ITTA BENA, Miss.— Two professors with Mississippi Valley State University connections are behind two articles featured in the new Encyclopedia of Mississippi History.
Dr. Vincent Venturini and the late Dr. Harvey Hudspeth both authored articles featured in the publication.
Venturini, a visiting professor in MVSU’s Department of Social Work, composed an article in the encyclopedia that explores public welfare in Mississippi.
Hudspeth taught history at MVSU from 1994 and 2004 and completed an article on MVSU shortly before he passed away in 2007.
Both articles identify the authors and their affiliation with MVSU.
“I think the fact that MVSU is included in the encyclopedia is a testament both to Dr. Hudspeth's scholarship and MVSU’s role in Mississippi history,” said Venturini. Dr. Hudspeth encouraged me to provide an article on the history of public welfare in Mississippi. My submission was published, and I am truly honored given that I am a native Mississippian who has always had a passion for Mississippi history and culture.”
Venturini said the article will serve as a lasting testament to Hudspeth’s love for history.
“Dr. Hudspeth was a brilliant lecturer who could hold classes spellbound with his presentations,” he said. He didn't need power-points or other visual aids. He let the narrative teach students.”
The Mississippi Encyclopedia—a mammoth collaboration that includes over 1,600 entries, 1,451 pages, and features more than 700 scholars who wrote entries on every county, every governor, and numerous musicians, writers, artists, and activists—is the first encyclopedic treatment of the state since 1907.
The Mississippi Encyclopedia is now available for purchase at www.upress.state.ms.us/books/2069