Patricia Coats was appointed executive director of the University of Mississippi at DeSoto Center campus in Southaven. Dr. Coats, who brings more than 13 years of higher education experience to the role, has been serving as assistant director of academic support services for the campus and has been employed at the university for nearly nine years. Dr. Coats previously worked for Texas A&M University at Texarkana and the University of Central Arkansas.
“DeSoto County needs more workers with advanced degrees to continue to bolster the economic development of our community,” Dr. Coats said. “It makes a difference for our students that they can complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree close to home and receive the quality education and professional connections they need to move ahead in their careers.
“I’m most excited about having a seat at the table to help make decisions that will make a difference for transfer students,” Dr. Coats continued. “We have to take into consideration the struggles and situations that might be standing in between a student and earning the degree that will better their life.”
A native of Tuckerman, Arkansas, Dr. Coats earned a bachelor’s degree in management information systems and a master’s degree in student affairs/higher education administration from the University of Central Arkansas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Mississippi.
