Roar Magazine Fall 2019

RoarMAGAZINE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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COAHOMACC.EDU

FALL 2019

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

FALL 2019

CELEBRATING 70 YEARS, ON A MISSION 1949-2019

FALL 2019

CONTENTS From the President 03

The 67th Commencement 34

Contributors 04

CCC SkillsUSA Wins Big 36

Editor’s Note 05

Leading the Pack 42

Introducing the First Lady 08 Rising Above 12 Alumni on a Mission 14

HEADWAE Awards 44 CCC Most Affordable HBCU 46 Tiger Notes - Students 48

Dome Sweet Dome 20

Tiger Notes - Faculty & Staff 50

Retool Your School 22

Tiger Notes - Alumni 51

Chasing the Mission 24 A New Reign 30 She’s Got Game 32

P. 38

Homecoming 2018 Recap 52 Then & Now 54

ON THE COVER

70 Years on a Mission: Coahoma Community College pays homage to its 70th year of existence. Founded in 1949, the institution celebrates a great legacy of providing educational and vocational opportunities to generation after generation of successful Coahoma alumni.

In Memoriam 56

COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2018-2019

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37

47

COAHOMA BY THE NUMBERS

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FROM THE

PRESIDENT

C

oahoma Community College has been in existence since 1949 and has evolved from a pseudo-college experiment with a mission of providing agricultural and basic educational services to an institution that offers an array of course offerings ranging from short-term courses to some of the most analytical programs on the planet. We have advanced from an initial enrollment of just over twenty students in 1949 to nearly two thousand today.

For seventy years, we have diversified our educational service delivery modes from brick and mortar classroom settings to include hybrid and virtual online offerings of classes and training.

The institution has risen from humble beginnings to prominence as one of the nation’s premier comprehensive community colleges. How far can we go in the next seventy years? With the plans we have in place, the dedication and expertise of our faculty and staff, the commitment of our students, and the spirit of partnership and hard work in our community, Coahoma Community College’s future is as boundless and bright as the future of the resurging Mississippi Delta region.

areas represent the three pillars that support our mission: to provide accessible, diverse, quality, equitable educational opportunities and support services that foster holistic growth in a student-centered learning environment.

As we continue to focus on our mantra of “On a Mission,” we hope that this publication will provide you with a glimpse as to how we value innovative ideas, diversity, inclusivity, scholarships, and an abiding determination to ignite learning on a myriad of levels.

We are committed to preparing our students for college or university transfer and/or entering a skilled workforce. This is our charge. This is our mission.

Maroon and White Forever,

Valmadge T. Towner Valmadge T. Towner, Ph.D. 5th President

Our Strategic Plan zeroes in on the college’s attention to student success, workforce development, and civic engagement. These

coahomacc.edu

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Roar MAGAZINE

ROARCONTRIBUTORS 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.

Melody Dixon ‘13

COMMUNICATIONS

Ezra Howard ‘93

WEB SERVICES

Melody is the wordsmith of the office. Her ability to bring life to the written word is nothing short of amazing.

She finds joy in connecting with her audiences and capturing every Vashon Jones detail.

Always the consummate professional, Ezra brings a sense of reason to the office and always finds solutions, aiding the team to successful end-goals.

All things athletics is what motivates his efforts. Vashon serves as sports information director and is passionate about Coahoma SPORTS INFORMATION Athletics. He enjoys chronicling studentathlete success.

Sharon Butler ‘83

OFFICE SUPPORT

The nervecenter of the office, Sharon handles the clerical and office management of communications and marketing.

She gets it done!

CREDITS

FALL 2019

President Valmadge T. Towner, Ph.D. Editor Marriel C. Hardy, M.Ed. Lead Writer Melody Dixon Copy Editor BulletProof Editorial Staff LaShasa Griffin Christopher Dixon Tamara Washington-Travis Shanelle Frazier Fran Howard-Noah Dr. Chequita Dixon Graphic Design Office of Communications & Marketing Staff Photography Austin Britt Trent Calvin Special Acknowledgements Rita Hanfor Yolanda Miller Margaret Dixon

CORRESPONDENCE & ADDRESS CHANGES Kerry Lee ‘12

Hailed as the voice of Coahoma, Kerry serves as the director of WCQC 91.3 FM. He finds pleasure in working with students in the realm of RADIO PRODUCTION communications.

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.

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

We're on a MISSION! is RISING! You can feel the “Coahoma energy the moment you step foot onto

the institution’s sprawling campus. It’s an excellent time to be a TIGER and I welcome the next phase of Coahoma’s bright future.

In creating this inaugural issue of ROAR Magazine, I wanted to showcase our identity and rich history as an institution by highlighting the unique and interesting stories of our students, faculty, staff and alumni.

By telling their dynamic stories, we are sharing our identity with you as a leading two-year, HBCU that has a strong mission of focused student success, workforce development, and civic engagement.

Marriel C. Hardy, Editor Marriel serves as chief communications officer and branding identity within the Office of Communications and Marketing.

Hardy is an award-winning communications and marketing professional, with over ten years of experience in higher education.

