Hall donates to establish MSU mechanical engineering school

STARKVILLE, Miss.—The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Mississippi State University is transitioning into a dedicated academic school following a pivotal endowment contribution from alumnus Michael W. Hall and his spouse Valarie.

The newly formed Michael W. Hall School of Mechanical Engineering honors a Pontotoc County, Mississippi native who graduated from MSU’s Bagley College of Engineering in 1995. Hall, now residing in Nashville, Tennessee, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, has made significant professional strides as the former managing principal of Mas Energy LLC and the CEO of Shady Grove Road Investments, LLC. Moreover, he was named a 2022 Distinguished Fellow for the Bagley College.

MSU President Mark E. Keenum expressed gratitude towards the Halls for their substantial investment in the university, which will greatly benefit students, faculty, and industry collaborations within the mechanical engineering domain.

The Halls’ collective contributions to MSU amount to $18.9 million, with a notable portion of $16.5 million designated for various endowments within mechanical engineering. These endowments will support faculty advancements, staff development, student-industry partnerships, and scholarships, reinforcing the field’s growth and impact at Mississippi State.

During his tenure at Mas Energy, Hall oversaw project development, business operations, and international ventures, showcasing over two decades of experience in energy solutions. His leadership in project development and commercial negotiations has been instrumental in the success of numerous energy projects, including the distinguished Coca-Cola Trigeneration Project.

Prior to Mas Energy, Hall held executive roles at Veolia Energy North America and Fortune 500 companies like Johnson Controls and General Electric, further enriching his industry expertise and strategic acumen.

Valarie Hall, a University of Central Florida graduate, shares her husband’s affection for Mississippi State University and its mechanical engineering program.

Engineering Dean Jason Keith emphasized the transformative impact of endowment contributions on the department’s growth and excellence in education, research, and community service. The establishment of the Hall School of Mechanical Engineering signifies a significant milestone in advancing MSU’s mechanical engineering program.