A Night to Remember
From its founding in 2004 to today's magnificent celebrations, the Two Rivers Gala has become Tougaloo's premier fundraising event, bringing together visionaries, pioneers, and advocates who shape history while supporting student success.
The Beginning
Founded in 2004 by alumni Dr. Roy Irons and Mr. Worth Thomas, the Two Rivers Gala — Tougaloo Honors was created to bring together visionaries, pioneers, and advocates who have shaped history.
Their belief was simple yet profound: to create an event that would not only celebrate excellence but also provide crucial support for the next generation of Tougaloo scholars. What began as a vision has evolved into Tougaloo's most prestigious annual celebration.
Each year, we gather to honor legacies, forge connections, and ignite the future, creating a powerful network of support that extends far beyond the evening itself.
A Legacy of Impact
Over two decades, the Two Rivers Gala has established itself as more than just a fundraising event—it's a celebration of excellence, progress, and community that embodies Tougaloo's core values.
- A Tradition of Excellence – Raising vital scholarship funds and strengthening Tougaloo's role in academic and social progress.
- Honoring Change-makers – Celebrating civil rights icons, trailblazing scientists, and industry leaders who inspire future generations.
- Investing in the Future – Providing scholarships and opportunities, ensuring students carry forward Tougaloo's legacy of excellence and justice.
VIP Reception Moments
Two Rivers VIP Reception:
A Toast to Those Who Make It Possible
The VIP Reception offers an elegant and intimate start to Commencement Weekend, honoring the generous donors, sponsors, and partners who make our mission possible. With heartfelt toasts and a spirit of gratitude, the reception celebrates those whose unwavering support fuels student success and keeps the flame of Tougaloo's legacy burning bright.
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.
Join Our VIP Circle
Experience the warmth of Tougaloo's gratitude in an intimate setting where every contribution is recognized and every partnership is celebrated. The VIP Reception is our way of saying thank you to those who believe in our mission.
2025: From Revolution to Renaissance
The Untold Story Unfolds
This year, the 2025 Two Rivers Gala was truly a night to remember. Inspired by the theme "From Revolution to Renaissance," the evening brought together alumni, supporters, and friends of Tougaloo College to honor legacy and ignite the future.
With a stirring performance by Grammy Award–winning artist Anthony Hamilton and the presence of our cherished honorees, Dr. Jerry W. Ward Jr. and Dr. Richard P. McGinnis, the event was both a celebration of brilliance and a reaffirmation of our mission to educate and uplift.
A Night of Impact
More than a moment of festivity, the Gala raised crucial support for student scholarships, ensuring that the next generation of Tougaloo leaders can thrive. The generosity of our donors and sponsors continues to fuel the dreams of our scholars and sustain the legacy of excellence that defines our beloved institution.
An Evening of Excellence
The Two Rivers Gala represents the pinnacle of Tougaloo's annual celebrations, combining elegance, entertainment, and purpose in a truly memorable experience. Each year, we welcome distinguished honorees, celebrated performers, and a community united in support of educational excellence.
The evening features inspiring tributes, world-class entertainment, and the opportunity to connect with fellow supporters who share our commitment to Tougaloo's mission. It's more than an event—it's a celebration of what we've accomplished together and a vision for what we'll achieve in the future.
From heartfelt tributes to joyful reunions, the Two Rivers Gala embodied the spirit of Tougaloo: resilient, united, and forever committed to progress.
Join Us for the Next Two Rivers Gala
Be part of Tougaloo's most prestigious event. Experience an evening of elegance, inspiration, and impact as we honor legacy and ignite the future of education and social justice.