SENATOBIA, Miss. — The Northwest Mississippi Community College Foundation has selected singer-songwriter Dave Barnes as the headliner for the fourth annual Northwest Soiree: A Garden Gala. The premier fundraising event is scheduled for April 11, 2026, at the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts.
Mini Systems, Inc. will return as the presenting sponsor for the black-tie optional event, which celebrates the college’s community and raises funds to support students.
Barnes, a pop singer with deep ties to Mississippi, will perform following the evening’s awards ceremony. Known for his soulful blend of pop, rhythm and blues, and storytelling, Barnes moved to Nashville after graduating from Middle Tennessee State University to launch his career.
While he has released successful solo projects, Barnes is perhaps best known for his prowess as a songwriter. His hit song “God Gave Me You” became a massive success for Blake Shelton on the “Red River Blue” album. To date, Barnes has over 100 songs recorded by industry heavyweights, including Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Florida Georgia Line, Carrie Underwood, and Dan + Shay.
The Northwest Soiree serves as the college’s signature fundraising event. The 2025 event raised more than $142,000 toward student advancement. Patti Gordon, executive director of Institutional Advancement at Northwest, credited the recurring success of the event to community partners, specifically highlighting the owners of Mini Systems, Inc.
“The success of the Soiree continues with the strong support of the Presenting Sponsor, Mini Systems, owned by Tracy and Melody Crutcher,” Gordon said. “The generosity the Crutchers have shown in supporting the Northwest Soiree goes unmatched. They believe in Northwest’s vision of transforming students’ lives, enriching our communities, and striving for excellence in our educational programs and services.”
The Crutchers have served as the presenting sponsor since the inaugural Soiree in 2023.
Sponsorships for the “Garden Gala” are currently available. Tickets for the general public, including options for the concert only, will go on sale in January 2026.
For sponsorship information, visit the Northwest Soiree website or contact the Foundation Office at 662-560-1103.
Patti Gordon executive director of Institutional Advancement and Tracy Crutcher of Mini Systems. Photo provided by Northwest Foundation
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
