Experience/Awards

Crisis Center in Newton, MS named “Senator Billy H. Thames Crisis Center Complex” in honor of his work to get the crisis centers established across the state.

Member, Pi Alpha Alpha – Public Policy and Administration Honor Society

Hinds Community College Alumnus of the Year - 2006

First Recipient of the annual “Billy H. Thames” award given by the Mental Health Association of the Capitol Area in honor of his work for improving the lives of Mississippians with mental illness

MS Farm Bureau Federation  “Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture and Rural Mississippi”

Conservation Legislator of the Year – MS Association of Conservation Districts

Appreciation Award for Years of Outstanding Service to the MS Agricultural Industry – Given by Mid South and Deep South Equipment Dealer’s Association

Pharoah’s Award for Legislative Excellence – MS Psychiatric Association

Legislator of the Year – MS Association of Governmental Purchasing Agents

Appreciation of Friendship to the Mississippi Judiciary – MS Conference of
Circuit Court Judges

Distinguished Service in the Field of Human Resources Award -  MS Association of Personnel Administrators  (twice)

Mississippi Association of Rehabilitation for the Blind and Visually Impaired – Outstanding Legislator Award

MS Primary Health Care Association – Outstanding Legislative Leadership

MS Families As Allies for Children’s Mental Health – Legislator of the Year (twice)

MS Chapter of American Association of Mental Retardation – Legislative Award

Commendatory Resolution - State Board of Mental Health – Outstanding Service

National American Honorary Future Farmer’s of America Degree – Given at the 70th Annual Convention for Outstanding Contribution to Youth