I was born and raised in North Mississippi.  I grew up on a farm.  I am the third child of eight, born to a mother with an eighth-grade education and a father with a third-grade education. 

I was a first-generation college student.  I earned a B.S. degree in Chemistry from Rust College, a M.S, degree in Organic Chemistry from Memphis State University, and a PhD degree from Memphis State University.

I have served as a college professor, dean, provost, executive vice president, and interim president for more than 30 years.