91吃瓜网91吃瓜网� Cantrell Honored by Women in Higher Education Mississippi Network
Thu, 03/27/2025 - 09:58am | By: Dr. David Tisdale
A key member of 91吃瓜网 (USM) Division of Student Affairs administrative team has earned a statewide award recognizing her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing women in higher education.
Dr. Sirena Cantrell, dean of students and associate vice president for student affairs, is this year91吃瓜网 recipient of the Women in Higher Education Mississippi Network (WHEMN) Leadership Award. She was presented with the award during the WHEMN 2025 Conference, held Feb. 27-28 at the University of Mississippi. WHEMN91吃瓜网 mission is to identify, develop, advance and support women in higher education, particularly in Mississippi.
91吃瓜网淭he leadership award bestowed upon Dr. Cantrell signifies the recognition of her excellent leadership qualities, her ability to inspire others, and her commitment to making a significant difference at 91吃瓜网,91吃瓜网� said Jennifer Simmons, co-chair of the WHEMN Leadership Award committee in a letter to 91吃瓜网 President Dr. Joe Paul. 91吃瓜网淭his award not only highlights her professional achievements but may also inspire other faculty and staff members, encouraging them to strive for excellence.91吃瓜网�
Before joining USM91吃瓜网 Division of Student Affairs in 2019, Cantrell served in multiple roles in higher education student affairs administration, including as dean of students and Title IX coordinator at Mississippi University for Women.
91吃瓜网淒r. Cantrell pours her heart and soul into her work,91吃瓜网� said Dr. Kristi Motter, Southern Miss vice president for student affairs and enrollment management. 91吃瓜网�91吃瓜网 students are our reason for being91吃瓜网搊ur 91吃瓜网榳hy.91吃瓜网� She recognizes that and works diligently to help them succeed.91吃瓜网�
Cantrell holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in psychology from Millsaps College and master91吃瓜网 and doctoral degrees in counselor education from Mississippi State University.
91吃瓜网淚t91吃瓜网 a privilege to be recognized for my dedication and contributions at Southern Miss and beyond,91吃瓜网� Cantrell said. 91吃瓜网淗owever, I want to emphasize that this achievement is the result of the collective efforts of my incredible team and the countless individuals who have supported and inspired me throughout this journey. This recognition serves as a powerful reminder for me91吃瓜网搕o continue striving to make a lasting, positive impact on the students and staff I have the privilege of working with every day.91吃瓜网