In recognition of his contributions to Mississippi College, Bill Sones (Class of 1971), the MC Alumni Board vice chair and 2007 Alumnus of the Year, will receive the Award of Service during the school’s 2024 Homecoming celebration.

The award recognizes alumni who have demonstrated extraordinary service to MC students. Sones and other outstanding alumni will be recognized during the Homecoming 2024 Alumni Association Awards Brunch at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 26, in Anderson Hall in the BC Rogers Student Center.

“Receiving the Award of Service is a deeply humbling honor,” Sones said. “To be recognized for something that has brought me such joy and fulfillment feels both overwhelming and undeserved. It has been a privilege to give back to a place that has meant so much to me and my family.”

Throughout his more than 50 years of service to the banking industry as president of Independent Community Banks of America, chair of Mississippi Young Bankers, and chair of the Mississippi Bankers Association, Sones has remained closely connected to his alma mater.

Sones originated the annual Spring Scholarship Banquet at MC, which has generated millions of dollars for scholarships to students. He also presided over the search committee that landed MC’s current president, Dr. Blake Thompson.

According to Dr. Ronnie Falvey, chair of the MC Board of Trustees, Sones understands what it means to lead by serving.

“Bill embraces servant leadership,” said Falvey. “He strives to help others succeed in every way possible. He uses his wisdom and skills to find a way to lift others up by meeting their needs. He leads by example, and we are grateful for his service to our students and the University.”

Sones and his wife Theresa sent all five of their children to MC. Two of their 21 grandchildren are currently enrolled at MC.

“The University not only prepares students for their careers, but also nurtures their spiritual growth and character,” Sones said. “It’s a place where faith and learning go hand-in-hand, shaping students to make a meaningful impact in the world.”

Brunch tickets are $25 each and RSVP is required. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4d2v98vs