Rochelle Southern
Administrative Assistant, Haley Barbour Center for Manufacturing Excellence (CME)
BIO
Growing as a person and making a positive impact on others has always been important to Rochelle Southern. Since joining the University in 2017, she has enjoyed serving the campus community and has proudly worked as the Administrative Assistant for the Center for Manufacturing Excellence (CME) since 2019. She is passionate about building meaningful relationships, supporting others, and approaching every opportunity with integrity, compassion, and a servant’s heart. Rochelle is also a member of the University Staff Council, where she enjoys representing and supporting her fellow staff members while helping strengthen the campus community. Rochelle is happily married to Eddie Southern Jr., and together they are the proud parents of two amazing children, Jalen and Jaida. Her family is her greatest joy and biggest source of inspiration, and she treasures every opportunity to spend quality time with them. When she’s not at work, Rochelle enjoys traveling, crafting, shopping with friends, and making lasting memories with the people she loves. She believes that leadership begins with strong character, authenticity, and a willingness to serve others. Rochelle also credits her director, Scott Kilpatrick, for his outstanding leadership, mentorship, and encouragement, which have helped shape her professional growth and inspired her to continue developing as a leader.
WHY CLI?
I am excited to join the Character of Leaders Initiative because it provides an opportunity to broaden my knowledge, grow as a leader, and build meaningful relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. I look forward to strengthening understanding across cultural divides and demonstrating that love, respect, and compassion have the power to drive out hate and create stronger, more connected communities.