Her life’s work is the very reason the Hornsby Award bears her name.

From serving as president of the Perkinston Junior College Alumni Association in 1946 to becoming the only female charter member of the Foundation in 1974, Ms. Hornsby consistently broke barriers and led with purpose. She later served as president of the Foundation Board of Directors from 1976 to 1980, helping shape the mission that continues to support students today.

A respected attorney on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, she earned her law degree from University of Mississippi in 1945, graduating third in her class. She went on to lead professionally and civically, including serving as president of the Harrison County Bar Association and the Gulf Coast John Stennis Chapter of the U.S. Air Force Association.

Her commitment to excellence and service earned her the college’s Sam Owen Award in 1959 and induction into the Alumni Hall of Fame in 1982.

Today, the Hornsby Award is presented each year at the Foundation Scholarship Gala to individuals who reflect the same spirit Ms. Hornsby embodied: visionary leadership, unwavering support of MGCCC, and a deep commitment to student success.

As we prepare for the 2026 Foundation Scholarship Gala, we honor not only the recipients of this distinguished award, but also the remarkable woman whose legacy continues to inspire generations. We look forward to announcing this year’s honoree at the Gala on Saturday, March 28, at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino.

Learn more about the event at MGCCC.edu/Gala.