Tougaloo's History

In 1869, the American Missionary Association of New York purchased five hundred acres of land from John Boddie, owner of the Boddie Plantation, to establish a school for the training of young people "irrespective of religious tenets and conducted on the most liberal principles for the benefit of our citizens in general." The Mississippi State Legislature granted the institution a charter under Tougaloo University in 1871. The Normal Department was recognized as a teacher training school until 1892, at which time the College ceased to receive aid from the state. Courses for college credit were first offered in 1897, and in 1901, the first Bachelor of Arts degree was awarded to Traverse S. Crawford.

In 1916, Tougaloo University's name was changed to Tougaloo College. Six years after Tougaloo College's founding, the Home Missionary Society of the Disciples of Christ obtained a charter from the Mississippi State Legislature to establish Southern Christian Institute (SCI) in Edwards, Mississippi. Determining later that Tougaloo College and SCI had similar missions and goals, the supporting churches merged the two institutions in 1954 and named the new institution Tougaloo Southern Christian College. Combining the resources of the two supporting bodies, the new institution renewed its commitment to educational advancement and the improvement of race relations in Mississippi. The alumni bodies united to become the National Alumni Association of Tougaloo Southern Christian College. In 1962, by a vote of the Board of Trustees and the supporting bodies' agreement, the name was changed again to Tougaloo College.

Tougaloo's Culture

Tougaloo’s culture is rich and vibrant. A Wednesday on our campus is a highlight of the Tougaloo experience. Students attend Convocation each Wednesday, and then all sidewalks lead to “The Caf” for “What’s Up Wednesday,” also known as “Fried Chicken Wednesday.” After students are served delicious fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, yams, collard greens, and cornbread, they meet on the patio for music, line dancing, strolling, etc.

During November, the campus looks forward to the New Initiate Presentation, in which all Greek-letter organizations reveal themselves at this much-anticipated show. New initiates are cheered on by Divine Nine members, family members, and friends.

Other highlights of the Tougaloo experience include a jam-packed week of events in the fall semester during Founders’ Week and in the spring semester during Homecoming Week. From the coronation of our Mister and Miss Tougaloo College, installation of the Student Government Association members, and fashion shows, to pep rallies with our athletes and competitive dance/cheer team, to sporting events, and the annual alumni tailgate, the energy is electric.

What to know about Tougaloo 

Tougaloo College is ranked No. 3 among 2022-2023 Top Performers on Social Mobility and No. 12 in Historically Black Colleges and Universities by the U.S. News & World Report. Now in its 38th year, the rankings evaluate more than 1,450 colleges and universities on up to 17 measures of academic quality. Also, as of December 14, 2022, our men’s basketball program is undefeated. Additionally, the College has a 58-year-old partnership with Brown University - the only of its kind between a predominately white institution (PWI) and a historically black college and university (HBCU). This partnership allows exchanges between students, faculty, and staff, joint teaching and learning, and collaborative fundraising efforts.

Tougaloo Photo Gallery