June 9, 2025 - A Vision for The Future of Greater Hattiesburg

CAMPAIGN LEADERSHIP

CAMPAIGN GENERAL CHAIR

Jeff Bowman, Cooperative Energy


LEADERSHIP COUNCIL CABINET

Dr. Bryan Batson, Hattiesburg Clinic

John Johnson, Hood Companies, Inc.

Jonathan Jones, Jones

Abb Payne, Payne Co.

Dr. Joe Paul, The University of Southern Mississippi

Hoppy Cole, Renasant Bank

Dr. Ben Burnett, William Carey University

Jeff Cook, Forrest General Hospital


ADVANCE DIVISION CABINET

John Griffith, Cadence Bank

Cedrick Hurd, Mississippi Power

Shea McNease, Shows, Dearman & Waits, Inc.

Roman Galey, SouthGroup Insurance

Anthony Harris, PRVEPA

Renee Moore, Topp McWhorter Harvey


LEADERSHIP DIVISION CABINET

Brandon Hubbard, First Bank

Bernard Green, GlobalGreen Insurance Agency

Grace Kent Johnson, BREAD/BlueHen

Michael Schloegel, Hancock Whitney

Nelson Haskin, Front Street Eats


Hey Vanessa!


A few weeks ago, we launched the public phase of the ELEVATE campaign and the response has been extraordinary. We’re excited to share that we’ve now secured 82 investors, pledging a total of $4,447,000 toward the campaign.


To those who’ve already joined us, thank you. Your early commitment is paving the way for transformational growth in Greater Hattiesburg.


But what is ELEVATE?


ELEVATE is a five-year, $5 million private-sector campaign focused on driving long-term economic growth across our region. This initiative supports business recruitment, talent attraction, downtown and midtown revitalization, and key infrastructure and site development.


It’s more than a fundraising effort. It’s an investment in our people, our communities, and our future.


And anyone can be a part of it. Whether you’re a business owner, a community leader, or a resident who believes in the future of Hattiesburg, your support matters.


For more information please visit our campaign page below.