Roar Magazine Fall/Winter 2020

RoarMAGAZINE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

|

COAHOMACC.EDU

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

FALL/WINTER 2020

PRIDE& PERSISTENCE

coahomacc.edu

WE’RE COAHOMA PROUD! THROUGH THIS ALL, WE WILL PERSIST!

1

2

ROAR Magazine

FROM THE

PRESIDENT

T

he words to a popular song say, “I almost let go, I felt like I just couldn’t take life anymore.” Author of the song, Kurt Carr, who has visited our campus and performed with our choir, reveals the context as to how he penned the lyrics to his song (“I Almost Let Go”). The songwriter was languishing in life’s emotional mire of loathing the thought of continuing to live or give up. Carr confesses that he honestly just wanted to give up on life.

The past few months have been difficult, and perhaps many of us have at least felt a temporary and emotional slither of simply wanting to give up. Such inner sentiments are not only parlayed within human beings, but institutions and organizations can temporarily house thoughts of giving up too. Yet, in spite of the myriad of challenges hurled onto the path of Coahoma, our college has maintained its level of Pride, and we have unflinchingly Persisted during the pandemic.

The recent path of Coahoma has been laden with budget challenges, facility needs, sudden changes within its governing board, enrollment tests, community population declines, an exorbitant loss of human life, social distancing and quarantining mandates, empty buildings, vacant parking lots, canceled events, increased emotional anxiety levels, and more. However, the evidence is clear: Our leadership team, faculty, staff, and students have responded exceptionally well.

Those who have attended Coahoma know that our college holds dearly to personal dignity, honor, self-respect and other honorable attributes for individual character and pride.

As president, I can truthfully say that we have worked in a courageous and passionate fashion during this challenging era.

We are mindful of our traditions and expectations placed on current colleagues and students to stand on the shoulders of our predecessors and build on past strides and successes of our dear college. To that end, we have many projects that are well

underway at Coahoma ranging from constructing new facilities to implementing new and innovative programs. We recently completed a winning football season that also featured a showstopping band that is gaining momentum and popularity each day. We are continuing as safely as possible to fulfill the mission of Coahoma Community College.

In our view, our future is bright. Yes, there are uncertainties that loom on our horizon. However, we hold true to words in our school song: “Our aim is not to falter, but to be brave in the good life to which we all belong…”

Onward Tigers,

Valmadge T. Towner, class of 1989

CONNECT WITH US Facebook: CCCTigers Twitter: @_TigerNation Instagram: @CCCTigers Youtube: CCCoahoma

coahomacc.edu

3

FALL/WINTER 2020

CONTENTS ROAR Magazine is published by the Office of Communications and Marketing and shared with alumni, students, faculty, staff and other members of the Coahoma community. It highlights the many achievements and advancements of the Coahoma Community College family.

02 From the President

30 MIAL Recognizes MDTWF

06 Message from CCCNAA President

32 The 68th Commencement

10 Respiratory Care Promoted

38 Navigating Through COVID-19

12 Behind the Mask

41 Pollard Inducted into Hall

14 Coahoma Awarded USDA Rural

Development Grant

of Fame

46 Former Tigers to NFL

18 Mind Over Matter

50 Student Notes

24 Strides Toward Tech. Adaptation

52 Faculty & Staff Notes

26 Mr. & Miss CCC

53 Alumni Notes

Roar MAGAZINE CREDITS

FALL/WINTER 2020

President Valmadge T. Towner, Ph.D. Editor Marriel C. Hardy, M.Ed Copy Editor BulletProof Editorial Staff LaShasa Griffin Christopher Dixon Tamara Washington-Travis Shanelle Frazier Fran Howard-Noah Dr. Chequitia Dixon Graphic Design Office of Communications & Marketing Staff Photography Austin Britt Trent Calvin

08

The Response to COVID-19

16

Faith, Family, & Leadership

22

Celebrating Excellence Longtime board member Rena

CCC adjusts to the unprec-

Student Demetric Strong talks

Butler ends her monumental

edented pandemic.

about early life, family, and

career at Coahoma.

leadership.

42

34

Pride and Persistence Amid the pandemic, CCC doubles down on institutional pride and its ability to keep moving forward.

With International Flare

54

Blackburn Celebrates 100th Birthday

CCC highlights its international

Coahoma honors former long-

students who add rich culture

time CTE dean.

to the Coahoma campus.

PRIDE& PERSISTENCE ROAR Magazine

CORRESPONDENCE & ADDRESS CHANGES Coahoma Community College Office of Communications & Marketing 3240 Friars Point Rd. Clarksdale, MS 38614-9359 Email announcements@coahomacc.edu Website www.coahomacc.edu/communications

ON THE COVER

4

Special Acknowledgements Rita Hanfor Yolanda Miller Margaret Dixon

Coahoma Community College pays homage to its rich history of resilience in an unprecedented time. The college highlights voices and perspectives from around the campus community regarding the ongoing pandemic.

Let us know what you think!

We want to know what you think of this issue of ROAR Magazine. To share your opinions, email us at: announcements@coahomacc.edu.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT Coahoma Community College is an equal opportunity institution in accordance with civil rights and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or other factors prohibited by law in any of its educational programs, activities and employment opportunities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Michael Houston, Director of Human Resources/Coordinator for 504/ ADA, Title IX Compliance Officer, Office #A100, Vivian M. Presley Administration Building, 3240 Friars Point Road, Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614, Phone: (662) 621-4853, email: mhouston@coahomacc.edu.

EDITOR’S NOTE Dear alumni and friends of the college,

ROAR CONTRIBUTORS Ezra Howard ‘93

Bringing his flair for the creative, Ezra has aided the office in moving forward through the transformative era of COVID-19. His quick thinking and ability to be responsive has proved invaluable.

WEB SERVICES

Melody Dixon ‘13

Melody has continued to craft stories and articles, effectively telling the Coahoma story. Though much changed this year, her dedication to excellence has remained the same!

COMMUNICATIONS

Terrisa Mark

New to the OCM team, highlighting student-athlete success is what motivates Terrisa’s efforts. She serves as our new sports information director and is passionate about Coahoma Athletics.

SPORTS INFO.

Sharon Butler ‘83

OFFICE SUPPORT

Service with a smile is what Sharon brings! Her detail-oriented work ethic makes working with her a joy.

She is genuinely the nerve-center of our day-to-day operations. She is a vital part of the OCM team!

Like countless other colleges, universities, and organizations, Coahoma confronted the coronavirus pandemic with a sharp pivot. The institution moved the majority of our courses to remote learning in the best interest of health and safety. Our students, faculty, and staff have found themselves digging deep to keep it together—and in the process, they’ve learned they had still more to give, showing the genuine PRIDE and PERSISTENCE of our institution.

In this issue, you will read about the selflessness and innovation displayed by members of the college community, among them our alumni.

Please take a moment to read their stories and gain inspiration from individuals making a difference every day.

COVID-19 changed our best-laid plans for Coahoma. Just like it did for everyone else on the planet.

As the pandemic soon became the most dominant thought on our minds here at Coahoma, I knew it was imperative that we share with you some of the impacts that the College—and our alumni, faculty, staff, and students—were having on the frontline response to the coronavirus.

In these pages, you’ll also find that resilience isn’t the only common ground shared by the pandemic response and the concept of sustainability. Through careful thought and execution, we were able to keep a great deal of our planned sustainability focus intact. We were able to update these stories to demonstrate how global health issues and our initiatives to impart change are interconnected.

Kerry Lee ‘12

Kerry enjoys serving as the director of WCQC 91.3 FM. His deep baritone voice echoes through the radio airways! He finds purpose in working with students in the realm of communications.

RADIO PRODUCTION

OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING The Coahoma Community College Office of Communications and Marketing, is a unit of the Office of the President that provides leadership and support to the College in the areas of strategic communications, media relations, publications, marketing, special events, graphic design, and photography. The office is the official and first source of news and information about the College. Its mission is to represent and promote the college and its faculty, students, and programs to a variety of constituents, including employees, alumni, the media, government officials, businesses, students and their families.

Consider this issue a brief distraction from the drumbeat of hourly news and life’s pressing realities. As an extension of Coahoma and its alumni network, let the magazine serve to bring you the comfort that comes from your community. Wishing you good health and happiness in knowing that better days are ahead.

As always, I welcome your comments. Please drop me a line at announcements@coahomacc.edu. I promise to write back.

Marriel C. Hardy, M.Ed. Chief Communications Officer Branding Identity

coahomacc.edu

5

MESSAGE FROM THE

NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT Dear Alumni and Valued Friends: Recent events stemming from the novel coronavirus—or COVID-19—pandemic are casting a wide shadow over normal routines. We at the Alumni Association recognize that these fastunfolding events are creating concern and uncertainty for all of us.

As such, we want to make you aware of our full support of our beloved Coahoma in these uncertain times.

As the president of the Alumni Association, I would like to share with you the many ways you can be involved and support the wonderful opportunities available through the Alumni Association.

Whether you make a monetary donation or donate your time, the support of fellow and future alums will help us all and enable Coahoma to continue on as the great educational institution it is today. The Alumni Association offers opportunities for fellowship and allows you to reconnect with classmates. This is your Alumni Association, and we are honored to represent you.

In order to better connect with our extensive network of Tigers and to support you all in better connecting with each other, we are also enhancing our alumni engagement opportunities. Soon, in conjunction with the College, we are launching an alumni online network that will allow Tigers to connect over their passions no matter where they live. To make sure you are receiving our alumni communications, please visit coahomacc.edu/alumni.

As we navigate through these difficult times, I encourage each one of us to support one another, listen with a heart to hear, and stand together in unity for the betterment of each other, our communities, and our nation.

I am humbled to serve as your CCCNAA president and want you to know that you are valued and supported. You are each an important part of our CCC family.

Maroon and White Forever,

Victor Wheatley Victor Wheatley ’82 President Coahoma Community College National Alumni Association

6

ROAR Magazine

ALUMNI

Matter

Find out more about joining the National Alumni Association at: coahomacc.edu/alumni

coahomacc.edu

7

AROUND CAMPUS

THE RESPONSE TO A

Covid-19

s the coronavirus pandemic took a hold on our everyday lives, Coahoma Community College made sure to outline specific precautionary measures. To promote and maintain a COVID-19-free campus environment, guidelines were set for the campus community. They were aligned with those set by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, Mississippi’s reopening model, the Mississippi Department of Public Health, and orders and ordinances of Coahoma County. The guidelines are consistent with recommendations from the federal government and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The virus causing the COVID-19 respiratory illness was identified as SARS-CoV-2. It is spread when more than a few people congregate. Its symptoms have included fever, muscle or body aches, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, congestion, or a runny nose, headache, fatigue, and a new loss of taste or smell. Emergency warning signs calling for medical attention include shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, bluish lips or face, and the inability to wake or stay awake.

