MCC_Green and white Magazine aug_oct2016

Volume I • Aug. - Oct., 2016

Q!

See you at the

page 5

Welcome back students!

from the president

WHAT’S INSIDE?

At MCC, you’re a member of our family

student spotlight . . . . 3

by MCC President Dr. Scott Elliot

The name of this publication, “The Green and White,” is a symbol of the school spirit we try hard to foster at Meridian Community College. In fact, I would say that the atmosphere at MCC is intended to transcend “school spirit” to one of “family spirit.” In my experience, family members support one another in pursuit of their individual goals. I believe a community college family ought to do the same for its students.

relationships among his fellow students, and in educational attainment related to his career goals. I wanted to do all that I could to help him achieve

flight nurse or a welder or a commercial truck driver or an elementary school teacher – or a hundred different other things – you can start (and many times finish) that journey right here at MCC. And the only reason I have a job is to do all that I can to help facilitate your attainment of that goal. The same can be said of every one of my co-workers from teachers to staff members.

My own son is a graduate of MCC. When he was enrolled here, I wanted him to be successful in leadership

campus life . . . . . 4 eagle sports . . . . . 5 new on campus . . . . 6

colleagues to do the same for him.

what’s been happening? . 7

Of course, my son was a member of

employee spotlight . . . 8

those things, and I expected all of my

my actual family. Nonetheless, every student at this college is a member of my “MCC family.” Therefore, my

Whether your goal is to become a top-

2

development, in establishing lifelong

aspirations for our students is akin to those I had for my own son. To me, that’s the beauty of attending a community college like MCC. You’re not a Social Security number. You are part of a family, and I’m so glad you

fitness center schedules . 8 did you know . . . . . . 9 mcc news . . . . . . 10 artsy stuff . . . . . . 12

are!

I wish you all the best as we embark upon a new school year.

Green and White Magazine is published quarterly.

The next issue will be published Oct. 28, 2016. The

facebook.com/meridiancc twitter.com/mcceagles instagram.com/mcceagles

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Meridian Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion or age in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs and activities. Compliance with Section 504 is coordinated by Ms. Soraya Welden, Dean of Student Services, 910 Highway 19 North, Meridian, MS 39307. 601-484-8628, Fax: 601-484-8635, email: swelden@meridiancc.edu. Compliance with Title IX is coordinated by Mr. Derek Mosley, Social Science Instructor, Smith Hall, 910 Highway 19 North, Meridian, MS 39307. 601-553-3453, Fax: 601-484-8635, email: dmosley@meridiancc.edu.

submission deadline is Oct. 7. Please submit copy to Kay Thomas at kthomas@meridiancc.edu.

Call 601-484-8689 for more information.

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student spotlight j Carter’s passion for helping others yields to creation of non-profit organization

James CARTER HOMETOWN: Meridian MAJOR: Business and Marketing Management

By MCC Recruiter Adrian Cross

The son of James Carter Sr. and Annie Carter, James Carter is a Meridian native who got his start in the Meridian Public School System.

He has always loved working with and helping people, but he has not always known how to channel that energy into positive avenues. Like many of adolescent males who are in need of guidance, he turned to negative influences in the community, which ultimately led to run-ins with law enforcement. During this time, Carter turned to a life in the streets making him a target for all things negative and counter-productive to his impending success.

He received his high school equivalency diploma from Meridian Community College in 2000. Three years later, his son was born giving him a new outlook on life and a new role as a father. It was at this time that

he realized he must make a change, but how? He would then embark on a 12-year journey of finding out who he was and what he could do to help his community.

Today, Carter is a caring husband and a loving father who values family and friends. He is currently a student in MCC’s Business Marketing and Management program and will graduate in the spring of 2017 with his associate degree.

He chose this career path because of his non-profit organization, The Carter Foundation (TCF). He has now found a positive way to channel his energy to the community by encouraging positivity, unity and support to Meridian and Lauderdale County. He has a strong passion for helping others and he gives back to his community through this organization that hosts several free community

events throughout the year for youth empowerment and educational/health awareness.

“Meridian Community College is part of my success because at this point in my life I understand the importance of a good quality education and I know that I will get that here,” Carter said. Upon completion of his education at MCC, he aspires to further his education at a university. Carter added, “My goal is to establish Carter Enterprises before 2020.”

