Mike Sweet didn’t hesitate when he decided it was time to give back to the University of Mississippi.
Sweet has committed a $25,000 personal gift that will be matched by the International Foodservice Distributors Association, where he serves as chair, creating a $50,000 endowment for students in nutrition and hospitality management. The scholarship will provide long-term financial support and expand access to career-focused education in the School of Applied Sciences.
A Houston, Texas, native who lives in Dallas, Texas, Sweet graduated from Ole Miss in 1994 with a liberal arts degree with an emphasis in public relations. Though his career has taken him across the country, the university has remained close to his heart.
“I have always loved Ole Miss,” Sweet said. “I am a strong believer in supporting the causes that have supported me.”
Sweet works for Ben E. Keith Co., a major player in the foodservice supply chain. His role has taken him nationwide to food production and processing operations, where he works with restaurants, stadiums, hospitals and other institutions. Oxford, home to the university, is among the company’s many markets.
He hopes the scholarship will benefit students who are passionate about education and career development but need assistance to make college possible. Sweet sees those qualities firsthand through interns at his company, including several from Ole Miss.
“They are among the most enthusiastic,” Sweet said. “They have a strong love for Ole Miss and are very proud of it.”
“You hear about IQ but also ‘emotional quotient,’ or EQ — the ability to understand and manage emotions effectively. I think EQ is just as important in business — if not more. I think Ole Miss students have a very high EQ.”
Sweet credits his Ole Miss experience as a key factor in his professional success.
“Ole Miss gave a lot to me,” he said. “I’m very proud to be an alumnus.”
His motivation to create a scholarship is rooted in personal experience. Sweet said his father worked his way through college, and as a parent he has helped put his own children through school. He has also worked with colleagues whose access to higher education varied widely.
Jason McCormick, UM executive director of development, said Sweet’s gift will have a lasting impact.
“We’re excited for the International Foodservice Distributors Association to honor Mike and his service as chair,” McCormick said. “It’s especially meaningful that he chose to match their gift to help the School of Applied Sciences support students for future generations.”
To support the Mike Sweet Nutrition and Hospitality Management Scholarship Endowment, send a check to the University of Mississippi Foundation, with the fund’s name written in the memo line, to 406 University Ave., Oxford, MS 38655; or online here.
To learn more about supporting the School of Applied Sciences, contact Adam Brady, associate director of development, at jab@olemiss.edu or 662‑915‑1755.
By Michael Newsom / UM Development