Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College selected James W. Crowell as the first recipient of the Spirit of Unity Award. The award, given in conjunction with Gulf Coast’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, was presented at the “Many Become One - A Celebration of the Beloved Community” event on Jan. 21 at the Jefferson Davis Campus Fine Arts Auditorium.
“Gulf Coast is pleased to recognize a deserving community leader as the first recipient of the MGCCC Spirit of Unity Award,” said Dr. Willis H. Lott, president of Gulf Coast.
“Crowell is an extraordinary leader in South Mississippi and is well-respected throughout the Gulf Coast community for his devotion to people and undying efforts to improve the opportunities available to all,” said Anita Johns, one of the event organizers and a sociology/anthropology instructor at the Jefferson Davis Campus.
Upon accepting the award, Crowell said, “I want to thank the committee for choosing me for the award. You know, you don’t do this kind of work to be recognized with an award – you do it because it’s the right thing to do.
“I believe what the Bible says, and it says we should take care of those who need our help,” he added. “We have to look out for each other. If we don’t, we are doomed to fail.”
A 28-year Subscribing Diamond Life Member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Crowell has made a significant contribution to the advancement of civil rights throughout the Gulf Coast. Since becoming president of the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP, branch membership has grown to more than 250 members. He also serves on the board of directors for HOPE Coordination Center, Ohr O’Keefe Museum, Moore Community House, Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross and STEPS Coalition. He is a deacon and superintendent of Sunday school for the First Missionary Baptist Church of Biloxi.
Crowell is married to Eula Johnson Crowell. They have three sons and five grandchildren.
