Mae Willingham, a spring 2025 graduate of Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), has been awarded the Gus T. Ridgel Fellowship from the University of Missouri, one of the school’s most competitive graduate fellowships.
Willingham, a political science major at SEMO, will pursue a graduate degree in political science at the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs, focusing on American government and political methodology. She was nominated for multiple fellowships, ultimately accepting the Gus T. Ridgel Fellowship due to the high level of support it provides.
Willingham credits her undergraduate experience at SEMO with fostering the curiosity, confidence and academic grit she needed to pursue graduate study.
“Each semester brought something new, and I realized I wasn’t done learning. There’s always a new angle, question or issue to dive into,” Willingham said. “The lectures, readings, research projects and especially my time as a McNair Scholar all worked together to help prepare me for what’s next.”
The McNair Scholars Program is part of the federal TRIO initiatives designed to support first-generation and low-income students as they prepare for graduate school.
Willingham’s research project explored the intersection of public perceptions, voting behaviors and media consumption habits—an ambitious topic that shaped her interests in political methodology. Along the way, she found thoughtful guidance from faculty mentors like Dr. Jeremy Walling and Dr. Laura Hatcher.
“Dr. Walling helped me work with statistics I hadn’t covered before, which pushed me to ask new questions and think differently,” she said, “and Dr. Hatcher encouraged me to expand my horizons each semester when choosing classes. Whether I needed help understanding a topic from class, had questions about issues and events, or needed academic or life advice, they were always there to talk and offer guidance. Since I first entered their classrooms, the support has been unwavering.”
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Dr. Hatcher, professor and chair of the Department of Political Science, Philosophy and Religion said Willingham stood out for her preparation and intellectual maturity.
“Initially, what stood out was that Mae always came to class prepared,” Hatcher said. “But once I read her writing, I realized her ability to articulate her thoughts was remarkable, and one she continued to hone. She wrote at a graduate level as a sophomore and now writes like a Ph.D.-level researcher.”
Dr. Walling agrees.
“Mae’s overcome every obstacle that’s come her way,” he said. “She’s one of the most resilient and disciplined students I’ve known. She is confident in her strengths and addresses weaknesses by seeking advice and adapting. Additionally, she is kind and generous to everyone.”
In addition to her academic achievements, Willingham participated in the Law, Politics, and Society Club and maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA while working to support herself throughout college.
“Mae should be the example we give every first-year student who wants to know how to succeed at SEMO,” Walling added. “She shows up every day—no matter what else is going on. She’s always engaged, always reflecting, and an excellent team member.”
Looking ahead, Willingham hopes to pursue a career in higher education, balancing both teaching and research.
“I’d love to teach at the university level while continuing to do research—though staying student- and teaching-focused,” she said. “The Gus T. Ridgel Fellowship makes that dream more possible. It gives me the freedom to focus on learning, without worrying about how to make ends meet.”
For other SEMO students considering graduate school or competitive fellowships, Willingham offers practical encouragement.
“Start early and take advantage of every resource,” she said. “Talk to your professors, reach out to graduate schools, and get organized—I had an Excel sheet to track deadlines and folders for each program. It really helped.”
Dr. Hatcher said Willingham’s story is a reminder that success at SEMO isn’t handed out, it’s earned, with support from a community that cares.
“It’s important to understand that becoming a successful young professional requires doing your homework, setting goals and persevering in the face of inevitable difficulties,” Hatcher said. “There are professors and fellow students who will help and support you. So, create a network of friends and colleagues. Rely on your network for assistance when you need it, and always return the favor.”
When asked how it felt to receive the fellowship, Willingham expressed gratitude for the financial relief.
“It took a load off my shoulders, to be honest. Knowing I’ll have more room to focus on my studies and experiences rather than outside work will give me more room to learn and grow.”
If Willingham’s story has inspired you to learn more about SEMO’s political science program, visit semo.edu/politicalscience.