House Resolution 109

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING TOUGALOO COLLEGE UPON THE 2016 TWO RIVERS GALA-TOUGALOO HONORS.

WHEREAS, on May 21, 2016, Tougaloo College, the oldest private institution of higher education in metropolitan Jackson, Mississippi, founded in 1869, hosts the 2016 Two Rivers Gala-Tougaloo Honors, which provides the historic institution the opportunity to celebrate its distinctive and proud heritage while remaining committed to its founding vision of exceptional education; and

WHEREAS, since its inception, Tougaloo College has been at the forefront of leading positive change toward divisiveness along racial, ethnic, cultural, religious and economic lines in the State of Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, Tougaloo College envisioned the 2016 Two Rivers Gala-Tougaloo Honors and related events to make a bold statement to the state and nation that progress has been made in the State of Mississippi, especially with regard to racial divisiveness; and

WHEREAS, the Two Rivers Gala-Tougaloo Honors and related events are reflective of historic and relevant social and educational issues and serves as a precursor to the 2017 opening of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum; and

WHEREAS, the events epitomize the best of America's ideals and values and allows Tougaloo College the opportunity to publicly embrace its role as a leader of change and reaffirm its trademarks of academic excellence and social commitment; and

WHEREAS, in resounding acknowledgement of individuals who have made continuous strides and notable contributions to radiate as illuminated beacons of inspiration for the State of Mississippi, while simultaneously generating national acclaim and positive synergy for civil activism, this year's slate of honorees include; Roderick "Rod" Paige, Myrlie Evers Williams, James L. Barksdale, Aunjanue Ellis, Benjamin F. Wright and Clarence Weatherspoon; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to celebrate and honor institutions of stalwart academic caliber like Tougaloo College, whose commitment to the advent of positive change continues to make the promise of tomorrow a brighter and more positive prospect:

NOW, THEREFORE, on behalf of the House of Representatives of the State of Mississippi, we do hereby commend Tougaloo College on the occasion of the 2016 Two Rivers Gala-Tougaloo Honors and extend best wishes for continued success and prosperity for many years to come.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Tougaloo College President Beverly Wade Hogan and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.