Holmes S. Adams

Holmes Adams has practiced law for five decades, including many years as a successful litigator defending school districts and other public entities in §1983 actions and handling unitary status hearings in federal desegregation cases to remove school districts from court supervision.  He has argued several cases before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and has taken cases to the United States Supreme Court.  Today, Holmes continues to advise and consult with school districts throughout Mississippi on a full range of matters, including real estate, finance, contracts, employment, governance issues and election laws.  He also advises families on business, estate, and trust matters.

Recognizing his contributions to education, public service, community, and the legal profession, Holmes received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of Southern Mississippi. The Honorary Doctorate is one of the highest honors bestowed by the university. Holmes’ philanthropic work has advanced education opportunities in Mississippi. For two decades, he has chaired the Luckyday Foundation Board, which invests in the education of young Mississippians through scholarships. His servant leadership mindset has enabled thousands of students, including more than 2,200 USM Luckyday Scholars, to grow into community leaders. The Board of Managers conferred upon Holmes the title of Chairman Emeritus of the Luckyday Foundation. In addition, Holmes is board chair of the Eudora Welty Foundation, advisory board member of the Junior League of Jackson, and trustee of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi. He is a former board chair of the Mississippi Museum of Art, Museum Foundation, Capital Area United Way, and Stewpot Community Services.