The Montgomery Institute
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Upbuilding People and Places Sonny’s Way
From a humble beginning in Meridian, Mississippi, Sonny Montgomery climbed to heights of political and personal success, yet always held tight to the principles he treasured – faith, fellowship, persistence, and patriotism. In so doing, he earned the respect and admiration of all with whom he came in contact. Sonny’s leadership legacy guides the Montgomery Institute’s work in the guise of humble and faithful service, a commitment to lasting relationships, never quitting on worthwhile endeavors, and love for our country, our communities, and our people.
“When we received permission from Sonny to name the institute after him, TMI committed to two things. First, we would pursue our program of work “guided by the leadership example of G.V. ‘Sonny’ Montgomery.” Second, we would preserve and promote Sonny’s legacy. TMI consistently strives to live up to these commitments and will continue to do so,” states C.D. Smith, Chairman of the Board.
The Montgomery Institute was organized as a Mississippi non-profit corporation on September 20, 2001, as a project of the Riley Foundation, with additional support provided by The Phil Hardin Foundation. TMI pursues innovation and resources to upbuild people and places in our region. Twice – .jpg)
in 2003 and 2010 – the 13-state Southern Growth Policies Board presented TMI its “Innovator Award” in recognition of innovative approaches to leadership development and place building.
Smith adds, “The Montgomery Institute is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2021. During those years, we have attracted almost $40 million to benefit our partners and the communities they serve. Our program areas have included leadership development, workforce development, education enhancement, health care services and training, entrepreneurship education, community development, arts and entertainment as economic engines, and youth leadership programs. We support our community through our institute and get tremendous support from our partners and from the chamber. Through our membership in the chamber, we are able to work with other businesses and foundations to make a positive difference in our area.”
The Montgomery Institute’s vision can be congregated into three categories: Region Building, Resource Gathering, and Rural Place Building. “Who builds and maintains great rural places, and how do they do it? There are builders who see opportunities and seize them. We call them entrepreneurs. There are builders who manage already built good things and keep them viable and ever renewed. We call them stewards. There are entrepreneurs and stewards who not only build and maintain for themselves and their organization, but with great passion for place, also build for their communities. We call them place builders.” Meridian is full of potential entrepreneurs, stewards, and place builders. The Montgomery Institute seeks them out and helps them realize their dreams and goals.
The Montgomery Institute – Upbuilding People and Places Sonny’s Way
The Montgomery Institute
700 23rd Ave. Suite A, Meridian, MS