The College’s director of Student Engagement, Karen Done, emphasized intentions for a safe entrance into the fall semester.

“We have been watching prudently and planning ardently

8

ROAR Magazine

for the return to campus, as well as learning from the successes and planned measures of others,” said Done. “As much as we want to welcome students back to campus, we want even more so to complete the fall term together, which is why we’ve adjusted the move-in schedule.”

“Above all else, we must continue to lead with our mission, always acting in the best interest of our students across all aspects of their beings. Their health, safety, and determination to continue to move forward with their lives and education is our top priority.”

Students who were looking to reside on campus for the fall term had to present a negative COVID-19 testing at movein. Some health centers in Mississippi were offering free testing.

“We are committed to fulfilling our mission to educate students for productive, creative, and reflective lives of achievement, leadership, and service in a diverse, dynamic, and interdependent world. Part of that commitment is to do all we can to keep all members of our campus community

healthy,” Done said.

To combat on-campus contraction of the virus, floor decals were placed in high-traffic CCC buildings to remind the campus community to maintain at least a 6-foot distance between themselves and others, and posters sprinkle the campus eminding people to wear a mask. Additionally, wearing a face- covering or mask is mandatory when inside campus buildings to protect Tigers from respiratory droplets. A high tech, contactless temperature scanner has been stationed in the Dickerson-Johnson Library, the Zee A. Barron Student Union, the B. F. McLaurin Vocational Technical Center, and inside the Pinnacle. Students and personnel must check and record their temperature on a nearby sign-in sheet upon entering these locations.

A tad bit later in the fall semester, a daily health screening for those on or going to the main campus, labeled “‘COVID Pass,’” was mandated. The online form asks a series of five questions that determine whether someone is or is not cleared to be present on campus. Personnel follow -up with human resources for their next steps if not cleared. These individuals may be asked to quarantine or have a COVID-19 test done at a nearby health center.

COVID-19 response coordinator Tatiarra Hollins has also joined Student Engagement staff to ensure students refrain from spreading the virus. A team of staffers took a contact tracing course offered by Johns Hopkins University to help prevent transmission.

Here are some helpful information and safety practices that can protect the health of oneself as well as others:

mediately after removing your mask to minimize the chance of transmitting the virus.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces (light switches, touch screens, door knobs, etc.).

• Members of the campus community are required to wear cloth or disposable masks. Free masks are made available to students and employees. Students are asked to present their Student ID to receive theirs at a Coahoma Community College distribution site: Academic Affairs-J.W. Addison Building, Career-Tech, Health Sciences, Ned W. Gathwright Workforce Development Center, Campus Nurse-Frank Gambrell Student Affairs Complex, Division of Student Engagement-Zee A. Barron Student Union.

• While fevers are a typical COVID-19 symptom, a reading from 95.9 to 99.1 degrees Fahrenheit indicates a normal body temperature; 99.3-100.4 F indicates a slight fever; 100.5-109.2 F indicates a high fever.

• An elevator ride is limited to two people. Use the stairs whenever possible. When using an elevator, be sure to wear a face covering. If possible, refrain from touching elevator buttons with your exposed fingers/hand. Remember to wash your hands or use a sanitizer upon exiting the elevator.

If you are experiencing coronavirus symptoms, visit www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html for steps on what to do.

For more information, visit www.coahomacc.edu/coronavirus.

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after coming from a public setting, and after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, or touching your face.

• If soap and water are not accessible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol. Make sure the sanitizer covers all surfaces of your hands; rub your hands together until they feel dry.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• The mask or face covering is not an alternative to social distancing. Practice social distancing by staying at least 6 feet (about the length of two arms) apart from others. Wear a mask in settings where social distancing is difficult to maintain.

• Ensure your mask or face covering is fitted over your nose and under your chin. The nose wire of the mask should be snug against your nose.

• When alone without a mask or face covering on, make sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow for coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissues.

• Store your face mask/covering in a paper bag.

• Coahoma’s procedural manual recommends that cloth face coverings are washed with regular clothing detergent.

• Disposable masks should not be used for more than one day.

Corey Gates, a CCC Football player and resident of Horn Lake, MS, safely makes his way to class during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after eating and im-

coahomacc.edu

9

AMID PANDEMIC, PROGRAM DIRECTOR PROMOTES

RESPIRATORY CARE PROGRAM I

n the spring, scarcity in ventilators struck the U.S. as the number of deaths from the global COVID-19 spread forced nations into wearing face masks, hand-washing, and frequent disinfecting for protection. When the summer set in, the weekly production rate of ventilators rose to 10,000. The manufacturing of the life support devices has improved, but the need for respiratory therapists, the expert operators of the machine, remains.

Graduates of Coahoma’s Respiratory Care program are continuing to do their part in treating and dissolving coronavirus cases.

Donald Savery (‘10) is one particular alum who has been using the techniques he learned as a health science student to handle the effects of the outbreak properly. At a hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he resides, Savery, 29, aims to create a safe space for himself, patients, and colleagues.

As the state experienced a surge in infections during the spring, his work environment began habituating precautionary measures.

Along with other health care workers, his temperature is taken, and he is asked a series of questions before every shift at the Ochsner Center for Primary Care and Wellness.

“Upon clocking in, a supervisor passes out N-95 masks,” says Savery. “There are also tables throughout each floor with disinfectant spray/wipes, additional gowns, and gloves.”

As other states, specifically New York, Michigan, Florida, and Illinois, began seeing an increase in cases and deaths, Respiratory Care program director Dr. Willie Lockett paid particular attention to a certain discovery. The coronavirus crisis has revealed a nationwide shortage of respiratory therapists. According to an Associated Press article, some hotels and motels in the U.S. offered free rooms to emergency and health care workers serving in hotspot areas.

10

ROAR Magazine

Lockett seeks to expand the industry by urging qualified individuals interested in the health care field to consider applying to the College’s Respiratory Care program. Students can complete program requirements in four full academic semesters and two summer sessions. They receive training in both the technical and clinical elements of respiratory care.

The following coronavirus-related findings are from various news sites, including New York news outlet The City. Here are some facts that give you a reason to make Respiratory Care your program of study.

• Because the coronavirus is a respiratory illness that attacks the lungs and respiratory system, a percentage of patients may need to be intubated, which means having a breathing tube inserted to have the breathing assistance of a ventilator. This is where the respiratory therapist comes in, using his or her expertise to operate the machine for patients.

• Respiratory therapists are the only ones in the health care industry trained to operate the ventilator. This breathing machine comes to the rescue of COVID-19 patients who have difficulty breathing on their own.

• Respiratory therapists are graced with the task of tailoring the ventilator settings to the patient’s need. Learning proper usage takes extensive training. Nurses can set up the machine and read levels, but a licensed respiratory therapist is needed to perform all other functions involved that can ultimately save one’s life.

• Retired respiratory therapists have given up relaxation to serve on the front lines of the health crisis.

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the respiratory care profession’s median salary was $61,330 in 2019.

Here’s how to APPLY! Beginning January 15, 2021, students can apply for admission into Coahoma Community College Respiratory Care Program.

The application period closes in mid-May. Find admission requirements or access the application at www.coahomacc.edu/respiratory For more information, contact the Respiratory Care Program at 662621-4687. Contact program director Dr. Willie Lockett at 662-621-4221 or wlockett@coahomacc.edu.

Willie Lockett, Jr. Ph.D., RRT, CTTS Program Director Respiratory Care coahomacc.edu 11

11

BEHIND THE MASK Interviews with Coahoma Respiratory Care Program graduates working in the field during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why do you think respiratory care professionals are so needed at this time?

COVID-19 is more so a respiratory disease. It affects the respiratory system, so it’s more so dealing with our scope of practice, so my industry is vital now because people are having to be treated with much-needed resources—ventilators, nasal high flow therapy, BiPAPs. So, growth in this profession is necessary at this point.

What have some of your experiences been dealing with COVID-19 in the field?

I’ve experienced a lot. Some people didn’t do too well with the virus; some have recovered. It could go both ways. It could be overwhelming sometimes dealing with the patient and seeing them fight their health issues. COVID-19 deaths have bothered me a little because those who passed from COVID-19 who were not able to have their loved ones by their side while on their death bed, they had to die alone. At this point, patients are not allowed to have visitors due to the coronavirus. Some of them are afraid, and they are confiding in us and giving us their last words to their relatives.

CHRIS BANKS ‘07 REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST

How has the Respiratory Care Program prepared you for the age of COVID-19?

The program gave me the in-depth education on the respiratory system, as well as all of the other systems that COVID-19 affects, that opened my eyes to the seriousness of COVID-19 when it first came out. I quickly realized the different ways it could be spread and who would more likely be at risk.

Do these times present fears for you?

I am surrounded by a health care team that positively focuses on taking care of patients and public safety. The respiratory therapists who I have become friends with over the years are fighting this virus head on with full confidence in their work. The RTs on the front line give me hope during these times, and not fear. We all have the same fundamental thinking: take care of the patients and help keep the community safe. I have faith in our health care workers.

NIKKI STRIPLIN ‘12 REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST

12

ROAR Magazine

What have some of your experiences been dealing with COVID-19 in the field?

I have seen firsthand some of the patients who come home from the hospital with COVID-19 and their needs that include home oxygen, ventilators, BiPAPs, and CPAPs. I have had to give education on patients who were once completely healthy who now have to deal with a body that has been ravaged by this virus and may not ever recover.

How has the Respiratory Care Program prepared you for the age of COVID-19?

COVID-19 hit us all by surprise and honestly no one expected to ever have to deal with a pandemic like this. Health care has changed drastically, and it changed at a rapid pace. However, with the training and education I received through this Respiratory Care Program and the 5-6 years of acute, critical, and emergency care experience I have obtained working in a rural hospital, I have been able to adapt and keep up to speed with the daily challenges that have come alongside this novel coronavirus.

ANDREA MORTIMER ‘15 REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST

Why do you think respiratory care professionals are so needed at this time?

