The William Magee Center for Wellness Education at the University of Mississippi seeks to help all whose lives and dreams have been disrupted by substance misuse and prevent students from suffering harm from alcohol and other drugs (AOD) use.
With your help, the center's goal of changing students’ and families’ lives can be realized. It aims to be a nationally recognized leader in substance misuse prevention, support and research in a collegiate environment.
The Center represents the culmination of a dream that began with its namesake, the late William Magee, years ago. Hundreds of people have given generously to bring his dream to life. But to help students for decades to come, Ole Miss family members must continue to show support with our gifts and our enthusiastic support for its mission. Contributions of all sizes can fuel the Center's momentum and change student lives.
The William Magee Center for Wellness Education aims to:
- Increase students’ knowledge and skills related to responsible consumption of alcohol and other drugs using research-informed harm-reduction strategies
- Provide a comprehensive, one-stop shop for education, research, support and advocacy for alcohol- and drug-related issues on the Ole Miss campus
- Work collaboratively with campus partners to promote all 10 areas of wellness
- Make available assessment, referrals for treatment and counseling, and ongoing support to help students overcome substance misuse
- Engage in research to develop and improve best practices related to prevention and intervention strategies
Already, the Magee Center has had life-saving impact, providing students in need support and guidance. Additionally, working closely with the University Counseling Center, students now have the option of five on-campus recovery meetings weekly and a dedicated space. To support that mission for years to come, please give and share this project with others.
William Shared Light and Laughter
William Magee entered Ole Miss in 2008 and was a stellar student in the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College and the Croft Institute for International Studies, as well as a member of the Ole Miss Men’s Track team, the SEC academic honor roll and Sigma Nu fraternity. But, William was also shy and suffered from anxiety, using alcohol and drugs initially to help feel more comfortable in social situations.
In his senior year, William realized his drug habit was out of control. He graduated from Ole Miss and entered a rehabilitation facility. More than a year and several facilities later he was making progress, working in Nashville and planning to attend law school. He met friends from college to enjoy a concert one Friday evening and relapsed into drug use, which claimed his life in an accidental overdose.
William, who brought light and laughter to his family and friends, was 23 years old.
As he struggled to overcome his addiction, William hoped to grow strong enough to help others. He is no longer with us, but his desire to help has been realized with this facility and a mission to help thousands in his name.
On Giving Day, let’s all work as one to fulfill William's promise. Together, WE are Ole Miss.
