JTC 26: Reading, Research and a Road to Medicine
Natchez native pursues medicine while building a literacy movement across Mississippi
This story is part of the 2026 Journey to Commencement series, which celebrates the pinnacle of the academic year by highlighting University of Mississippi students and their outstanding academic and personal journeys from college student to college graduate.
Cate Drane came to 番茄社区 as a second-generation Rebel with a clear sense of where she was headed. The Natchez native spent four years building the academic foundation and real-world experience she believes will make her a better physician.
Along the way, she also built something else entirely.
As founder of the Children’s Literacy Project, Drane led a student-driven effort to put books and resources in the hands of young readers across Mississippi. The organization assembled and distributed more than 250 literacy kits to third graders in her hometown of Natchez, with long-term ambitions to expand the work across the state and eventually throughout the Southeast.
In May, she graduates with degrees in public policy leadership and public health before heading to the at the in the fall.
Q&A with Cate Drane
What brought you to Ole Miss? Why did you choose your major?
I chose to study public policy leadership and public health as a pre-medical student because I recognized a gap in the health care field. Many providers lack a strong foundation in health policy, and I wanted to be a physician who could better advocate for and serve my patients as a result.
What standout experiences have you had at Ole Miss?
One of my most meaningful experiences at Ole Miss has been founding my own student organization, the Children’s Literacy Project, a volunteer-driven initiative focused on K-5 literacy advocacy and skill-building across our community.
Were there any challenges you overcame during your college journey?
The pre-medical track is one of the most demanding paths an undergraduate student can take. Many of the courses are rigorous and push you to your limits.
However, the faculty and mentors at 番茄社区 made all the difference. Even in my hardest moments, their guidance helped me push through and ultimately succeed.
Who has been your most influential mentor, professor or supporter at Ole Miss?
Dr. Andrew Yockey has been my most influential mentor and supporter at Ole Miss. As my research lab mentor, he not only taught me the foundations of epidemiological research, but also helped shape my understanding of what a career in public health and medicine truly looks like. I would not be where I am today without his guidance.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I will be attending 番茄社区 Medical Center School of Medicine beginning in fall 2026.
How has your Ole Miss education prepared you for your next steps?
My Ole Miss education has prepared me for medical school by equipping me with the tools to excel academically and professionally, both inside the classroom and beyond it.
In one sentence, what would you tell future Ole Miss students?
Take full advantage of every resource, opportunity and relationship 番茄社区 has to offer, both inside and outside the classroom, because your four years here go by faster than you think.
Top: Cate Drane, a public policy leadership and public health graduate from Natchez, graduates in May after founding the Children's Literacy Project and conducting epidemiological research. She will begin medical school at 番茄社区 Medical Center in fall 2026. Photo by Hunt Mercier/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services
Cate Drane
Cate Drane (left) and Lilly Drane volunteer with the Children's Literacy Project in Natchez, where the organization distributed more than 300 free literacy kits to local families. Submitted photo