We seek to breakdown stereotypes, not just those present in the Mississippi Delta, but even those present amongst the socially disadvantaged groups we serve.

In this issue, we have showcased many talented and innovative individuals. From esteemed alumni, to our talented students, ROAR Magazine features incredible people who love to color outside of the lines.

I believe that the contents of this issue showcase the best of Coahoma Community College.

”

My hope is that this issue and every issue thereafter carves out a space where the next generation can tell their stories, get inspired, raise awareness, and find opportunities to better themselves and their communities. I believe that this will advance our mission! I hope you enjoy!

Coahoma forever,

Marriel C. Hardy, MS.Ed. Chief Communications Officer & Branding Identity

LET’SGETSOCIAL Facebook: CCCTigers Twitter: @_TigerNation Instagram: @CCCTigers Youtube: CCCoahoma

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MESSAGE FROM THE

NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT Greetings fellow alumni and friends, I am honored and excited to serve as your Coahoma Community College National Alumni Association President!

I embrace the challenge and the responsibility to represent your needs and your diverse interests. You have a dedicated group of CCCNAA officers poised to serve you. Through the lens of the Coahoma alumni, your alumni officers will continue to work diligently to advance and support college initiatives.

Our focus is unwavering and remains on the recruitment and retention of students. We know how critical this is to the overall success of students, which is why we have partnered with our alma mater to advance the institution’s mission of student success.

The truth of the matter is that in order to keep sustaining our institution, we all must play an active role in growing the National Alumni Association. As members, it’s time for all of us to claim our rightful position by doing more to protect and preserve the future of Coahoma. How do we accomplish this? I am glad that you asked! We achieve this by giving more of our time, talent, and resources.

And if you have never joined the Alumni Association, this is the perfect time to become involved. The National Alumni Association is continually evolving, and many new developments are on the horizon, including our initiatives to build greater communication with you and innovate student support efforts. As you can see, now is the time to get involved and take advantage of the opportunity to be a part of our illustrious future.

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 as the great educational institution it is today. Remember, you are the best representative of Coahoma. You reflect our dear “Coahoma, Coahoma” in all of her glory wherever you are and whenever you participate in chapter, civic, and social events.

You can make an amazing difference through your current and future student outreach as well as peer-to-peer collaboration.

In closing, our Alumni Association is only as strong as the sum of its parts. I would love to hear from you on how we can make our Alumni Association a stronger, more engaged organization. You can email your thoughts and ideas to oshawiz@att.net. Let’s continue our work together in the spirit of excellence!

Sincerely,

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

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ALUMNI

Matter

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

INTRODUCING

FIRST LADY

Mrs. Natasha Towner

N

atasha Towner knows a great week lies ahead when she has attended a refreshing and spiritually cleansing Sunday service.

“Church gives me the energy and focus to navigate my week,” says Mrs. Towner, who is strongly convicted that her faith is grounded in God. The Coahoma, Mississippi, native can be found accompanying her husband, Valmadge Towner, president of Coahoma Community College, with a graceful smile and a sophisticated stride. Her role as wife inherently makes her the first lady of Coahoma Community College. She does her best to reciprocate the warmth and love she receives from the campus community.

“I believe it is always an honor to be recognized. I am thankful that the college has so graciously welcomed me with open arms, and I do not take that graciousness lightly,” said Natasha Towner. “I am humbled by it and do my very best to return that honor by being authentic and supportive.

It is a role I simply cherish.”

Lady Natasha holds the outlook that her joining the Tiger family was not by mistake.

“My journey has led me here to Coahoma, and this is exactly where I need to be,” she said in reference to an Oprah Winfrey quote, which states, “No matter where you are on your journey, that’s exactly where you need to be. The next road is always ahead.”

Lady Natasha enjoys reading, watching sports on television, and attending sporting events. She loves watching classic films with her husband and has grown fond of camping with their friends.

“I almost never sing aloud in public because I have never fancied myself a singer. However, when in my car or home alone, I channel my inner CeCe Winans and sing to the rooftop,” she said with a humorous undertone.

She grew up in a large family that embraced each other with a lot of love. Lady Natasha is wholeheartedly committed to extending that love to the institution while alongside President Towner. Lady Natasha is focused on giving all she can to Coahoma and receiving all that the institution has to give her.

She aims to live a life that exudes kindness. To her, everyone is important and should be treated with compassion.

“Sometimes a bit of kindness can make the difference in a person’s day or a person’s life,” she said.

Lady Natasha holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in banking and finance from the University of Mississippi.

Since graduating, she has obtained even more career knowledge through several continuing education courses and banking workshops. She currently serves as a branch manager and lender for Renasant Bank in Oxford, Mississippi. Lady Natasha is also a proud graduate of Coahoma County High School.

coahomacc.edu 9

to do things from the heart and not for praise from others. I believe what you do in secret, God will honor openly.”

During basketball season, she might be sitting courtside with President Towner. Mrs. Towner especially likes gracing the campus with her presence at its most elite occasions, including the Mr. and Miss CCC competition.

The annual commencement ceremony is an event she makes sure to attend.

“I have never missed commencement. I love being a part of those wishing students well on their new beginning,” said Lady Natasha.

