Your Stories

This collection features stories about current and former students with remarkable experiences.

Hear from some of the remarkable members of our University about their experiences on campus. If you would like to share your own story, we encourage you to submit your information.

Former Students

Sonya Varnell
Track and Field, University of Mississippi

Sonya Varnell was one of the first Black female student-athletes for Ole Miss track and field. She describes what it was like being part of the first group of female track and field athletes at the university.

Robert Jerry “Ben” Williams Jr.
Football, University of Mississippi

Affectionately known as “Gentle Ben,” he joined James Reed in 1971 to become one of the first Black student-athletes to sign football scholarships with the university. He shares his experience as a student, athlete and Black male at Ole Miss.