Through all adversity, Carter beat the odds and is a great example of what can be done when your passion drives you.

Did you know MCC has its own radio station?

Green & White • Fall 2016 • Mer idian C ommunity C ollege

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Campus Life

Now through Thursday, Aug. 22-25, 8:30 a.m.-noon: Popcorn, Quave Center Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2-3:30 p.m.: Popsicles, Quave Center Thursday, Aug. 25, noon: Pizza, Quave Center Wednesday, Aug. 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m.: Pool party, Damon Fitness Center Thursday, Aug. 25, 2-3 p.m.: College Activities Board (CAB) interest meeting, Quave Center

It’s a new

Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 29-30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.: Blood drive

school year

Thursday, Sept. 1, Noon, 1 and 2 p.m.: Miss MCC Pageant interest meeting, Quave Center

and it’s a

Thursday, Sept. 8, 3:30 p.m., CAB meeting, Quave Center

new place to meet. Take a look at the

Wednesday, Aug. 31: 2 and 3 p.m.: Volleyball intramural interest meeting, Quave Center Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2:30 p.m.: Intramural volleyball captains’ meeting, Quave Center Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 12 and 13, 3 p.m.: Intramural volleyball games Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m.: Movie night, Quave Center Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 19 and 20, 3 p.m.: Intramural volleyball games Thursday, Sept. 22, 3:30 p.m., CAB meeting, Quave Center Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 26 and 27, 3 p.m.: Intramural volleyball games Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2 and 3 p.m.: Flag football interest meeting, Quave Center Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 3 and 4: Intramural volleyball playoffs Wednesday, Oct. 5: Miss MCC Pageant practice

Campus Life

Thursday, Oct. 6: Miss MCC Pageant

events:

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2:30 p.m.: Flag football captains’ meeting, Quave Center

Friday, Oct. 7, 10:30 a.m.: CAB meeting Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 17 and 18: Flag football Wednesday, Oct. 19: MCC Fall Fest Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 24 and 25: Flag football

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nkbcrfgh

Eagle Sports

Schedule

Soccer DATE Aug. 16 Aug. 20 Aug. 23 Aug. 25 Aug. 27 Aug. 31 Sept. 2 Sept. 6 Sept. 9 Sept. 13 Sept. 16

Opponent (home games in green) #Hinds CC Alumni Game #Holmes CC Holmes CC Delta State University East Central CC Co-Lin CC* Southwest CC* Jones CC* Pearl River CC* Gulf Coast CC*

Wmn/Men - - / 7 pm 5 pm/7pm 7 pm/ - - - / 7 pm 4 pm/ - 5 pm/7pm 5 pm/7pm 2 pm/4 pm 5 pm/7pm 5 pm/7pm 5 pm/7pm #Exhibition

Sept. 20 Sept. 23 Sept. 28 Sept. 30 Oct. 4 Oct. 7 Oct. 11 Oct. 14 Oct. 18 Oct. 21 Oct. 25 Oct. 29 Oct. 30

Itawamba CC Holmes CC East Central CC Northwest CC Co-Lin CC* Southwest CC * Jones CC* Pearl River CC* Gulf Coast CC* Itawamba CC State - Quarterfinals State - Semifinals State - Finals

5 pm/7pm 1 pm/3 pm 1 pm/3 pm 1 pm/3 pm 5 pm/7pm 5 pm/7pm 5 pm/7pm 5 pm/7pm 5 pm/7pm 1 pm/3 pm #2 seeds North North

*South Division Match

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New on campus: Quave Student Life Center Now that Meridian Community College’s Fall semester 2016 is underway, students get to experience the new David H. Quave Student Life Center.

The 8,800 square-facility, with its 3,200 square-foot outdoor covered porch, is centrally located; just steps from Todd Library, Damon Fitness Center, Ivy Hall, Scaggs Field and Riley Health Center.

By their nature, student life centers are the hub of student affairs on campus; they offer a variety of programs, activities, services and facilities that attract both new and current students alike.

MCC Dean of Students Soraya Welden said this student center was a long-time in the making. “For many, many years we haven’t had a true student life center. About a year ago, (MCC President) Dr. Scott Elliott recommended that this be our next student involved construction project,” she said.

