Mississippi Leaders Unite for Bold Progress at the 2024 Empower Solutions Summit

With one of our most power-packed lineups of speakers ever and an eye towards building an opportunity rich future for the Magnolia State, this week we hosted our 4th Annual Empower Solutions Summit on Tuesday, December 10th. The event featured Mississippi leaders like Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann and Speaker of the House Jason White, as well as nationally acclaimed comic Kyle Mann, Editor-in-Chief of The Babylon Bee. Attendees also heard from a diverse group of panelists and speakers, most of whom are Mississippians committed to making positive change in our state.  

The day began with a dynamic panel featuring Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones, Empower Ambassador Mindy McNutt, and Empower Ambassador Benjamin Little. In a discussion moderated by former Representative Nick Bain, the panelists discussed how Mississippi can prioritize public safety while providing pathways to second chances for those seeking to rebuild their lives. The conversation highlighted the need for policy changes to reduce recidivism and foster community safety, such as increasing access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, removing barriers to work for former offenders who are coming out of prison, and providing pathways to redemption for those who earn it.  

The day’s second panel conversation highlighted the power of educational choice. Led by Katherine Bathgate, Founder and CEO of School Forward, the panel emphasized the importance of empowering families with educational choice and preparing students for the workforce of tomorrow.  Empower Ambassador Contina Jones shared the inspiring story of her son, Terrion, and the incredible success he found in a Jackson charter school, and she emphasized why it is so important for families to have educational options. Jamie Holder, CEO of Hol-Mac Corporation in Bay Springs, Mississippi, shared his thoughts on how school choice could positively impact Mississippi’s net migration, help address our state’s labor force challenges, and provide a path to revitalizing rural communities.  

Following lunch, Kyle Mann, Editor-in-Chief of The Babylon Bee, took the stage and shared how humor can be a powerful tool in addressing complex issues.  Kyles witty remarks had the audience in stitches, but he also shared encouraging remarks about taking a stand for truth in the face of adversity.  

The Rise Awards Ceremony celebrated individuals who, within the last year, have helped Mississippians rise by removing barriers to success in some meaningful way. Rise Award recipients are lawmakers and citizens who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting opportunity and changing our state for the better. The awards are a testament to their hard work and perseverance, and we are grateful for their efforts. 

During the awards ceremony, Empower CEO Grant Callen and Empower Board Chairman Abb Payne also took a few moments to recognize past Board Chairman Gerard Gibert for his ten years of service as the Empower Mississippi Board Chairman. Gibert stepped down as Board Chairman earlier this year but remains on the Empower Mississippi Board. We are thankful for his service! 

Speaker of the House Jason White joined us for an exclusive interview with Empower CEO Grant Callen, offering an insider’s perspective on the upcoming legislative session and how Mississippi can continue to drive meaningful change for its citizens. He highlighted education and tax reform as two critical topics that the Mississippi House of Representatives may seek to address during the 2025 legislative session. The entire interview will be featured as the next Empower Podcast, so be sure to tune in! 

Phillip Holmes, Owner of Highest Good Media, delivered an insightful session on the dignity and purpose found in meaningful work. His remarks encouraged attendees to consider how we can create environments that promote fulfillment and success. 

Daniel Erspamer, CEO of the Pelican Institute, took the stage to discuss workforce solutions. His session highlighted innovative approaches to address Mississippi’s workforce challenges and equip individuals with the tools needed to thrive in the modern economy. 

To wrap up the day, Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann shared his vision for Mississippi’s future during an exclusive interview with Empower Board Chairman Abb Payne. He provided valuable insights into how the state can prioritize workforce development in the upcoming year. The Lieutenant Governor also discussed some of his major accomplishments to date and priorities for the future.  

Thank you to all who attended the Empower Solutions Summit. Your participation helps pave the way for a brighter future for Mississippi. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to drive change together!