A Night to Remember: 2025 Two Rivers Gala-Tougaloo Honors

A Night to Remember:

2025 Two Rivers Gala-Tougaloo Honors

The Untold Story: From Revolution to Renaissance

Beneath the soft glow of chandeliers and the enduring spirit of excellence, the 2025 Two Rivers Gala unfolded as a magnificent tribute to the brilliance, generosity, and resilience that define the heartbeat of Tougaloo College.

In the distinguished company of Grammy Award–winning artist Anthony Hamilton, the evening transcended celebration—it became a symphony of purpose, a reflection of legacy, and a powerful reaffirmation of our mission to educate, elevate, and inspire.

View Full Gallery

Honoring Legacy:

2025 Two Rivers Gala Honorees

This year, we proudly celebrated two towering figures whose impact on Tougaloo College is both profound and enduring: Dr. Jerry W. Ward Jr. and Dr. Richard P. McGinnis. With intellectual brilliance, unwavering dedication to students, and a deep commitment to the mission of Tougaloo, these scholars shaped generations and left an indelible mark on the life of the College. To speak their names is to honor a legacy of excellence—one that calls each of us to rise higher, serve greater, and dream without limits.

Dr. Jerry W. Ward Jr.

Light of Justice Award

Learn More

Dr. Richard P. McGinnis

Vanguard Award

Learn More

Two Rivers VIP Reception:

A Toast to Those Who Make It Possible

Before the main event, the Two Rivers VIP Reception set the tone with warmth, elegance, and gratitude. This intimate gathering served as a heartfelt tribute to the donors, sponsors, and partners. whose steadfast support powers the mission of Tougaloo College.

More than just a prelude, the reception was a celebration of the people who breathe life into our shared vision—those who invest in our students, believe in our future, and help carry the torch of Tougaloo’s enduring legacy.

View Full Gallery

From Celebration to Impact: Fueling the Future

Across two unforgettable days, the 2025 Two Rivers Gala offered more than celebration—it revealed the soul of a community united in joy, purpose, and unwavering commitment. There was laughter and dancing, heartfelt reflection and reunion—but most of all, there was love.

This powerful convergence reminded us of what makes Tougaloo extraordinary: a shared belief in education, legacy, and the limitless potential of our students. Thanks to the generosity of our guests, proceeds from the Gala directly support student scholarships—ensuring that tomorrow’s leaders can follow the path lit by legends like Dr. Jerry W. Ward Jr. and Dr. Richard P. McGinnis.

In giving, our supporters did more than attend—they became part of the story. They invested in the next generation. They invested in hope.

Donate To Scholarships Today

Every gift fuels a future.

The Two Rivers Gala stands as Tougaloo College’s premier fundraising event for student scholarships, and your support helps turn dreams into reality.

If you were moved by the passion of our student volunteers or inspired by the legacies of our honorees, we invite you to take the next step. Make a gift to the 1869 Annual Fund and select “Scholarships” to ensure that future leaders have the opportunity to thrive, grow, and carry the Tougaloo legacy forward.

Your generosity today empowers the brilliance of tomorrow.

🎁 Give Now