Celebrating Legacy, Honoring Excellence: Highlights from the 18th Annual Jazz Brunch

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind.—On Saturday, July 19, the Neal-Marshall Alumni Club welcomed more than 150 alumni and friends to the 18th Annual Jazz Brunch at VisionLoft STUTZ in downtown Indianapolis. This gathering was an intentional act of connection—bridging generations, honoring legacy, and celebrating Black brilliance.

The event recognized those “in the room where it happens.” This included the founders of Jazz Brunch, longtime members of the Awards Committee, and valued partners like the Central Indiana Chapter of IUAA, the IU Black Philanthropy Circle, and the IUAA Executive Council.

This year’s tropical chic theme was more than a dress code—it was an expression of joy. Guests arrived in bright colors, linen suits, and flowing fabrics, bringing with them the vibrancy of a community unapologetically celebrating itself. Laughter and music filled the air as attendees enjoyed the warmth of shared history.

The following 2025 honorees were the heart of the program:

• Gloria Combs, BSW’21—Rising Star Award
• Jewel Mosley, MSW’10—Rising Star Award
• Lathay Pegues, BAJ’00—Alumni Achievement Award

The Alumni Achievement Award honors lifetime accomplishments by recognizing exceptional leadership, community service, moral character, and a lasting impact on Indiana University and beyond.

The Rising Star Award celebrates emerging leaders. These award recipients are recent graduates who, in just a few years, have demonstrated professional excellence, outstanding service, and an unwavering commitment to their communities.

Lathay Pegues, BAJ’00

Founder & Co-Owner, JohnTom’s Barbecue

A Muncie native and IU Bloomington graduate of The Media School’s broadcast journalism program, Lathay Pegues began his career in journalism before pivoting to entrepreneurship after his TV station closed. In 2006, he co-founded JohnTom’s Barbecue—a tribute to his grandfather’s original sauce recipe. Now recognized as an official “Indiana Artisan” company, JohnTom’s is beloved across the state for its bold flavor and all-natural ingredients.

Beyond business, Lathay is deeply invested in revitalizing his hometown. He has served with Next Muncie, the Delaware County Housing Authority, and the Black Chamber of Commerce, earning the admiration of leaders like Jud Fisher of the Ball Brothers Foundation and Ball State President Geoffrey Mearns for his servant leadership and strategic vision.

A drummer, community storyteller, and radio personality, Lathay uplifts East Central Indiana with every beat and broadcast. His journey reflects the power of purpose, the impact of service, and the legacy of turning personal vision into community transformation.

Jewel Mosley, MSW’10

BSW Student Services Coordinator & Associate Faculty, IU School of Social Work

Since earning her Master of Social Work in 2010, Jewel Mosley has dedicated her career to advancing student success and educational equity. As BSW student services coordinator and associate faculty at the IU School of Social Work, she designs systems that empower nontraditional learners and improve academic outcomes.

Her leadership extends far beyond campus. Since 2013, she has served on the Nina Scholars Advisory Council, which provides scholarships covering tuition, fees, books, and more for up to 6 years for marginalized students, including student parents and those with disabilities. Her expertise spans trauma-informed care, brain health, behavioral equity, and beyond.

In 2023, Jewel established the Jewel Mosley Social Work Scholarship, which is available to any student at IU Indianapolis. With a career rooted in healing, justice, and social transformation, Jewel exemplifies the promise of the Rising Star Award—a leader whose light is only growing brighter.

Gloria Combs, BSW’21

Founder, Glo’s Glam Closet, LLC & Nonprofit Leader

A proud IU Indianapolis graduate, Gloria Combs has dedicated her life to helping others achieve their goals—securing over $800,000 in scholarships for adult learners and volunteering more than 4,000 hours for causes close to her heart. At Goodwill Industries of Central and Southern Indiana, she supports youth and non-traditional students in reaching academic, personal, and professional milestones.

Gloria is also the founder of Glo’s Glam Closet, LLC, a boutique celebrating body positivity with the tagline, “Where curves meet confidence!” Her accomplishments have earned her the United Way 100 Hero Award, the Lifetime Presidential Volunteer Service Award, and the 2024 Educator of the Year Award from Excel Center Meadows.

A titleholder in plus-size pageantry and a passionate advocate for inclusive fashion, Gloria is building a legacy rooted in empowerment, self-expression, and service. Her Rising Star recognition is just the beginning.

In a radically shifting world, the stories of Lathay Pegues, Jewel Mosley, and Gloria Combs are reminders that legacy is built through service, excellence, and joy—and that these values shine brightest when shared with community.