The Untold Story: From Revolution to Renaissance
Step into an unforgettable evening of legacy, inspiration, and transformation at the Two Rivers Gala – Tougaloo Honors. This year’s celebration pays tribute to two towering intellectuals whose influence shaped generations—Dr. Richard P. McGinnis, trailblazing Dean of the School of Natural Sciences, and Dr. Jerry W. Ward, Jr., visionary poet, literary scholar, and cultural critic.
Their lives and work represent more than academic brilliance—they symbolize the revolution of thought, the renaissance of purpose, and the enduring impact of mentorship, advocacy, and truth. Guided by this year’s powerful theme, The Untold Story: From Revolution to Renaissance, we will come together to celebrate change agents, honor visionary leaders, and invest in the future of Tougaloo students.
Your presence and support at the Gala are more than symbolic—they are transformational. Proceeds from this event directly fund scholarships, opening doors for tomorrow’s scholars, scientists, artists, and advocates. Together, we are cultivating a future shaped by opportunity, equity, and excellence.
This is more than a gala. It is a movement. Join us on this journey—where stories untold find their voice, legacies are honored, and the next chapter begins with you.
Light of Justice Award
Honoring individuals whose vision, courage, and dedication advance justice and equity through impactful policy advocacy.
Dr. Jerry W. Ward, Jr.
Light of Justice Award
Dr. Jerry W. Ward, Jr. was a towering figure in American letters and a fearless advocate for justice through the power of language, scholarship, and mentorship. A renowned poet, literary critic, and one of the nation’s foremost Richard Wright
Vanguard Award
Honoring extraordinary individuals whose groundbreaking achievements have secured their place in history.
Dr. Richard P. McGinnis
Vanguard Award
Dr. Richard P. McGinnis was a pioneer in STEM education and a deeply respected academic leader whose transformative work helped redefine what was possible for generations of Black students pursuing careers in medicine and the sciences.
Turning Dreams into Reality
At Tougaloo College, a scholarship is more than financial aid—it is a promise to nurture brilliance, unlock potential, and invest in the leaders of tomorrow.
Our students don’t just dream of changing the world—they’re already doing it. From advancing research in health disparities to leading campus initiatives, launching community projects, and excelling in the arts, athletics, and STEM fields, Tougaloo scholars are driven by purpose and fueled by potential. But behind every success story is someone who chose to give.
Your support makes the difference.
It opens doors to opportunity, empowers rising leaders, and ensures that financial barriers never stand in the way of greatness. Together, we are supporting education and shaping a generation committed to justice, innovation, and transformation. Help us turn dreams into lasting impact.
Because when you invest in Tougaloo students, you invest in a brighter, more equitable future for us all.
Anthony Hamiltion featuring The Ton3s
With over 50 million albums globally and proclaimed a "national treasure" by the Los Angeles Times, Anthony Hamilton’s voice will resonate louder than ever in 2021 with more music and performances on the horizon. GRAMMY® Award winning singer, songwriter, producer, and actor Anthony Hamilton has achieved global sales of over 50 million albums.
Sponsors
Light of Justice
Cornell Lynch
Sponsor Party Host
Sponsor Party Cohosts
Beverly Wade Hogan
Dianna Grant Burke, MD
Class of 1975
Golden Class Reunion
Car Service Sponsor
Mr. Jay and Dr. Erica Quinn Thompson '95
Sustaining Sponsors
Brian and Christina Johnson
Edmond and Jennifer Hughes
Nancy Dunbar
Ambassador Sponsors
Jesse Sherrod
PACCAR Foundation
McQuirter Family Scholarship Endowment and Katherine Murriel Education Fund
Impact Sponsors
Benjamin A. and Ann Marie Shepherd
Edith Smith Rayford
Linda Slater Clark
Mary Ford
Robert Gibbs
Sedrick and Hope (Lampkin) Irvin
Patron Sponsors
Anros Properties LLC
Archie Smith Class of 1975
Carolyn Hackett
Roosevelt Turner, Class of 1972
Congressman Bennie Thompson
Darline Carter Aubin
Deborah England
Delores Bolden Stamps
Ellucian
Tougaloo College Division of Enrollment Management
Follett - Higher Education
Frempong II
Glenda Haynes
Glenn Family Foundation
Gloria Green
Gregg Cotton
H.E.A.L Mississippi
Harrington Haven International Ministries
Jackson MS Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc.
James Williams
JMMA
Joyce McNair
Kewanza Williams
Mavis James
Michele Hagans
Mississippi Action for Progress
National Institutes for Historically-Underserved Students
Norweida Spencer
Roslind McCoy Sibley
Ross and Yerger Insurance Company
Ruby Smith
Southern Bankcorp
Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company
Tara Dortch
Terrance Ware
The McCoy Agency, Incorporated
The Monarchs Facilities Management Group, LLC
Thea Williams-Black
Vernessa Alexander, Class of 1983
Willie Bozeman
WLOO TV
Young Alumni Group