Respiratory therapy is a profession that has been hidden behind the scenes for many years. I was reading an article the other day and one question was, “What superhero represents an RT in the workplace this day in time?” The RT answered, “We are the Batman of health care. We get the signal, show up with our gadgets, save the day, and then disappear.” This simple response was spot on in my opinion. Our patients may never even know our name because they are sedated the entire time we are taking care of them. We have gone unnoticed for years monitoring, managing, and controlling ventilators, which others know as “life support.” Respiratory therapists are in the “eye of the storm” with these COVID-19 patients. Every task we take on places us in immense danger and at the highest exposure. We are the ones responsible for these patients and their respiratory status. These patents may decline rapidly. We must be on our toes and ready to respond at any given moment. Doctors, nurses, rapid response teams, code teams, ER staff, and more ... all depend on us and our specialized focus to help keep these patients stable and make changes to the plan of care, if needed, at a rapid pace.

What have some of your experiences been dealing with COVID-19 in the field?

Being that I have been working as a data analyst during the pandemic, I have used my expertise to jump right in to take on COVID-19 assignments that provide administrative data to ensure that our hospital is putting our patients first, providing a safe place for associates, and making sure that we are ahead of the curve by providing predictive data.

I have been following COVID-19 trends in the North MS and Tennessee area since the pandemic started. It has been an amazing experience that I would not have been equipped for had I not been trained in respiratory.

Do these times present fears for you?

Yes and no—as a health care provider, I am at risk when dealing with any patient at any time. Many times, we do not know what patients may or may not have until days later after test results come back. So, we are trained first and foremost to use universal precautions to protect ourselves from the unknown. As a civilian and more importantly a parent, I do have a certain amount of fear as there are so many things that are unknown about COVID-19. We have not narrowed down its characteristics as of yet to be able to enact better preventative measures, vaccines, and treatment plans that are proven to work.

Engage with other Tiger alums through CCC Tiger Connect, Coahoma’s NEW online alumni social platform.

For more information, visit www.ccctigerconnect.com

BRITNEY NICOLE BYARS ‘13 REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST

coahomacc.edu

13

COAHOMA AWARDED $943,884 GRANT BY USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT WITHIN THE DELTA REGION

Coahoma Community College is proud to announce that the institution has been awarded a USDA Rural Development Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant amounting to $943,884.

U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy HydeSmith (R-Miss.) recently welcomed almost $3.5 million in telemedicine and distance learning grants to five healthcare and educational organizations in Mississippi.

Coahoma Community College President Dr. Valmadge T. Towner is glad to see the college receive funds to expand its reach within its five-county service area. The institution has recently increased its efforts to build more expansive technological infrastructures in recent months. This award builds upon Coahoma’s commitment of providing accessible educational opportunities for all.

“Excited and ready to implement the project is our mood at Coahoma. External funds are always needed to enhance the efficiency of meeting the educational needs of our students and constituents. This grant partnership will enable the college to create innovative and transformative strides relative to infusing technology into our educational and training programs,” said Towner. “Deliverables generated from the USDA Rural Development grant are sure to help all of our students. The future is bright at Coahoma.”

According to the USDA’s website, the Distance Learning and Telemedicine program helps rural communities use telecommunications’ unique capabilities to connect to each other and to the world, overcoming the effects of remoteness and low population density. For example, this program can link teachers and medical service providers in one area to students and patients in another.

Letha Richards, director of Educational Outreach, was the

14

ROAR Magazine

principal writer of the grant. She sees awards like this as opportunities for Coahoma to better serve the broader community.

“I am very pleased and excited about the funding of CCC’s RUS DLT 2020 project: Creating Access to Interactive Technology across the Mississippi Delta. We pursued this opportunity to expand our rural district’s access to our programs and faculty as well as to strengthen the STEM pipeline through interactive technologies,” said Richards.

USDA Rural Development offers loans, grants, and loan guarantees to help create jobs and support economic development and essential services such as housing; health care; first responder services and equipment; and water, electric, and communications infrastructure.

Richards added, “this grant will allow us to purchase distance learning equipment and infuse cutting-edge technology, such as Z-space, in our science classrooms, both face-to-face and virtual. By engaging the learner through exploration and experiential learning activities, we can then create exciting learning experiences to take learners in the Rural Delta to places they never thought they would go and help them do things they never thought they would do! And this will truly be an awesome moment for them! Our K-12 partners for this project include Madison Palmer High School in Marks, Mississippi, Northside High School in Shelby, Mississippi, and Coahoma Early College High School in Clarksdale, Mississippi.”

Additionally, the USDA promotes economic development by supporting loans to businesses through banks, credit unions, and community-managed lending pools. They offer technical assistance and information to help agricultural producers and cooperatives get started and improve the effectiveness of their operations.

We pursued this opportunity to expand our rural district’s access to our programs and faculty as well as to strengthen the STEM pipeline through interactive technologies.

- Letha Richards

STUDENTS ON A Mission

FAITH, FAMILY, & 16

Leadership

Demetric Strong channels his inner leader to guide student body.

ROAR Magazine

Strong stands alongside his fellow Student Government Association members.

The group has had to rethink leadership, service, and the student experience during an unsure and uncertain time.

A

person’s upbringing plays an essential role in who they will become later in life. Demetric Strong, Coahoma Community College’s Student Government Association (SGA) president, applies the way he was raised to his life today.

The student body leader credits his parents, especially his mother, for instilling in him the importance of togetherness, courtesy, and meekness.

“My mother instilled in me early the value of family,” said Strong.

“She also taught me the importance of always being respectful and humble. Everything I do, I place God and my family at the forefront. I have been family-oriented my entire life, and I am so thankful for all of the values that my parents, especially my mother, have taught me. I attribute all that I am and all that I will become to my upbringing.”

The values of his parents would later inspire Strong to pursue leadership roles in school. He got his first leadership role when he was elected Mr. Clarksdale High School, which gave him the confidence he needed to pursue student body cabinet positions in college.

“Since my high school years, I have always been in a leadership position. I truly enjoyed the opportunity to represent the school in that manner. That experience gave me the drive to pursue leadership positions at Coahoma Community College.”

A successful run as a leader in high school sparked Strong’s interest in the SGA position at CCC. He’s thankful for all of the lessons that being a leader on different levels has taught him over the years.

“I have learned so much about myself. I’ve learned that it is almost impossible to get anything done alone in a position like SGA president. It takes a team to build an empire, and selfishness will not get me anywhere. Most importantly, I have learned the value of treating every member of the team as if he or she is president.”

Working with other organizations has been one of Strong’s highlights in his role. He also enjoys working with his team. He applauds the SGA cabinet members for being a cohesive unit.

“I truly appreciate the opportunity to interact and collaborate with individuals on different levels, from the student body to President Towner. The SGA team has been phenomenal. Collectively, we are such a strong team. Unfortunately, our efforts have been overshadowed by the pandemic.”

Legacy is vital to Strong. He realizes that with rank comes attention, so his priority is to be a role model for those who strive to stay on the right path and succeed in life.

“My motto is ‘Live each day so you would neither be afraid of tomorrow nor ashamed of yesterday.’ It is essential to set a good example for my peers, not only because of the leadership position but also because there are people I’m not aware of that look up to me. I always want my peers to look at me and see that I am driven, respectful, and humble.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CCC STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION: coahomacc.edu 17

COAHOMACC.EDU/STUDENT-LIFE

ALUMNI ON A Mission

MIND over MATTER

CCC alumna & mental health expert Alexandria Davis talks about her career and educational journeys.

18

ROAR Magazine

“

I liken CCC to a stepping-stone that has the potential to set you out on the right path when you properly utilize the resources that are available to you.

O

ther mental health companies benefited from the expertise of Coahoma Community College’s Alexandria Davis. After realizing her worth and an enlightening conversation with her husband, Davis decided it was time to switch gears in her career.

“After consulting for various agencies, I lamented to my husband one too many times about how effective I was at improving their programs, without due reward,” said Davis. “He responded with what I accepted as a challenge for me to do it myself. It then evolved into an endeavor that would create a legacy for my daughter, princess Bailee.”

The endeavor that Davis refers to is her business, Milestone LLC. The company is a 24-hour, 7-days- a- week mental health community support service for individuals with behavioral and psychiatric disorders aged 18 and older. Davis and her team treat those with severe and persistent mental illness, causing symptoms and impairments that produce distress and disabilities in their day-to-day functioning. The company is based in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Eliminating the stigma of seeking mental

health care in the Black and other minority communities piqued Davis’ interest in the field. Also, aiding the mental health of our military personnel was also a motivating factor in building her passion.

“My passion for mental health stems from observing barriers that disproportionately exist in Black and other communities of color, and the pervasive stigma that still affects our communities. As a military spouse, I have a strong affinity for the veteran population as well. At every stage of our lives, mental health plays a vital role.”

Davis has expanded her services to group homes with her Mainstay Haven, LLC company. Her goal for the group home is to treat her patients while preparing them for normal living.

“Group homes are necessary to integrate those suffering from disabilities into the community, within the least restrictive environment. These homes are intended to afford everyone a safe and good quality of life.”

Coahoma Community College is where Davis’ was equipped to pursue excellence,

“

and for that, she is a proud alumna. She’s grateful to CCC for giving her the tools to take the mental health field by storm.

“I liken CCC to a stepping-stone that has the potential to set you out on the right path when you properly utilize the resources that are available to you. I enrolled prepared to take full advantage of my time as a student there. The cliché that you get what you put into it rings true.”

Two of Davis’ former instructors, Mrs. Vera Griffin, an English teacher, and Mrs. Karen Woods-Done, an academic advisor, were integral in her development. She credits their leadership and guidance for her success.

“Mrs. Griffin’s passion for the field she chose has manifested in me. Her commitment to producing the brightest students is remarkable. I would be remiss if I did not mention Mrs. Done’s investment in my future. She is an instrumental figure that I credit for my success as well because she was a capable academic advisor who was available to speak on a broad range of topics.”

coahomacc.edu

19

available to speak on a broad range of topics.”

excellence. It is kind of reminiscent of the work that I do.”

Attending CCC fueled Davis’ will to succeed. She remembers being counted out for not choosing a four-year college or university and how becoming an underdog motivated her to prove the naysayers wrong. She thanks her alma mater for instilling in her an appreciation for hard work and perseverance.

As Davis reflected on her time as a student, she remembers the huge role family and friends played in her life after her father’s death. Those relationships are what gave her the strength to enjoy her college days while grieving the loss of a loved one.

“It offers a true depiction of the story of my life, who always roots for the underdog. When you are counted out for not choosing a four-year institution, there is an advocate behind you to trumpet your

20

ROAR Magazine

“The convenience of attending a reputable school that also permitted me additional time with family proved precious after my father died the following year. Encountering so many familiar faces felt like an extension of high school, so making friends was an easy task.”

The world awaits fresh ideas and new leadership from the younger generation, which is why Davis encourages current and prospective CCC students to remain focused on learning and completing their college educations.

