Business Advisory Council
Guiding the Future of
Southern Miss Business
The Business Advisory Council (BAC) is a dynamic group of forward-thinking professionals and alumni who are passionate about shaping the future of business education at The University of Southern Mississippi. Since 1999, the BAC has played an integral role in helping the College of Business and Economic Development adapt to an ever-changing business landscape by offering guidance, expertise, and support to enhance the student experience.
By working alongside the dean, BAC members help ensure our curricula remain relevant, uncover new opportunities for growth, and identify ways to better prepare students for success in their careers. Together, the council serves as a bridge between the classroom and the real world, ensuring our students are not just ready for business, but ready for life.
Making An Impact
Being a member of the BAC is both rewarding and flexible. Your time and expertise as a member have a profound effect on the future of Southern Miss Business. Meetings are held two to three times a year, typically over lunch, where members discuss goals, initiatives, and ways to make a greater impact.
Outside of council meetings, members have many opportunities to get further involved. Some choose to join a subcommittee working on specific initiatives while others may participate in special opportunities, such as Experience Business Casually, where students get advice and coaching from executives on topics such as professional attire, interviewing skills, resume development, appropriate attire, and more.
Additionally, the BAC celebrates the success of national known entrepreneurs and our very own Southern Miss Business alumni by recognizing an Alumni of the Year, Young Alumni of the Year, and Entrepreneur of the Year at the annual Business Excellence Awards.
Membership Opportunities
The contributions of the BAC go far beyond meetings and discussions. Financial support from council members directly fuels initiatives that elevate the college and create transformative opportunities for business students and faculty. These contributions have funded research fellowships, provided scholarships for study abroad programs, and supported engagement activities that connect students with industry professionals.
Whether you’re an individual looking to make a difference, a young professional, or a representative of a corporation, there’s a place for you in the BAC. Membership options are designed to make it easy to contribute in a way that aligns with your goals:
- Full Membership: $1,250 annually
- Young Membership: Complimentary for the first year, followed by $250 annually until full membership is reached
- Corporate Membership: $3,000 annually, including three memberships
- Lifetime Membership: A one-time contribution of $25,000
Ready to Join?
Let us know you are interested in being a part of our work by emailing USMBACFREEMississippi.
Meet Our Members
Our Business Advisory Council members are accomplished leaders who represent diverse
industries and perspectives.