“We wanted a place for students to congregate or hang out... a more social gathering place,” Welden noted. The new center features that plus more.

“There are places for tables and chairs for seating where they can eat, get a cup of coffee and study. There is a conference room for meetings and a covered outdoor expanse for student events,” she added.

But that’s not all. Students can take advantage of the billiard, ping-pong, foosball tables, gaming systems and wide, flat screen TVs that are displayed throughout the center.

As both a commuter and residential campus, the College has many students who drive to campus for their academic studies. “This might give some students a reason to stay and become involved with more activities,” Welden said.

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MCC hosted a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 18.

The facility was dedicated in honor of alumnus David H. Quave because of his generosity to the College and his compassion for students. On hand were Meridian and Lauderdale County officials, MCC administrators and board member, David Quave, third from right, to help with the ribbon cutting ceremony.

The David Quave Student Life Center is one of many student-involved constructions on the MCC campus.

Construction Trades Program as well as Electrical Technology Program students learned by doing in helping to build this structure. “Our Construction Trades students were in charge

Q!

See you at the

of the framing while the Electrical Technology students were in charge of electrical installation,” said Jim Miles, program coordinator for the Electrical Technology Program. “These projects helped them get employment skills because they were working on a real project,” Miles added.

f

Hours for the first week of school are 8 am - 6 pm ---Extended hours after the first week are 8 am - 7 pm

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Annual event brings students and community to campus

Stretching college dollars $$$$$$$$$ Two-for-One classes offered at MCC Looking for ways to stretch your education dollar? Look to Meridian Community College.

For the fall semester 2016, MCC will offer to part-time students who enroll in no more than 11 credit hours for the fall 2016 term and who sign up for a single three or four-hour class, to select a second class from a special list tuition free.

Full-term classes are from Aug. 22Dec. 15; Late Start Classes are from Sept. 26-Dec. 15 Term II classes begin Oct. 17.

Getting to know MCC – India Glass, left, talks to Meridian Community College Director of Recruiting and Campus Life Marie Roberts as she signs in to participate in MCC’s Back to School event at MCC on Thursday. Participants learned about all aspects of the college and registered for classes.

It was an afternoon of networking, scavenging and registration at the Fourth annual Back to School with MCC event.

This interactive college expo for the community emphasized enrollment and campus involvement. And, it was a one-stop-shop for all things MCC including personnel on hand from various campus departments such as admissions, advising, financial aid, e-learning. There were also community organizations available to inform prospective students of community resources that are available to them.

Each participant had the opportunity to participate in the scavenger hunt, which encouraged them to visit each of campus support services and community partners. Upon finishing the scavenger hunt, each participant had the opportunity to choose a prize from one of our community-sponsored

restaurants. Incoming freshmen and returning students had the option of attending the e-book and Eaglenet training sessions to learn more about navigating through these programs with ease.

The entire community was invited to attend this event with the hopes of recruiting new students and encourage returning students to register for the fall 2016 classes. It was a full house that day with all registered students entering to win one of the two $500 scholarships that were given away.

This is just another way that MCC gives back to our community.

For additional information contact Adrian L. Cross 601-581-3553 or across1@meridiancc.edu.

The evening classes available on this Two-for-One Scholarship list include: Principles of Accounting I; Art Appreciation; Ceramics I; Ceramics II; Principles of Biology I with Lab for non majors; Nutrition; Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab; Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab; Microbiology with Lab; General College Chemistry I with Lab; Computer Concepts; Principles of Macroeconomics; Principles of Microeconomics; Human Growth and Development; Intermediate English with Lab; English Composition I; English Composition II; World Literature I; World Civilization I; First Aid and CPR; Beginning Algebra; Intermediate Algebra; College Algebra; Trigonometry; Business Calculus I; Real Number System; Statistics; Spanish I; Real Estate I; Real Estate II; Old Testament Survey; World Religions; Physical Science I with Lab; American National Government; General Psychology; Real Estate Law; Introduction to Sociology I; Marriage and Family; Public Speaking I; and Theater Appreciation.

For more information about the twofor-one classes, contact MCC at 601-483-8241 or 1-800-MCC-The-One.

