The Mississippi Trailblazers Awards recognizes Mississippians for their distinguished and significant contributions to diversity through their professional and public service endeavors, and representing Mississippi in a favorable and positive light.

          The 2012 Mississippi Trailblazers event honors Amory native, international entertainment executive and best-selling author Sam Haskell. The evening is titled "Honoring an American Treasure," recognizing Mr. Haskell for his professional successes and for his many selfless acts of  philanthropy and public service.

          The entire 2012 Class of Mississippi Trailblazers is:
           MR. SAM HASKELL
                  Mississippi Trailblazer of the Year
                
          MRS. DOYCE HANCOCK DEAS - Arts and Civic Leader, Philanthropist, Public Education supporter
                        Tupelo Trailblazer  
               
         BRIG. GEN. AUGUSTUS L. COLLINS - Booneville native - Adjutant General of the Ms. National Guard
                   Special Award
                         
          MR. AUBREY PATTERSON - Oxford native, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BancorpSouth
                        Pinnacle Award
                 
          CHIEF PHYLLIS J. ANDERSON - Chotaw - Tribal Chief, Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians
                            Inspire Award

             MS. ORA REED - Lexington native - International Performer; Named by Gov. Haley Barbour "Cultural Ambassador of Mississippi."
                           Legacy Award

            MS. OLETA GARRETT FITZGERALD - Jackson - Southern Regional Director, Children's Defense Fund Southern Regional Office
                           Representative Leonard Morris Award for Public Service and Integrity

           MRS. NANCY LOOME - Jackson -  Executive Director, The Parents' Campaign
                          Representative Leonard Morris Award for Public Service and Integrity