Sports
Golding Family Makes $2.5 Million Donation to Mississippi State Athletics

STARKVILLE, Miss.(MSU Athletics)– The Golding family, longtime supporters of Mississippi State University from Vicksburg, Mississippi, has contributed $2.5 million to strengthen the university’s athletic programs. The announcement was made today by MSU Director of Athletics Zac Selmon.
The Golding family has played a key role in advancing Mississippi State for many years, and this gift further demonstrates their deep passion for MSU and strategic investment in the future of Bulldog Athletics.
“A huge thank you to Steve, Melody, Austin, Kirsten and John Reid for their direct impact on Mississippi State Athletics,” said Selmon. “The Goldings care deeply for our university, our community, and our state. Their thoughtful decision to join us in this pursuit is a testament to their generosity and relentless competitive spirit. We are grateful.”
As Mississippi State continues to adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics, the Golding family’s investment to the State Excellence Fund will enhance student-athlete resources and provide critical support in a highly competitive environment. A portion of the gift will also be allocated to the newly announced Billy W. Howard Indoor Practice Facility.
The Golding family – Steve, Melody, Austin, Kirsten and John Reid – are proud alumni of Mississippi State University. Austin was a student-athlete on the MSU Track and Field team, and his wife, Kirsten, was an MSU cheerleader. The family owns and operates Golding Barge Line in Vicksburg, where Steve serves as Chairman and Austin is President and CEO. John Reid is President of Golding Land Company, LLC. Melody is an author, photographer, and artist whose work has been featured at The Smithsonian, the Congressional Hearing Room at the Department of Homeland Security, and numerous universities, colleges, and museums.
https://9f74e5cb67b5e720fb53ffe92815e46d.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html”Whether it’s running a successful business or competing in high-level athletics, ensuring your team has the resources it needs – while cultivating a relentless work ethic and a high-achieving culture – is something we firmly believe in,” said Steve Golding. “Mississippi State is a source of great pride for our family, and we want to be part of the solution as the department strives to reach new heights.”

Mississippi State’s fundraising efforts continue as it seeks to create an immediate impact and support its bold vision for the future. To learn more or to support these initiatives, please visit StateExcellenceFund.com and HailState.com/HowardIPF.
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