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Employee spotlight

g Katie

JOHNSON

FITNESS CENTER SECRETARY

Johnson most likely doing? “Without a doubt, my husband and I are out in the middle of our field, sitting in lawn chairs, and our two dogs, Koby and Lucy, are running and playing. It is absolutely the most peaceful time and beautiful place. I am completely happy and grateful for the simple things in life.”

Fall Fitness Center Schedules

As a secretary at the Fitness Center, Katie Johnson can often be found helping students, staff and community.

If you ask Katie Johnson what she likes best about the College, she’s quick to say: “I love how MCC really does feel like it’s my home away from home. I truly do love my job and I feel blessed to be here and try to help anyone I can while I’m here.”

Johnson is the secretary for the Damon Fitness Center and has logged in nine years working at the College. “My favorite part of work is helping our students/faculty/staff and community members,” she said. Her job focuses on helping others. “I greet the students/faculty/staff/community members, take in registration money for non-credit classes and/ or memberships,

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instruct students/faculty/staff/ community members on how to use the cardio equipment, give tours of the Fitness Center, complete purchase requisitions and request for internal allocations, provide training for front desk workers, work study employees, and assistantship employees, record total usage and total money brought in for the fitness center and assist Wade Heggie, Brandi Pickett and Laura Lewis with other duties as needed.”

She credits her parents for giving her a strong work ethic and feels that it’s what motivates her. A native of Appleton, Wis., Johnson grew up outside of Green Bay and started working as a babysitter when she was 13 and a waitress at 14.

Johnson is an alumna of MCC; she earned her associate of applied science degree in 2005. Earlier this year, she was named MCCer of the Month by the MCC Foundation. “Being nominated for and obtaining MCCer of the Month would be my proudest moment (at MCC) because it really means a lot to me that fellow faculty and staff nominated me,” she said.

And when she’s not at MCC, what’s

POOL Lap Swim Mon./Wed. 6 - 8 a.m.

Noon - 12:50 p.m.

5:30 - 7 p.m.

--Tues./Thurs.

Noon - 12:50 p.m.

--Friday 6 - 8 a.m.

Noon - 1 p.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Lap/Leisure Swim Mon./Wed. 8 - 8:50 a.m.

11 a.m. - Noon --Tues./Thurs.

7:45 - 8:50 a.m.

--Friday 6 - 8 a.m.

Noon - 1 p.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

MCC Student, Faculty and Staff Swim Mon./Wed. 2 - 3:15 p.m.

--Tues./Thurs.

2:00 - 4:15 p.m.

--Friday 1 - 3:15 p.m.

WEIGHT TRAINING Open Workout Mon./Wed. 7 - 12:50 a.m.

6 - 7:45 p.m.

--Tues./Thurs.

7:30 - 7:50 a.m.

9 a.m.

- 12:50 p.m.

2 - 4 p.m.

6 - 8:30 p.m.

--Friday 7 - 7:50 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

- 12:50 p.m.

2:30 - 6:30 p.m.

The fitness center is closed Saturday and Sunday.

For more information about the fitness center, contact Katie Johnson at 601-484-8763

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Did you know . . .

Brenda Fortson, MCC career and technical support services coordinator, reviews material. Fortson noted the newly received grant from the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi will be used to improve the lives of women through education.

MCC garners grant for women’s education

Meridian Community College has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi to improve the lives of women through education.

The Foundation is dedicated to funding programs that improve the lives of women and girls statewide.

The grant is for a two-year period, said Brenda Fortson, MCC career and technical support services coordinator.

“We will be able to assist women with tuition, books, school related expenses, and possibly emergency situations that may pose a financial hardship for students.

“I am really excited about this grant because we will be able to help more women gain financial independence.

Because of this grant, many women will complete career and technical programs and directly enter the workforce

while others will transfer to a university to seek a baccalaureate degree,” Fortson added. “Many people do not qualify for financial aid and the added money would help us help more students,” she said.

She noted the grant also dovetails with the College’s mission of improving the quality of life.

“When I think of the students I see on a daily basis and how hard they work to improve their situations, I am delighted to know that this grant will enable us to add to the MCC family.

We provide an excellent education but really, we are in the business of changing lives,” Fortson said.

This is the first grant MCC has received regarding the Women’s Foundation’s Focus No. 2-Access to Opportunity/Community College.

