Mississippi State’s political and legislative connections will soon expand when Lt. Gov. Amy Tuck becomes the newest special assistant to President Robert “Doc” Foglesong. Tuck, who has served as lieutenant governor since 2000, graduated from MSU who has a degree in political science and a master’s degree in public policy and administration. Tuck is a native of Maben, a town less than 20 miles from Starkville.
Tuck said she applied for the special assistant job. Her salary will be about $160,000, which is more than twice her salary as lieutenant governor.
“It was an opportunity,” she said. “There was a position available, I put in my application and got the job. Once I was selected I had to be approved by the board of trustees and the president.”
Tuck said she looks forward to returning to her alma mater.
“I’m looking forward to working with the community, staff, alumni and students,” she said. “I’m looking forward to working at [the university]. Some of my professors are still [at MSU].”
Tuck will join the MSU staff in January when her official state duties are complete.
Although their jobs will share a similar title, Jeffrey Rupp, special assistant to the president for marketing and development, says Tuck’s job will be different than his, focusing more on economic development, public policy and state issues.
“I think it’s a real coup for the university,” Rupp said. “If we want to grow, it’s going to take [her] political connections to make sure the university is moving forward.”
The addition of Tuck to MSU shows her confidence in the university at this point in her career, said Marty Wiseman, director of the Stennis Institute of Government.
“[Tuck] is the first MSU graduate to serve as lieutenant governor,” he said. “[Her choice] says something about MSU and about her career. She’s one of the greatest at grassroots politics. This will be a win-win situation for all.”
Adding Tuck to MSU’s staff will not necessarily guarantee changes on any administrative levels, Wiseman said.
“[Tuck] will build on Foglesong’s knowledge of how Mississippi works as far as appropriations and politics which can’t help but be an advance,” he said.
Tuck’s experience in state politics is one positive characteristic she’s bringing to MSU, said Sen. Jack Gordon, D-Okolona, who served with Tuck.
“I think she’ll be a real asset [to MSU],” he said, “She has experience with the government, experience with government funding and will be able to secure that funding for the university.”
Gordon said Tuck’s wide breadth of knowledge will help the university.
“I think it’s a plus for Mississippi State because she’s very knowledgeable in many areas, including education,” he said.
Prior to serving as lieutenant governor, Tuck served in the state Senate, where Sen. David Jordan, D-Greenwood, said she supported him when his role as Greenwood City Council member and state senator came under question.
“She supported me through the whole ordeal, and I supported her when she ran for lieutenant governor,” Jordan said.
He said with Tuck’s help, they were able to secure funding for Mississippi Valley State University.
“She should do well. She’ll be good for MSU,” Jordan said. “I wish her well.