Kay Thomas: MCCer of the Month for June
For 33 years, Kay Thomas has helped tell the story of Meridian Community College. But her own MCC story started even earlier, just upstairs from the office where she works today.
Thomas, MCC’s director of public information, has been named the College’s MCCer of the Month for June. The award is sponsored by the MCC Foundation and honors employees who go above and beyond their regular duties. Honorees are nominated by their peers and receive a plaque and $250.
A Meridian native, Thomas first worked at MCC as a student worker in the library. She later earned an associate degree from MCC and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Mississippi.
Today, Thomas helps share the stories of MCC from students and alumni to supporters and colleagues. She said those people are what she enjoys most about her job.
“It’s the people,” she said. “I’m blessed to work with some of the brightest, most talented, and most caring colleagues anywhere, and they inspire me daily.”
Dr. Leia Hill, chief of staff and vice president of advancement and operations, said Thomas has been a trusted and valued member of the MCC community for many years.
“Kay has served our college for more than 30 years. Her dedication, talent, and strong work ethic have made a lasting impact on those around her,” Dr. Hill said. “She is someone colleagues can always rely on, and she carries herself with professionalism, integrity, and grace. Deeply respected across campus, Kay is truly a treasure to MCC.”
Joy Smith, coordinator of College Communications and Thomas’ supervisor, said Thomas is fully deserving of June’s MCCer of the Month recognition.
“She is incredibly hardworking, consistently dependable, and approaches her work with professionalism and care,’ Smith said. “Her kind and generous nature truly sets her apart.”
Smith said Thomas eagerly goes above and beyond to ensure the college is represented well.
“Kay is willing to do whatever is needed to get the job done,” she said. “Her knowledge of the history of the college makes her a great resource for all things MCC, and she is glad to help in any way that she can.”
Over the years, Thomas has seen many important moments at MCC. She has helped share stories about student success, college milestones and the people who make MCC special. She said those stories are what stand out most from her time at the College.
“What motivates me is that I get to talk and learn about MCC students, faculty, staff, and administrators every day,” Thomas said. “Their drive and passion to make this world a better place inspire me to share their messages with the community and beyond.”
Thomas said the best thing about MCC is the way it makes people feel.
“It sounds like a cliché, but it’s the family atmosphere that the College offers,” she said. “MCC has a way of making people feel connected, supported, and at home.”
Thomas said she tries to live by the Golden Rule, treating others the way she would want to be treated.
Her ties to MCC reach beyond her own career. Thomas’ stepson, Ryan Thomas, and his wife, Ashley, are both MCC alumni. Another grandchild, Brooklyn Baughman, is also an MCC alumna. Her brother and sister, George Culpepper and Dr. Mary Kay Culpepper, are MCC alumni as well. Thomas’ mom, Mary Culpepper, was a non-traditional student at MCC who earned her associate degree after her children received their education.
Thomas also enjoys spending time with her two young grandchildren, Evelyn Josephine Thomas, 6, and Conner Lane Thomas, 3.
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/mccerofthemonth.