“Meridian Community College is a good fit for this grant--the Women’s College Completion Assistance Program (C-CAP),” said Barbara Jones, vice president of operations at MCC. “Our most recent statistics show that 68 percent of our students are female and the average age is 25. Many of

our female students matriculate to our career and technical education (CTE) and health programs, and this will give them a good opportunity to apply for financial assistance that they may need,” Jones said.

Jones added that Fortson worked diligently along with other MCC staff in the grant submission process. “Her background as our support services coordinator and her communication skills with non-traditional students helped provide the successful grant that she submitted,” she said.

“We are so thankful for the opportunity to work with the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi, and we appreciate their selection of MCC as the grant recipient,” Jones added.

Fortson noted, “What a brilliant idea for the foundation to reach out to women where they are and assist them with education related expenses! The grant will help women of any age and race/ ethnicity. The only stipulation is that applicants must be female.”

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MCC News

MIBEST gets into full swing this semester The Adult Basic Education department at MCC has embarked on a new journey with 13 students who are breaking barriers by attending career and technical courses while attaining their high school equivalency. The Mississippi Integrated Basic Education and Skill Training (MIBEST) is in full swing on the MCC campus this fall 2016 semester. There are seven career pathways that students are able to participate in such as Commercial Truck Driving, Health Care Assistant, Welding and Cutting Technology, Computer Programming and Networking Technology, Business Marketing and Management and Drafting and Design Technology.

Going for the Gold with Mississippi Army National Guard The Mississippi Magnolia Gold (MMG) is a new campus based program with the Mississippi Army National Guard (MSARNG). The program offers a unique opportunity for young men and women to become leaders in the MSARNG, while working towards a college degree.

Students will develop attributes in leadership, personal integrity, honor, responsibility and patriotism.

The MMG program seeks students who excel and want something more out of the college experience. Generally, these students are scholars who keep their grades up, athletes who are physically strong and leaders who have a great desire to learn.

Any student may take the military science courses as an elective, even if they do not desire to enlist in the MSARNG. To be part of the MMG program, you must be: a U.S. citizen, full-time college student, maintain a 2.0 grade point average and enlist into the Mississippi Army National Guard.

SSG. Timothy Turner of the Army National Guard is the instructor of the Magnolia Gold Program. He said the program is open to college freshmen

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and is a means of recruitment for the Army National Guard program in Mississippi. MCC will offer four military science courses: Foundations of Officership, Basic Leadership, Individual Leadership Studies and Leadership and Teamwork. These courses are transferrable to four-year institutions.

He encourages everyone who is interested in improving their leadership skills and abilities to attend the fall leadership courses that are offered.

By attending these courses you are not signing up for the armed services, you are just investing in yourself by increasing your leadership skills.

For more information on the Mississippi Magnolia Gold program please contact SSG. Timothy Turner at 601-938-7878 or email him at timothy.b.turner6.mil@ mail.mil .

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Some of the incentives for this program include the opportunity for the participants to complete up to 15 hours of college credit while working towards their high school equivalency, and they will earn national and industry-recognized certifications. By completing these courses and attaining their high school equivalency, they also increase their chances of employability as well as graduating in a shorter timeframe.

To qualify, adults aged 17 and older with no high school diploma are eligible for this program. Additional qualifications include: they must be adults enrolled in the adult basic education program, must be a Mississippi resident, and they must take the Career Readiness Certificate (CRC) and earn a level Three Bronze or higher.

MCC wants to ensure that all current and future students receive the best training and highest quality education attainable in order to be prepared for an ever-changing world.

For more information on the MIBEST program, please contact Rhonda Smith at 601-484-8645 or email her at rsmith20@meridiancc.edu .

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Signing in – Central United Methodist Church ministers the Rev. Kristina Crabtree, center, and the Rev. Jonathan Crabtree register with the help of Meridian Community College Navigator Amber Matthews, left, before joining others for MCC's Ministerial Alliance luncheon. Held in the College's Tommy E. Dulaney Center, the event offered local pastors and church officials an opportunity to learn about the College and the services offered. "Anything we can do to empower MCC to empower students is an honor for us," said Rev. Jonathan Crabtree.

