Not all State alums or fans live in or around Jackson. Not all of them live to drive to Jackson, the Bold New City. Most of us are scattered across the state. Mullen has been a master at promotion and exciting the fan base, just like his rounds in the outfield lounge areas on SBW. He understands that the smaller towns have a number of State fans within driving distance and that they would feel appreciated by his having come to some of the less glamorous towns. This should increase their excitement level (and hopefully their giving level to) for the program. These folks are important to the base of our support. We're the People's University, you see, not just the Metropolitan People's University. It is a brilliant and effective strategy that not only Mullen but Stricklin sees. It will pay huge dividends in recruiting. Do you see Nutt or UM in these small towns?
As Stricklin said after this announcement, they are already in the Jackson area a good bit. This makes perfect sense when you are working to build your in-state base.