Ole Miss students wait in the rain for JD Vance and Erika Kirk’s visit to campus with TPUSA

Students Gather for Turning Point USA Event at Ole Miss

On Wednesday afternoon, hundreds of students at the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, braved the rain. They gathered along the sidewalk with umbrellas, handmade signs, and a palpable sense of excitement ahead of the arrival of Vice President J.D. Vance and Erika Kirk for a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) event to honor the late Charlie Kirk.

The crowd, which started forming earlier in the morning outside the Ole Miss pavilion, was noticeable throughout the campus. Many students showcased their support by wearing MAGA hats and “Freedom” shirts, paying tribute to the deceased founder of Turning Point USA.

Leslie Lachman, who leads the Turning Point U.S. Chapter at Ole Miss, expressed her enthusiasm. “We are thrilled that they chose Ole Miss. This is an American-loving university, and the red, white, and blue is everywhere. People are waiting in line for hours in the rain. The energy is electric,” she shared, looking forward to the event.

Luckman pointed out that the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk has intensified student engagement. “People have come together for prayers and vigils. They want to be more involved on campus than ever before,” she noted, acknowledging the tragedy as a turning point for greater involvement.

This event marks TPUSA CEO Erica Kirk’s first and only appearance on their national college tour, where she’ll engage in a live Q&A session with students, following the speaking style of her late husband.

“That’s absolutely the most,” Luckman reflected. “They chose Ole Miss, an elite university, to hold this event. We’re honored not only for Turning Point but also for Ole Miss, which has a conservative spirit.”

Luckman highlighted how some universities have resisted acknowledging Turning Point chapters, but Ole Miss has welcomed the group’s message. “I have friends who have faced backlash from other campuses and feel let down. I’m proud to attend a university that supports Turning Point USA’s message,” she added.