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Celebrating Cathy Hughes: A Legacy of Generosity and Leadership

Updated: Oct 3, 2025


As The Piney Woods School enters its 116th year of faith, leadership, and legacy, we reflect with gratitude on the vision of our founders and the remarkable individuals who continue to carry that vision forward. Among them is Cathy Hughes, granddaughter of Laurence C. and Grace Jones, whose generosity and dedication embody the enduring spirit of Piney Woods.


Last fall, during our 115th Founder’s Celebration, we had the privilege of honoring Cathy Hughes for her extraordinary commitment to Piney Woods. The weekend was filled with heartfelt reflections and community gatherings, underscoring the strength of our mission and the power of legacy. Cathy’s presence and support reminded us of the deep roots that bind us together as one Piney Woods family.



Her generosity continues to leave a lasting mark on our campus. Cathy has provided vital resources, from supporting the acquisition of a bus and van for safe learner transportation to donating office furniture that has transformed work and learning spaces across campus. These gifts, both practical and visionary, directly impact the daily lives of learners, educators, and staff.

Beyond philanthropy, Ms. Hughes remains personally connected to the Piney Woods community. She has visited our farm and farmer’s market, engaging with learners and staff while celebrating the hands-on work that is a hallmark of our educational model. Her support strengthens not only our facilities but also our culture of resilience, dignity, and empowerment.


This week, we also celebrate a milestone for Cathy’s professional legacy: Urban One, her company, marks its 45th anniversary. From her pioneering leadership in media to her tireless advocacy for community empowerment, Cathy continues to inspire us all, demonstrating that dedication, vision, and heart can leave an enduring mark both near and far. 

As we honor 116 years of braving uncharted territory, we celebrate Cathy Hughes not only as a donor but as a living link to our founding story. Her leadership and generosity echo the vision of Dr. Laurence C. Jones and Grace Jones, reminding us that Piney Woods’ mission is as vital today as it was under the cedar tree in 1909.


We are deeply grateful to Cathy Hughes and to all supporters who help Piney Woods thrive. Together, we continue to nurture leaders who will shape a brighter, bolder future.


Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation!

Your support helps provide essential resources, opportunities, and experiences that transform the lives of our learners. Click the button below to make a gift and help Piney Woods School continue its legacy of excellence and impact.

 


 
 
 

8 Comments


nana lyly
nana lyly
May 04

I feel like moments such as the Founder’s Celebration are powerful reminders of how shared values can unite generations and keep a mission alive. When I read this, I think about how lasting impact often comes from consistent support and belief in something bigger than oneself—I notice a similar mindset when I try to improve in Slope Rider, where persistence and focus over time make all the difference.

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Really enjoyed reading this—it's inspiring to see how Cathy Hughes continues such a meaningful legacy with The Piney Woods School. In my free time, I like to unwind with simple games like Geometry Dash Lite which oddly gives me that same sense of focus and persistence. It’s a fun, relaxing way to recharge after taking in stories like this.

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aidio
Apr 20

What an inspiring story of Cathy Hughes's generosity and leadership! It's amazing how she's made such a difference. Speaking of removing unwanted things, have you tried an AI Watermark Remover for photos?

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Such a powerful tribute to Cathy Hughes—her impact on leadership, education, and community empowerment is truly inspiring. Continuing her family’s legacy with institutions like Piney Woods shows how lasting change is built over generations . Stories like this are both meaningful and energizing—almost like the chaotic fun of Crazy Cattle 3D, where every move creates impact, just in a much more meaningful and real-world way.

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