Homecoming is another exciting gathering she looks forward to reliving each year.

“The community atmosphere reminds me of a family reunion,” she said.

The joy on people’s faces as current students meet alumni, former classmates catch up, and former students update former teachers on their current lives is something she anticipates seeing.

“I will forever be a proud Red Panther,” she expressed.

Natasha Towner is the daughter of William Weeks and Loistine Brown. She is grateful that both of her parents are still living.

A few of Natasha Towner’s close family members were also her role models. Her maternal grandmother, Sarah Pointer, was very instrumental to her cultivation. Described as a very determined woman, Mrs. Pointer worked two jobs most of her life.

“From her, I learned the importance of hard work and the value of finishing what you start,” Mrs. Towner explained.

Another influential figure is Lady Natasha’s paternal grandmother, Lula Mae Weeks, who was very strong-willed, hardly ever losing an argument.

Mr. and Mrs. M. J. Jones of Coahoma, Mississippi, are two other persons Lady Natasha has looked up to and admired for their integrity and excellence. They hold a special place in her heart.

“Mr. Jones was my elementary school principal and town mayor, and his wife taught third grade math. They were the best among educational professionals,” said Lady Natasha. “They challenged us but also motivated us to work harder, to reach higher, and to be better.”

A lady of class, Natasha Towner deeply values the ability to exhibit good character.

“It is important to be true to yourself,” she said. “It is always good

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Coahoma Community College is an institution of high regard in Lady Natasha’s book. In her opinion, CCC exhibits a unique sense of community. The institution is threaded with a spirit of family and unity, a spirit that is evident in its connections with Clarksdale and surrounding towns.

“There are so many things about Coahoma Community College that I enjoy!” she expressed. “No one is treated like a stranger.”

“My prayer is that Coahoma will continue to grow and expand under my husband’s leadership. I believe that this is sure to happen with the tremendous support from the community and the hard work of faculty and staff.”

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STUDENTS ON A Mission

RISING

Above

Zephaniah Stokes’ talents lay the foundation for a hopeful future.

I

f you’ve attended a Coahoma Community College event lately, chances are you’ve heard the melodic sounds and talents of choir member Zephaniah Stokes.

Nineteen-year-old Stokes is a Clarksdale, Mississippi, native and is the youngest of seven children. Born into a religious family, he finds joy in the time he shares with his parents and siblings.

“I’m the baby of my Christian family. My parents are pastors, so we are considered to be a first family. Growing up with them is very comical and faith-based,” said Stokes. “My mom always keeps me laughing, and my dad is very seldom talkative, but when he does, he means business, and he always has a word. We all have our moments, but we always come back together. Oh, and we all are into music.”

A 2018 graduate of Clarksdale High School, Zephaniah is entering his sophomore year at Coahoma. He realized that he had a passion for singing and performing at an early age. His love of music was and is rooted in the church.

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“I realized I could sing at the age of 2 years old when I would hear gospel music and sing exactly like the person singing it. I can remember singing at my head-start graduation. I started playing piano at seven years old and at first, I hated it because I was made to play. However, as time progressed, I gained a love for playing that will never die,” added Stokes.

Kelvin Towers, department chair and choir director, had an eye on the talents of Stokes and is elated to have the talented young man as a part of his renowned ensemble.

“I’ve been watching and waiting on him to come ever since I first heard him as a ninth grader at W. A. Higgins Middle School Academy. I knew from the very first day that he was someone with a special innate talent,” said Towers.

“Zephaniah is very passionate about singing, playing the piano, and writing songs. I sometimes tease him with sarcasm about giving free concerts in the music building nearly every other day and when it’s time for the choir class to begin ... he performs a disappearing/curtain-closed act! And nobody seems to know where he escapes to,” Towers jokingly added.

One of Stokes’ proudest moments was when he wrote and arranged his popular song “When I Rise.” The song came about as Stokes was facing a difficult time in life. He, in turn, used the composition as a vehicle of expression and a means to uplift and inspire others. “‘When I Rise’ came from a hurt and broken place where I was tired of holding onto the toxicity of the past.

One day, I was thinking about letting go of that hurt and what life would be like if I were really ‘living my best life’ and God gave me the melody right then and there. I apply it by being more openminded and less oblivious and teaching myself that everything has its place but to be content because the more content I am, the closer I will be to what God has in store,” said Stokes.

Towers sees great things in the future for this young prodigy and is confident that only time will tell what is next for Zephaniah.

“Zephaniah is a student that can literally wake up each day to do nothing but music. With this passion, I can confidently say that post CCC he will go on and do well in his career when the right

window of opportunity opens,” said Towers. “I hope that he will further his studies by completing his bachelor’s degree in vocal performance, further developing his craft and artistry.”

Upon graduation, Stokes plans to continue his education and vocal training and also continue to use his talents for songwriting, singing, and performing.

“After graduation, I plan on attending the University of Southern Mississippi, then Berklee College of Music,” said Stokes. “I have new original music coming very soon. It’s going to be an upcoming EP. Be on the lookout.”

