the SA.
“I absolutely support the MSU Student Relief Fund. First off, I am a firm believer in a strong partnership. It shows unity across our campus,” Camp said. “Thankfully, we don’t have to tap into this fund very often. However, it is great knowing that we have this in place for when and if a disaster happens. When a local apartment complex caught fire a few years back, this fund was made available to those student victims. I know it would serve as a sign of relief if I personally found myself in such a predicament.”
Bourgeois said these funds are held by the MSU Foundation and administered by the dean’s office.
“This student relief fund was created by generous donors after Hurricane Katrina to help students in crisis,” Bourgeois said. 
Bill Broyles, assistant vice president for student affairs at MSU, said he is especially thankful to the donors who have provided these funds to help students in their times of need.
“I am so glad that we have this needy student fund. The funds that have been donated to the MSU Foundation to help needy students give us a way to help our students achieve their educational and career goals when they need it most,” Broyles said. 
Camp said this year’s SA administration worked diligently to make sure the students’ needs were top in their priorities.
“If a student is ever in need of assistance due to a tragedy or disaster, they are always welcome to contact our office. We are constantly on standby ready to help,” Camp said.
Broyles said this is just an example of what makes MSU such a special place.
Lauren Sledge, SA secretary-elect ,said duing her time at State she has become keenly aware that many of the students do not even know the Student Relief Fund exists, much less how to apply for aid.
“As the new secretary, I want to raise awareness for the Student Relief Fund by having a Student Relief Fund Awareness Day to educate students and community members on what the relief fund does. I also want to educate people on how to donate to the fund and how to apply for aid if needed,” Sledge said.
Broyles said this fund shows the spirt of state.
 “The generous donations from many, many members of the MSU family are a testament to how much we all care for each other,” Broyles said.
For more information on the student relief fund, those interested can call 325-3611 or visit the dean’s office.