Development Foundation Alumni Awards
Pearl River Community College Foundation
2026 Alumni Awards Gala
The Alumni Awards Ceremony was created to recognize and honor the outstanding achievements of alumni, friends, and partners of Pearl River Community College whose leadership, service, and commitment continue to strengthen our college and communities.
The 2026 PRCC Foundation Alumni Awards Gala will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Lake Terrace Convention Center in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
Social hour will begin at 6:00 p.m., with doors opening for the awards program at 6:30 p.m.
We are proud to celebrate the following 2026 honorees:
Rising Star – Young Alumnus of the Year
Emily B. Steele
Associate, Rush Law Firm
Recognized as a member of the next generation of leaders making a meaningful impact early in her career.
Alumnus of the Year
Alex Riser
Vice President, Southern AgCredit
Honored for his professional success and continued support of Pearl River Community College.
Distinguished Service Award
Dr. Martha Lou Byrd Smith
Celebrated for her lifelong commitment to service, education, and community leadership.
Outstanding Partnership
Forrest General Hospital and Forrest Health Services
Recognized for creating valuable partnerships that provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for PRCC students.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Carla Evers
Superintendent, Pass Christian School District
Honored for a distinguished career dedicated to education and leadership across South Mississippi.
Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and reserved tables are now available for the 2026 Alumni Awards Gala. Join us as we celebrate the outstanding achievements of our PRCC alumni.
2026 Alumni Awards Gala
Sponsorship Packages & Table Opportunities
The Pearl River Community College Development Foundation Alumni Awards Gala will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Lake Terrace Convention Center in Hattiesburg, MS.
Social hour begins at 6:00 p.m. and doors open for the program at 6:30 p.m.
Businesses, alumni, and community partners are invited to support this special evening through table purchases or sponsorship packages.
For reservations, contact the Foundation Office at 601-403-1193 or email Mary Chandler at mchandler@prcc.edu.
Checks may be made payable to the PRCC Foundation.
Table Purchase
Reserved Table – $750
Includes:
8 individual tickets
$50 savings off individual ticket pricing
Reserved seating for your guests
Sponsorship Levels
Bronze Sponsor – $500
2 complimentary tickets to the Alumni Awards Gala
Name listed on promotional materials
Recognition in the event press release
Logo displayed on presentation slides during the ceremony
Silver Sponsor – $1,000
4 complimentary tickets (half table)
Name listed on promotional materials
Recognition in the event press release
Logo displayed on presentation slides
Verbal recognition during the ceremony program
Gold Sponsor – $2,000
8 complimentary tickets (full table)
Name listed on promotional materials
Recognition in the event press release
Logo displayed on presentation slides
Verbal recognition during the ceremony program
Promotion during PRCC Spring live-streamed athletic events
(Must sponsor by April 1, 2026 for athletic promotion inclusion)