JACKSON, MISS– Mississippi Top 50 has announced this year’s two Hall of Fame inductees. The announcement comes after Mississippi Top 50 announced the 50 Most Influential People last week.
U.S. Senator Thad Cochran and former Mississippi Governor William Winter are set to receive the organization’s Hall of Fame honor November 9.
Senator Thad Cochran was commended by the organization for his seven terms of service in the U.S. Senate, as well as his political involvement in the Magnolia state, including campaigning for Richard Nixon in 1968. Cochran also served in the U.S. House, and became one of the first Republicans to be elected in statewide office in more than 100 years.
“Dubbed the ‘Quiet Persuader’, Thad Cochran has been one of the most influential political figures in Mississippi in the last half century,” said Alan Lange of YallPolitics. “Three legacy areas where Senator Cochran’s influence in Mississippi will be permanently felt are in agriculture, defense and research.”
Former Governor William Winter is often credited his work in education and race relations in Mississippi. Winter is a World War II veteran, and served the state as Tax Collector, State Treasurer, Lt. Governor and then Governor.
“Governor William Winter’s legacy in Mississippi will forever be tied to positive outcomes on racial reconciliation and educational advancement,” said Alan Lange. “Since serving as Governor, he has been a tireless advocate for racial reconciliation in Mississippi and is nationally recognized for that work.”
The Hall of Fame inductees and the Mississippi Top 50 Most Influential People will be honored November 9 at the Old Capitol Inn in Jackson.