“I am very passionate about my faith with God, staying true to who I am, loving on others, and my music. I gain motivation by seeing my dreams come to life, hearing testimonies from people who say how my singing touched them, knowing that someone in the world is being inspired by me, and seeing others happy and managing this thing called life,” Stokes added.

MAJOR IN

Music

The Coahoma Community College Department of Music seeks to offer interesting, creative educational opportunities and is composed of two musical genres, choral and instrumental music.

The mission of the Department of Music is to provide students the opportunity to improve their current knowledge of music. This is accomplished through a holistic fine arts experience designed to prepare students in furthering their study at the next level of education.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL: 662.621.4212.

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ALUMNI ON A Mission

DRAFTING PATHS

of

Excellence

CCC alumnus Nathaniel Clark sets high standards in the architecture industry.

“

While at Coahoma, I was told I am good enough and I am smart enough. Freddie Caswell, Coahoma architect/engineering professor, instilled deep confidence in me that I could compete with anyone, at any school, anywhere.

- Nathaniel Clark

“

C youth.

lark, a second-generation CCC alumnus from Sterlington, Louisiana, was destined for a career that exhibited his intelligence as well as a love of drawing developed in his

“I always had a drawing pad in hand and would sketch during school, church, or whenever the opportunity presented itself,” said Clark, adding that his mom took him and his siblings to the library to check out 10 books every summer. Every book he checked out dealt with drawing animate and inanimate objects.

Clark is a proud 1991 graduate of Coahoma’s Drafting and Design/Architecture program.

“There is significant pride attached to my having attended and graduated from Coahoma,” he expressed.

His father, Pastor Davis W. Clark, cherishes a past of athleticism on Coahoma’s basketball team. He led the group, which was then under the leadership of Coach James

Washington, as co-captain.

Clark continued studying architecture at Louisiana State University.

Now in his 40s, Clark, who holds an architectural license in seven states, owns and runs Chasm Architecture located in Atlanta, Georgia. September 9, 2019, marks 15 years that it has been in business. Chasm’s notable accomplishments include the State Farm Arena, the $189 million home court of the Atlanta Hawks NBA team, formerly the Philips Arena. He currently resides in Atlanta with his wife, Shauna, and young children, daughters Madison and Simone, and son, Dominic.

“While at Coahoma, I was told I am good enough and I am smart enough. Freddie Caswell, Coahoma architect/engineering professor, instilled deep confidence in me that I could compete with anyone, at any school, anywhere,” said Clark of his experience at CCC. Caswell was instrumental to Clark gathering the courage to further invest in his

future. The words of the former CCC instructor snapped him into reality. He also credits other faculty for his firm foundation.

“He reminded me that the architectural profession is 99 percent white male and eloquently suggested that to survive in their world, I should train with the men and women with whom I would someday compete,” Clark said. “When I wasn’t traveling as a trainer with the basketball team, I was in the architecture studio, completing an assignment or reading to get better at my craft.”

A few days before Clark graduated from Coahoma, Clark dedicated his time to giving back to his hometown when the IMC Fertilizer Chemical Plant, located near the neighborhood where he grew up, had exploded and injured eight people. He dedicated his time post-Coahoma to giving back, working full time as a surveyor and assisting in carpentry and electrician work, 12 hours a day all seven days of the week for six consecutive months, to help rebuild the plant.

coahomacc.edu 15

Clark completed his education at Coahoma with the Highest Academic Achievement award. At LSU, he became the first African-American from the College of Design to receive the Dean’s Medal. The twotime Tiger received his bachelor’s degree from the institution in 1996.

Fresh out of college, he caught the attention of many design firms. Clark chose to launch his career as an intern architect in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He worked his way up to the top, eventually becoming the managing principal and partner of Chasm.

“My aspiration is to build upon the legacy of African-American men and women who paved the way for me to be unapologetically excellent in a profession where we only represent one percent of the field,” Clark said. “As African-American architectural pioneers begin to transition out of the profession, I understand the importance of operating a successful firm and teaching my young staff how to be entrepreneurial, within the design space.”

With 22 years of experience in architecture, he oversees a staff of 15-plus employees, including project managers and two expert interior designers. Chasm proudly holds a portfolio of more than $3 billion in projects. The firm is responsible for designing

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and constructing a $265 million landside along with the modern renovation of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The firm has contributed to hospitality, entertainment, corporate healthcare, retail, and civic facilities.

Clark has applied the architectural concept of negative space to aspects of his career, not just his craft. Having learned how to read music while playing trombone in the band during middle school and high school, he realizes that negative space is required to make beautiful music.

“Playing a bass clef instrument provided an additional layer of understanding of timing, cadence, and strangely enough the negative space required to create a melody,” he explained.

He utilizes the musical interpretation of the concept in his career. Clark values timing and waits on the right moment to make crucial decisions that lead to the exponential growth of the Chasm portfolio and staff.

“I learned at an early age the pause between notes is as important as the notes themselves. An acute discipline is required to play the right note at the proper time,” he added.

Clark initially had his heart set on studying civil engineering at CCC. The final decision to study architecture was actually made on the spur of the moment.

