By Aron Smith
Jackson State University’s College of Liberal Arts (COLA) has named its lobby in recognition of Randy M. McGee, a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major (E9) and esteemed JSU alumnus who passed away in 2023. The estate of McGee also gifted the COLA $225,000 to further the university’s mission of transforming lives through education.
“As we honor Randy’s memory and legacy, let us also reflect on his profound impact on the places he touched, including Thee I Love Jackson State University and all the lives he changed. From his selfless service to his steadfast commitment to excellence, he embodied the essence of being a Jacksonian,” said JSU President Marcus Thompson, Ph.D., as he warmly welcomed the McGee family and JSU community to the event on Tuesday, Feb. 27.
McGee, who served 27 years on active duty worldwide with courage and distinction, completed five deployments to Iraq, demonstrating unwavering dedication in combat arms service. His exemplary contributions earned him multiple accolades, including two Bronze Star Medals, a Purple Heart Award, and numerous Meritorious Service Medals.
Despite his impressive military career and extensive community involvement, McGee was known for enjoying the simple pleasures in life and spreading joy wherever he went, according to his family and friends.
Rico Champman, Ph.D., dean of the College of Liberal Arts, further shared that the funds have been distributed to various departments and centers within the CoLA for its growth and development, supporting student scholarships, facilitating faculty development initiatives, and providing additional incentives to enhance departmental operations.
Additionally, some funds have supported the centers within the College of the Arts, including the Margaret Walker Center, Richard Wright Center, and Alcohol and Drug Studies Center. This financial support aims to bolster these centers’ ongoing efforts and initiatives in advancing their respective fields.
“We decided to be good stewards of the funds by sharing them. We felt it necessary to share part of the funds with each department in the College of Liberal Arts scholarships for students, faculty development for faculty, and other incentives to grow departments and continue their excellent work,” he stated.
Since its establishment in 1877, Jackson State has benefited from dedicated alumni, friends, and supporters, commemorating named spaces across the JSU campus to honor its significant contributors.
Gwendolyn Caples, interim vice president for Institutional Advancement and External Affairs, highlighted the significance of named gifts while contributing to student support.
“Today’s ceremony underscores a dedication to education, leaving an enduring imprint on JSU’s campus and, notably, enriching the student experience,” she emphasized. “Named gifts provide donors with a means to honor their loved ones, as exemplified by the generous donation of $225,000 from the family of Mr. Randy M. McGee to name this beautiful lobby in his honor.”
McGee pursued higher learning at Jackson State University, earning his bachelor’s in industrial technology management. He furthered his studies at Webster University in Saint Louis, Missouri, obtaining a master’s in human resource management.
After retiring from the U.S. Army as a Command Sergeant Major (E9), McGee transitioned seamlessly to a new service chapter. His charisma and unwavering commitment to veterans resonated with the Veterans Administration, where he was appointed as the Patient Advocate, continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
During this period, McGee found love and companionship with Candace Elise Taylor, whom he married.
Taylor dedicated her speech to the enduring spirit of a compassionate individual whose strength and love inspire all who have walked the campus, ensuring Randy M. McGee Lobby will continue to remember his legacy.
“I want to express my gratitude to Jackson State University for the opportunities provided to Randy, the teachings imparted, and the invaluable advice offered. Your guidance shaped him into the person he became, serving as a compass throughout his life. Today, I believe he is smiling down, saying, job well done,” she said.