History is still in the making at Tougaloo College with addition of marching band

JANS – After several months of collaborative planning and showcasing at Mississippi Queens semi-pro basketball games held at Tougaloo College this summer, Jacktown Allstar Band (JAB) has earned a permanent place at the UNCF school. Although not under the direction  of the music department at Tougaloo College, which touts a world renowned choir and jazz band, JAB is the first marching band in the school’s history, one that has had a steady beat since 1869.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed August 7, 2025, between the two entities. On hand to make the partnership official were: Dr. Donzell Lee, President of Tougaloo College; Dr. Donovan Coley, Vice President of Student Affairs; and Dr. LaToya Haymer, Transformation Resource Officer/Student Affairs from Tougaloo College, and JAB staffers:  Jonathan Garland, Founder/Band Director; Terris Jones, Co-Founder; and Contina Jones, CEO.

Special thanks were extended to TreShun Jones, Creative Band Director, Dr. Fulton Caston, Band Director/Consultant; Jasmine Williams, Dance Team Director; Kevin White, Asst. Band Director/Dance Team Instructor; and Robert Mitchell, Percussion Instructor.

“Our goal is simple but powerful: to elevate musical excellence, create new pathways for youth and musicians in Mississippi, and amplify HBCU culture in a lasting way,” stated Jonathan Garland.

Dr. Haymer shares the same sentiment. “This partnership is more than historic – it’s transformational. The presence of a band will expand the heartbeat of this institution and breathe new life into campus culture.”

Terris Jones added: “We’ve always believed music would lead us somewhere powerful. Now, it’s leading us straight into the history books.”