Dr. Kollin Napier, a native of Petal, is a prominent figure in artificial intelligence (AI) education and workforce development. He earned a Bachelor of Science in 2016, a Master of Science in 2017, and a Doctor of Philosophy in 2023 from Mississippi State University, where he was involved in the Preparing Future Faculty Program. As the director of the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, he leads the nation’s first statewide AI initiative, collaborating with colleges, universities and global technology leaders. Under his leadership, MAIN has trained thousands of workers, established AI labs throughout the state, and provided professional development for K-12 educators. He advises state leaders on AI policy and represents Mississippi on the Southern Regional Education Board’s AI Commission. The Jackson Chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals honored him as the 2024 Mississippian of the Year, underscoring his dedication to advancing AI innovation. He mentors students through MSU’s Bulldog Mentorship Program and volunteers in K-12 classrooms. Napier attributes his values of integrity, innovation and service, which guide his mission to empower individuals and transform communities, to his time at MSU.
Source: https://www.alumni.msstate.edu/reveille-25-honorees-2025