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Vision and Mission

Neshoba Now! envisions a county where students imagine broader horizons, families have access to modern tools and resources, and communities build pride through connection, creativity, and shared purpose. The initiative aims to create a practical, measurable, and replicable model that begins in Neshoba County and can later be adapted to underserved and economically challenged communities nationwide.

Neshoba Now! is organized around two interconnected pillars:

Educational Opportunity and Exposure

Neshoba Now! partners with all public schools in Neshoba County—including the Choctaw Tribal Schools—to help students discover and pursue post‑secondary education, workforce training, and career pathways that match their strengths and aspirations. By offering culturally responsive enrichment, mentorship, and exposure to new experiences, the initiative helps students from all backgrounds access the information, networks, and financial resources needed to succeed. Support will be tailored to the needs of each district and age group, ensuring that learning opportunities are equitable and inclusive. Neshoba Now! is committed to providing resources to build a community where all children have opportunities to attend a four-year college and have access to the vocational pathways of their choice.

Community Connection Through the Arts

Neshoba Now! uses the arts as a bridge—bringing together residents of different cultures, races, and generations to celebrate creativity, heritage, and shared identity. Through music, visual arts, performance, and community events, the initiative builds pride of place and strengthens the relationships that hold a community together, which in turn, greatly improves the quality of life of Neshoba County residents.

Meet Our Leadership

Joey Kilgore - Neshoba Now - Executive Director

Joey Kilgore
Executive Director
joey@neshobanow.org

Krissy Winstead Long - Neshoba Now - Director of Education and Community Engagement

Krissy Winstead Long
Director of Education and Community Engagement
krissy@neshobanow.org

Shawn Byars - Neshoba Now! - Director of Arts

Shawn Byars
Director of Arts
shawn@neshobanow.org

Amechia Carter - Neshoba Now - Program Coordinator

Amechia Carter
Program Coordinator
amechia@neshobanow.org

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