Tougaloo College recently served as the host for the NAACP Organizing Accelerator event, which brought together a distinguished group of leaders, students, faculty, and staff for a transformative afternoon centered on leadership, advocacy, and the future of grassroots organizing. The event, organized in partnership with the NAACP, highlighted the significance of civic engagement and the power of community-based leadership in addressing pressing social and political issues.
The event’s featured speakers included NAACP President and Tougaloo alumnus Derrick Johnson, Tougaloo College’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Dr. Delores Bolden Stamps, student leader Terry Rogers, and Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, who has long been a supporter of Tougaloo College and an advocate for civil rights. Each speaker delivered powerful messages on the importance of organizing, emphasizing the role that students and young leaders play in shaping both local and national movements.
Derrick Johnson, a stalwart advocate for social justice, spoke passionately about the ongoing fight for equality and the need to develop new leaders in the movement. “Leadership is about understanding the needs of the community and mobilizing action to create change. Young people, especially those at historically Black colleges and universities like Tougaloo, are at the forefront of that change,” Johnson remarked.
Dr. Delores Bolden Stamps underscored the critical role Tougaloo College plays in developing future leaders, saying, “Tougaloo has a rich history of activism, and this event is a continuation of that legacy. Our students have always been at the forefront of social change, and we are committed to providing them with the tools and knowledge to continue that tradition.”
Congressman Bennie G. Thompson shared his experiences in advocacy and public service, encouraging students to pursue leadership roles. “The work of organizing is not just for the sake of protest—it’s for the sake of progress. You are the generation that will take the mantle forward, and I am confident that you will lead with passion and purpose,” Thompson stated.
Student leader Terry Rogers inspired fellow students, stating, “We are the voices of tomorrow, but our work starts today. It’s events like this that remind us of the power we have when we come together as a community.”
In addition to the featured speakers, the event provided opportunities for breakout sessions and group discussions on effective organizing, voter mobilization, and advocacy. These sessions focused on building leadership and engagement, offering participants practical tools for future efforts.
The event was a resounding success. A representative from Tougaloo College said, “We’re proud to have hosted such a distinguished group. The participation of our faculty, staff, and students was instrumental in making this event impactful, and we are grateful for their dedication to fostering meaningful conversations around leadership and advocacy.”
As the event concluded, the sense of purpose and commitment to social justice was palpable. Tougaloo College remains dedicated to empowering students and fostering an environment where leadership and advocacy are central to its mission.
