Program of Excellence

Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott have developed a "Program of Excellence" for undergraduate students at their alma mater, Delta State University. This programs is multifaceted and involves:

1) The Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium
Each fall Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott return to their alma mater to participate in one of the unique aspects of this program. The Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium was established to introduce Delta State students to scientists of international stature who serve as role models. Or, in Dr. Elliott's words: "to light a fire in today's students in the same manner that a fire was lit in me by those who influenced my life when I was a student at Delta State. Those who have the ability to inspire students to do their best, to achieve their full potential, are the real heroes of society even though they frequently go unrecognized."

Past speakers include: Dr. Arthur Guyton, a Mississippian who is recognized as the foremost medical physiologist of today; Dr. Harold J. Isard, who is credited with saving the lives of so many women through his invention of a low-dose mammographic technique; Dr. Henry Laws, a renowned surgeon and a pioneer in the field of laparoscopic surgery, who is presently director of surgical education at Carraway Methodist Hospital and Medical Center in Birmingham, Alabama; Dr. James D. Hardy who is internationally recognized for his pioneering role in transplantation surgery, and Dr. Gertrude Elion, who received the Nobel Prize in medicine for her work on a wide spectrum of metabolic inhibitors for treatment of various diseases.

In addition, other presentations are given pertaining to various key medical breakthroughs, research experiences at the Mastology Research Institute by Delta State students themselves, and other related issues. This symposium is the only one of its type in the state and promises major benefits to those who attend.

2) Research Fellowship Program
Each summer, Delta State students are given the opportunity to perform leading cancer research studies at the Mastology Research Institute in Baton Rouge, LA. The ten-week fellowship allows the student to get first-hand experience in working in a laboratory dedicated to the detection and treatment of breast cancer. Techniques taught in Delta State laboratories are utilized and many new methods are employed. Students are also given the unique opportunity to publish their work in medical publications with the Center's research team.

Although learning is a prime goal of this aspect of the Elliott Program, Dr. Elliott adds: "I think the internship program is a great way for me and the members of my staff to receive some personal stimulation from young students coming to our facility, and I believe the experience is a tremendous asset for Delta State University and its students."

This program has proven to be the stimulus that some students have needed to renew their commitment to pursue the medical profession. Former students who have participated in the Elliott Research Fellowship Program are currently in medical schools across the country, two of which are the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson and the Tulane School of Medicine in New Orleans, LA.

This unique opportunity is exclusively offered at Delta State University and will continue to be a stepping stone for its students.

3) Elliott Scholars Program
In addition, Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott have established a scholarship program in the Departments of Biological and Physical Sciences which provides students at Delta State with fully funded scholarships for the duration of their education at DSU. Recipients of the prestigious scholarships are honored with the title of "Elliott Scholar."

Recipients of these scholarships are selected by the Elliott Committee, which includes professors from both the Departments of Biological and Physical Sciences. Students are selected as positions become available based on their personal commitment to excellence in their chosen major, demonstrated motivation to learn, and dedication to their future careers. These scholarships are designed to cover expenses associated with a Delta State education. Scholarships cover tuition, books, room and board, and other related costs.

The Elliott Scholars Program
c/o The Department of Biological Sciences
Delta State University
Box 3262
Cleveland, MS 38733

The Elliott's reunion with Delta State University has been one of supreme benefit for all involved. Nowhere else in Mississippi can a student have so much opportunity to excel in ways never dreamed possible. The Elliott Program of Excellence is a constant stimulant for the students of Delta State University, as well as its faculty and staff. In addition, since the Program's inception other alumni have banded together to offer even more to the university where their education was received and their loyalty remains.

Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott have given of their finances, their careers, and themselves to make this Program of Excellence supersede all others and put Delta State on an international map. Their dedication to DSU is phenomenal in the realm of an individual's alma mater and because of their efforts, Delta State and its students are better able to broaden their horizons and compete with the world in the 21st century.