MISSISSIPPI STATE, MISSISSIPPI (February 16, 2026) — Nicholas Esposito, of Moline, Illinois, is among nearly 1,400 students graduating from Mississippi State University in fall 2025.
Esposito received the Master of Science from MSU's Bagley College of Engineering.
MSU President Mark E Keenum congratulated graduates as the December ceremony's keynote speaker, emphasizing the world-class education they received and the core MSU values it reflects — integrity, hard work, and respect for others.
"I want you to be known as the person who people can always trust and count on because of your impeccable integrity; I want you to be known as the person who always excels and does their very best because of your strong work ethic; and I want you to be known as being the person other people enjoy being around because you're nice, kind, thoughtful, and considerate of others," he said. "You're about to receive a diploma that says 'Mississippi State' on it. People will see that name and know you are part of a wonderful family. That's why your diploma is so valued-because of who we are."
About Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University is a national STEM-focused, doctoral degree-granting, land-grant university offering a wide range of educational experiences for learning and growth to a student body of more than 23,000 students. Holding the R1 "Very High Research Activity" designation from the Carnegie Foundation, MSU is committed to its comprehensive research university mission, addressing complex local and global challenges with innovative ideas and solutions. MSU also provides access and opportunity to students from all fifty states and 92 countries.
