Elaine A. Rush, a communication/communication studies major from Starkville, was among the more than 1,300 new members of the Mississippi State Alumni family who were all smiles during Friday's [Dec. 11] commencement at Mississippi State University. International best-selling and award-winning author James Patterson, who delivered the fall 2015 commencement address, encouraged his audience to "dream big" and "be doers." As Mississippi’s leading university, MSU is committed to providing a challenging and supportive educational experience that prepares students to lead and make a difference on local, national and global levels after graduation.  Visit the MSU Facebook page, or click here to view a slideshow of photos.