Derrick Tice (right) is pictured with Scott Willard, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and interim vice president for the Office of Research and Economic Development. (Photo by Dominique Belcher)

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Mississippi State University’s (MSU’s) College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has selected Derrick Tice, President of Aviagen^® North America, as a 2025 Distinguished Alumni Fellow for the Department of Poultry Science. The award recognizes graduates who have demonstrated professional achievement while maintaining a strong connection to the university and its mission.

A 2007 graduate of MSU with a Bachelor of Science in Poultry Science Management, Tice oversees North American operations for the global poultry breeding company and serves on its Executive Management Board. In his role, he guides the region with a strong focus on breeding customer success — ensuring breeding programs, supply chain, and service teams are aligned to support responsible poultry production, animal welfare, and long-term sustainability.

Since joining Aviagen in 2007, Tice has held leadership positions across Grandparent Operations, Quality Assurance, and Regional Management before being appointed President in December 2025.

Reflecting on the recognition, Tice emphasized the role his education continues to play in shaping his leadership approach, saying: “My time at Mississippi State grounded me in applied science and practical problem-solving. Today, that foundation guides how I think about our responsibility as an industry leader — working together with poultry producers to strengthen animal health and welfare, advance sustainability, and help feed the world responsibly with a safe, nutritious protein source.”

View his Distinguished Alumni Fellow profile on the Mississippi State University website.