“Enjoy the college experience; however, I caution you against spending too much time celebrating. Take full advantage of the opportunities in front of you. Your time in college is fleeting, so do not waste this valuable commodity. We are waiting for you. Therefore, achieve your milestone.”

coahomacc.edu

21

22

ROAR Magazine

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE:

Mrs. Rena Butler ENDS HER MONUMENTAL CAREER AT COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

For three decades, Coahoma Community College alumna Rena Butler has dedicated her time and expertise to her beloved alma mater. After years of breaking barriers and extraordinary leadership, Butler is looking toward a new future.

Butler recently moved on from her position as the first chairwoman and president of the Coahoma Community College Board of Trustees. As Butler reflects on her years of service, it reminds her of her passion for the college that made her who she is today.

“The author Simon Sinek wrote, ‘When we work hard on something we believe in, it’s called passion. When we work hard on something we don’t believe in, it’s called stress.’ It has been a rewarding and exceptional experience to be a part of Coahoma Community College’s growth and successes,” said Brown.

Now that her tenure is over, she’s reminded of the good memories she made along her journey.

“I enjoyed being a member of such a wonderful and dedicated board that supported and worked very hard to move Coahoma Community College forward. I enjoyed giving back to the alma mater that I love so much. I also enjoyed attending the activities sponsored by the college. I miss interacting with my fellow board members and

board members from other colleges. I also miss celebrating our accomplishments and the monthly meetings.”

of encouragement from her mother and her faith in God for her barrier-breaking achievements.

The path that Butler blazed is appreciated by many, including CCC President Dr. Valmadge Towner. Towner praises Butler for her exceptional tenure as one of the college’s most iconic leaders.

“My mother always taught me that nothing comes easy. I credit all of my achievements at Coahoma to God and my unyielding, never give up attitude. I am an avid Bible reader. I believe that ‘With God, all things are possible’ (Matthew 19:26) and ‘With God, nothing shall be impossible’ (Luke 1:37). I hope that my hard work and achievements will impact the lives of young people and inspire them to become great leaders so that they can change the trajectory of their future and communities.”

“She was a force of good and positiveness for the college,” said Towner. “Coahoma Community College became better because of her contributions and leadership.

She led with class, eloquence, and integrity. We miss her objectivity and capacity to serve the college in a non-egotistical manner. She has provided a model for all of us to follow in the future.”

Impact is important to Butler, so her goal has always been to spread positivity in her interaction with others.

“It has been said that a person is only known by the impact that they have on others in the end. I am very grateful and honored to have maintained an unwavering fidelity to the traditions and values of our founders.”

History is synonymous with Butler’s name.

She was the first woman elected to the board in 1985, and in 2018, she became the first female chair and president for the board. Butler credits the wise words

Because of her incredible career accomplishments, Butler is passionate about motivating women to strive for the impossible. She hopes that her career can be the spark that young women need to pursue their dreams.

“As a professional educator, I believe that the commitment, dedication, and motivation that I have shown during my career will inspire the next generation of women to challenge themselves to become the greatest educators and leaders possible. I encourage the women of today and those of tomorrow not to give up, work hard, be persistent, and remember if I can be successful, you can too.”

coahomacc.edu

23

Strides Toward Technological Adaptation in a COVID-19 Era

T

he need for technological resources is on a steady rise. As the U.S. continues battling an ongoing spread of the coronavirus, Coahoma Community College aims to make strides toward preparing its students for COVID-era switchups.

According to a 2017 PearsonEd.com article, institutions of higher learning were, at that time, looking to make learning innovative by incorporating technology into coursework. The use of devices in the classroom was already becoming a norm among college students. However, going from the occasional assistance of a cell phone in the school setting to the absolute need for a laptop/desktop outside the classroom was quite the jump.

As CCC president Dr. Valmadge T. Towner stated in an address to personnel on the onset of the pandemic, several online classes and a combined instructional delivery method of face-to-face instruction and online activities were set for the fall 2020 semester. To aid students in transitioning to these means of learning more smoothly,

24

Coahoma Community College considered innovative ways to promote student success.

An approved CCC initiative financially backed by the U.S. Department of Education targets first-year students. Coahoma Community College chose to distribute fully-funded laptops to a cohort of firsttime students. Margaret Dixon, the director of Institutional Effectiveness, was enthused to have these resources in place to provide significant support to new Tigers.

“Coahoma Community College is grateful for the U.S. Department of Education’s commitment to helping us ensure our students are successful by providing funding to purchase these laptops for our firsttime, full-time students,” said Dixon. “This opportunity really will help our students get to the finish line amid COVID-19.”

“The reason that first-time, full-time students are receiving laptops is to give them immediate accessibility and connectivity to your faculty and all student support services online. The goal is to increase the

persistence rates for these students, especially during this most difficult time,” she added. “Unlike most returning students who have had the opportunity to navigate the campus and learn where all of the resources for success are located, the firsttime students’ approach to these instructional and support services will be very different this term. Coahoma is trying to give these students a foundation to start their educational journey regardless of the current situation.”

Only new Tigers enrolled as full-time students were eligible for the devices. Firsttime students who registered for Fall 2020 courses early were given priority, and recipients will be informed of the location and time to pick up their laptop via their student email.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR STUDENT SUPPORT INITIATIVES

ROAR Magazine

SCAN ME

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, select Coahoma students were provided laptops as an added support measure. The initiative was made possible by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, also known as the CARES Act.

coahomacc.edu

25

26

ROAR Magazine

ROADS CRAFTED FOR REGALITY:

MR. & MISS

Coahoma Community College 2020-2021

P

romises are meant to be kept, and Kaylin Rodges, Miss Coahoma Community College 2020-2021, vowed to make herself known after becoming annoyed with a life of being closed off and in her shell.

“I tried not to be seen in high school, honestly,” said Rodges.

Multifaceted, she clung to the sport of basketball and flexed her intelligence as an honor student. She recalls being rewarded for having the highest and second-highest average in a few classes and being a superintendent’s list scholar.

“High school for me was nothing special.

I hid in all the pictures and stayed

somewhere out of sight, reading,” she continued.

With educators in her family, she could not help but become a young lady distinguished by sophistication. When she was growing up, her mom, who once taught biology, made sure her speech abided by grammar rules. Breaking verbs was forbidden.

Rodges is unsure what path of study she will go down when she transfers to a four-year college, but history and English have been subjects she’s enjoyed exploring. The science-centered raps her mom made up as a teacher helped bring about a natural fondness for biology.

After spending her last four years of grade schoolacademic career trying not to be seen, taking a first-time-ever shot at the limelight was written in the stars. Little did she know that when she introduced herself as a general education major from Shaw, Mississippi, at the beginning of the Mr. and Miss Coahoma Community College competition on March 5, 2020, she would walk away with the highly coveted title.

“As the school queen, I have had to get used to taking a lot of pictures and social interaction with many people,” said Rodges. “I truly love the huge contrast and how much I have grown as a person.”

coahomacc.edu

27

One difference between Rodges and past queens was her hair. Her debut walk and wave as Miss CCC yielded admiration.

The trendy fashionista’s unique low fade topped with a towering accessory brought the audience of the competition to their feet.

“I remember looking at some picture of beautiful dark-skinned African American women with different gorgeous cuts.

I thought to myself, ‘I wonder what I would look like with a haircut like this,’” she recollected. “Therefore, on January 5, 2019, I decided I wanted to cut my hair.”

She believes fellow African American women resembling her femininity grew comfortable with the big chop as they have taken on a rare form of “hairfidence.”

“I believe that those women have found a certain level of self-love and strength in themselves. They have found a sense of freedom, and them not caring is them never wanting to go back to what they just left,” she explained.

“From experience, I noticed that there was a feeling of liberation when I finally cut my afro off. I also feel that I unlocked a whole new level of confidence and love for myself.”

By choosing Coahoma, Rodges was able to develop her vocal ability. She didn’t participate in a choral program in high school, so adapting to the speed of things was a challenge at first.

As a member of Coahoma’s choral program, she is pleased to have learned various music styles, techniques, and songs in different languages.

The songstress performed a solo rendition of Disney’s “Let It Go” at the choir’s 2019 Christmastime concert.

“I have vocally been inspired by so many of my fellow talented choir mates,” said Rodges. “I can also say that I have grown tremendously vocally. I noticed the huge difference after listening to an old recording of myself singing in high school.”

28

ROAR Magazine

“Being in the choral program with my gifted cousin has also been a huge treat,” she added. “I’m excited to see how much I’ve grown by the end of sophomore year.”

Accompanying Rodges on a journey decked out in maroon and white is sophomore Jeremy Brown, who was announced Mr. Coahoma Community College 2020-2021 at the competition.

Sophomore Jeremy Brown hopes to follow in the footsteps of CCC director of bands Christopher Jefferson, whom he regards as his role model.

The music education major from Memphis, Tennessee, explored his musical gift in the marching band at Whitehaven High School.

“I could always hear the beat, melodic line, and the thumping bass line as separate entities,” said Brown.

As a child, he knew there was something more to the composition. There was a special connection present.

While participating in his high school band, he discovered a passion for music.

Because of his dedication to the activity, he received the best freshman award.

The trombones were named the best section during his time as the section leader.

“The WHS Sounds of Perfection. My participation in this organization remains one of the best experiences of my life,” he said, hailing the program as the “best high school band in the state of Tennessee.”

“We were amazing. It almost does not seem feasible for us to have been as good as we were.”

For him, the band was an outlet and his primary source for fun. Music was his escape from reality as well as a go-to for dealing with personal matters.

Brown later stepped up to the role of drum major. He remembers starting out as a timid kid in the bunch, then growing by leaps and bounds. Everyone had begun to see the leader in him.

Although he had found his niche, hitting the books took precedence, so he learned

to balance the two.

His musical talent and love for the marching band led to him joining the Marching Maroon Typhoon of Coahoma Community College.

Having spent his freshman year in the CCC band, he got geared up to begin marching to a new beat. Brown was chosen Mr. CCC, a title of prestige fit for his student leader tendencies. He and Rodges presently serve as ambassadors of the institution.

Brown says that being a Tiger has so far been rewarding.

“I would have never known about this gem of an institution if not for Mr. Christopher Jefferson,” said Brown.

“I have no regrets about my choice of institution, and I see just how special this school is.”

Jefferson gave him the scoop on all the institution has to offer, but did not pressure him about enrolling.

Brown is proud to be part of a band program he describes as a point of interest and conversation among the band masses. The well-blended tones of the College’s marching band have become a hot commodity in Tiger Nation.

Flaunting their excellent instrumental ability, the musicians welcome the challenge of battling groups from other schools across the South.

