Released January 18, 2005

HATTIESBURG -- Alicia Williamson, an accomplished singer and prominent songwriter in contemporary Christian music, will perform a benefit concert for The University of Southern Mississippi's Children's Center for Communication and Development, Saturday, Feb. 19, at 6 p.m. at Bennett Auditorium on the Southern Miss Hattiesburg campus.

A native of Florence, S.C., Williamson began singing in church at age 5. She graduated from Winthrop College in Rock Hill, S.C., with a bachelor of music in vocal performance. After college, she traveled for six years with the contemporary Christian group TRUTH, where she first recorded her signature song, "There Is a Hope." Williamson began her solo ministry in 1993 and now makes nearly 200 solo appearances annually.

"Ms. Williamson has graciously agreed to a benefit concert to assist our center's building renovation campaign," said Margaret Buttross-Brinegar, co-director of the center. "She is aware of the work we do with young children with disabilities as one of our former students, Brandi Cowart, and her mother, Brenda, are special friends of Alicia's."

Brandi Cowart, who was born with Trisomy 18 Syndrome, attended the Children's Center from infancy to age six.

Williamson has recorded several CDs, including "Alicia," "There Is a Hope," "The Rescue," "Faithful Heart," "Praise and Worship," and "We Win!"

In addition to being an accomplished singer/songwriter, Williamson is also emerging as a prominent author and TV host. She lives in Mobile, Ala., with her husband, Richard Garcia, and their two sons.

Tickets for the concert are $10 each. For more information, contact the Children's Center at (601) 266-5222 for more information.

-30-