Corinth High Alumnus of the Year: Dr. Joseph Pratt
Corinth High School has named Dr. Joseph Leonard Pratt, a longtime Corinth family physician and member of the Class of 1986, as its Corinth High alumnus of the year. Pratt will be recognized during halftime of the Warriors’ home football game against South Pontotoc on Friday, Oct. 2.
Corinth High alumnus of the year: from band president to physician
Pratt’s path back to his hometown started in the halls of Corinth High. As a student, he was a member of the National Honor Society, served as band president, and took part in the Math and Science Club, according to the Daily Corinthian.
After graduating in 1986, he earned a bachelor’s degree in science from Christian Brothers College in Memphis, now Christian Brothers University. He then went on to medical school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
He has now practiced medicine for more than 30 years and serves as a physician at Magnolia Family Medicine in Corinth, caring for patients in the same community where he grew up.
Crediting a strong start at CHS
Pratt credited Corinth High with preparing him for the demands of college and medical school. He said the school encouraged him in accelerated programs that pushed advanced math and science courses “equivalent to college level courses.”
That emphasis on rigorous coursework has long been a point of pride for the Corinth School District, which today continues to produce top academic performers. This fall alone, Corinth High seniors have been recognized as a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist and a Coca-Cola Scholars Program semifinalist.
A family tied to Corinth High
Pratt’s connection to Corinth High runs through his own household. He is the son of Joe Rady Pratt and Mildred Spear, and he and his wife, Anita, are the parents of three Corinth High graduates: Shelby Sparks, Brooks Pratt and Brady Pratt.
Asked what advice he would give to young graduates, Pratt pointed to his faith, encouraging them to seek God and trust Him on their life’s journey.
How to attend the recognition
The honor will be presented during halftime of the Corinth vs. South Pontotoc football game on Friday, Oct. 2. Alumni, former classmates, patients and community members who want to congratulate Pratt are encouraged to attend the game. Here’s what to know:
- Who: Dr. Joseph Leonard Pratt, Corinth High Class of 1986
- What: Corinth High School Alumnus of the Year recognition
- When: Halftime, Friday, Oct. 2, 2026
- Game: Corinth vs. South Pontotoc
The Alumnus of the Year recognition highlights Corinth High graduates whose careers and service reflect well on the school and the community. Pratt’s decades of work as a family doctor in Corinth make him a fitting choice for many local families who have trusted him with their care.
For more education news from the area, read about a NEMCC Adult Education student’s path to pharmacy work and our latest Alcorn County news roundup.
Source: Daily Corinthian