“We are a hit, and I get to be one of the people who make it happen,” Brown expressed. “The Marching Maroon Typhoon is pound-for-pound one of the best marching bands out there.”

“I love doing my part by playing my horn and ‘cranking’ up with my peers. That adrenaline gets us going and hype. The feeling we get at those moments is almost indescribable. I love it.”

The words of Victor Hugo reflect Brown’s love of music—”Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.”

Scenes from the 2020-2021 Mr. & Miss Coahoma Community College competition. Jeremy Brown, of Memphis, Tennessee, and Kaylin Rodges, of Shaw, Mississippi, captured the covetedcoahomacc.edu titles and were 29 crowned in front of family, friends, and members of the campus community.

MIAL AWARDS COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE-SPONSORED EVENT, MISSISSIPPI DELTA TENNESSEE WILLIAMS FESTIVAL This year, the Mississippi Institute of Arts and Letters recognizes the annually held Mississippi Delta Tennessee Williams Festival. The festival, which has achieved a considerably long run, is the 2020 recipient of the Special Achievement Award.

The MIAL annually selects from the categories of classical music composition, fiction, nonfiction, youth literature, visual art, classical, photography, contemporary music composition, and poetry.

The Mississippi Delta Tennessee Williams Festival is named for the widely acclaimed playwright Tennessee Williams. Held over the course of three days every October, it offers audience members entertainment with porch plays featuring student and professional actors and a literary conference on the Coahoma Community College campus.

Pioneers Panny Mayfield and New Orleans native Kenny Holditch organized the festival for 25 years before passing the

30

ROAR Magazine

torch to Jen Waller and Karen Kohlhaas. Mayfield and Holditch birthed the idea of holding the event in 1992.

The MIAL selects outstanding awardees in eight categories.

2020 winners chosen include Ann Abadie (The Noel Polk Lifetime Achievement Award), Stacey Johnson (Visual Arts), Angie Thomas (Youth Literature), Minrose Gwin (Fiction ), C.T. Salazar (Poetry ), Will Jacks (Photography), Margaret McMullen (Nonfiction), Steve Rouse (Classical Music), and Bark, a husbandwife duo, who won the contemporary music category for their album “Terminal Everything.”

Tennessee Williams was born Thomas Lanier III in Columbus, Mississippi, in 1911. He is well-known for his Pulitzer Prizewinning play “A Streetcar Named Desire,” which was written in 1947. The Mississippi Delta Tennessee Williams Festival is sponsored by Coahoma Community College and supported by the Mississippi Arts Commission, the Mississippi Humanities Council, Visit Clarksdale, and Clarksdale Revitalization.

coahomacc.edu

31

32

ROAR Magazine

Coahoma Sends Well Wishes to Graduates with

VIRTUAL 68TH COMMENCEMENT The COVID-19 pandemic overshadowed the institution’s plans to finish out the spring semester in person. Despite having to pack up their dorm rooms and move their coursework online, the class of 2020 managed to reach their achievement by adapting and hurdling over obstacles to achieve their educational achievements.

Though gathering around a Wi-Fi-connected device for the commencement ceremony, the graduates valiantly took a monumental leap into more significant endeavors.

With talks of a coronavirus vaccine distribution emerging, the opportunity for a regular in-person recognition or class celebration might be near.

In the virtual graduation, CCC President Dr. Valmadge T. Towner honored the graduates for fighting through the challenges of the coronavirus crisis with the continuation of hard work.

“We did not call for this health care crisis, but it’s important how we react to it,” said Towner.

“Graduates, in your quest to become a graduate, I’m sure that many things have happened to you that were beyond your control.

Yet, you have reacted and responded well. I want to salute you for persevering, particularly this spring semester.”

He advised them to allow the pandemic to serve as a lifelong lesson that teaches them to react appropriately to problems.

State Rep. Orlando Paden, an alumnus of the College, served as the keynote speaker. Paden lauded the class for their achievements, encouraging them to offer their gifts to the world.

“Your resilience and dedication to your academic endeavors have truly paid off. Truly, determination yields great rewards,” said Paden. “Today, we celebrate your milestone with family, friends, and the world.”

Paden is a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives.

He serves District 26, which includes Coahoma and Bolivar counties.

“Presently, we are involved in an evolving situation, the COVID-19 pandemic. You, the class of 2020, have responded amazingly by completing your coursework online and earning your degree to ensure your promising future. We’re counting on you to be the change agent, the catalyst of diversity, the economic and social reformer,” Paden continued.

He assured the class that they would overcome the difficulties and disappointments to come.

After the conferral of degrees and certificates and the presentation of candidates, the golden class of 1970 was recognized in honor of 50 years since their graduation from the institution. Board of Trustee president Rena Butler concluded the annually held ritual with remarks to the graduates.

“We are honored that you chose Coahoma Community College to begin your college career. As one experience comes to an end, another begins,” said Butler. “Graduates, remember that good planning and hard work leads to prosperity.”

coahomacc.edu

33

PRIDE& PERSISTENCE 34

ROAR Magazine

coahomacc.edu

35

Tyler J. Williams, a general studies major from Lyon, MS, unmasks for a quick snapshot as she reads outside. She’s determined to move forward through the COVID-19 pandemic.

D

efined, pride is a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one’s achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired.

Very little is more important to the quality of the overall student experience at a college than institutional pride.

We often glorify aspects of pride in an institution through adornments like success in athletics, although it is essential and becomes a significant point of pride when well executed. But more importantly, the positive experiences and traditions of a collective organization lay the foundation for great institutional pride. When pride exists and is felt on and beyond the gates of an institution, the lasting effects transcend far and wide. Something remarkable has come into fruition.

Coahoma Community College is an institution that exudes pride in its service to others and accomplishments. The school’s pride is the driving force behind its persistence, which has been on display since last spring when COVID-19 changed the way society navigates.

Despite the pandemic, the institution met the challenges headon and persevered by implementing initiatives and ensuring its students continue to receive a quality education. Khalela Dennis, a mass communications major from Memphis, Tennessee, applauds her college for providing essential tools for them to stay on course to graduation.

36

ROAR Magazine

“This has been a challenging year, so I understand that going virtual is temporary but necessary to continue pursuing my education,” said Dennis. “Coahoma Community College took the initiative and provided us with laptops to strive and persist in our online educations. The faculty and staff at Coahoma are very attentive and ensure students are doing their best. The opportunities that have presented to my peers and I make me proud to be a Coahoma Tiger.”

Coahoma Community College President Dr. Valmadge T. Towner feels an elevated need to move Coahoma forward, making strides to maintain the work of intrepid dreamers of time’s past.

“From ensuring that students have computer devices, access to the internet, safe residential living accommodations, healthy food, tutorial support, financial subsistence, counseling services, and more, we understand that Coahoma exists for students,” said Towner. “We vow daily not to use COVID-19 as an excuse that hinders us from educating and teaching our students.”

The institution has risen from humble beginnings to prominence as one of the nation’s premier comprehensive community colleges. For over 70 years, Coahoma has pledged empowerment, instilling great pride into those in which it serves. With its heartfelt dedication and expertise of its faculty and staff, its students’ commitment, and the spirit of partnership and hard work in the surrounding communities community, Coahoma Community College’s future is as boundless and bright as the future of the resurging Mississippi Delta.

Coahoma Community College president Dr. Valmadge T. Towner knows of the great pride of his institution firsthand. Towner has deep ties to the institution, having been a former student. Being intimately connected, he embraces the incredible legacy and tradition that countless Tigers, like him, have felt throughout generations.

The school’s efforts, according to Towner, are a testament to their unwavering support of their students’ goals and its caring and nurturing spirit. Towner knows of CCC’s great pride due to being a former student. He embraces the incredible legacy that countless Tigers like him have felt throughout the years.

Rita Hanfor, activity director for Community Relations, first set foot on CCC’s campus in 1958, so she’s seen the school hurdle many obstacles and adapt to an array of changes. She reflected on those times the institution proved the naysayers wrong.

“Coahoma has faced challenges since 1949,” said Hanfor. “The college that never would be has beat the odds in every sense of the word. With the help of the Almighty, we will continue to face challenges and move forward without a doubt, as long as we have strong leadership that believes in and loves the institution.”

“Since 1949, Coahoma Community College has adopted a creed of being the ‘College that Cares. The pandemic has only nudged us to hold tighter to that claim. We continue to believe that all students belong here at Coahoma. We have marshaled all resources to support our students in their quest to reach their educational goals. We are a group of educational care warriors that believe we can help students become overcomers by over caring for them daily.”

CCC Students enjoy a socially-distanced visit to the campus game room. The resilience of Coahoma students is nothing short of amazing!

coahomacc.edu

37

DIVISIONS ON A Mission

NAVIGATING THROUGH COVID-19: Dr. Rolonda Brown highlights Coahoma’s successful transition to virtual learning

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many industries worldwide, causing them to adjust to a new normal and find ways to remain productive during these uncertain times. Higher education is one of those industries, as school administrations have worked tirelessly to ensure students continue receiving a quality education.

Coahoma Community College has successfully adapted by implementing three virtual learning formats, hybrid, hy-flex, and virtual. Dr. Rolonda Brown, dean of Academic Affairs, reflected on the measures taken for students to remain on track and to prepare teachers for the transition to online learning.

“I think our first step to ensure continued education was moving all face-to-face classes to an online format,” said Brown.

“We also immediately began offering online training to all instructors while specifically focusing on those who had little to no experience with online teaching. Professional development and training have

38

ROAR Magazine

also been provided to meet the needs of instructors during this time to ensure continued excellence in teaching and teacher adaptability.”

Hybrid classes offer students face-to-face interaction with instructors through limited classroom visits while providing access to recorded lectures and having an option to complete assignments online. Hy-flex classes provide students with the opportunity to interact in real time with instructors through live online lectures and study sessions while completing all work online.

Virtual courses are entirely online and offer occasional recorded lectures.

Coahoma’s online learning transition didn’t come without challenges. Computers and the internet were unavailable to several students, so the college discussed supplying students with the necessary educational tools. Brown reflected on how the college successfully overcame those challenges.

“One of our main challenges was the fact that many students either didn’t have access to a computer, or they did not have access to the internet. We were able to overcome these challenges by offering computers to all students as well as providing hotspots to accommodate the lack of internet service.”

Professors embraced the changes and made adjustments to execute their lesson plans. Brown applauds the teachers for their creativity and passion for educating students.

“With the change in formats, instructors needed to find a more creative and innovative way to engage students virtually. We wanted students to feel a sense of connection to the college, their teachers, and their classmates while still learning primarily virtually. Instructors have responded by doing their very best to gain the knowledge and new skills necessary to engage students successfully.”

