Jackson Free Press

The last few weeks have been rewarding for Mississippi State University. Good news started coming the Bulldogs' way even before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Each year, 32 American students receive the Rhodes Scholarship—one of the most celebrated, coveted and prestigious international fellowships—on the basis of scholarly achievements, character, leadership potential, and commitment to others and the common good.

This year, 2010 Vicksburg High School graduate and Mississippi State senior English and philosophy double-major Donald M. Brown was one of the 32 Rhodes Scholars. Brown is Mississippi State's second Rhodes Scholar and the first since 1911.

The Rhodes Trust, a British charity established in the will of businessman and mining magnate Cecil J. Rhodes, provides the scholarships. The scholarship's goal is to promote international understanding and provide full financial support for students pursuing graduate degrees at the University of Oxford, one of the world's leading institutions of higher learning.

Brown is the son of Willie and Cynthia Brown and was an outstanding athlete at Vicksburg High. He helped co-found "The Streetcar," the school's literary magazine, and was very active in intramural sports. He was also a ranked tennis player.

Mississippi State added an Egg Bowl victory to the pride of having a Rhodes Scholar just days later. The Bulldogs defeated their in-state rivals, the Ole Miss Rebels, 17-10 in overtime.

This week, MSU picked up another award when senior offensive guard Gabe Jackson won the 18th C-spire Conerly Trophy and the inaugural Hull award. The Conerly goes to the best college football player at a four-year college or university. The Hull award goes to the best college offensive lineman.

Jackson is the first offensive lineman to win the Conerly award, as well. He will likely be a highly coveted guard in next year's NFL Draft.