Vicksburg’s Golding family makes $2.5 million donation to Mississippi State
Published 3:54 pm Thursday, May 22, 2025
- The Golding family of Vicksburg has made a $2.5 million donation to Mississippi State University's athletics department, the university announced Thursday. (Mississippi State Athletics)
STARKVILLE — One of Vicksburg’s most famous families has made a significant donation to Mississippi State’s athletics department.
The Golding family of Vicksburg has contributed $2.5 million to strengthen the university’s athletic programs. The announcement was made Thursday by Mississippi State Director of Athletics Zac Selmon.
The Golding family has been a longtime supporter of Mississippi State athletics.
“A huge thank you to Steve, Melody, Austin, Kirsten and John Reid for their direct impact on Mississippi State Athletics,” Selmon said. “The Goldings care deeply for our university, our community, and our state. Their thoughtful decision to join us in this pursuit is a testament to their generosity and relentless competitive spirit. We are grateful.”
In a release announcing the donation, Mississippi State said the Golding family’s investment to the State Excellence Fund will enhance student-athlete resources and provide critical support to the program. A portion of the gift will also be allocated to the newly announced Billy W. Howard Indoor Practice Facility.
The Golding family — Steve, Melody, Austin, Kirsten and John Reid — are all alumni of the university. Austin was a student-athlete on Mississippi State’s track and field team, after winning a state championship as a pole vaulter at St. Aloysius High School. His wife, Kirsten, was an MSU cheerleader.
The family owns and operates Golding Barge Line in Vicksburg, where Steve serves as Chairman and Austin is President and CEO. John Reid is President of Golding Land Company, LLC. Melody is an author, photographer, and artist whose work has been featured at The Smithsonian, the Congressional Hearing Room at the Department of Homeland Security, and numerous universities, colleges, and museums.
“Whether it’s running a successful business or competing in high-level athletics, ensuring your team has the resources it needs — while cultivating a relentless work ethic and a high-achieving culture — is something we firmly believe in,” Steve Golding said in the university’s release. “Mississippi State is a source of great pride for our family, and we want to be part of the solution as the department strives to reach new heights.”