Mission

The Grisham-McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement advances transformative service throughout the University and fights poverty through education in Mississippi.

Vision

The Grisham-McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement will be recognized for expanding community engagement throughout the University of Mississippi and for its success in addressing poverty in Mississippi through mutually beneficial partnerships.

Core Values

The McLean Institute for Community Development was founded in 1984 to honor the legacy of newspaper publisher George McLean, whose mission was to raise the quality of life for all Mississippians.  McLean understood that universities could be a resource for communities and regions seeking to raise their own quality of life.  George and Anna Keirsey McLean are the patrons of the Institute.

The founding director of the McLean Institute, Dr. Vaughn Grisham, would approach communities with the intent to listen, and asked two questions: “What one or two changes or improvements will have the greatest positive effect on your lives and the people of this immediate area?  What are YOU willing to contribute to this process?”  As the Grisham-McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement broadens its mission to further the UM 2020 Strategic Plan, it will move forward in adherence to the following principles that honor the work of George McLean and Dr. Vaughn Grisham:

The Grisham-McLean Institute will reflect the following values in its organization and programs:

Academic Excellence: The Grisham-McLean Institute promotes community engagement opportunities that enrich classroom learning.

Transformation: Through engaged scholarship and reflective community action, the Grisham-McLean Institute promotes transformation through service by connecting university research, teaching, and service activity with community partners to serve communities across the state.

Respect: The Grisham-McLean Institute values the strengths and assets of all people and the organizations with whom we partner.

Integrity: The Grisham-McLean Institute believes in listening honestly, processing information accurately, and following through on its commitments.

Inclusion: The Grisham-McLean Institute fosters inclusivity and cultural humility in its work.

Students in SOC 451 worked at Mississippians Engaging in Greener Agriculture in Shelby, MS to build planter boxes for a teaching garden.