MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1999 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Senator(s) Harden, Hall, Horhn

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING FORMER TOUGALOO COLLEGE PRESIDENT GEORGE A. OWENS, RECIPIENT OF THE ANNUAL FRIENDSHIP AWARD PRESENTED BY JACKSON 2000.

WHEREAS, Tougaloo College welcomed many of the nation's civil rights leaders during the 1960's, and years later built bridges with Jackson's business community; and

WHEREAS, former President George A. Owens, who served from 1964 to 1984, deserves much of the credit for connecting Tougaloo College with the local business community; and

WHEREAS, Owens, Tougaloo's ninth and first black president and former captain of the school's football team in 1940, continues to spark change that has enriched his alma mater; and

WHEREAS, his community leadership and role to improve race relations are why he will be one of two Mississippians honored at the annual Friendship Ball as a recipient of the Friendship Award presented by Jackson 2000; and

WHEREAS, Tougaloo hasn't forgotten him, its new $6 Million health and wellness center that includes a 2,500-seat gymnasium is named for George Owens and his wife, Ruth; and

WHEREAS, not content to sit back and enjoy retirement in Jackson, Owens has stayed active over the years with the Boy Scouts, he regularly comes to programs on the Tougaloo campus and remains a trusted friend to school leaders; and

WHEREAS, Tougaloo College has a tradition of freedom, and it is with great pride that we recognize this modest man who was able to build relationships between the black and white community:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend former Tougaloo College President George A. Owens upon his receipt of the Annual Friendship Award sponsored by Jackson 2000, to be presented at the annual Friendship Ball to be held on Saturday, February 27, 1999.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Owens and his family and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.