“As fate would have it, Freddie Caswell was seated at the Civil Engineering table nodding, which made me instantly turn toward the Drafting and Design/Architecture table where Jacqueline Maxwell was smiling, snickering at Mr. Caswell sleeping, and waving me over,” Clark recounted.

“Therefore, I selected Architecture, and the rest is history. True story.”

Clark regards his tenure at Coahoma as a time when he met some of the best people he’s encountered throughout his entire life.

Because Coahoma made an endearing impact on him, he continues to operate outside of his comfort zone and has walked an unlikely path, a result of being pushed by a few vibrant voices of Coahoma from 1989 until 1991.

“I look back at the struggles to make correct decisions, the pains that come with making mistakes, and the wisdom gained from friends and mentors that molded a mindset that if I am not continuously evolving, I cannot be fully alive,” he says.

“Quest

REACHING THE

100” FINISH LINE

within 29 minutes and 24 seconds.

Additionally, Jones trekked with spirited speed for various causes. He ran in the Marks Mules and Blues 5K Run/Walk, in which he won third place; the Greenville Cotton Classic race; the Run for the Ribbons race in Jackson, Mississippi; the Clarksdale Juke Joint race; the Batesville Run for Paws race; the Gateway to the Delta race; the Atlanta Peachtree Road Race; the Greenwood 300 Oaks; the Oxford Great 38; and the Elvis 5k. He ran 3 to 6 miles in each road race and added to the list his grand achievements of running 26 miles in the St. Jude Marathon and the Jackson Blues Marathon.

Jones said he simply cannot train for marathons. He, however, kept up a routine of running 6 to 7 miles, three days a week to prepare for them. The fitness-conscious racer worked out regularly at Snap Fitness and made energetic laps on Coahoma’s Fit for Life Walking Trail.

E

“I’m drawn to competition,” Jones said. “I actually have earned quite a few medals in these races for my age group and I finished with third place in the Marks, Mississippi, Mules & Blues race.” nglish instructor David Jones ended 2018 and stepped into 2019 a champion. He excitedly completed what he termed “Quest 100,” which challenged him to run at least 100 miles in races last year.

“I usually average five or six races per year. For some strange reason, I had the audacity to want to upgrade that to 10 races,” said Jones.

Jones also wanted his students to take part in the Quest 100 challenge, handing each of his students a sheet of paper at the start of the semester so they could jot down major goals for 2018. Some were family-related hopes, while others wrote that they wanted to be on track to graduate from Coahoma Community College in May of 2019. Some even aimed to finish their classes with all A’s.

“I clocked in at 105 miles total, so I met my physical goal, but their goals could have dealt with family,” said Jones.

Jones landed first place in the category correspondent with his age range in the Port Gibson, Mississippi, Dilla Dash road race

Jones, who says he’s been an avid runner all of his life, was a member of his high school track team in Decatur, Georgia. He has an affinity for the sport and thoughts of how blessed he is to put one foot in front of the other crowd his mind while running the races.

He remembers being able to maintain his drive to complete his Quest 100 challenge after hearing his church pastor Dan Sandalin tell a story while preaching his Sunday sermon. The story was about an African-American man who made it to the Olympics but was derailed by a cramp in his leg during a race.

“His father came down from the stands to help him cross over the line,” said Jones, who believes that had to have been one of the most riveting scenes in an Olympics game. “I’ve actually used that as a metaphor for my races, to continue the run by all means.”

Jones sends special thanks to his supporters, longtime friend Denise Hampton, his beloved disabled brother Jonathan Jones; and CCC personnel including Dr. Towner, Dr. Rolanda Brown, Helen Young, John Mayo, Vera Griffin, and many others.

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COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

BY THE

NUMBERS

#1 5 COUNTY

Most Affordable HBCU in the Nation (studentloanhero.com) Enrollment By County 2018-2019 Academic Year

SERVICE AREA

Bolivar 422 Coahoma 960 Quitman 172 Tallahatchie 160 Tunica 203

16:1

Student-Faculty Ratio

34

Clubs and Organizations

61

Degree Programs Offered

475

2019 Graduates

2,448

Combined Total Enrollment 2018-2019 Academic Year

45,000

Total Bound Volumes Housed in Dickerson-Johnson Library

Delinda Samuel Inducted into Mississippi Community and Junior College Sports Hall of Fame.

On April 23, 2019, the Mississippi Community College Foundation hosted the thirteenth annual Mississippi Community and Junior College Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony. One former athlete or coach from each community college was inducted into the class.

State University (DSU) in Cleveland, Mississippi as a two-year letter winner. As a junior, she averaged 25.4 points per game. During her senior year in 1986, she reached the pinnacle of her basketball career by averaging 23.1 points and 11.1 rebounds per game, being named

Delinda Samuel ‘84, a former women’s basketball player was among the honorees and represented Coahoma.

Samuel graduated from Coahoma County High School where she began her basketball career averaging 14 points and ten rebounds per game during her senior year.

Her talents and skills garnered her becoming a two-year letter winner from 1982 to 1984 at Coahoma Junior College, which is presently Coahoma Community College (CCC). She played under the leadership of Coach Ella Stampley Morris, where she averaged 20 points and 15 rebounds per game and was named the Team’s Most Valuable Player.

