[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E552]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING THE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHOIR AND DR. KELVIN 
                                 TOWERS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                  in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 2026

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
the extraordinary achievements of the Coahoma Community College Choir 
and its distinguished director, Dr. Kelvin Towers, as they represent 
the State of Mississippi and our Nation through their recent travel to 
India.
  The Coahoma Community College Choir, based in Clarksdale, 
Mississippi, has long been a source of pride for the Mississippi Delta. 
Under the exceptional leadership of Dr. Towers, the choir has earned a 
reputation for musical excellence, discipline, and cultural enrichment. 
Their commitment to the arts has not only elevated their institution 
but has also served as a beacon of inspiration for students and 
communities throughout our region.
  The Coahoma Community College Choir recently continued its tradition 
of excellence on a global stage through its participation in the 100 
Days World Cultural Festival and World Religions Summit in Karnataka, 
India. From Clarksdale to India, these students represented Mississippi 
and the United States through their--original production, The African 
American Story, Sung in a Foreign Land, sharing a message of unity, 
culture, and faith with audiences from around the world.
  This recognition celebrates more than a performance. It reflects a 
commitment to excellence, cultural exchange, and global impact. The 
choir's invitation to travel to India is a testament to its talent and 
to the global reach of its artistry. This opportunity allowed the choir 
to share the rich musical traditions of the Mississippi Delta while 
also embracing and learning from the diverse cultural heritage of 
India. Through their performances, they served as ambassadors of 
goodwill, fostering cultural exchange, unity, and mutual understanding 
across international borders.
  Dr. Towers' dedication to mentoring and guiding his students cannot 
be overstated. His leadership has cultivated not only musical 
excellence, but also confidence, discipline, and a broader worldview 
among his students. By exposing them to international experiences, he 
has expanded their horizons and provided them with opportunities that 
will have a lasting impqct on their personal and professional lives.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the Coahoma 
Community College Choir and Dr. Kelvin Towers for exemplifying the 
power of education, the arts, and cultural exchange, and for 
representing Mississippi and the United States with excellence, 
dignity, and pride.

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