The Legacy Network Foundation named Alcorn State University School of Business Dean Antwon D. Woods, Ph.D., MBA, PMP, to its 2026 class of Mississippi’s 50 Under Fifty Top Urban Elite Professionals.
The foundation will recognize Woods and the full 2026 class at the Mississippi’s 50 Under Fifty Top Urban Elite Professionals Gala, scheduled for 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Mississippi Trade Mart in Jackson, Miss.
The Legacy Network Foundation highlights innovators in business, education, healthcare and the arts. Its annual award honors African American professionals who demonstrate leadership in their industries and communities.
Selection committees chose Woods based on his work regarding business education transformation, graduate program expansion and the establishment of corporate partnerships with companies such as Altria and Wells Fargo.
“This honor represents the collective success of the students, faculty and staff I work alongside,” said Woods. “Our work extends beyond the classroom to shape futures and drive Mississippi forward. I am grateful for the opportunity to create economic opportunities for the next generation of business leaders.”
During his tenure, Woods oversaw the launch of several initiatives, including the Mississippi Small Business Development Center and the Wells Fargo Financial Education Center. He also directs the Center of Data Analytics and Informatics at MCity, a hub for workforce development in the region.
“I view my role not simply as an administrator, but as a champion for students who may be the first in their families to attend college,” said Woods. “I am inspired daily by their resilience, determination and dreams.”
Woods has served Alcorn State for three years. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in higher education and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Jackson State University. He earned a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University and a Master of Science from Middle Tennessee State University. Additionally, he completed a Senior Executive Leadership certificate at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School.