One area that had to make unique adjustments was the Department of Music.

Traditionally, music students perform in multiple ensembles, work on research projects, engage with the Coahoma Community College community, and develop close friendships that prepare them for successful careers. The department is dedicated to each student’s educational journey and individual growth. Considering this, the onset of COVID-19 produced challenges to the educational process.

“Is there a way that we can do this and be safe doing so?” was the main question of Music Department Chair and Director of Choral Activities Kelvin Towers. “I’ve read reports from our national choral association and affiliates as well as participated in state music association meetings all summer long, trying to figure out will we be able to, and if so, how,” said Towers.

Students within the department adjusted well, according to Towers. Classes and groups were cut down to smaller sizes, time management techniques were elevated, and with the aid of faculty members young scholars balanced their study times and made ample time for practice and core coursework.

One of the most difficult challenges for Towers was keeping in mind that a new normal was in place. He often had to remind himself to not gauge the performance levels of prior groups with current students. “Being self-critical, and apologetic in comparing the students’ previous

years’ experiences and exposure to that of current times post COVID-19 has been the hardest part teaching in this time,” Towers added.

Though many challenges have been overcome and will be moved past, Towers sees the resilience of his students and is confident in their abilities to be adaptive and agile.

The Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation managed to have engaged physically active courses while social distancing. Selina Reid, chair and instructor for the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, is pleased with the innovative methods the department is using for virtual learning.

“We focused on student-centered adaptation through assimilation by creating an online environment that would be easy to navigate and by utilizing various active learning strategies to promote instructor to student engagement and peer to peer engagement,” said Reid. “For instance, we created weekly modules with learning materials such as class notes, PowerPoints, and demonstration videos along with discussion board forums. Also, students submit videos of themselves performing various physical activities. If they have a physical ailment, they could describe the appropriate body mechanics and safety techniques of the physical activities as an alternative means of completing the assignment.”

Reid assures students that they are learn-

ing and adapting to change together on this new journey.

“We are reassuring our students that we are all in this together by continuing to learn best practices via numerous training and other professional development workshops so students can fully embrace online learning. By implementing new tactics to keep the human element in the online environment, this will help our students’ persistence.”

Dr. Rolonda Brown, dean Division of Academic Affairs Despite not seeing their peers, students at Coahoma are pleased with virtual learning. Josiah Thompkins, a junior at Coahoma Early College High School who is dual-enrolled at Coahoma Community College, said that the transition works for him because it allows him to focus on his studies.

For more information about the Division of Academic Afairs, Contact: (662) 621-4678 or coahomacc.edu/academicaffairs Music Department Chair and Director of Choral Activities Kelvin Towers conducts a music theory lecture during the COVID-19 pandemic.

coahomacc.edu

39

40

ROAR Magazine

TIMOTHY POLLARD Inducted into Mississippi Association of Community College Sports Hall of Fame.

“The fans gave me the confidence to make me believe in myself. Whenever I jumped to shoot the ball, the fans would stand up in the gym and shout woo-hoo!” This is one memory Timothy Pollard will never forget.

Pollard’s legacy not only lives on the campus of Coahoma Community College but in the hearts of Clarksdale residents. Just when fans believed he could not make them any prouder, he achieved more glorious points with all the hard work he exhibited while being a Tiger. Pollard was inducted into the Mississippi Community and Junior Colleges Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2020.

The award ceremony began in 2007 with an aim to highlight and recognize outstanding coaches and athletes from community and junior colleges for their tremendous success. Amazingly, Pollard was chosen not only for his accomplishments as a player, but also for his contributions as an assistant coach at Coahoma from 1990-1994.

Pollard said he became overwhelmed with joy when he received the news that he was going to be inducted. “It was a dream that came true for a small country boy like me. It is such a big honor to be recognized by the entire state of Mississippi,” said Pollard.

The former Tiger was born in Jonestown, Mississippi, and his family moved to Friars Point when he was five.

The 6-foot-3 shooting guard attended Coahoma Community College from 1985 to 1987 and made his everlasting mark on the entire Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association (MJCAA) by being named the best three-point shooter in the association.

Pollard averaged 22.5 points during his freshman year and 24 points during his sophomore year as a Tiger.

His extensive performances while attending Coahoma are proof that Pollard deserves to have his name written in the MACJC Hall of Fame. Due to COVID-19, there was no inperson award ceremony, but

Coahoma Community College president Valmadge T. Towner invited Pollard to campus to personally award him for such a great accomplishment.

“The president and I went to Coahoma together, and for him to personally present me with my award, it made me feel extremely special and appreciated,” said Pollard.

When Pollard left Coahoma in 1987, he kept his talents in the Magnolia State and enrolled to be a Delta Devil at Mississippi Valley State University. There, he would receive national attention as he dominated the country in 3-point field goals. He credits his foundation at Coahoma for transitional success at Mississippi Valley.

“Coahoma was my foundation; Coach James Washington believed in me and gave me an opportunity to shoot that ball. Coahoma prepared me for Valley because I started working on my ball handling skills, my jumps. They woke me up at 4 every morning to practice my 3-point

shots,” exclaimed Pollard.

The Hall of Famer is hoping his award will motivate young basketball players to choose Coahoma.

“With me being inducted, it proves success is possible. I am from Coahoma, so they can do it too. You don’t have to go to a D1 school to be recognized, just work on your skills and you can go anywhere after Coahoma,” said Pollard.

Pollard currently lives in Olive Branch, Mississippi, and enjoys visiting campus to admire the growth of the college. He says, “I am always in awe when I visit the campus.

The Pinnacle gives me chills, and I am so proud of all the updates being completed at Coahoma.”

Pollard believes Coahoma Community College is on the right track to create successful athletes who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, like him, in years to come.

coahomacc.edu

41

STAY CONNECTED TO CCC ATHLETICS:

coahomasports.com 42

ROAR Magazine

l a n atio

r i a l F

n r e t h In

Wit

9

,722 miles is the distance between Melbourne, Australia, the native home of Coahoma Community College basketball player Yohana Del, and Clarksdale, Mississippi. Wondering just how an Australian made his way to Clarksdale, or asking yourself how many other international student-athletes are living and thriving on the campus of CCC? Del was born in South Sudan and migrated to Australia at the age of two. At 16, he came to New York City then moved to Mississippi, where he started attending Grace Baptist Academy High School. CCC men’s basketball coach Michael Stringer recruited the 6’6” power forward, who is currently a freshman Tiger.

“I adapted really well being at CCC, and I am learning every day. Coach Stringer teaches us a number of lessons on and off the court. I will take everything I learned here and move on with the added knowledge,” said Del. Coahoma Athletics proudly boasts of having five international student-athletes on campus this year. Alongside Del, there are three members on the track team and one on the baseball team.

Any institution that educates international students exhibits a level of diversity and a willingness to accept unique cultures and habits. Coahoma is proud to be a community college that is lead-

ing the way by exerting support and resources in recruiting international students. American students also benefit from this initiative as they are placed in a learning and living situation where they interact and grow with students from around the world.

Antonio Weeks is a long jump athlete from the Caribbean island of Barbados and was originally on his way to Jackson State University when an unforeseen situation arose, hindering his attendance. “There was a new rule that required me to attend a junior college first as I needed more core subjects to attend JSU,” said Weeks.

Coahoma Community College would be the institution that would step in and offer Weeks a full track scholarship to ensure he obtains those core subjects.

Once he graduates from CCC, he can then go on to fulfill his track and educational career at JSU. Weeks is most thankful that CCC believed in his potential and trusted his previous results because most schools were aware of his talent but were nervous about giving him an opportunity due to a prior injury.

“It means a lot because I was uncertain if I would get a scholarship to any school, even a junior college because two years prior, I had broken my leg. But Coahoma

believed in me and the healing process,” he said. Weeks looks forward to the upcoming season.

“I am so excited and ready to compete for CCC and break Barbados’s national long jump record of 7.90 meters,” said Weeks.

Leaving home and entering into the United States with an opportunity to compete and gain an education is a dream for a number of international students, but some students experience culture shock from being somewhere completely different.

Stayon Williams is a sprinter from Guyana, a country some residents of Clarksdale may have never heard of. His first winter in the Delta coming from his home land that experiences 80-degree temperatures year-round was a complete surprise. “The different culture from the food, the environment, adapting to training in the cold during practice, it was extremely challenging,” said Williams.

Despite the new lifestyle, Williams said Coahoma’s track coach Reggy Hankerson and the entire team have truly embraced him and given him a sense of belonging. “We can always go to our head coach, as well as our team and the staff, despite whatever is affecting you. There is someone to help,” exclaimed Williams.

coahomacc.edu

43

Coach Hankerson is also the athletic director of the College. He is extremely proud to be part of an institution that values the importance of representation when it comes to international students. He believes there are a number of crucial benefits to having a diverse team.

Antonio Weeks BARBADOS

“Having international students brings a whole new aspect of training and knowledge of track and field. It also shows that our institution is supportive of furthering young athletes’ academics outside of the United States,” he explained.

Hankerson stressed the importance of the school population as a whole experiencing different cultures while mixing with these student-athletes in class or just on CCC’s campus.

“Having international athletes is amazing. They bring different training habits, eating habits, different culture, and it mixes well with the rest of the institution,” said Hankerson.

Georgette Daley JAMAICA

Stayon Williams GUYANA

44

ROAR Magazine

Georgette Daley is the sole female international athlete at Coahoma Community College, a Jamaican sprinter who is experiencing a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“Being here is a blessing. I have a chance to make a change. I am the first person from my family to attend college. This

is an opportunity to make a difference in my community. A number of athletes from Jamaica look up to me, and I will make them proud,” said Daley.

Coahoma’s baseball team is honored to have a talented player from Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Anyelo Marte Sanchez has been playing baseball for the last 10 years and said that even though he is far from home, he enjoys the challenge of college and the golden chance to be at CCC. “Being the only Hispanic on the team is great. It helps me learn more English and represent my country in every game and everything I do,” said Sanchez.

Even though he greatly misses his tourist destination island home, he is focused on his baseball career and his education.

“My motivation is my degree and the desire to be a professional baseball player. I have a huge amount of faith, and I am holding on and believing in myself at CCC,” said Sanchez.

Daley says that in the end, Coahoma’s track team reflects the entire college, “a small team with big dreams that will continue to succeed.”

