Retirement, Service Year Celebration honors longtime MC employees for their dedication, leadership

Vicki Williams, secretary in the MC Department of Communication, and Matt Steffey, professor in the MC School of Law, will be among more than 65 employees honored during the 2025 Faculty and Staff Retirement and Service Year Celebration.

Vicki Williams had never stayed in a job longer than three years when she arrived at Mississippi College as a receptionist in Enrollment Services. That career pattern remained intact when she left the department 18 months later to serve as a secretary in the MC Department of Communication.

That’s where she finally found her occupational niche.

“There is enough variety in work assignments and people that the job has stayed interesting,” said Williams, who is retiring from MC after more than 25 years in Communication. “Hands down, I have enjoyed the people. I treasure the friendships I’ve made with staff and faculty and students. It’s a blessing to be here.”

During his 35-year career in the MC School of Law, Matt Steffey has witnessed how the University has touched each of his family members’ lives. His wife, Adrienne Dupre, is an MC Law graduate, and their two children – born during his time on MC’s faculty – went on to earn their degrees at MC.

“There are few things more gratifying than seeing students become professional peers and going on to great things,” said Steffey, professor of law.

Williams and Steffey are among more than 65 MC employees to be honored during the 2025 Faculty and Staff Retirement and Service Year Celebration, scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 1, in Anderson Hall in the B.C. Rogers Student Center.

The event will begin with a reception, followed by a program that will recognize those retiring from MC, like Williams, and their colleagues who have achieved milestone year at MC, like Steffey.

“Honoring this year’s retirees at Mississippi College is a meaningful way to recognize their years of dedication, leadership and impact on the institution’s growth and community,” said Mary Ellen Stewart, MC assistant professor and chair of public health who organized the celebration. “Their unique contributions have shaped the University’s legacy. The ceremony is a tribute to their lasting influence.

“Recognizing service-year milestones for MC employees acknowledges their dedication and contributions to MC while fostering a sense of value and appreciation. Such recognition enhances morale, strengthens our community and reinforces the University’s commitment to its values.”

Steffey, who joined MC Law in 1990, said the warmth, diversity and excellence of the law faculty attracted him to the University.

“I felt MC Law would be a supportive environment that reflected my values,” the Brandon resident said. “I’ve enjoyed working in a law school that values personal relationships, which is not something to be taken for granted in legal education. I’ve also enjoyed the opportunity to work on longstanding law reform matters with the Mississippi Supreme Court and Legislature.”

MC Law Dean John Anderson calls Steffey a “legend” at the school.

“For more than three decades, he has been a favorite among students, known for his brilliant insights and quick wit,” Anderson said. “In addition to his excellent service as a teacher and scholar, Prof. Steffey represents the law school and University in addressing major political, historical and legal events before the local and national press.

“He is a wonderful mentor to our junior faculty and he continues to be an indispensable advisor and resource.”

In addition to his research, Steffey has taught more than a dozen different courses and chaired and served on several MC Law committees. He also serves as the school’s media representative and often provides legal analysis publicly.

“Each of my faculty colleagues and dean has enriched my life,” Steffey said.

With two sons in high school, Williams was drawn to the Christian environment that Mississippi College offered.

“I had planned to work until they finished school and then find something else to do,” the Jackson resident said. “I liked it so much that I stayed.”

Reid Vance, professor and chair of Communication, describes Williams as “the heart of our department.”

“Not only does she provide outstanding administrative support for our faculty, she provides a voice of wisdom for our students,” Vance said. “She is intentional in her prayer for our students and alumni. When our graduates return to campus, they always visit Vicki because of the impact she had on their lives. She exemplifies commitment to the cause of Christ.

“I’m thankful for Vicki’s years of service to MC and even more grateful that she’ll be staying with us part-time to continue her vital work.”

Williams, who has begun working toward certification in Biblical counseling, said she has grown in her relationship with the Lord and with others at MC.

“I’ve been encouraged to be a lifelong learner,” she said. “I’ve been honored to serve as Staff Club Chaplain five terms. Serving and encouraging others has been a wonderful blessing.

“People will forget what you said; they will never forget how you made them feel.”