People, Locations, Episodes

Tougaloo College is Founded

The founding of Tougaloo College in 1869 is celebrated on this date. It is among over 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities in America (HBCUs).

Tougaloo College is a private, coeducational, church-related four-year liberal arts institution. Located at the northern edge of Jackson, Mississippi, it was founded by the American Missionary Association. Tougaloo was chartered on the principle that it "be accessible to everyone regardless of his or her religious tenets, and conducted on the most liberal principles for the benefit of our citizens in general."

Tougaloo preserves and respects its traditions, remaining dedicated to the equality of all people.   It remains a value-centered community, where an engaged faculty and staff guide students. They apply current knowledge and prepare for lifelong education related to new information and technologies, as well as humane standards in a changing world.

Tougaloo College admits students with diverse backgrounds and preparation to enable them to understand and appreciate the scientific, cultural, and spiritual achievements of men and women, and to be effective citizens in a democracy. Tougaloo College offers an undergraduate curriculum designed to encourage students to apply critical thinking to all areas of life, acquire a basic knowledge of the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences, develop entry-level skills required in selected professions, and provide leadership in a democratic society.

Tougaloo College aims for its students to become self-directed learners and self-reliant individuals capable of effectively addressing people, challenges, and issues now and in the future. Tougaloo College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Science degrees. Notable Alumni include Lawrence Guyot and Ann Moody.