Known to friends as “T.P.” or “Thea,” Vinson was a teacher and administrator in the University of Mississippi School of Education from 1989 until his death in 2003. The former educator is to be remembered April 10 at a banquet benefitting a minority scholarship named in his honor.
“Dr. Vinson, I think, would be humbled to know that he is still making an impact on the lives of future educators,” said Germain McConnell, UM assistant dean of education.
The banquet, set for 6:30 p.m. in the Johnson Commons Ballroom, costs $35 per person and includes a choice of three entrees.
The event honors Vinson’s life as a spiritual leader. He led the congregation at Philadelphia Missionary Baptist Church in Oxford from 1989 until his health failed in 2003. The Rev. Alfred Hall, who served as associate minister under Vinson and is the current pastor, will be the featured speaker.
“Thea always spoke profoundly, and he catered to the community wherever he could,” recalls his widow, Jacquline Vinson. “He also instilled great values and morals in his children. He was a wonderful husband.”
The $1,000 Dr. T.P. Vinson Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a full-time junior or senior black student who demonstrates extraordinary leadership ability and community service in the teacher education program. McConnell said he hopes to expand the opportunity in the fall by offering two scholarships.
Tax-deductible donations to the scholarship endowment can be sent to the University of Mississippi Foundation, P.O. Box 249, University, MS 38677, or donations can be made online at http://www.umf.olemiss.edu/
For more information on the banquet or for assistance related to a disability, contact Germain McConnell at 662-915-7154 or eegm@olemiss.edu.