Distinguished Alumni

Dr. Michael Lewis (Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Animal Science, 1974, 1977) is the Distinguished Fellow for the Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion. The Starkville, Mississippi native received his Ph.D. in Animal Science from the University of Nebraska in 1988. At Cargill, Dr. Lewis built a dynamic team that successfully managed a large animal feed business within Cargill's Corn processing operations. Serving feedlots, dairies, and global aquaculture industries, the team built complex systems of integrated product, supply chain, and marketing systems supported by innovative technologies and brands that substantially changed the markets they served. They provide millions of tons of unique animal feed products through just-in-time logistical systems utilizing multi-mode transit systems.

Dr. Lewis credits MSU for instilling valuable technical knowledge as well as teaching him to think deeply, challenge everything, and to see things others don't see. He credits his development as a leader and innovator at MSU as foundational to his business success. The Jones County, Mississippi native; his wife, Patricia; and four of their five children attended MSU. After spending over 30 years of life in the Midwest, the couple now enjoy the serenity of their small farm in Starkville. They also enjoy watching the MSU bulldogs.