Alumni Spotlight
Kailey Redding

After an unexpected change in major, MSU Communication alumna Kailey Redding found her passion for the art of communication. Redding graduated from MSU with a degree in Communication and a concentration in Journalism.

Initially pursuing a career in art, Redding earned an associate’s degree in graphic design technology and another associate’s degree in fine art from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

Redding comes from a military family; her father was in the Navy and served as a Seabee. Although briefly living in Italy, Redding grew up on the coast of Mississippi in Biloxi. It was there she attended Harrison Central High School and met her drivers’ education instructor who inspired her to consider Mississippi State University for her post-high school plans.

“It was a coach on campus at Harrison Central, but he was a football coach, and I had him for driver's ed. He always wore maroon, and he always talked about Mississippi State!” Redding said. She emphasized that his love for Starkville and MSU pushed her to consider attending the university and eventually pursue a degree here.

After earning her associate’s degree from MGCCC, Redding transferred to MSU.

It was at MSU that Redding discovered her love for communication after a conversation with her roommate. Redding recalled noticing the homework her roommate was working on and was intrigued. She asked her more about the major and realized it was a good fit for her.

After graduating from MSU, Redding began working for Habitat for Humanity through AmeriCorps. She completed one year of service and one year of communication work for Habitat for Humanity through the AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program.

Following her time at AmeriCorps, Redding worked for D.R. Horton, a home construction company. She loved her time there, but something was missing. Redding missed the people-oriented aspect of her previous job. 

Recalling her decision to make a career change, Redding remembered thinking, “You know what? Maybe I can spread my wings and kind of get back to my roots.”

Redding started a new position with Morale, Welfare, and Recreation, working near the gulf coast where she grew up.

Redding emphasized that the ability to help others through her work was the most rewarding part of her job at the MWR.

“But really, just seeing that what you're doing is bringing good into the world. You know that you've influenced, and you've helped someone,” Redding said.

Redding currently works as the Marketing Director for the 81st Force Support Squadron at Keesler Air Force Base. 

When asked what advice she would give to Communication students, Redding emphasized the importance of broadening one’s horizons.

“It surprises me how a lot of communication jobs can be so similar in the tasks that you do, but because of the fields you're in, they're vastly different,” Redding said.