Welcome to the daily email for media members that includes news and notes from The University of Southern Mississippi. Today's message include news releases about the USM College of Business and Economic Development's Eagle Scholars program and a reminder that the Blaine Quarnstrom Playwright Series will be coming to the Hattiesburg campus later this month. In addition, Political Science Associate Professor Joseph Weinberg is available to discuss the ongoing U.S. government shutdown.

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.

Today's Top Story

USM College of Business and Economic Development Seeks Eagle Scholars

The College of Business and Economic Development at The University of Southern Mississippi is encouraging students to begin the Spring 2019 semester by applying for the Eagle Scholars program.

Through this scholarship and leadership development program, Eagle Scholars receive $8,000 per year, the possibility of a study abroad scholarship, and the opportunity to participate in a series of professional development programs.

http://news.usm.edu/article/usm-college-business-and-economic-development-seeks-eagle-scholars

Additional News Release

2019 Blaine Quarnstrom Playwright Series Featuring Robert Icke Coming to USM

Opening the 2019 Spring semester, The University of Southern Mississippi English and Theatre programs will host the 2019 Blaine Quarnstrom Playwright Series featuring playwright Robert Icke from Jan. 24 – 27 on the Hattiesburg campus. This limited engagement will include two public Q&A sessions regarding Icke's artistic process and his reflection on the current industry trends on Jan. 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the Tatum Theatre and Jan. 25 at 10 a.m. in the Hartwig Theatre.

http://news.usm.edu/article/2019-blaine-quarnstrom-playwright-series-featuring-robert-icke-coming-usm

Photo/Video Opportunity

Situated on 100 acres in Ocean Springs, USM's Marine Education Center serves as the education and outreach arm of the University's School of Ocean Science and Engineering and provides a unique experience for participants in a natural coastal setting. Included in the 32,000-square-foot facility are public exhibits, laboratories and meeting spaces, as well as outdoor learning experiences featuring trails, outdoor and floating classrooms, and a pedestrian suspension bridge. To schedule coverage, contact James Skrmetta at 228.872.4254 or james.skrmettaFREEMississippi

Expert Availability

USM Associate Professor of Political Science Joseph Weinberg is available today to discuss the ongoing partial shutdown of the federal government. 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.

Did You Know?

Southern Miss has partnered with Boeing to lead research and development on next-generation composite materials to make aircraft lighter and safer.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a comprehensive public research institution delivering transformative programs on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites in central and southern Mississippi, as well as online. Founded in 1910, USM is one of only 76 public universities in the nation to earn the Carnegie Foundation's "higher research activity" designation for doctoral universities, and its robust research enterprise includes experts in ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, and sport venue safety and security, among others. USM is also one of only 40 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, art and design, dance and music. As an economic driver, USM generates an annual economic impact of more than $600 million across the state. USM welcomes a diverse student body of approximately 15,000, representing 71 countries, all 50 states, and every county in Mississippi. USM students have collected four Truman Scholarships and 35 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, while also leading Mississippi with 21 Goldwater Scholarships, an honor that recognizes the next generation of great research scientists. Home to the Golden Eagles, USM competes in 17 Division I sports sponsored by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). For more information, visit usm.edu.