Thames' new title causes stir at USM Former university president Shelby Thames given 'emeritus professor' title
Shelby Thames, former University of Southern Mississippi president and polymer science professor is back as an employee of the university - with a new honorary title, "emeritus professor."
The new title does not sit well with former Faculty Senate President David Beckett, who believes Thames was awarded emeritus status by interim President Aubrey Lucas in breach of the faculty handbook policy. . . .