Upon graduating from CCC, Samuel continued her basketball career at Delta

to ever play for the Lady Statesmen. In 2010, she was inducted into DSU Sports Hall of Fame.

Currently, Samuel is an elementary Physical Education teacher for the Hollandale School District as well as a Scoutmaster for her local Boy Scout Troop 4048. She resides in Hollandale, Mississippi with her three sons Deonte and Damien Samuel and Walter Warren.

Her favorite quote is, “I might not be where I want to be, but I thank God I am not where I use to be.”

Kodak All-American, being ranked 16th in career points scored with 1,378 and named Gulf South Conference Player of the Year after guiding DSU to its firstever Gulf South Conference Championship. Due to her many honors and accomplishments at DSU, she is known as one of the best all-around performers

The Mississippi Community and Junior College Sports Hall of Fame was conceived in the interest of recognizing coaches and athletes who have coached and/or played in one or more of Mississippi public community or junior colleges. Since 2007, including the 2019 class, 240 individuals have been recognized for their successes both on and off the field.

STAY CONNECTED TO CCC ATHLETICS:

coahomasports.com

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DOMESWEETDOME Coahoma campus storm-ready after construction of "safe room."

W

safe room.

ith Mississippi’s unpredictable weather, residents of Coahoma County and the campus of Coahoma Community College can now rest a little more comfortably with the completion of an emergency

In front of a crowd of onlookers, the facility was officially dedicated in a ceremonial ribbon-cutting in mid-2018.

Through a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program award, construction of the 10,000-square-foot safe room, built to FEMA-361 standards to protect people during a hurricane or tornado-force winds was been completed on the campus of Coahoma Community College. The multipurpose facility is constructed to withstand wind speeds up to 250 mph.

As it stands, the safe room can protect 1,592 students, faculty, staff, and residents within a half-mile radius of Coahoma Community College. It is located at 3240 Friars Point Road on the north end of campus. Federal funding, which totaled $1,491,300, represented 90 percent of the $1,657,000 total construction cost.

Dr. Valmadge T. Towner, president of Coahoma Community

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College, is thrilled that this five-year journey has come to an end and is pleased that this initiative was a product of many partnerships.

“I am absolutely elated that this safe room is complete and that it is a product of partnerships that took place on the local, state, and federal levels. It speaks to that fact that great things can and do come to fruition through the hard work and dedication of many,” said Towner. “Coahoma Community College could not have done this alone, and we are proud to have this new addition on our campus.”

“We are striving to be a storm-ready campus. With the severe weather events that can occur in the Mississippi Delta, we want to ensure that we are prepared at all times,” Towner added.

The FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program utilized for the project provides funding to states and local governments for long-term hazard mitigation activities designed to reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters. Data shows that investments in hazard mitigation before a disaster creates a net savings of taxpayer dollars during post-disaster response and recovery periods.

WHAT TO DO DURING A TORNADO: • Go to the lowest level of the home, an inner hallway, or smaller inner room without windows, such as a closet or bathroom.

• Get away from windows and go to the center of the room.

Avoid corners, because they tend to attract debris.

• Get under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a workbench or heavy table.

IF YOU ARE IN A MOBILE HOME: • Evacuate the mobile home, even if it is equipped with tiedowns. Take shelter in a building with a strong foundation, or if one is not available, lie in a ditch or low-lying area a safe distance away from the mobile home. Tornadoes cannot change elevation quickly enough to pick someone up out of a ditch, especially a deep ditch or culvert.

IF YOU ARE AT WORK OR SCHOOL: • Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level of the building.

• Avoid places with wide-span roofs, such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways or shopping malls.

• Use your arms to protect your head and neck.

IF OUTDOORS: • If possible, get inside a sturdy building with a concrete foundation.

• If shelter is not available, or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building.

• Be aware of the potential for flooding.

IF YOU ARE IN A VEHICLE: • Never try to out drive a tornado in your vehicle. Tornadoes can change direction very quickly and can lift a vehicle and toss it in the air.

• Get out of the vehicle and take shelter in a nearby building.

If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the vehicle and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle.

F

Coahoma Captures $50k Retool Your School Grant Award

or the first time in The Home Depot’s 10-year Retool Your School Campus Improvement Grant Program, Coahoma Community College beat out 60 other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to win a competitive $50,000 grant.

The aim of the program is for The Home Depot to give back to the nation’s HBCUs what they have so generously given to their respective communities.

According to the company’s website, the Retool Your School Program has provided more than $2.1 million in campus improvement grants to allow HBCUs to make sustainable improvements to their campuses since 2009.

Popular voting through social media posts containing the “Coahoma_ RYS19” hashtag and online votes cast on Coahoma’s behalf from late February through mid-April narrowed down finalists in Cluster Two of the grant program to Coahoma Community College, Alcorn State University, and Mississippi Valley State University.

In an interesting twist, Jackson State University also received a grant award in Cluster One, which means a total of four Mississippi HBCUs were awarded grants.

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CCC received well over 215,000 votes during the competition, securing the win.

