Piney Woods School Founder’s Weekend: ‘A Legacy of Braving Uncharted Territory’
JANS – The Piney Woods School invites alumni, students, families, and supporters to its 116th Founder’s Weekend celebration, October 31 – November 2, 2025. For more than a century, Founder’s Weekend has been a time to honor the bold vision of Dr. Laurence C. Jones. In 1909, he established Piney Woods with $1.65, a Bible, and a dream. This year marks the school’s 116th Founder’s Celebration, a milestone reflecting both the endurance of its legacy and the promise of its future. The 2025 theme, “A Legacy of Braving Uncharted Territory,” pays tribute to those courageous beginnings while celebrating how the school continues to revitalize its campus, expand its mission, and pursue excellence for generations to come.
A Living Legacy
Born out of faith, sacrifice, and determination, The Piney Woods School has grown into one of the nation’s oldest historically African American boarding schools. Its mission – educating the whole child through academics, character development, and practical life skills – remains as vital today as ever.
“Founder’s Weekend is our way of pausing to say thank you,” said President Will Crossley, a Piney Woods alumnus. “We remember Dr. Jones and those who built this institution against all odds. But we also look ahead – braving new frontiers in innovation, sustainability, and excellence to prepare our students for leadership in an ever-changing world.”
A Weekend of Celebration
The 116th Founder’s Weekend offers a vibrant mix of fellowship, reflection, and celebration:
• Friday, Oct. 31 – HarvestFest (The Piney Woods Farm), 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.: Families, alumni, and community members are invited to enjoy a festive evening on the Piney Woods Farm, complete with food and fall activities highlighting the school’s agricultural roots and future-focused sustainability efforts.
• Saturday, Nov. 1 – Founder’s Day Program & Recognition Ceremony, 6:00 p.m.: The centerpiece of the weekend, this program will honor distinguished alumni, recognize community partners, and showcase the values of Piney Woods through music, student stories, and reflections on the school’s legacy of courage and innovation.
Dr. Julius Garvey, son of legendary Pan-Africanist Marcus Garvey, will deliver the key- note address for the Saturday program. A renowned surgeon, scholar, and advocate, Dr. Garvey carries forward his father’s legacy of empowerment and education, making his presence especially meaningful for this celebration.
In addition, a distinguished group of honorees, whose lives and contributions reflect the mission and values of Piney Woods, will be recognized:
• Representatives of the Schooler Family Foundation, a valued supporter whose philanthropic commitment to education and opportunity has enriched Piney Woods and communities nationwide.
• Oleta Fitzgerald, distinguished Piney Woods alumna and Director of the Children’s Defense Fund’s Southern Regional Office, whose leadership has shaped policy and improved lives across the South.
• Lee Unger, former Piney Woods employee, remembered for his dedicated service to the school and its learners.
• Sunday, Nov. 2 – Rededication & Alumni Brunch (Sadie Caldwell Dining Hall), 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.: The celebration concludes with a rededication service, followed by an alumni brunch where stories are shared, bonds are renewed, and the vision for Piney Woods’ future is embraced.
Looking Ahead
As Piney Woods moves deeper into its second century, the school is revitalizing its historic campus while pioneering new opportunities for learners. From sustainable farming rooted in its agricultural legacy to cutting-edge STEM initiatives, Piney Woods equips young people to thrive in fields such as technology, clean energy, and global leadership.
“Dr. Jones believed in preparing students not just for a job, but for life,” President Crossley noted. “Today, we carry that belief forward – investing in scholars who will be the innovators, problem-solvers, and changemakers of tomorrow.”
Invest in the Legacy
For 116 years, The Piney Woods School has thrived because of the generosity and vision of its supporters. Every gift helps sustain the mission of educating the whole child and preparing students to brave uncharted territory with excellence, faith, and purpose.
To make a gift today and become part of this enduring legacy, scan the QR code below. For details, tickets, and registration, visit www.pineywoods.org or call 601- 845-2214.
