Alumni Spotlight
Jessica Mayts McCallum
By Amelia DuBard, public relations student and departmental PR intern
For Jessica Mayts McCallum, the path from Mississippi State’s Department of Communication to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum wasn’t one she had planned from day one, but looking back, every step prepared her for where she is now.
Originally from Tampa, Florida, McCallum graduated from Mississippi State in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and an emphasis in Public Relations. She began her college journey as a vocal performance major, but quickly realized that studying her passion day in and day out was leading to burnout. After exploring other departments, she found her place in Communication.
“As a little girl I always loved to write and express myself, and I genuinely had no idea that could become a major,” McCallum recalls.
Once she discovered the Communication Department, she knew she had found her home away from home.
McCallum immersed herself in campus life, serving as social chair for her Chi Omega, representing MSU as an Alumni Delegate, and participating in organizations such as Dance Marathon, Lambda Pi Eta and Freshman Forum. She credits courses like Public Relations in Organizations and Dr. Forde’s Principles of Public Relations courses with sharpening her skills and showing her how communication impacts everyday life.
“The insight my teachers brought, as well as fellow students, made me passionate about the courses I was studying,” McCallum says.
After graduating from Mississippi State, her professional journey took her from a record label on Music Row to a marketing agency, before landing in her current role as Manager of Corporate Partnerships at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville. In this position, she develops sponsorship strategies, oversees stewardship programs, and ensures corporate partnerships support the museum’s mission.
“It is beyond rewarding to know that when I am long gone, this cultural institution will still be standing, shining a light on country music and its beautiful story,” McCallum reflects.
McCallum encourages current students to fully embrace their time at Mississippi State. “Soak it all up,” she advises. “Don’t be afraid to ask hard questions, seek mentors, and know that the skills you’re learning now will truly be used in your professional life.”
For McCallum, Mississippi State means community, opportunity, and lifelong connections. Some of her favorite memories include cheering in Davis Wade Stadium, serving as an Alumni Delegate, and building friendships that continue to shape her life today.