Dr. Valmadge T. Towner, president of Coahoma Community College, is elated about the recent victory and appreciates the support that made this initiative a success for the institution.

“We are appreciative to our supporters for taking advantage of this funding opportunity,” said Towner. “With support from our friends, we are positioned to provide additional support for our students, faculty, and staff.”

Each of the finalists were invited to submit campus improvement proposals for consideration by a panel of judges.

In celebration of the “Retool Your School” Program’s 10th anniversary, The Home Depot increased its support of the program and HBCUs by offering 10 campus improvement grants, each amounting to $50,000. For the 20182019 Program, nine grants were awarded based on consumer voting.

The 10th grant, the “Campaign of the Year Award,” was awarded to an HBCU with the campaign that proved to be most original, innovative, and particularly useful.

Marriel Hardy, chief communications officer, is proud of the success of the initiative and credits a responsive “Tiger Nation” for keeping Coahoma in the fight until the very end.

“This was a goal the college was adamant about accomplishing this year,” said Hardy. “Our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends rose to the occasion, staying engaged and aware of our position in the competition every step of the way. It is a true testament to the love and admiration that exists for Coahoma Community College.”

The college has developed plans to refresh spaces located within and outside of the Zee A. Barron Student Union, renovating locations into multifunction spaces. The hope will be to create areas conducive to student leisure, as well as congregation hubs for meetings and events. The spaces will feature plush furnishings, study spaces, sound and lighting upgrades, and other studentcentered options.

Construction began this summer under the leadership of the college’s Facilities and Maintenance department with the support of the campus community and beyond.

MAINTAINING THE Mission

ACHIEVING THE DREAM NETWORK

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Drives Ongoing CCC Mission Forward

arlier last academic term, the Woodward Hines Education Foundation awarded Coahoma Community College a grant to participate in the Achieving the Dream (ATD) network. The Achieving the Dream network, an initiative devoted to achieving success among community college students, has a layout of ideas to strengthen problem areas in the higher education realm. ATD hopes to target aspects, including leadership, teaching, learning, and technology.

“We are in the beginning phase of the ATD initiative,” says Dean of Academic Affairs Rolanda Brown, Ph.D. “Our task at this time is to introduce the project to faculty and staff. As everyone is introduced, our next step will be to review our student data and begin setting goals and objectives for student success based on what we learn from the data. We will focus on increasing the success of all students enrolled at CCC.” A group of ATD coaches met with teams at each partnering institution to discuss methods for fostering a thriving student body.

As the saying goes, “It takes a village,” and our village is here to lend a helping hand and steer us in the right direction for growth.

To get the project unfolded, the organization recommended that a core team create a communication strategy to track school-wide efforts in culminating successful students. With a core communications team of six knowledgeable members of the campus community and a Core Leader, a list of goals and an effective com-

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munication strategy were established. ATD encouraged these core teams to involve an advisory group to act as spokespersons for stakeholders like CCC faculty. The core team then developed with an “opportunity statement” that outlined the resources needed, the steps required to leverage the opportunities Achieving the Dream offers, and possible rewarding results from involvement.

ATD urges community colleges to incorporate other initiatives on campus or in the community for funding and advice. This advisement better the chance for success.

By the second year of participation with the Achieving the Dream initiative, the institution will have developed a student success vision that moves others to become part of the movement and a progress assessment will be conducted. There is an evaluationfocused test for pointing out the areas that will need more attention before continuing ATD work and finding out where improvement has been made while the project advances. This test, termed SMART—for specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, and timely evaluation metrics will produce promising first-year students and sophomores.

Melvin Newson, Ph.D., the Achieving the Dream co-chair for CCC and special populations coordinator for the Division of Career and Technical Education, is impressed that the ATD program has helped more than 200 colleges since its start and Newson entirely puts his trust in their expertise.

“We are learning new strategies that will surely increase student success at our institution. The coaches that CCC are assigned by ATD are veteran educators with proven track records,” said Newson.

Dream raised the retention and graduation rates of the college.

She revealed that a breakdown in silos within various departments was a significant change that made it simple for students to complete multiple processes.

“Our leadership coach is a former community college chancellor, and our data coach serves as a director of research and analytics for his college. The partnership allows CCC to utilize our coaches for invaluable advising. Additionally, it affords us the opportunity to have unbiased outside perspectives on our policies and procedures.”

Newson is very optimistic that this program will make a significant impact and does not think CCC will regret the decision to partner.

During Coahoma’s 2018 preschool conference, Mark Taylor, Ed.D., a higher education specialist, and Jacqueline Taylor, Ed.D., of Southwest Tennessee Community College, spoke on the barriers to a prosperous community college. He specifically highlighted the typical characteristics of millennials, today’s learners, and young adults. Becoming aware of their traits will cause personnel to better adapt to the students they serve. He also pointed out that race and equality are issues we face in society. Jacqueline Taylor, executive director of student success and retention at STCC, shared her testimony of how joining forces with Achieving the

“I have no doubt that the initiative will be a success,” Newson said.

“I look forward to the transformation that will occur on campus.

