University of Southern Miss mourning the loss of former president
The University of Southern Miss is mourning the loss of a leader this week.
Dr. Shelby Thames was the university’s eighth president. Dr. Thames was an accomplished research scientists and academic leader, making an impact on higher education and scientific research.
He joined the Southern Miss faculty in 1964 and established what would become the nation’s most respected polymer science programs.
Under his leadership, the program earned national distinction and evolved into today’s school of polymer science and engineering.
After nearly four decades as a faculty member and administrator, Dr. Thames served as the university president from 2002 to 2007.
He oversaw the expansion of doctoral programs, fundraising efforts, and major capital improvements.
