DSU students and faculty attend Mississippi Geospatial Conference
Cleveland, MS (11/04/2024) — Contact: Christy Riddle FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4336
Email: criddle@deltastate.edu
DSU students and faculty attend Mississippi Geospatial Conference
CLEVELAND, Miss. - Students and faculty from Delta State University's Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies (MAS-GIT) program recently participated in the Mississippi Geospatial Conference (MGC) held on October 10-11 in Long Beach. Organized annually by the Mississippi Association for Spatial Technologies (MAST), the event gathers professionals, academics, and students to discuss and share the latest advancements in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) technology and its diverse applications across the state.
The conference provided a unique opportunity for Delta State's MAS-GIT students to network with industry professionals, gain valuable insights into current trends, and explore cutting-edge GIS applications relevant to Mississippi. This hands-on learning experience further enriches their understanding of the field and prepares them for successful careers in geospatial technology.
The conference attendance was supported through a research grant awarded to Professor of Geospatial Technologies Dr. Yongqin Zhang that was funded by the Mississippi Space Grant Consortium (MSSGC). The MSSGC a statewide non-profit organization of institutions of higher learning coordinated by the Mississippi Research Consortium and supported by NASA.
"Involving students in research and attending professional conferences like the MGC is integral to our program's educational mission," said Zhang. "These experiences are invaluable for our students, allowing them to expand their professional network and grow academically."
Three MAS-GIT students shared their thoughts on attending the MGC:
Caleb Powell, a graduate student from Hattiesburg said, "This was my third time attending the Mississippi Geospatial Conference and my first time as a member of Delta State's MAS-GIT program. It's inspiring to see how GIS is being used across the state. The topics presented and the professionals I networked with will undoubtedly help me as I continue my education and professional career. I'm already looking forward to next year's conference!"
Nick Eidsmoe, a graduate student from Rio Rancho, New Mexico remarked, "As an out-of-state student in Delta State's MAS-GIT program, I was looking forward to attending the Mississippi Geospatial Conference as a wonderful opportunity to broaden my horizons and learn more about what the state has to offer. The presentations certainly didn't disappoint. Mississippi has a phenomenal grasp of the potential of GIS technology, as evident by the lively discussions we participated in. This was my first time attending, and I certainly hope it won't be the last."
Daniel Johnson, a graduate student from Calhoun, Louisiana said, "Attending the Mississippi Geospatial Conference for the first time as part of Delta State's MAS-GIT program was an eye-opening experience. Coming from a different professional background, I was thrilled to see how GIS is being applied in innovative ways across industries. The diverse presentations and engaging conversations with professionals from various fields helped me gain a deeper understanding of the vast potential GIS holds for solving real-world problems. I left feeling inspired and more motivated than ever to continue my journey in geospatial technologies."
Delta State's MAS-GIT program continues to provide students with opportunities like the MGC to enhance their academic experience and prepare for careers in geospatial technology.
For more information about Delta State University's MAS-GIT program, visit www.deltastate.edu/business-aviation/accountancy-cis-git/mas-git/.
Cutline: (L to R) Nick Eidsmoe, Caleb Powell, Dr. Yongqin Zhang and Daniel Johnson represented Delta State at the recent Mississippi Geospatial Conference in Long Beach.
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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.