Keep up with Coahoma Athletics during the Spring 2021 season to witness all these international Tigers in live-action.

coahomacc.edu

45

ly F y l d u o r P s Former Tiger

L F N n i h g i H CCC’s Flag

7

1,060 college football players represent their institutions proudly on the football field every year in the United States. Of that number, only 1.2 percent of players will get the golden opportunity to play in the National Football League. No matter how challenging the odds were, two former Coahoma Tigers can now boast of being NFL players. Davion Taylor and Chris Claybrooks were drafted in the 2020 NFL draft hosted in Las Vegas. Taylor was drafted 39th in the third-round pick by the Philadelphia Eagles, while Claybrooks was selected ninth in the sixth-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Taylor is still overwhelmed with joy by his achievement of turning his lifelong dream into reality. “It means a lot; it’s actually a dream come true. It’s one thing I have been working for all my life in the past four years and I’ve been giving it my all. I accomplished my goals,” said Taylor.

He has a unique and extraordinary story of a native from Magnolia, Mississippi,

46

ROAR Magazine

now living in the bustling, diverse city of Philadelphia. Major sporting networks highlight the fact that Taylor was able to make his way to pro football by playing far fewer games than his other peers. During high school, Taylor did not participate in sporting activities from Friday night until Sunday morning due to religious reasons.

Despite the lack of football games on his resume, one community college gave him

a chance not only to earn an education but to also get started on his dreams.

“For one, Coahoma means everything to me. Coahoma was the only school to actually believe in me not only in football but academically as well.” Taylor continued by stating that the manner in which he was treated at CCC will stay with him forever. “One thing I could never forget is the coaches and the people around me believed in my ability to become the best version of myself. Coahoma is one place I could never forget,” said Taylor.

Taylor had an astonishing two seasons at Coahoma, leaving his legacy on the hearts of Coahoma fans and a constant reminder to look forward to seeing him one day in the NFL. Taylor would leave Coahoma and continue his football career at the University of Colorado. The Buffaloes are currently leading the PAC-12 Conference this season and have always been a national force. Taylor said that Coahoma’s instruc-

tors and coaches physically and mentally prepared him to rise to a new level, which benefited him in adjusting to an NCAA Division 1 program.

“Coahoma prepared me well on the football field and academically. The coaches always pushed me to become the best player I could be because they knew on the D1 level it was going to take more than just a play on the field,” said Taylor.

The South Pike High School alum made his mark at Colorado playing in 23 career games with 19 starts on defense. He recorded 136 tackles, 20 tackles-for-loss, including two sacks, and 12 more for no gain. Taylor also had 23 third-down stops, 13 quarterback pressures, nine pass breakups, two quarterback chase downs, and three fumble recoveries, one of which he returned for a touchdown.

His performance for the Buffaloes made him a standout choice during tryouts for the 2020 draft. His dreams would come to fruition when his name was called as a selected player for the Philadelphia Eagles; a dream some saw as seemingly impossible was made a reality with Coahoma foreseeing amazing potential.

“One thing I can say about Coahoma is they are willing to take anybody. It shows that the institution believes in you no matter where you came from or your background,” exclaimed Taylor. Taylor is honored to know coaches and staff at Coahoma always use his name as a reference whenever current athletes are contemplating quitting or just not working hard enough.

“It actually pushes me to become even more successful because I know people at CCC keep watching me and telling everyone I am a product of Coahoma. I just want people to see I came from Coahoma and to see that Coahoma is a part of my success,” said Taylor.

Taylor is urging high school athletes who may not meet the Division 1 standard to not give up and enroll at CCC to become a step closer to their goals. “Because, as you see, CCC does great things and I encourage them to come be a part and get that scholarship you won’t get at those D1 schools of your choice. It’s a great school and environment. All the teachers and coaches want to see everyone succeed,” said Taylor.

rooks Chris Clayb rs

Jagua Jacksonville

Taylor hangs on to memories on and off the field. “I had a chance to shoot a couple of hoops and just enjoy hanging out with my friends; I’ll never forget my friends,” said Taylor.

Taylor was not the only Tiger who placed Coahoma on the map during the 2020 draft. Chris Claybrooks was drafted ninth in the seventh round to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He is grateful to start his professional career with his new team. “We are all young and have that mindset to fight to the end; we will always come together as a team, no matter what,” said Claybrooks.

Claybrooks is from Nashville, Tennessee, and started his journey at Coahoma as a wide receiver in 2017. He was a transfer student from Fort Scott Community College and decided to work with a coach who treated him like family. “Coach Harper really influenced me in making my decision to join the Coahoma family. I wanted to be closer to home and with a coach who knew me. I’m glad I was accepted because I don’t know where I would be if I didn’t continue playing football,” said Claybrooks.

Davion Taylor

Philadelphia

Eagles

coahomacc.edu

47

s e l g a E a i h p l Philade Former CCC assistant football coach Moses Harper met Claybrooks at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas.

He was the offensive coordinator there for four years before joining the Tigers in 2016. Claybrooks would soon join Harper to continue his journey to the NFL by all means. During Claybrooks’ time at Coahoma, he played in nine games for the one season he was a Tiger. As a wide receiver, he accumulated 36 catches for 488 yards and one touchdown. Claybrooks reached a season-high number of 133 receiving yards (seven catches) during CCC’s game against Copiah-Lincoln Community College.

Even though Claybrooks’ time was short in Clarksdale, he enjoyed playing football for Tiger Nation. “I loved being at Coahoma because of the love from the school and the whole community of Clarksdale, Mississippi,” said Claybrooks.

Claybrooks left Coahoma and made the University of Memphis his final collegiate destination in his college football career. In 2018, Claybrooks walked on to the Tigers’ team. Former Memphis head coach Mike Norvell was instrumental in modeling Claybrooks for his journey to the NFL.

“Coach Norvell wanted me to play defensive back because that would be the fastest way to get on the field and the fastest way to the NFL,” said Claybrooks.

Claybrooks made the right decision and now can proudly boast of being an NFL player. He will never forget the night his name was called by the Jacksonville Jaguars while 15.6 million viewers looked on across the world. “It was a big relief for me. I worked hard all my life to get to this stage,” said Claybrooks. “When my name was on the TV screen, I was full of emotion. My family and friends were extremely excited and we all will never forget that moment,” exclaimed Claybrooks. The Claybrooks family is honored and ready to support their NFL player in this new chapter of his life. He is proud to have a six-year-old son, Chris Jr., who looks up to him and wants to follow in his footsteps in the years to come. The Nashville, Tennessee, native has the opportunity to play against his hometown team, the Tennessee Titans, twice each season and is looking forward to playing in front of his family and friends.

Claybrooks expressed gratitude toward Coahoma for building his foundation to succeed in his professional career. “Co-

ahoma helped me to build my mental toughness and realize I can have a way out. I learned how to carry myself and to be mature by having the responsibility of my team and my academics. I had the mindset that I wanted to go D,” exclaimed Claybrooks.

The Nashville native is urging young players that their goals are attainable even though their journey may map out differently than expected. “It doesn’t matter where you start but where you end up.

Everyone cares about you at Coahoma. I would tell any player it’s about how bad you want it. The coaches and professors are there to help,” said Claybrooks. He is truly excited to represent Coahoma every time he takes the field. “It is such a blessing; Coach Harper gave me the opportunity and now I am in a place to give back. I can’t say it enough, I am extremely thankful to represent Coahoma,” said Claybrooks.

Coahoma Community College would like to thank and congratulate both Taylor and Claybrooks for all their hard work while at the College and, most importantly, for always flying Coahoma’s flag high wherever they go.

s r a u g a J e l Jacksonvil 48

ROAR Magazine

coahomacc.edu

49

TIGER NOTES

YOUR DREAMS. YOUR SUCCESS. OUR MISSION.

Students

Ashley Berry

Brianna Greyer Brianna Greyer, a Shelby, Mississippi, native who is set to graduate in May 2021, was selected as a recipient of a $5,000 Get2College scholarship. The program has given members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society internship opportunities where they aid Mississippi students and their families in completing the FAFSA, enabling them to receive financial assistance for college.

Chassity Dotson Chassity Dotson was also selected as a Get2College Corps scholar from Coahoma’s Phi Theta Kappa cohort for the 2020-2021 academic year. A sophomore pre-nursing major from Clarksdale, Mississippi, Dotson looks forward to receiving her bachelor’s in nursing and hopes to become a neonatal nurse.

Demetric Strong After having to campaign virtually during the summer, sophomore Demetric Strong, of Clarksdale, Mississippi, was voted the 2020-2021 Student Government Association president. At the onset of the school year, Strong expressed his hopes for prioritizing students’ feedback.

50

ROAR Magazine

Ashley Berry, a sophomore early childhood education major, is set to be inducted into the National Technical Honor Society during the Spring 2021 semester. Students taking up CareerTech trades must have a 3.5 GPA or higher and a faculty or staff member’s recommendation to be considered for membership. While enrolled for the Fall 2020 semester, the Greenville, Mississippi, native managed to work a full-time job and maintain excellence in her studies. Upon graduating from Coahoma, Berry plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

Marlon Windham Defensive back Marlon Windham was recognized by the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference (MACCC) for amassing an impressive set of six tackles and four sacks in Coahoma Community College’s football matchup against Holmes Community College. The freshman hailing from Noxubee County, Mississippi, located southeast of Clarksdale, Mississippi, was named MACCC’s Defensive Player of the Week following the athletic performance in November 2020.

Khalela Dennis Coahoma’s student body voted journalism major Khalela Dennis the 2020-2021 vice president of the Student Government Association. Her plans as a student leader have included instituting ground rules for the College’s main campus to “guarantee a pristine appearance.”

SHARE YOUR NEWS! KEEP US UP-TO-DATE WITH ALL OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS: COAHOMACC.EDU/COMMUNICATIONS/SHARE-YOUR-NEWS

Christopher Landfair

Engage

Christopher Landfair, of Clarksdale, Mississippi, studies in a Career-Tech program and sports a 3.9 GPA, an outstanding achievement that has made him a candidate for the National Technical Honor Society. Despite unforeseen changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Landfair has balanced parenting, helping his children with homework after work hours, a full-time job with Atmos Energy, and full-time study in the College’s Office Systems Technology program.

in campus life.

Visit coahomacc.edu/studentlife

DISCOVER YOURSELF Pursue your professional interest in Pre-Professional and Honor Programs. www.coahomacc.edu/honorscollege

IMPORTANT 2021 ACADEMIC DATES JANUARY 5-6: Registration / Dormitories Open JANUARY 7:

Day and Evening Classes Begin

JANUARY 17:

Last Day to Register for Day and Evening Classes

JANUARY 19:

Online Full Session and First 8-week Session Begins

MARCH 1-3:

Midterm Examinations

MARCH 8-12: Spring Break APRIL 5-5:

Easter Break

MAY 8:

Commencement Exercises

*Dates are subject to change. Please monitor your Coahoma email and view the Academic Calendar at coahomacc.edu/calendar.

coahomacc.edu

51

TIGER NOTES

YOUR DREAMS. YOUR SUCCESS. OUR MISSION. Faculty and Staff Monica Tompkins

Monica Tompkins, a computer information systems instructor, adopted a new view on leading during her participation in the Mississippi Community College Leadership Academy.

