The Hancock Leadership Center is designed to accommodate professional development trainings and meetings for the purpose of enhancing learning opportunities for children. Built by the Tupelo Public School District, the Center is operated with funds provided by the Tupelo School District Learning Foundation, Inc.

The Foundation was established through the generosity of the late Mr. L. D. Hancock and Mrs. Hancock. At the time, their gift of approximately $3.5 million was the largest donation by any individual to a public school district.

Earnings from the Foundation's assets are used for staff development to enhance and extend the school district's ongoing focus on instructional improvement and academic achievement.