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They¹ve got their copies MCC students Kennedy White, left, Jeremy Smith, Shavon Armstrong, Monica Armstrong and Kristen Lewis all got their copies of the U.S. Constitution. Other MCCers can get their free copies of the U.S. Constitution by stopping by Todd Library to celebrate Constitution Day on Sept. 17. In 2005, the nation began to celebrate Constitution Day as an American holiday honoring the day 39 delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the United States Constitution. This historic date was September 17, 1787.

Caring about community

My College Cares returns My College Cares, a day of service for MCC students, faculty and staff, will be held Oct. 25, where MCCers will help in a myriad of ways such as cleaning a city park, reading to students at an elementary school, organizing a food pantry, helping decorate a shelter, performing random acts of kindness and picking up traffic and highway litter.

Last year, more than 1,300 volunteers participated in more than 80 locations throughout the area.

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For more information contact Patrick Lovette at 601-481-1340.

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IMPORTANT NUMBERS: Switchboard, 601-483-8241 Admissions, 601-483-8241 Adult Basic Education, 601-484-8796 Advising, 601-484-8796 Athletic Programs, 601-484-8699 Bookstore, 601-484-8650 Business Office, 601-484-8706 Financial Aid, 601-484-8673 Quave Student Center 601-481-1340 Campus Life 601-481-1340 Residence Hall, 601-484-8894 Scholarships, 601-481-1315 Single Parent/ Homemaker Services, 601-484-8836 Student Records, 601-484-8621 Student Services, 601-484-8627 Student Success Center, 601-484-8772

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D E N N A B ?

S K O BO BANNED BOOKS WEEK โ ข SEPT. 25 - 30

Stand up for your right to read Banned Books Week is an annual

is the fact that, in a majority of cases,

event celebrating the freedom to read.

the books have remained available.

Typically held during the last week of

This happens only thanks to the efforts

September, it highlights the value of

of librarians, teachers, students, and

free and open access to information.

community members who stand up and

Banned Books Week brings together

speak out for the freedom to read.

the entire book community; librarians, booksellers, publishers, journalists,

Books that have been banned include

teachers and readers of all types, in

A Time to Kill; Holy Bible; Junie B.

shared support of the freedom to seek

Jones series; To Kill a Mockingbird; The

and to express ideas, even those some

Color Purple; Beloved; The Lord of the

consider unorthodox or unpopular.

Flies; 1984; Brave New World; Animal Farm; As I Lay Dying; A Farewell to

By focusing on efforts across the

Arms; Their Eyes Were Watching God;

country to remove or restrict access

Invisible Man; Song of Solomon; Gone

to books, Banned Books Week draws

with the Wind; Native Son; One Flew

national attention to the harms of

Over the Cuckooยนs Nest; For Whom

censorship. While books have been

The Bell Tolls; The Call of the Wild; Go

and continue to be banned, part of

Tell it on the Mountain; The Lord of the

the Banned Books Week celebration

Rings; The Awakening and Harry Potter.

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program spotlight q

Surgical

TECHNOLOGY

MCC's Surgical Technology Program is a one-year certificate program that comprises three semesters of study for the certificate. Students must attend full-time each semester regardless of the number of hours earned excluding the summer term. A certificate is available upon completion of the first year of study.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists, also called operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations. They prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, and help doctors during surgeries.

Most surgical technologists work in hospitals. They spend much of their time on their feet. The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $44,330 in May 2015.

Employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 15 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Advances in medical technology have made surgery safer, and more operations are being done to treat a variety of illnesses and injuries.

Mecklin Soules is the program director and instructor for the MCC Surgical Technology Program. She can be contacted by msoules@meridiancc. edu; 601-481-1301.

Danielle Creighton, right, is congratulated by MCC President Dr. Scott Elliott while Mecklin Soules looks on. Creighton was one of nine Surgical Technology Program students who were pinned in an August ceremony celebrating the completion of the program.

Congratulations!

Adrian Cross

MCC Recruiter

393 Mgazine

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TOP UNDER

800-MCC-THE-1 • www.meridiancc.edu

Meridian Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion or age in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs and activities. Compliance with Section 504 is coordinated by Ms. Soraya Welden, Dean of Student Services, 910 Highway 19 North, Meridian, MS 39307. 601-484-8628, Fax: 601-484-8635, email: swelden@ meridiancc.edu. Compliance with Title IX is coordinated by Mr. Derek Mosley, Social Science Instructor, Smith Hall, 910 Highway 19 North, Meridian, MS 39307. 601-553-3453, Fax: 601-484-8635, email: dmosley@meridiancc.edu.

