SOUTHAVEN, Miss. — DeSoto County continues to rank as one of the fastest growing counties in the U.S., adding an additional 30,000 residents between 2010 and 2020. The University of Mississippi is continuing its commitment to educate the workforce in this swiftly-developing part of the state through the on-going support of its UM-DeSoto campus located at the DeSoto Center on Church Road West in Southaven.
The latest development includes the recent selection of April Holifield-Scott as the new director of the DeSoto and Grenada campuses of Ole Miss.
A 24-year veteran in teaching and administration with DeSoto County and Senatobia Municipal School Districts, Holifield-Scott hopes to tap into her unique understanding of the educational needs of these communities.
“An educated workforce is crucial for the advancement of local businesses, companies, and organizations in Northwest Mississippi,” Holifield-Scott said. “Higher education equips individuals with critical thinking skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to innovate—qualities that are essential for driving business growth and adaptation in a rapidly changing economic landscape.”
Beginning her career as an English teacher at Southaven High School in 2000, Holifield-Scott has invested in local schools, students, and teachers in DeSoto and Tate counties throughout her career.
During her time with DeSoto County Schools, she helped develop and implement a PSAT program to equip students in eight area high schools for college entry exams. As a national board certified teacher, she supported fellow teachers who were also working toward this time-intensive certification by serving as a mentor for UM’s World Class Teaching Program.
She has taught at the college-level for over 20 years as an adjunct English faculty member for Northwest Community College.
Holifield-Scott has been tapped by the Mississippi Department of Education to score state writing exams, as well assist in the review and writing of state assessments. In addition, she served on committees for the Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Preparation evaluating teacher education programs across the U.S.
Most recently, Holifield-Scott served as assistant superintendent of Senatobia City Schools, where she was the district leader for curriculum and instruction. She provided professional development for district employees and oversaw important initiatives such as drop-out prevention and community engagement.
Ryan Niemeyer, UM assistant provost for regional education, said that with her extensive background in teaching and leadership, Holifield-Scott is uniquely positioned to become the next leader of the UM-DeSoto and Grenada campuses.
“With over 24 years of experience in roles across K-12 schools, community college, and higher education, Dr. Holifield-Scott will bring fresh vision and unwavering commitment to these vital regional arms of the University,” he said.
“Her impressive track record in leadership, team building, strategic planning, community engagement, and fiscal management ensures that UM-DeSoto and UM-Grenada will thrive under her guidance.”
Ole Miss has been offering academic courses in Southaven since 1968. In 1972, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning approved the establishment of an off-campus center of UM in DeSoto County. Classes were first located at Southaven High School and later in the DeSoto Center Campus of Northwest Community College located off of Stateline Road.
In 1996, Northwest and Ole Miss joined together with the opening of the DeSoto Center campus on Church Road, where classes are currently held.
Through the special “two plus two” academic program offered at the DeSoto Center, thousands of area residents have completed associate’s degrees through Northwest and walked across the hall to complete bachelor’s and master’s level degrees through Ole Miss.
The university has partnered with Holmes Community College to offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs on the Grenada campus of Holmes since 2008.
“Educational partnerships between the University of Mississippi and area community colleges at the DeSoto Center and Grenada campus are a game-changer for local residents,” Holifield-Scott said.
“These programs offer seamless educational pathways to create a workforce ready to meet tomorrow's challenges and collaborations that increase accessibility to higher education, foster economic growth through skilled graduates, and reinforce the importance of lifelong learning.
By linking arms with community colleges, UM is not just educating students; it's powering local economies and building a community poised for prosperity.”
Overcoming financial barriers is another advantage Holifield-Scott mentions when discussing the opportunities available for students at the DeSoto Center.
“The UM campuses in DeSoto and Grenada counties offer affordable college opportunities for community members, catering to both traditional and non-traditional students,” Holifield-Scott said.
“For traditional-aged students graduating from area high schools, these campuses provide a chance to engage in higher education close to home, without the need to pay for on-campus housing, meals, and other fees.
“Working adults, parents, and those considering returning to college in the area are able to complete an affordable education with flexible scheduling that allows them to balance studies with work and family commitments.”
Holifield-Scott sees education as a key ingredient to sustaining the growth of North Mississippi and the prosperity of its citizens.
“Completing a college degree can significantly impact residents’ lives by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market,” she said.
“A degree can lead to better job opportunities, higher earning potential, and the ability to contribute positively to your community.”