Three months before her term expires, Lt. Gov. Amy Tuck has found a new job.

Tuck will become a special assistant to Mississippi State University President Robert “Doc” Fogelsong.

Tuck, a Maben native, is a graduate of Mississippi State, where she received a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1985 and a public policy and administration master’s degree in 1994.

The hiring has been approved by the state College Board.

“My undergraduate and graduate experience at Mississippi State provided me with a wonderful educational experience that has served me well in my career as a public servant and I look forward to providing assistance to President Foglesong as he leads Mississippi State University into an exciting future,” Tuck said in a statement Tuesday night.

Tuck could not seek re-election to a third term as lieutenant governor. Speculation had been that she would join the staff at Mississippi State. She leaves office when the new Legislature is sworn in on Jan. 8.

Tuck will work in the areas of economic development and public policy. She also will work with various state, national and international organizations, the university said Tuesday.

Tuck’s salary will be $160,000 annually, more than twice what she made in the second-highest elective office in the state.

State Auditor Phil Bryant, a Republican, and Democratic state Rep. Jamie Franks of Mooreville, will meet in the Nov. 6 general election for lieutenant governor.

“I believe her love for that university and her absolute devotion to the state is a combination that can’t miss, said Sen. Terry Burton, R-Newton, who is a close Tuck ally.

Tuck will work alongside Jeffrey Rupp, the former mayor of Columbus who is also a special assistant to the president, focusing on community issues.