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Summer Graduation Graduates Ariel Ludgood, left, of Marion, Allieja Echols of Meridian and Chariae Harbin of Meridian are all smiles at the August ceremony.

It was afternoon of excitement as students from Meridian Community College gathered to receive their diplomas and certificates at the Summer Commencement Program held in the Temple Theater earlier this month.

Vinzant of Pulaski; Alysia Shaw of Livingston, Ala.; and Chariae Shrelle Harbin of Meridian.

MCC stages three commencements each school year in December, May and August. For the whole of the school year, MCC will have graduated 851 students. MCC President Dr. Scott Elliott called commencement programs, “the pinnacle of any school year because it allows us to publicly celebrate student achievement.”

Kathryn White, Hayden Hall Tharpe and Jeyde Y. Fitzgerald, all of Brandon; Kiara Shavon Brooks of Brooksville; Dylan Scott Todd of Butler, Ala.; Ashley Nicole Fedrick of Carthage; Rakisha Ann Anderson of Choctaw; Ardeshia Lowery of Clinton;

During the ceremony, eight graduates also shared the spotlight as they were installed in the Circle of Excellence where they were recognized for their leadership, spirit, service and scholarship.

Tapped were Shelby Dean Proaps of Collinsville; Mariam Khmaladze from the Republic of Georgia; Kristen E. Holmes of Scooba; Jamaal Rashad Barksdale of Meridian; Katheryn Rani Bunkley of Meridian; Regina Rose

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Candidates for graduation included: Courtney Michelle Drury and McKenzi Nicole Wright, both of Bailey;

Caitlin Abigail Roe, Candace Gabrielle Davis, Danielle Leah Creighton, Dynasty Michelle Avery and Shelby Dean Proaps, all of Collinsville; Myah Janay Aaron of Columbia; Jamaine MeShee’ Danielle Sanders and Jamia Gabrielle Miller of Columbus; Danielle Coleman of Cuba, Ala.; Keith Cordarius Hudson of Daleville; Cayla Danielle Engle and Jody Golubeff Sorrells, both of Decatur; April Patrese Steele, Kennith Ryan Mason and Lakia Shyrel Jones, all of DeKalb; Joanna Marie Brunet of Ellisville; Candice Delayne White, Ouida Evangeline Townsend and Shalonda S. Hayes, all of Forest; Kristen Latoya

Bolton of Hattiesburg; of Ramona Shantel Durr of Heidleburg; Rachael M. Alexander of Hickory; Luther Thompson II and Tonya Danielle Lofton, both of Jackson; DeVantre Stan-Morris Young of Kennesaw, Ga.; Amber Danielle Jordanof Lake; Jameka Dorice Hairston, Kalan Wayne Mason and Sara Kelli Dodd, all of Lauderdale; Dana K. Padilla and Michael Edward Turner, both of Laurel; Thresa Marie Jones of Little Rock; Alysia K. Shaw and Charde’ R. Ridgeway, both of Livingston, Ala.; Byron Jawon Hathorn, Elena S. Gilbert and Rebecca Gwendolyn Estes, all of Louisville; Scott M. Mitchell of Macon; Ariel Janis Ludgood and Ashley Nicole Kai Germany of Marion; K’Lan Q’Ron Harris of McDonough, Ga.; Melissa Dianne Doyal of Mendenhall; Abigail Christine Tucker, Accuisha S. Dubose, Alliejah A. Echols, Angela Uriegas, Ashley Janesa Davis, Brandie Shaniqua Culpepper, Brenda Marion Moss, Chandler Marquis Boston, Chariae Shrelle Harbin, Charles R. Rushing, Christie Lynn McCafferty, Courtney Elizabeth Relinski, Darekus Butler, Derek Charles Hoffman, Diamond A. Brooks, Donnaise Rachelle

