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Reuben V. Anderson Institute for Social Justice

Reuben V. Anderson
Institute for Social Justice

Rooted in Legacy. Driving Change. Preparing the Next Generation of Legal and Policy Leaders.
Department of Political Science Home Page About Core Programs Signature Initiatives Institute Contacts Political Science Program Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Program Eric H. Holder Jr. Public Policy Program Reuben V. Anderson Institute for Social Justice

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Department of Political Science Home Page About Core Programs Signature Initiatives Institute Contacts Political Science Program Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Program Eric H. Holder Jr. Public Policy Program Reuben V. Anderson Institute for Social Justice

About the Institute

The Reuben V. Anderson Institute for Social Justice is the beating heart of Tougaloo College's commitment to public service, equity, and systemic change. The Institute serves as the home for the Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law and Eric H. Holder Jr. Public Policy Programs, anchoring its academic programs, research, and initiatives in a bold vision of justice-driven, community-empowered leadership.

Inspired by the life and legacy of Justice Reuben V. Anderson, the Institute exists to dismantle the structural barriers that have long perpetuated racial and economic injustice in Mississippi and beyond. Through a powerful fusion of academic rigor, legal advocacy, and civic engagement, the Institute offers students a unique platform to become transformative leaders in law, public policy, and social justice work.

Legal Advocacy

Training the next generation of lawyers and legal advocates to fight for justice and equality in courts and communities.

Community Engagement

Building partnerships with communities to address systemic inequities through grassroots organizing and policy reform.

Academic Excellence

Providing rigorous academic preparation that combines theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world experience.

Our Core Programs

Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Program

Cornerstone to the Institute, prepares scholars for legal careers through rigorous coursework, LSAT preparation, mentorship, and experiential learning. The Program has produced over 200 Black lawyers across the country, including trailblazers in civil rights law, public defense, and corporate litigation.

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Eric H. Holder Jr. Public Policy Program

Launched in Fall 2022, Tougaloo’s first-ever Public Policy and Administration Program focuses on innovative curriculum, community-based participatory research and advocacy in areas such as economic justice, criminal justice equity, educational equity, and public health equity. Scholars complete policy white papers, advocacy practicums and activities, and grassroots campaigns aimed at creating systemic change.

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Bennie G. Thompson Leadership Development

Developing leaders through mentorship and hands-on experience in public service and advocacy.

Coming Soon

Signature Initiatives and Events

Building Power Through Action

Public Policy

Advocacy Training Program

Advocacy Training Program

Learn more about the Eric H. Holder Jr. Public Policy Program and its comprehensive approach to policy training, civic engagement, and community advocacy.
Public Policy

Policy & Popcorn Podcast

Policy & Popcorn Podcast

A student-led podcast amplifying critical conversations on policy, justice, and Black culture. This innovative platform creates space for meaningful dialogue about issues affecting our communities.
Public Policy

Criminal Justice Equity

Criminal Justice Equity

  • Sunflower County efforts to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline
  • Multi-stakeholder engagement with parents, students, and community leaders
  • Advocacy for restorative alternatives and mentorship programs
  • Reform of school discipline policies and enhanced IEP compliance
Public Policy

Economic Justice

Economic Justice Initiatives

  • TAGI: Centering Black farmers in sustainable agriculture
  • TRHT: Truth, racial healing, and transformation through storytelling
  • Black Workers Initiative: Labor rights research and legislation drafting
Public Policy

Educational Equity

Educational Equity

  • Ensuring equitable access to educational resources in underserved communities
  • Supporting students with disabilities and IEP implementation
  • Training educators on inclusive teaching practices
  • Eliminating systemic barriers to learning
Public Policy

Public Health Equity

Public Health Equity

  • Delta GREENS: Advancing food justice and health equity in the Mississippi Delta
  • HBCU SCI: Developing student-led civic engagement programs and capacity building for HBCUs
Pre-Law

Lawyers in the Classroom

Lawyers in the Classroom Series

Bringing legal professionals directly into our curriculum to inspire and mentor the next generation of legal advocates. This series provides students with real-world insights and professional connections.
Pre-Law

Pre-Law Scholars Program

Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Scholars Program

Elite scholarship program providing comprehensive support and preparation for law school success, including mentorship, LSAT preparation, and financial assistance for aspiring legal professionals.
Pre-Law

Pre-Law and Policy Society

Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law and Policy Society

Student organization fostering community, mentorship, and professional development among aspiring lawyers and policy makers. Creates networking opportunities and supports academic excellence.
TC Coalition

GOTV Campaign

Get Out the Vote Campaign

Mobilizing students and the Tougaloo community for voter engagement and empowerment. This initiative focuses on increasing civic participation and ensuring every voice is heard in the democratic process.
TC Coalition

Coalition Day at the Capitol

TC Coalition Day at the Capitol

A signature civic engagement and student advocacy day connecting future leaders with policymakers and community activists. Students engage directly with the legislative process and advocate for important issues.

Institute Leadership & Contacts

Connect with the leadership team driving social justice initiatives and academic excellence at the Reuben V. Anderson Institute for Social Justice.

Dr. Natasha Magee-Woods, Esq.

Dr. Natasha Magee-Woods, Esq.

Director, Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Program

nmwoods@tougaloo.edu

Dr. Lawren M. Long

Dr. Lawren M. Long

Director, Eric H. Holder Jr. Public Policy Program

lmlong@tougaloo.edu

Mr. Tony Bounds

Mr. Tony Bounds

Archivist, Tougaloo College Archives & Special Collections

tbounds@tougaloo.edu

Join the Movement for Justice

Be part of a legacy that spans generations. From the Civil Rights Movement to today's fight for social justice, the Reuben V. Anderson Institute continues Tougaloo's tradition of producing leaders who change the world.

Apply to Tougaloo Contact the Institute