STARKVILLE – The Bulldog Nation collectively wiped its eyes today, as its native son, Dr. Mark E. Keenum, officially accepted the presidency of his alma mater, Mississippi State University.

In a emotional midday ceremony, Keenum became MSU's 19th president, erasing from memory for many the checkered experience across the past several years with the land-grant campus' top leader coming and going under less than happy circumstances.

For Keenum, it is the fulfillment of a life's dream and a homecoming to his hometown, Starkville.

"I hope this will be a reminder," he said as he began his official address, "that our university is shaped by 10s of thousands of individuals."

He promised to usher in a new era of diversity, growth and service to Mississippi and the nation.

"I am determined to do my best," he told the packed house in historic Lee Hall, named for the school's first president Gen. Stephen Lee.

His speech was filled with hope and optimism, despite the challenges he and MSU face with other state universities during difficult economic times.

And he spoke boldly as he announced a $100-million, four-year campaign – State Pride – for scholarships, faculty recruitment and retention, and for the campus library.

Speaking of the economy, he said, "We know it may get worse before it gets better, but we do not despair.

"These are not, after all, the worst of times," he said recalling numerous challenges MSU has faced throughout its 131-year history.

Every generation has faced its difficulties, said the former U.S. undersecretary of Agriculture, with three degrees from MSU.

"We may even find a silver lining in these dark hours."

Among those speaking before Keenum were Gov. Haley Barbour and U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran, for whom Keenum worked many years in Washington, before joining USDA.

Student Government Association President Blake Jeter also read a congratulatory letter from former President George W. Bush, for whose administration Keenum and his wife, Rhonda, worked.

Bush called Keenum a "principled leader" and said he and his wife, Laura, sent their appreciation and best wishes to the couple and their four young children.

The ceremony marked a day-long celebration, which began with a prayer service and public reception.

For more read Saturday's NEMS Daily Journal newspaper.