As part of Black History Month, Our Mississippi magazine has announced 19 individuals as Mississippi’s Most Influential African Americans for 2024-25.
Wesley Wells, the magazine’s publisher, said the individuals were selected for the honor by an independent panel of business and community leaders after nominations were submitted by the public.
“Mississippi has long been a state enriched with cultural heritage and historical significance, much of which has been profoundly shaped by its African American community,” Wells said. “The selection of the Most Influential African Americans for 2024-25 is a testament to the dynamic leadership, creativity, and perseverance that continue to redefine the sociopolitical and economic landscape of the state.
“These individuals, through their diverse roles in various sectors, wield an impressive ability to inspire change and drive progress within Mississippi.”
The following individuals were selected in the categories of business, education, health, servant leadership, entrepreneurs, or religious professions:
- Marcus Thompson, Jackson State University president
- Tracy Cook, Alcorn State University president
- Donzell Lee, Tougaloo College president
- LaVerne Edney, Butler Snow chair of diversity and inclusivity committee
- Fatina Brave, Ingalls Shipbuilding director of talent acquisition
- Scott Colom, 16th Circuit Court District Attorney
- Corey Wiggins, Delta Regional Authority federal co-chair
- Angela Juzang, Memorial Health Systems vice president
- Melvin Roland, Mississippi Power vice president of power delivery and division operations
- Conrad Bell, C Spire senior vice president and chief information officer
- Debra McGee, BankPlus senior vice president and director of minority business development
- Brandi Hough, Mississippi Economic Development Council director of business development
- Stephen Tyrone Cook, Anderson United Methodist Church head pastor
- Nikki McCelleis, United Way of the Capital Area CEO and President
- Robbie Kemp, Entergy Mississippi vice president of customer service
- Orlando Valree, Nissan North America director of vehicle quality assurance
- Eric Lewis, Orthopedic Institute of North Mississippi surgeon
- Tonya Ware, ReadyNation Mississippi state director
- Vickie Powell, Mississippi Economic Council senior vice president
“The committee did a great job in selecting this year’s honorees,” Wells added. “They are all worthy of this prestigious honor, and we are grateful for the work they do for our great state.”
The group will be honored at the 11th annual Our Mississippi Honors Gala. The event will take place on May 17 at Hilton Jackson. Tickets can be purchased here.
