The 14th annual William Carey University Scholarship Gala is scheduled for Nov. 6 at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center in Biloxi. The evening will include an exclusive VIP reception at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m.
This year’s guest speaker will be former Ole Miss and New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning.
“We are proud to welcome Mississippi native Archie Manning to one of our most cherished annual traditions,” said Karen Golson, WCU director of advancement. “The Scholarship Gala provides our students with life-changing assistance.”
Manning was born in Drew. His rise to fame began as a quarterback at Ole Miss. In 1971, Manning was the second player chosen in the NFL draft – and the number one pick in the draft by the New Orleans Saints.
During a 14-year NFL career, he set most of the Saints’ passing records, played in Pro Bowls and was the NFC’s most valuable player in 1978. He is a member of the National Football Foundation and College Football Halls of Fame, as well as the Mississippi and Louisiana Halls of Fame.
Beyond football, Manning is a symbol of quiet leadership. His many philanthropic causes include the Boy Scouts, Special Olympics, United Way and the American Heart Association.
This year, WCU is bringing together supporters from across the region by combining its Hattiesburg and Biloxi Scholarship Galas into one event. In future years, the gala will alternate between the two cities.