Tompkins joined the faculty of Coahoma Community College in 2012. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from Delta State University and received an education specialist in instructional technology from Mississippi State University.

Dr. Chequitia Dixon Dr. Chequitia Dixon, who recently completed the Mississippi Community College Leadership Academy, began her tenure in August 2011. Starting out as a practical nursing instructor, she currently serves as director of the practical nursing program. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Rust College as well as an associate’s in nursing from Phillips Community College. Dixon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Delta State University and a master’s from William Carey University. She also holds a doctoral degree in nursing education and administration from William Carey.

Loria Gardner As the enrollment manager, Gardner, who joined the Tiger Family in July, is tasked with implementing effective interventions and strategies that will lead to persistent attendance and graduation. To develop strategies established through discussions with faculty and counselors, she evaluates student completion and retention data.

52

ROAR Magazine

Dr. Nakisha Watts Dr. Nakisha Watts, who hails from Lambert, Mississippi, filled the position of registrar and director of Admissions and Records.

Watts says she is thrilled to be part of the dynamic Admissions Office team. She carries beneficial experience as a manager of a set of programs that ensured health education and awareness for 10 school districts and more than 20 counties in the state of Mississippi.

New Housing Staff Members The Housing Department of the Division of Student Engagement welcomes three dormitory managers. Shemika Wortham serves as the new supervisor of Martin Hall. Ronald Miller, who joined the staff in the spring, is the assistant director of Housing and the manager of the all-male dorm, Friends Hall. James Winters was recently hired as the manager of Moore Hall.

Shemika Wortham, a native of Lyon, Mississippi, is the proud mother of three beautiful daughters whom she regards as her motivation, primary sources of inspiration, and her biggest supporters. She aims to serve as an excellent example for them daily.

Ronald Miller, a native of Clarksdale, Mississippi, is the proud father of one daughter and one son. He received an associate degree in criminal justice from Coahoma Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi Valley State University in 2002.

James Winters, who is also from Clarksdale, is the father of one adult son, Jamal McGregory. He strongly believes teamwork makes the dream work. “It’s all about workmanship,” Winters says.

Alumni

Purvis Jackson ‘96 As a 22-year veteran educator, Purvis now serves the Henry County, Georgia, community as a middle school principal, a position he has held for the past eight years. It has been his lifelong work to educate young men and women and to cultivate the lives of youth around the world. Additionally, Purvis served as a paratrooper in the United States Army Reserve from 2001 to 2007.

Yasmine Harper ‘19 2019 graduate Yasmine Harper excelled at CCC as SGA president. Since then, she has become a member of the NAACP, member of Lead 1886 Leadership Academy, and has recently been crowned Miss Kentucky State University 2020-2021.

LTC Marcus A. Harrison Sr. ‘96 Lieutenant Colonel Marcus A. Harrison Sr. was nominated to the Joint Staff ’s Integrated Operations Division at the Pentagon, Washington, DC, on August 15, 2020, after recently serving as the chief of simulations for Operations Group at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California.

DeVoyce C. Morris ‘65 Morris sits on the board as a representative of Bolivar County. She is proud to have held the title of Miss Coahoma Community College. She has recently become a member of the Coahoma Community College Board of Trustees.

Mrs. Morris was one of 13 recipients to receive the 2020 Governor’s Initiative for Volunteer Excellence (GIVE) award in April 2020.

John Mark Howard ‘97

John Howard serves as pastor of St. Mark Church of God in Christ in Mound Bayou, Mississippi. He is also a renowned songwriter, singer, recording artist, music producer, and founder of an influential music record label.

Brandon Price Crum Brandon began his collegiate career at Coahoma Community College, where he majored in criminal justice. He excelled as a student and was awarded the Academic Excellence Scholarship to attend Alabama State University (ASU). Upon graduating magna cum laude from ASU, Brandon accepted an academic scholarship to attend Florida A&M University.

Upon graduating magna cum laude from ASU, Brandon accepted an academic scholarship to attend Florida A&M University College of Law (FAMU).

After graduating from FAMU, Brandon successfully passed both the Alabama and Georgia bar exams. He is now an associate attorney with the Serious Injury Law Group in Montgomery, Alabama. Additionally, he is an adjunct instructor at ASU and is currently developing a program that helps teens become interested in the legal profession.

APPLY FOR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP

Elias Wells ‘13 Elias Wells began his career as a law enforcement officer with the Dallas Police Department. He has received numerous commendations for outstanding work and a recent award for Meritorious Conduct during the tornado relief efforts in October 2019. He has also had the pleasure of being assigned to multiple units in his short career such as the Violent Crime Task Force, the Fugitive Unit, and the SWAT team.

SCAN ME

coahomacc.edu

53

CCC LEGEND

Samuel Blackburn

CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY

L

ongevity is a blessing for those hoping for an extended life span. Mr. Samuel Blackburn, a Coahoma Community College icon, is longevity personified.

The former director of Vocational and Technical Education at Coahoma Junior College turned 100 years old on Nov. 19. A 72-year resident of Clarksdale, Mississippi, by way of Claiborne County, Blackburn has left a lasting legacy in Clarksdale’s educational realm.

He began his teaching career in the Clarksdale Public School System in 1948, after earning a bachelor’s degree from Alcorn A&M College (now known as Alcorn State University). Blackburn became director of

54

ROAR Magazine

the Vo-Tech in 1966 and held his position until his retirement in 1985.

Living for a century is a precious milestone for Blackburn. He credits living life to the fullest for his endurance.

“It feels good to turn 100,” said Blackburn.

“There is no secret. I just concentrate on living.”

Blackburn’s advanced age doesn’t stop him from being physically active. Some of his hobbies include carpentry work and chores around his home.

“I keep busy doing repair work and household chores.”

Making a difference has always been Black-

burn’s mission, which is why he chose to stay and help the people in his home state rather than traveling somewhere else. He reflected on his efforts and how proud he is to have made an impact in his community.

“I have always enjoyed my work at Coahoma Community College. Giving back was important because one of the reasons I stayed in Mississippi was to help people that could not leave. It feels good to know that my work is appreciated.”

On his journey, Blackburn has left a good impression on his former colleagues and students. One of those people is CCC’s Chief of Staff Jerone Shaw, a biological sciences instructor during Blackburn’s tenure as director.

Samuel Blackburn waves to the parade of cars, as Coahoma Community College celebrates and pays tribute to his 100th birthday. Blackburn served as a longtime dean of Career & Technical Education.

Years after working for Blackburn, Shaw remains inspired by the example he set.

“After many years, I think that I continue to be inspired by the devotion, professionalism, and concern of our institution that was demonstrated by Mr. Blackburn,” said Shaw.

From being a student in Blackburn’s high school mathematics class to bonding over being Alcorn State University alumni, Jesse Mildred James, former dean of the Vo-Tech, has gained lots of knowledge from her mentor throughout their long friendship. She appreciates his exceptional teaching and unwavering support.

“I credit him as being one of the people responsible for me obtaining my position,” said James. “When I experienced problems, I did not hesitate to go to him for assistance. He still exhibited that same spirit of support. He was fair and firm, yet friendly. Many times, we would sit in his office and reminisce. He’s an honorable man, and I will always cherish our memories.”

Because of his spirituality, James believes that Blackburn’s obedience to God and his parents is a factor in him reaching his advanced age. She also acknowledges the love of his family for keeping him in a good mental state.

“I know that Mr. Blackburn is a stickler for following rules and regulations, so I believe that he followed them when it came to obeying his parents, which is evident in his devotion to his church. I also believe having a supportive and loving family and a devoted wife, the late Mrs. Bertha Blackburn, played a significant role in helping him maintain good mental and physical health. It is said that he gets up and goes for a walk every morning. He always speaks his mind on an issue, and is never known to hold a grudge, thus eliminating stress in his life.”

To commemorate Blackburn’s special occasion, CCC staff members hosted a drivethru birthday celebration in his honor.

coahomacc.edu

55

The Coahoma Community College campus community celebrated Samuel Blackburn, a longtime pillar of the College, with a drive-by birthday celebration for his reaching of the century mark, a remarkable milestone 100th birthday. Blackburn has long been honored for his phenomenal contributions to Coahoma’s Division of Career and Tech56 ROAR Magazine nical Education. He served as Coahoma Junior College’s Vo-Tech director from 1966 until his retirement in 1985.

Resting Tigers

REMEMBERING CCC ALUMNI, FACULTY & STAFF WHO HAVE PASSED FROM APRIL 2020 THROUGH NOVEMBER 2020 Robbie Abrams ’54 Beverly Allen Willie Blocker ’78 (CCC Board of Trustees Member) Quandarius Boyd-attended 2019-2020 Eddie Bee Nathaniel Brooks ’66 Howard Byas ’71 Ruth Baton Campbell Sherri Criss Carr Freddie Caswell (Drafting & Design Instructor) Louise Perkins Davis Willie Mae Williams Edwards John Fizer, Sr. Essie Galmore Jerry Lee Gentry, Sr. (CCC Board of Trustees Member) Eva Childress Gorman (CAHS Instructor) Evelyn Haynes Harris-attended 1967 James Harris Lonnie Harrison (Maintenance, Grounds) Fletcher Harvey Gene Autry Johnson Dr. Linda Daily Johnson ’69 (Miss CJC 1968-1969) Trakedreya Jones 2019 Earnest Killum ’68 Cynthia Lampkin Whittie Lockett ’70 Mercedes Neal-Mink ’72 Vera Pettis Neal ’77 Janice M. Gathings Penny ‘85 Mary Ann Ferguson Pittman ’83 Clastine Huckleberry Pittman Johnny DeShawn Rose, Jr. Annette Stewart (Former Campus Nurse) Lottie Green Stewart Thydosia Young Thomas ’75 Annie Lee Woods Todd (Former Cafeteria Staff Member) Zenolia Hayes Washington ’71 Edmonia Banks Webb Armstrong Weston, Sr. (Auto Mechanics Instructor & Campus Security) Catherine Barron Wiley ‘64 Albert “Sweet Pea” Williams (CAHS Principal) Trina Williams Virgie Williams coahomacc.edu Mamie Snerling Worthen ’75

57