Corey Wiggins, a Hazlehurst native and federal co-chair of the Delta Regional Authority, will become the next president of Tougaloo College on July 1. He will be the 15th president in the college’s 157-year history, succeeding Donzell Lee, who has led the school since 2023.
The college’s Board of Trustees appointed Wiggins after a yearlong national search, citing his leadership qualities and commitment to academic excellence. Board Chair Blondean Y. Davis described Wiggins as a visionary leader whose values align with the college’s historic mission. The board expressed confidence that Wiggins possesses the experience and passion to guide Tougaloo into its next phase of growth and impact.
Wiggins, who could not be reached immediately for comment, said in a news release he was honored by the appointment. Currently, he oversees an independent federal agency supporting economic development across 255 counties and parishes in eight states, including parts of the Mississippi Delta and Alabama Black Belt. He is a graduate of Alcorn State University, holding a B.S. in biology, and has taught at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson State University, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Alumni and supporters, including U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, a 1968 graduate, shared congratulatory messages on social media. Thompson praised Wiggins’ leadership and understanding of the mission of historically Black colleges and universities, emphasizing his potential to build on Tougaloo’s strong foundation. “His experience in leadership and his commitment to service will position Tougaloo College and its students for continued success,” Thompson said in an email statement to Mississippi Today.
Donzell Lee, who has led Tougaloo since 2023, recalled meeting Wiggins during his time at Alcorn State. Lee, who was then directing the honors curriculum program, noted Wiggins’ organizational skills. Lee also discussed recent campus initiatives, including strategies for increasing enrollment, boosting research funding, and redeveloping nearly 500 acres for economic growth. “He understands people and processes and is keen to take the institution further,” Lee told Mississippi Today. “His leadership ability is solid, based on his diverse work experiences.”
Lee expressed confidence that Wiggins will listen to stakeholders and continue the college’s progress, emphasizing his own efforts to serve the institution’s best interests. Wiggins’s appointment signals a new chapter for Tougaloo College, officials said.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
