Cover Photo: Tolliver, second from right, with fellow alumni as well as president of Mississippi College Blake Thompson (second from left).

The month of February brought some of the most meaningful moments as Mississippi College celebrated its bicentennial, giving special recognition to its first African American graduates who are a part of the college’s history. There were moments that filled my heart with gratitude and humility as I reflected on the journey that brought me there.

Mississippi College’s bicentennial celebration highlighted an important part of its history—the courage and perseverance of its first African American students who enrolled and graduated during a time of great social change. To be included in that recognition was greatly moving and profoundly meaningful to me.

My journey in education grew from the opportunities I received and the privilege of teaching in elementary school. I later earned my Master’s degree from Mississippi College in 1985, which strengthened my commitment to education and lifelong learning.

During the final five years of my career, I returned to study again to earn certification in Gifted Education. Teaching gifted students allowed me to encourage creativity, and a love for learning.

The recognition from Mississippi College was a wonderful honor, made even more meaningful as I was sharing these moments with people who had supported me. On Thursday, February 12, 2026, Mississippi College hosted a “Meet and Greet” event and discussion honoring its African American graduates. Each graduate was recognized with a poster displaying a photograph and personal information. My poster displayed my senior picture from 1975, which was the year I graduated. I was so very proud that the poster highlighted my work in the Episcopal Church. Laguna Social Tribe had a table featuring my accomplishments, recognizing that I was the first African American young woman to join a social tribe. On Sunday, February 15, 2026, my family hosted a special luncheon with family, friends and members of my church community gathered to celebrate this honor with me.

Seeing my priest and deacon present meant more to me than words can express. Their presence reminded me that none of our achievements happens alone. We are strengthened by faith in God, by prayer and the encouragement of those who walk with us.

My faith and the support of my church family have always been central to my life as an educator. In the classroom, I hoped not only to teach academic lessons, but also to model compassion, perseverance, and integrity for my students.

As I reflect, I am grateful to God and all who supported me. Teaching was never just a career for me—it was a calling and a blessing. It has been the honor of my life. I now look forward to the next chapter of my journey, trusting God to guide me in new ways to encourage and share His love.

Linda Nell Hodge Tolliver is a retired educator and a graduate of Mississippi College. She was the first female acolyte at St. Mary’s, Vicksburg, where she still attends to this day. She was also the first black woman to serve as co-president of the Diocese of Mississippi Altar Guild, and was recently elected a member of the Executive Committee of the diocese.