(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University Women’s Council for Philanthropy will celebrate four impactful former JSU administrators at this year’s 2023 Women’s Council for Philanthropy Ladies of Legacy and Leadership Luncheon. The event will occur at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 10, 2023, at the Old Capitol Inn. 

“We are so thrilled to honor these four exceptional women whose professional achievements have contributed to the strong academic legacy of JSU,” said Yolanda Owens, interim vice president of JSU’s Division of Institutional Advancement. “I encourage everyone to not only support this wonderful event but also take time to independently learn about each of these women and their pivotal role in creating some of JSU’s stellar academic programs and the policies we have today.”

The honorees served pivotal roles during the university administration in the 1980s and contributed greatly to JSU’s forward-thinking strategic vision that has made today’s growth attainable. The honorees include:

• Bettye Ward Fletcher, Ph.D. – Former JSU Interim President / Retired Career Academician, Researcher, and Administrator 
• Curtina Moreland-Young, Ph.D. – Founding Chair of JSU Department of Public Policy and Administration 
• Gwendolyn Spencer Prater, Ph.D. – Founding Dean of the School of Social Work at JSU, State President of AARP Mississippi 
• Dora Scruggs Washington, Ph.D. – Retired Vice President of Academic Affairs and Professor Emeritus of Speech and Communicative Disorders at JSU 

“It is such a humbling honor and privilege to play a role in honoring the legacy and contributions of these four most deserving women who have set the standard for service in academia by touching the lives of thousands of students. This event is a testament to their dedication and commitment to JSU and the Jackson community,” said Rhea Williams-Bishop, chair of the JSU Women’s Council for Philanthropy.

Founded in 2007, the council’s primary function is to shift the narrative and presence of women in philanthropic giving through demonstrated leadership, access to scholarships, professional development and mentorship opportunities.

The luncheon is sold out but individuals can still contribute to student scholarships by donating a tax-deductible gift by here. Learn more about the Women’s Council for Philanthropy here.