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Cole, Elizabeth Grace, Emily A. Singley, Heather Thrash, Jaimarcus Randle, Jamaal Rashad Barksdale, Jasmine Shatae Williams, Jerrica D. Hinton, Jessica L. Wilson, Jessica Michelle Hopkins, Jonathan D. McCall, Jordan Leigh Jones, Joshua Dale Vanetten, Juliana Rose Davis, Katelyn Paige Coffman, Katherine Denise Crosby, Katheryn Rani Bunkley, Kayla Celeste Grayson, Kayle LaShay Boman, Kelly A. Klutz, Kiana Shondriel Gale, Kierra Shanese Barrett, Kimberly Diane Simpson, Lashanda Jawanna Kennedy, Lauren M. Jackson, Lensuella Kidd, Mariam Khmaladze, Michael Tavorris Murray, Morgan Elizabeth Wilson, Nina Lynette Lewis, Patrick Cole Logan, Paul Jeffrey Robinson , Phyllis Michelle Naylor, Rachel Selena Johnson, Sandra Maria Lewis, Sarah

Elizabeth Tabb, Shannon Leigh Moore, Sharika Renea Newell, Shavontae Allyncia Warren, Shawn Everette Smith, Shayla Aliece Green, Simone L. Sanders, Tashayla L. Davis, Tiffany Russell Collins, Tyler Hill, Tyler James Bye, Vidal Hubbard, William Donald Deason and William S. Griffin, all of Meridian; Kelli Rebecca Turner of Moselle; Rubin Tatum of Newton; Tiara M. Williams of Noxapater; Eric L. Durham of Phenix City, Ala.; Betsy Dawn Thomas, Carnesha Shaniece Riley and Meloni Denell Johnson of Philadelphia; Helena L. McClendon of Preston; Regina Rose Vinzant of Pulaski; Destini M. Taylor, Jalonda Mike’lia Jones, Kalee Morgan Hunter and Wesley Stephens Donald, all of Quitman;

Tammie Sheron Lee of Ridgeland; Kristen E. Holmes of Scooba; Kraterria Shaquel Blakley of Shubuta; Megan Noel Picard of Starkville; Leslie Jordan Shepherd of Starkville; April May McIlwain, Baleigh Nichole Germany, Jessica Amanda Mosley Kaneisha N. Hubbard and Megan Elizabeth Gressett, all of Toomsuba; Breanna Marie Morgan of Union; Jada KaSheara McCarty of Walnut Grove; Dorothy E. Stewart, Lizzie M. Anderson and Rima J. Saunders, all of Waynesboro; and Pamela Shields Pritchett of York, Ala.

Graduates and audience members listen as MCC President Dr. Scott Elliott speaks to crowd.

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2016 - 2017

Free Admission for students to all shows (student ID required) MCC

Community 9/11 Memorial Concert

Band

Sunday, Sunday,Sept.

Sept.11, 11,2016 2016 •• 22 p.m. p.m.

Highland Highland Baptist Baptist Church, Church,Meridian Meridian

Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida

MCC Fine Arts Division production in partnership with Meridian High School

Oct. 1 - 2, 2016

MCC Jazz Band

Featuring Kathy Kosins Oct. 20, 2016

Twelve Angry Men

MCC Fine Arts Division production

Nov. 10 - 13, 2016

Christmas Gala

MCC Concert Choir and Guitar Ensemble Dec. 6, 2016

Dr. Maryann Kyle

The Meridian Community College Community Band will present a concert commemorating the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Known to our nation as 9/11, this tragedy continues to affect the lives of many Americans even 15 years after the horrific events originally occurred. The band, under the direction of Jon Romero, will present a moving tribute to the indominatable nature of the human spirit.

This concert will serve as the kick off for the 2016-17 Arts & Letters Season. The concert will be held at Highland Baptist Church, and it is suitable for audiences of all ages.

MCC High School Choral Fest March 9, 2017

MCC Community Band

MCC Dimensions May 4, 2017

MCC Jazz Band May 16, 2017

Legendary Dames of BroadwayMarch 26, 2017 Jan. 24, 2017

Kiss Me Kate

MCC Fine Arts Division production Performed by Lauderdale County High School students

Feb. 25 - 26, 2017

Disney's Little Mermaid MCC Fine Arts Division production

April 27 - 30, 2017 www.meridiancc.edu/artsnletters • 601-484-8696

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