Michael Richardson and Janet Downey

Michael Richardson and Janet Downey

In a way, you could say that Michael Richardson and Janet Downey are family reunion planners.

For the past 10 years, Michael, coordinator of chapter programs for the Alumni Association, and Janet, associate coordinator, have worked together keeping members of the Bulldog family informed about university happenings.

With 90 Alumni Association chapters, including one in South Korea, the pair logs more than 10,000 miles annually on the road and in the air, and coordinate more than 300 volunteers in ensuring that alumni stay plugged in and up to date with the goings on of their alma mater.

To most, it may seem like an overwhelming prospect, but for Michael and Janet, it is as much fun as it is work.

"There's a fine line between our work and play, simply because we love what we do," Janet said. "Whether it's scheduling a guest speaker for a chapter meeting or setting up a football tailgate, our approach is simple: have fun, Mississippi State style."