Sitting in the Student Union seems almost impossible for Joey Ratcliff. His work will never get done.
“Hey there, how are you? So good to see you,” said Ratcliff as he recognizes friends passing by to lunch.
His circle of friends and acquaintances is especially wide, due to his number of involvements on campus. As Executive Director of Ole Miss Ambassadors, and Ambassador of the Year 2009, he is a friendly face easily spotted around campus.
Although he blends in as a highly involved and hardworking student, he actually is part of a small minority community in Oxford. He is Mormon.
“I questioned my religion a lot during high school,” said Ratcliff. “Being surrounded by Southern Baptist’s and all their church activities, I did feel left out.”
It was in high school he started to look deeper into his religion by reading scriptures and found his own reason to stay committed to his beliefs.
After battling through the pressures of high school, Ratcliff came to Ole Miss and was surprised to find the Latter Day Saints Student Organization (LDSSO).
“I don’t really participate in group events, I mean, there’s only about five people in the organization,” said Ratcliff. “It’s nice to know I’m not the only one here though.”
Mormonism is unique for its extremely high moral standards and conservative values. Rules such as no dating until 16, no drinking alcohol or caffeine, no two-piece swimsuits for girls and devoting Sunday’s to strict family time.
Ratcliff is the youngest in a large family of six children, half of which are still practicing Mormons in their adult lives.
“Growing up with parents who were determined to take us to church on Sunday and encouraging to live as best we could taught me discipline,” said Ratcliff.
“Personally, I have my own beliefs. I consider religion to be like a roadmap. The end reward is meeting your creator. That relationship is the result of whatever church you choose.”
Although Ratcliff does not adhere to each and every single Mormon rule at this point in his life, he still incorporates his fundamental values through his everyday lifestyle. Looking past appearances, he feels his nonjudgmental approach taught him how to treat people.
“People have stereotypes of Mormons not being able to function in society because we’re weird,” said Ratcliff. “I let people get to know me first and see that’s not true before they know I’m Mormon”
Awarded Who’s Who of American College Students, a two time veteran Orientation Leader, and holding the position of Director of First Year Experience for Associated Student Body are just a few highlights of his impressive resume. He clearly does not shy away from anything, contrary to stereotypical beliefs.
“I applaud Joey for showing through his actions, not words, what his faith has taught him,” said Lauren Teare, a close friend. “It is rare to see such a spotlight student with a unique secret like him. Just goes to show everyone has a story.”
Ratcliff says he does not feel diverse because his religion is not the all encompassing factor of him. He does not seek attention for his practices, but is happy to be able to change perceptions of Mormonism through his actions.
“Mormons are just nice people, and that’s our mission,” said Ratcliff. “We just want to make people happy, and that’s truly why I fit in here at Ole Miss.”
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