MSU-Meridian criminology student Ginger Long receives Mitchell Award
Contact: Marianne Todd
MERIDIAN, Miss.—Ginger Long is being honored this week with Mississippi State University-Meridian’s Dennis J. Mitchell Award of Excellence for 2025.
The Meridian resident will receive the award from the Division of Arts and Sciences when she also receives her bachelor’s degree in criminology during commencement ceremonies Wednesday [May 14].
“I’ve always been naturally curious, a trait that made criminology the perfect major for me,” Long said. “I am fascinated about the decisions we make as humans, and I’m passionate about the idea that one day I’ll be able to contribute to the safety and well-being of communities around me.”
As part of her degree program, Long participated in MSU’s Quality Enhancement Plan, known as the Bulldog Experience. She received firsthand training in Meridian’s municipal night court and at the local substance abuse center, TAME.
“Crime impacts everyone, whether we realize it or not,” Long said. “By exploring the ‘why,’ we gain the knowledge needed to better understand and ultimately prevent it.”
Long transferred to MSU-Meridian in 2023 after attending Bevill State Community College in Hamilton, Alabama.
“Ginger brings a spark to the classroom with a perfect mixture of inquisitiveness and humor. She always goes beyond what I require,” said Amanda Cox, MSU-Meridian associate professor of criminology.
Under Cox’s tutelage, Long has studied the various ways she can use her criminology degree, focusing on intelligence-led policing. Long said the in-class coursework and out-of-class experiences solidified her career goals. She plans to pursue a master’s degree and hopes to become a crime intelligence analyst.
“I’ve developed a strong and versatile skill set that I’m proud of and eager to use to contribute meaningfully to my community,” she said.
For more information on MSU-Meridian’s criminology degree program, visit meridian.msstate.edu/academics/arts-sciences.
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