Five Natchez leaders honored with Keys to the City

Mayor Dan Gibson presents awards during ‘Kickback at NAPAC’ program

Recipients of the Keys to the City stand with Mayor Dan Gibson during the “Kickback at NAPAC” program at the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture on June 16. From left are the Rev. Melvin White, Laura Ann Jackson, Angela Reynolds, Kristina Carter, Norma West, and Mayor Dan Gibson. 

NATCHEZ, Miss. – Mayor Dan Gibson recently honored five community leaders on behalf of the City of Natchez in recognition of their exceptional leadership and service to the Natchez community. He presented Keys to the City to the Rev. Melvin White, Norma West, Laura Ann Jackson, Kristina Carter, and Angela Reynolds.
 
Gibson made the presentations on Tuesday, June 16, at the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture. It was part of the “Kickback at NAPAC” program, an event the city has held for the past five years as part of the annual Juneteenth celebrations.
 
“When I look around in our community and I see those bright stars that are planted right here in our midst, I never cease to be amazed,” said Gibson. He noted the program celebrates individuals who have earned special recognition for their contributions.
 
“Positivity is what we’re celebrating tonight, because it’s the positivity that actually makes the difference,” Gibson said. “If it weren’t for the heroes in our midst who made things happen, where would we be?”
 
The honorees were recognized for wide-ranging contributions to the Natchez community.
 
Gibson said White, pastor of Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, has touched countless lives. “His influence extends beyond the church through his service as first vice president of the General Missionary Baptist State Convention and moderator of the Antioch Missionary Baptist Association, where he has provided guidance and encouragement to churches and ministers throughout the region, raising thousands of dollars for important needs and truly serving God’s people,” he said.
 
“His life stands as a testament to faith, perseverance, and selfless service,” Gibson added. “Through his preaching and teaching, generations have been inspired to walk in faith and serve their communities.”
 
West, a retired nurse, has extended her service well beyond the walls of the healthcare field, Gibson said.
 
In addition to being a devoted member of Zion Chapel AME Church, she is a lifetime member of the Eliza Pillars Registered Nurses of Mississippi and has provided leadership within the Downtown Natchez Alliance. Gibson said her life and work stand as a shining example of what it means to invest in one's community and leave a lasting legacy of compassion and service.
 
Jackson, said Gibson, “has exemplified service, dedication, and community pride throughout her life. Her commitment to public service and civic leadership has left a lasting mark on the Miss-Lou region and brought honor to the City of Natchez.”
 
For many years, Jackson has served as chair of the Miss-Lou Memorial Day Parade. “Beyond her professional achievements, Jackson has devoted countless hours to preserving the culture and traditions of our region,” Gibson said. “As chairperson of the Miss-Lou 30th of May Memorial Day Parade Committee, she has played a vital role in honoring our shared history and strengthening community pride for future generations.”
 
Carter was recognized for her hard work and educational excellence in the Natchez-Adams School District.
 
“Through her volunteerism, leadership, and unwavering support of students and educators, she has become a trusted voice for families and a powerful force for positive change throughout our community,” Gibson said.
 
Gibson said Reynolds’ commitment to education, leadership, and community service has made a profound impact on generations of young people.
 
“Reynolds’ life's work stands as a testament to the values of service, integrity, perseverance, and commitment that define our city,” he said. “Through her vision and unwavering dedication, she has strengthened our schools, empowered countless students, and helped shape a brighter future for generations to come.”
 
The annual “Kickback at NAPAC” program recognizes individuals whose leadership and service have helped strengthen the Natchez community.