Many have written well-deserved tributes to Chairman Charlie Capps since his death on Christmas Day. Most of these folks knew and worked with him during his time in the Mississippi Legislature, particularly in his years as the leader of the Appropriations Committee.

My first year at Delta State University was his last as a state representative. He had stood down from his chairmanship. Thus, my perspective is somewhat different from others. It is more personal and less political.

I first met Mr. Capps by phone during the process of interviewing for Delta State University’s presidency in 2003. “I’m Charlie Capps,” a friendly, gravelly voice said, “and I’m in the Legislature.” That fact, I later learned, understated considerably his role in the state’s power structure. He continued, “I have read your resume, and I would like to ask you some questions.  Is that OK?”

Many of the questions that followed would hardly meet federal standards for hiring situations, but they certainly got to the heart of the things Mr. Capps wanted to know. “Do you smoke or drink?” he asked.  Now there was a question I had never encountered in any previous interview.

“I haven’t smoked in 25 years,” I told him, “but I do enjoy a social drink now and again.”

I wasn’t sure, of course, about his stand on such issues, but truthfulness is always the better strategy. He kept after the inquiry: “What do you drink?” My response was that I enjoyed sipping an occasional single malt scotch.

His reply was quick and quick-witted, “We drink bourbon down here.” A hint of a chuckle told me he was having a little fun with me, even as he let me know there may be some cultural nuances for me to learn if the job at Delta State was offered and accepted.

He asked about my hometown, my parents, my wife and my children. The conversation included a monologue on some of the projects and programs funded at Delta State during his time as Chairman of Appropriations, and he even told me of his plan to step down.

I was treated to Mr. Capps’s interpretation of the Delta’s history and its challenges and opportunities. All the while he was testing my sensitivities and reactions. His manner was a wonderful blend of unfailing courtesy and obvious shrewdness.

At the time he called I was one of four finalists for the position. Though I never learned for sure, I suspect the other three finalists each had a similar phone call from Mr. Capps.

The conversation certainly made the point to me that he was very interested in Delta State and its future. It also demonstrated to me in a powerful and positive way that there is a lively connection between the university and the leadership of the region it serves.

He was good at the politics of the Legislature, and by all reports he was seen to be consistently open to the ideas of others. However, his interests in the Delta, Cleveland, and Delta State were evident to everyone. We will always be in his debt.

John M. Hilpert

President

Delta State University

Cleveland