Pictured (L-R) are Sonya Myers, Carla Dearman, James G. “Bo” Chastain, MSH Director, Amy Carruth, Stacey Davis, Julie Cox, and Jenny Pittman.
Mississippi State Hospital (MSH) celebrated MSH Day 2025 on Wednesday, May 21, with a campus-wide event dedicated to honoring patients and staff during Mental Health Awareness Month. Held at MSH Park from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the annual event brought together the hospital community for a day of fun, connection, and encouragement under clear skies and warm sunshine.
Patients enjoyed a variety of games and interactive activities, supported by enthusiastic staff who joined in the festivities. Freshly grilled hamburgers and sausage dogs, provided by Cura Hospitality, rounded out the celebration with a classic cookout lunch.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of an MSH patient whose artwork was selected as the official design for the 2025 MSH Day t-shirt. This patient received a framed copy of the design, a t-shirt, and a cash award from James G. “Bo” Chastain, MSH Director, during a special presentation.
“From the smiles to the laughter, the dancing to the games, the patients and residents truly seemed to enjoy every moment,” said Carla Dearman, Director of Support Services. “It was a day filled with joy and excitement, and we couldn’t have asked for a better outcome.”
MSH Day 2025 was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the MSH Day Committee: Carla Dearman (Chairman), Julie Cox, Stacey Davis, Jenny Pittman, Amy Carruth, Sonya Myers, Angela Howell, and Sheila Shows.
Mississippi State Hospital remains committed to fostering an environment of compassion, creativity, and care—values that were on full display throughout this meaningful day of celebration.