Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College proudly announces that Dr. Kollin Napier, Director of the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN), has been selected as the 2024 Mississippian of the Year by The Jackson Chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP).

This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Napier’s significant contributions to advancing information technology in Mississippi, particularly his groundbreaking work with MAIN. The Jackson Chapter of AITP praised Dr. Napier’s vision and leadership in driving technological innovation and fostering collaboration across the state’s IT landscape.

“As president of The Jackson Chapter of AITP, it is my pleasure to announce that Dr. Napier has been nominated and unanimously voted as the 2024 Mississippian of the Year recipient,” said the Chapter’s president, Jamey Young. “This award highlights his efforts to make Mississippi a leader in artificial intelligence and technology development.”

Dr. Napier joins a distinguished group of past recipients, including former Mississippi governors, tech entrepreneurs, and pioneering educators. The Mississippian of the Year Award celebrates individuals who have made an extraordinary impact on the state through the business, innovation, or application of information technology.

About Dr. Kollin Napier and MAIN

As the director of MAIN, the nation’s first and only statewide artificial intelligence (AI) initiative, Dr. Napier leads groundbreaking efforts to advance AI literacy, strengthen workforce development, and establish Mississippi as a leader in AI education and innovation. Collaborating with state government, community colleges, universities, K-12 schools, and industry partners, he has positioned MAIN as a driving force for statewide economic growth. Under his leadership, MAIN has provided free, cutting-edge AI training to thousands, delivering over 15,000 cumulative hours of AI awareness, education, and training. These efforts are equipping communities across Mississippi with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.

Dr. Napier holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Mississippi State University, where his research focused on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering. He has contributed to peer-reviewed journals and conferences and holds a master’s and bachelor’s degree from MSU, along with an Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology from Jones College.

Before assuming his current role with MGCCC, Dr. Napier worked as a software applications developer and later as a software architect for the MSU Extension Service. With a unique blend of academic expertise and industry experience, he is a driving force behind advancing computer science education, applied research, and workforce innovation in Mississippi. Through MAIN, Dr. Napier is shaping a technology-driven future—empowering communities across the state and fostering a national dialogue on the transformative potential of AI.

“This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collective efforts of the team at MAIN and MGCCC,” Dr. Napier said. “Together, we’re shaping the future of technology in Mississippi and beyond.”