The External Affairs Advisory Board Brief
The External Affairs Advisory Board (EAAB) is a nonpartisan group within the University of Mississippi's Associated Student Body that engages with and observes elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels to track the impacts of legislation and policy on the University of Mississippi and ASB. EAAB members research and write briefings on key issues alongside the Principal of External Affairs. Additionally, the EAAB will help to plan external advocacy events, such as the Capitol Visit Day and community fundraising.
The External Affairs Advisory Board is divided into the following: the Oxford community, State Legislature, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, and General Advocacy.
Local Affairs
OutTransit Meeting Briefing: 3/6/26
OU Transit plans to introduce micro-transit, expand summer shuttle services, and replace the current TransLoc system with a more advanced tracking platform. The system is also adding buses and reviewing safety and accessibility improvements based on student feedback.
Fatima Stafford
Board of Alderman meeting: 2/17/26
The Oxford Board of Aldermen addressed storm recovery actions following Winter Storm Fern, including emergency spending and utility coordination. They also approved several infrastructure, development, and water system projects affecting areas such as Jefferson Avenue and Anderson Road.
Wendi Sheehan
IHL Briefing: 02/19/25
This February 2025 IHL Board Book highlights major updates from the University of Mississippi across academics, finance, and campus development. It includes new degree programs, the creation of a Center on Collegiate Gambling, and updates to existing programs. The report also outlines facility improvements and a proposed $245 million bond to support campus renovations and expansion.
Clay o’riley and ENA
State Affairs
MSState leg bill & UM :3/19/2026
In the 2026 legislative session, the Mississippi Senate reviewed bills that would tie university funding more closely to student performance and career outcomes. The Senate also proposed increased financial support for state universities, including targeted funding for University of Mississippi initiatives.
McCloud Andrews And wendi Sheehan