MSM 557 Powell Ogletree - Southern Miss To The Top

Powell Ogletree was hired as the first Southern Miss Alumni Association Secretary in 1953. In this episode, he shares his memories of those early days spent recruiting new students, compiling alumni rolls with current contact information, and raising money for scholarships. One of Ogletree’s first tasks was to organize the group into local chapters. He explains why they chose March 30th as the day each chapter holds its annual meeting.

According to Ogletree, a successful athletic program plays an important part in recruiting new students to a university.  He remembers the many hours spent driving Coach Pie Van to various events and how the Alumni Association pushed for radio and tv coverage of Southern Miss football.

The USM Foundation was formed on October 29, 1959 to raise money for academic and athletic scholarships.  Powell Ogletree discusses serving as its Executive Secretary and how the foundation has grown over time.

PODCAST EXTRA: USM celebrated its 75th Anniversary with a 2 ½ yearlong fundraising campaign between 1985 and 1987.  Ogletree highlights the goals, preparations and outcome of the extended event, as well as, his decision to retire afterwards.

PHOTO: Southernmissalumni.com