Jazz Soirée to raise money for local HBCU
Jazz Soirée to raise money for local HBCU
More than 300 people expected to attend sold-out event
JACKSON (TN) — To support the city’s local HBCU Lane College, the Jackson (TN) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is hosting a Jazz Soirée at the Carl Perkins Civic Center this Saturday.
“We hope our proceeds will be a blessing to Lane College so students can recognize the power of their potential,” JTAC President Wanda Newsom said. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities nationally; JTAC, as a local chapter, decided to do the same for its local HBCU.
Over 300 community members – including organizations such as the Jackson Alumni Association Chapter of Lane College, Macedonia Baptist Church and Hunt Services, LLC – purchased tickets for the 7 pm soirée meant to benefit the college.
The semi-formal event will feature catering from Casey Jones Old Country Store and entertainment from Denmark, Tennessee native Angela Northern as well as music from D.J. Smooth. Over the years, Northern has sung in choirs for gospel artists and groups such as Pastor Shirley Caesar, the Clark Sisters and the Mississippi Mass Choir. After performing in Japan for six years, she returned to West Tennessee as a singer for the King Beez – considered the “best performers of soul, R&B and world-famous Memphis music.”
Although the event is sold out, community members and organizations can still donate to help Lane in its mission to develop the “whole student.” Donations with a check or money order can be mailed to the Jackson (TN) Alumnae Chapter at PO Box 1463, Jackson, TN 38302.
Founded in 1882 by former slave, Bishop Isaac Lane of the Colored Methodist Church, Lane College has historically and continually seeks to enroll and educate those who may not have an opportunity otherwise, much like other HBCUs which were also founded before the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
As a result, Lane College has produced business leaders, novelists, scientists, physicians, public servants, scholars and teachers, including women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
"This gift demonstrates the commitment of service that this Sorority was founded on," Lane College President Logan Hampton said.
"Lane College is committed to keep the costs associated with attaining a quality education affordable for our scholars. The importance of scholarships is crucial because they provide financial support for students to stay in school and turn their dreams into a reality."
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is a private, not-for-profit organization of college-educated women whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world. Its public service primarily focuses on the Black community. The Jackson (TN) Alumnae Chapter is one of over 1,000 collegiate and alumnae chapters.
