Welcome to the daily email for media members that includes news and notes from The University of Southern Mississippi. Today's message includes an announcement about the official dedication and ribbon-cutting of USM's new Marine Research Center, plus a news release regarding Robin Aronson being honored by the Lessac Training and Research Institute. In addition, biology Professor Mohamed Elasri is available to discuss possible threats to humans from dog and cat saliva.

Media inquiries can be directed to Van Arnold at 601.266.5568 or van.arnoldFREEMississippi or David Tisdale at 601.266.4499 or d.g.tisdaleFREEMississippi.

Special Event

USM to Hold Ribbon-Cutting for New Marine Research Center

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held Friday, Sept. 21, at 10 a.m. celebrating the opening of USM's new Marine Research Center (MRC). The Marine Research Center is the centerpiece for a new maritime Blue Economy in South Mississippi. Encompassing nearly 18,000 square feet, the MRC is the shoreside support to USM's 135-foot research vessel, the R/V Point Sur, and to a number of academic programs.

The building is operated by USM's School of Ocean Science and Engineering, which offers programs in marine and coastal sciences, including the only Bachelor of Science in ocean engineering in Mississippi and the only certificate in Unmanned Maritime Systems in the nation.

To schedule coverage, contact James Skrmetta, SOSE Communications Officer, 228.872.4254, James.SkrmettaFREEMississippi.

News Release

Aronson Earns Lessac Training and Research Institute's Highest Honor

The Lessac Training and Research Institute (LTRI) has recognized University of Southern Mississippi faculty member Robin Aronson with the highest honor it bestows to one of its members. Aronson, professor of voice and acting in the USM Department of Theatre and a Lessac Certified Trainer, recently earned the institute's Leadership Award for outstanding leadership contributions to the Institute.

http://news.usm.edu/article/aronson-earns-lessac-training-and-research-institute-s-highest-honor

Media Expert Availability

Bacteria found in the saliva of dogs and cats has been linked recently to infections resulting in serious medical conditions. USM biology Professor Mohamed Elasri is available today to discuss the possible dangers from being licked by a dog or cat. To schedule an interview, email mediaexpertsFREEMississippi. For a full list of USM media experts visit: http://news.usm.edu/resource/usm-faculty-experts-media-requests.

Photo/Video Opportunity

The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies will sponsor a free, one-day homebuyer education workshop today for any residents in Jones and surrounding counties interested in buying a home. The workshop will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Laurel Housing Authority at 50 Brown Circle in Laurel. To schedule coverage, contact Alma Ellis at 601.432.6975, alma.ellisFREEMississippi

Did You Know? 

As the leading research institution for the Gulf South, The University of Southern Mississippi educates nearly 15,000 students, supports approximately 7,000 jobs, and has an annual economic impact of more than $600 million on the state.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Founded in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi is a comprehensive doctoral and research-driven university with a proud history and an eye on the future. A dual-campus university, Southern Miss serves students on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, in addition to five teaching and research sites in Mississippi and through Online at Southern Miss. Since 2006, our students have collected three Truman Scholarships and 18 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships. USM students also lead Mississippi with 21 Goldwater Scholarships, an honor that recognizes the next generation of great research scientists. Our Drapeau Center for Undergraduate Research affords our students meaningful research opportunities, and as a proven leader in innovation, we conduct transformative research that translates into real-world solutions. As one of only 36 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, art and design, dance and music, we are a haven for creativity and artistic expression. In the classroom or lab, on the playing field, or in the performance hall, we strive to have a positive impact not only on our students, but also the world around us. Further information is found at usm.edu.