MCCer of the Month: Marion Whiting
Marion Whiting did not expect her college studies in public relations and servant leadership to lead to a career focused on supporting students beyond the classroom.
Today, that background guides her work at Meridian Community College.
Whiting, MCC’s director of housing and student activities, oversees a wide range of responsibilities, such as coordinating housing staff and residence assistants, managing the Quave Student Life Center, and handling student behavioral issues with both firmness and compassion.
“She sets clear expectations while remaining a reliable and respectful support system for students, always showing professionalism, dignity, and care,” an MCC colleague noted. “In every action, Marion exemplifies what it means to serve with integrity, school spirit, and a heart for others, making her an ideal example of MCC’s mission in action.”
Because of her dedication, Whiting was named MCCer of the Month for January. The MCC Foundation sponsors this monthly award to exemplify the College's hardworking employees who go above and beyond their day-to-day duties. Honorees are peer-nominated. In addition to a commemorative plaque, recipients are gifted $250.
Whiting said the most enjoyable part of her job is bringing an event idea to life. “We want to provide a special experience for students who may not be able to participate in something similar if there weren’t a student here. Our team aims to plan things that are for the students and meet the needs/interests of what they want to be a part of while studying here at MCC. Now, I know the students better - who likes coffee, who likes to paint, who likes to dance - it truly helps you connect in so many different ways,” she said.
Another colleague noted that Whiting has transformed the student experience by increasing the frequency, quality, and impact of student events, all while bringing a positive, can-do attitude.
Whiney Stevens, associate dean of enrollment services and Whiting’s supervisor, said Whiting puts the students at the forefront. “Marion has a heart for what she does. The late nights, early mornings, and extended weekends are a result of her passion for the students and their experiences during their time at MCC. She connects with the students to ensure every event hosted surrounds what they love to do,” Stevens noted.
Connecting with others is a way of life for Whiting. “I have been a part of the MCC family since August 2023, having my first day just four days after marrying my husband, Matthew. Since then, I have been the lead recruiter for the recruiting team, and then settling into my position now,” she said.
A native of Bay St. Louis, Whiting earned her bachelor’s degree from Mississippi College; last month, she received her master’s degree in higher education with a focus in student affairs from Arkansas State University.
When asked what motivates her, Whiting said a year ago she may have answered differently. “But as my husband and I are just a few weeks away from welcoming our first little one into the world, I have to say I am motivated by a blessing from the Lord who we want to provide a happy, safe, creative, and memorable life for,” she said.
She also values the support she receives from her MCC colleagues. “From supervisors, to coworkers, to others that I supervise, I have been immensely blessed with people who are like-minded and kind to work with. They are truly my family and some of my dearest friends,” she said.
Visit meridiancc.edu/mccerofthemonth for more information.