The University of Southern Mississippi Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for the Paul H. “Bud” Holmes Criminal Justice Building
Fri, 03/13/2026 - 11:18am | By: Foundation Staff
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) celebrated the formal opening of the Paul H. “Bud” Holmes Criminal Justice Building, a newly renovated home for the School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, March 13.
This state-of-the-art facility, which has undergone a $16.6 million renovation, is the result of generous support from alumnus Paul H. “Bud” Holmes and strategic investments by the State of Mississippi and the University.
Adjacent to M.M. Roberts Stadium, the Holmes Criminal Justice Building will provide students with modern spaces designed for hands-on learning, collaboration and real-life experiences, including specialized laboratories and an academic courtroom, that will shape the trajectory of the program for years to come.
“Today is a day of pride, gratitude and promise for our University and for the future of the School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security. The pursuit of justice is a profound calling, one that demands courage, integrity and an unwavering commitment to serving others,” said Dr. Joseph Paul, president of The University of Southern Mississippi. “This facility ensures they will graduate ready to enter courtrooms, laboratories and agencies with confidence — prepared to shoulder responsibility, to seek truth and to serve with honor.”
Influenced by his father, D.W. Holmes, a prosecutor, municipal judge and former mayor of Hattiesburg, Paul H. “Bud” Holmes has built a life defined by service, leadership and a commitment to justice. His career has spanned military service, the legal profession, public leadership and professional athletics, experiences that shaped his belief in accountability and public responsibility.
A lifelong Pine Belt resident and dedicated supporter of The University of Southern Mississippi, Holmes’ recent philanthropic investment supports the completion and furnishing of the Paul H. “Bud” Holmes Criminal Justice Building while establishing an endowment to provide lasting resources for the School and the students it serves.
“No matter how much I give, I will never be able to repay all that Southern Miss has given me,” said Holmes. “When my children walk by, they can point with pride to this building and know their dad gave back to the University that gave so much to him.”
The renovated facility is designed to align with real-world career preparation. With new classroom spaces, collaborative study areas, advanced forensic science labs and a mock courtroom, students will have unprecedented opportunities that mirror on-the-job training.
“The experiential learning opportunities housed within these walls will strengthen recruitment, enhance research and partnerships and ensure our graduates leave Southern Miss exceptionally prepared to lead and serve in their fields,” said Dr. Chris Winstead, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Mr. Holmes’ support reflects a deep belief in our students and in the vital work they are called to do.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marks the beginning of a new era for the School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security, one rooted in innovation, community engagement and industry-aligned training. More importantly, it stands as a powerful reminder for how private philanthropy can accelerate the University’s mission and expand what is possible for its students.
“We are profoundly grateful for the generous support that made this facility possible,” said Stace Mercier, executive director of the USM Foundation. “Mr. Holmes has been a dedicated supporter and advocate of our institution for many years, and this investment reflects his enduring belief in our students and in the vital work they are preparing to do. His generosity will impact generations of justice seekers who begin their journeys here at Southern Miss.”
Learn more about the Paul H. “Bud” Holmes Criminal Justice Building and the School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security at The University of Southern Mississippi. Visit the USM Foundation for information about supporting the program and other student-centered initiatives.
About the USM Foundation
Founded in 1959, the USM Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to serving the university community by overseeing fundraising efforts to raise private support for scholarships and other academic needs at Southern Miss. For more information on supporting The University of Southern Mississippi, visit the website or call 601.266.5210.
About the College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences at The University of Southern Mississippi is home to 13 schools, two ROTC units, and more than 100 academic programs. Guided by the University’s mission, we educate students, lead the state and nation in research and the creative arts, and advance knowledge across the humanities, social sciences, and STEM. Through innovative research and nationally recognized student success, we provide pathways to understanding the past, solving today's challenges, and imagining the possibilities of tomorrow.