4th Annual S.O. What! Awards and Scholarship Soiree at Renasant Convention Center – Memphis, TN

The S.O. What! Foundation is excited to announce the 4th Annual S.O. What! Awards and Scholarship Soiree—an evening destined to inspire, uplift, and empower.

This black-tie fundraising event is more than just a celebration. It’s a powerful gathering that honors the indomitable spirit of individuals who embody the S.O. What! message of resilience and who tirelessly uplift their communities and beyond.

Prepare to be moved as we shine a spotlight on exceptional stories that speak to the heart of overcoming adversity, turning challenges into triumphs, and paving the way for others to follow. Each narrative shared is a testament to the human spirit’s boundless capacity for perseverance, making this event not just a celebration, but a call to action for all who attend.

By joining us at this transformative evening, you’ll not only be a part of honoring these remarkable individuals, but you’ll also contribute directly to the future of education and empowerment. The funds raised during this event support the S.O. What! Foundation’s scholarship initiatives, providing life-changing opportunities to students who, despite the odds, are determined to succeed. We are excited about the meaning behind the scholarships that will be awarded at this event, and you’ll want to witness the connection to each recipient.

We are also honored to welcome Bertha Rogers Looney, the only living member of the Memphis State Eight who, like the founder of the S.O. What! Foundation, created a S.O. What! journey at the University of Memphis. Her story is one of extraordinary courage and resilience.

Attending the S.O. What! Awards and Scholarship Soiree is more than an evening out—it’s an opportunity to be inspired, to witness firsthand the power of resilience, and to play a role in transforming lives through education. Don’t miss this chance to be part of something truly meaningful and life-changing. Your presence will help write the next chapter in these incredible stories of success and perseverance.

The 4th Annual S.O. What! Awards and Scholarship Soiree Honorees:

Laurie Powell- CEO, Alliance Healthcare Services

Cary Vaughn- CEO and President of Love Worth Finding Ministries, Inc.

Steve Mulroy -Shelby County District Attorney

John Best- General Manager MSCS Broadcast Services

Meka Egwuekwe- Chief Executive Officer, CodeCrew

Anthony Buckner- Chief Deputy Shelby County Sheriff’s Office

Cherisse Scott- Reproductive & Sexual Justice, Advocate and Servant

Rose Flenorl- Manager, Global Citizenship and Human Resource, FedEx Corporation

Will Richardson- Entrepreneur, Veteran and Community Advocate

Linda Hall- Senior Advisor for Student Equity and Leadership Development

Tina Bailey- Corporate Leader, Transformation Coach, and Resilient Voice of Faith and Purpose

Wanda Taylor-Founder & CEO of Ladies In Need Can Survive Inc.