FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2025
Athens, GA — Pamoja Connections, Inc. proudly announces the 55th Anniversary Celebration of Pamoja, a historic student-founded movement that has empowered generations at UGA through cultural expression, creative arts, and mental health advocacy.
This free three-day weekend, October 24–26, 2025, honors the visionary leadership of Pastor Nawanna Lewis Miller, the trailblazing UGA student who founded five Pamoja cultural and journalism groups in the 1970s that continue to thrive today. The weekend programs will underscore the importance of mental health awareness, advocacy, and community connection—values that Pamoja has championed for over five decades.
“I can say seeing the five Pamoja groups thrive after more than five decades is a gift from God, who inspired me to write the vision of Pamoja, not knowing that it would have the great impact it has these many years later,” said Pastor Nawanna Lewis Miller. “To see classes developed as a result of Pamoja, UGA instructors hired and to know that all students, not just one group, have benefited inspires me and Pamoja Connections to invest even more in the lives of our young people and those who support them.”
Friday, October 24 | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM EST
UGA Hunter Holmes Building, 2nd Floor, 101 Herty Dr., Athens, GA 30602
Event One: Student Luncheon & Author Talks
The celebration begins with UGA IAAS Fellowship & Pamoja Connections, Inc. hosting authors Dr. Ann Popwell and Pastor Nawanna Lewis Miller, who will speak to students about mental health support and advocacy. A luncheon will follow, featuring complimentary books. Free event!
Saturday, October 25 | 9:30 AM EST
UGA Bolton Dining Commons, 790 S. Lumpkin St., Athens, GA 30602
Event Two: Breakfast & Conversations
An informal gathering where UGA students, alumni, and friends will connect over breakfast and dialogue about Pamoja’s enduring legacy. Open to the public.
Saturday, October 25 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM EST
Ebenezer Baptist Church West, 205 N. Chase St., Athens, GA 30606
Event Three: Pamoja Groups Recognition & Fundraising Reception
A powerful evening of performances, recognition, and community fellowship. Proceeds will benefit:
- Pamoja Connections, Inc./Pastor Nawanna Lewis Miller Scholarship
- Reverend Dr. Winfred Hope Memorial Scholarship
Free with reservation. Donations & sponsorships encouraged. Sponsorship levels available, including the $55K+ Donor Circle with $1,000 tax-deductible investment. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS.
Sunday, October 26 | 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM EST
UGA Memorial Hall, Victor K. Wilson Ballroom, 101 Sanford Dr., Athens, GA 30602
Event Four: Documentary Premiere Screening
The weekend concludes with the world premiere of “Triumph Thru Tears: The Power of Pamoja”, a new documentary highlighting the legacy of Pastor Nawanna Lewis Miller, who launched UGA’s Pamoja creative and journalism groups in 1970.
The film features interviews with current students, alumni, and supporters, spotlighting five decades of resilience, advocacy, and cultural empowerment at UGA. CLICK HERE FOR FREE REGISTRATION.
For 55 years, the Pamoja groups—founded at UGA by Pastor Nawanna Lewis Miller—have uplifted students through journalism, drama, dance, music, and film. Pamoja Connections Inc. provides platforms for cultural expression and support. continuing Its tradition of ensuring new generations receive the academic and community support they need.
Pamoja has been recognized for its role in fostering inspiration, resilience, and mental health awareness, as seen in UGA’s “Red and Black Newspaper” coverage: “Mistress of Cultural Affairs: Nawanna Miller’s Legacy of Diversity and Inclusion at UGA” and “Five Decades of Grace: The Golden Anniversary of Pamoja Celebration.”
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel
www.georgiacenter.uga.edu/uga-hotel
ENTER BOOKING CODE FOR DISCOUNT RATE: 66426