Rhodes College to Host Alumni Awards November 14

The college will honor three distinguished graduates for their service and professional accomplishments at an upcoming ceremony.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Awards

Screen-print poster illustration of a collegiate stone archway, evoking the tradition and heritage of a university campus. — Rhodes College will honor Sally Jones Heinz, Gunter Gaupp, and Shayla Nicole Purifoy at its annual alumni awards ceremony on November 14. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Rhodes College in Memphis will recognize three alumni during an awards ceremony held on November 14, 2026. The recipients are honored for their significant professional achievements and dedicated service to the community.

Why it matters

The college grants these awards to alumni who have brought honor to the institution through their professional milestones and commitment to local service. These recognitions highlight the tangible impact graduates have on Memphis and the broader region.

The honorees include graduates from the classes of 1981, 2003, and 2016. These alumni serve populations across the city, including MIFA which reaches 30,000 people annually.

The players

Sally Jones Heinz

She is the former president and CEO of the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association who served the Memphis area.

Gunter Gaupp

He is an alumnus who currently teaches music at Memphis Rise Academy High School.

Shayla Nicole Purifoy

She is a General Sessions Civil Court judge for District Two who previously led the Ben F. Jones Chapter.

Rhodes College

This private liberal arts college is located in Memphis and annually recognizes distinguished alumni for their service.

The details

Sally Jones Heinz, Gunter Gaupp, and Shayla Nicole Purifoy will receive honors for their contributions to music, judicial service, and community non-profit leadership. The awards ceremony will occur as part of the college's annual Homecoming and Reunion Weekend.

November 14, 2026: Rhodes College will hold the alumni awards ceremony.
2026: Sally Jones Heinz retired as president and CEO of the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association.
2026: Shayla Nicole Purifoy was sworn in as a General Sessions Civil Court judge for District Two.
2023: Heinz was named CEO of the Year.
2022: Gaupp completed a residency with Crosstown Arts.

Culture Shift

These awards reflect a broader societal shift toward acknowledging the integration of professional success with dedicated local community engagement. They position the college as a central hub for cultivating civic-minded leaders who remain active in Memphis long after graduation.

Residents may see an increase in activity on the college campus during the upcoming reunion weekend. The recognition of these specific leaders highlights local resources like MIFA that residents rely on for ongoing community support.

The takeaway

Recognizing alumni service helps foster a culture of lifelong civic responsibility among current and future students. Local professionals can emulate these honorees by finding meaningful ways to balance their careers with dedicated community volunteering.