We have great people leading CCC’s efforts, and we are all excited because we know of the change that is imminent.”

Subsequently, by mid-Fall of 2018, members of Coahoma’s Achieving the Dream Data Team attended the fourth annual Data & Analytics Summit held in College Park, Maryland.

The two-day conference focused on advancing the institution’s student success agenda. The event boasted in-depth meetings, concurrent sessions, and a keynote address featuring the event’s theme, “Mind the data gap,” to improve all students.

coahomacc.edu

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Newson was in attendance and saw the opportunity as one that reaped enormous dividends for Coahoma.

to opportunities to help the institution develop best practices for increasing student success.

“This event focused on progressing a institution’s student success agenda by using institutional data in more impactful ways,” said Newson. “CCC will benefit from the knowledge gained from the Summit by being enlightened on new methods to utilize institutional data to make decisions that impact student success. Additionally, CCC has a broader view of data and analytics software that is available to aid our data analysis.”

ATD will also offer Coahoma Community College and the other colleges in its 2018 cohort access to a capacity-building framework and companion self-assessment that allows them to pinpoint strengths and areas for improvement across seven institutional capacities in areas such as leadership and vision, teaching and learning, and data and technology. With the capacity framework as a guide, ATD helps colleges integrate and align any existing student success efforts with bold, holistic, institution-wide changes that research suggests can help more students succeed.

Attendees learned how to take steps toward closing a number of data gaps to benefit student success. Some of the hot topics included: the difference between student and alumni data, finding out how alumni data suggest new ways to describe the value of a community college degree, pushing the conversation beyond completing a degree, and much more.

Margaret Dixon, director of Research, Assessment and Strategic Initiatives/Accreditation Liaison and ATD co-chair, is excited about the knowledge the group gained and hopes to bring new ideas back to the Coahoma campus.

“Coahoma benefited from this conference by way of the attendees gaining knowledge on the use of and how to create a datainformed culture on campus,” said Dixon. “The exciting aspect connected to this trip is the newly engaged conversations about the use of data. ATD provides guiding principles and exposure

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“The network includes numerous institutions that have excelled over the last several years utilizing the ATD imitative. ATD also provides webinars, conferences, coaches, software developers, and several other resources that afford an institution the opportunity to bolster areas within that institution that need improving,” Newson added.

Other members of the attending ATD Data team included Dr. Rolonda Brown – dean of the Division of Academic Affairs; Dr. Stacey Jones – science instructor; and Amy Steele – programmer analysis.

FOLLOW AND TRACK OUR MISSION:

COAHOMACC.EDU/ATD

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Mission AROUND CAMPUS

28 ROAR Magazine

“

“

It was an honor to have served as your Miss Coahoma Community College. I enjoyed working with the SGA and was able to interact with not only the CCC community but the community at large.

I gave back and made a difference.

- J’Terrica Trotter

MISS COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE 2018-2019

W

ith the hopes and dreams of a bright future, the atmosphere in the Pinnacle was one of pageantry, excitement, and pride as hopeful candidates, their entourages, and CCC family and friends were witness to the 2018 Miss Coahoma Community College crowning of J’Terrica Trotter.

The purpose of the event is to select a queen for the campus’ royal court for the upcoming school year. Miss Coahoma Community College is a coveted title for a female student looking to represent the college as a student leader through scholarship and a community platform.

She also serves as an officer on the Student Government Association.

LaShasa Griffin, assistant director of Student Engagement, sees the pageant as an enriching opportunity and experience for all.

“J’Terrica served as the face of the young ladies at our institution. She was well spoken, concerned with issues of our community, and presented a platform dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the persons she came in contact with,” said Griffin. “She has served as a mentor for area young ladies, and she became a role model to all.”

Trotter of Cleveland, Mississippi, won the title of Miss CCC 2018-2019 and represented Coahoma Community College during that academic year.

Trotter is the youngest of seven children and is a member of St. Peter’s Rock Missionary Baptist Church where she serves as a member of the mass and youth choirs and praise team. Her hobbies include dancing, singing, shopping, and spending time with family.

Before coming to Coahoma, she attended East Side High School (now Cleveland Central High School), where she served as Miss East Side High School 20162017, Golden Doll co-captain, and was a member of the Lady Trojan volleyball and softball teams.

J’Terrica graduated as a pre-nursing major and plans to continue her education at Alcorn State University.

She is honored to have had the opportunity and will forever hold fond memories of representing Coahoma Community College.

“It was an honor to have served as your Miss Coahoma Community College. I enjoyed working with the SGA and was able to interact with not only the CCC community but the community at large. I gave back and made a difference.”

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Mission AROUND CAMPUS

MR. & MISS

Coahoma Community College 2019-2020

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hile songs usually heard during ball games blasted through the building, cheers from supportive family and friends of the contestants filled the Pinnacle.

On one side of the stage, students began chanting, “Hey! Go Jessica!” to the rhythm of a tune that has become an anthem among the Tiger Family. A decorated neon poster that read “Jessica Haygood for Miss Coahoma Community College” was raised throughout the entire event.

Four outstanding students participated in the newly established Mr. and Miss CCC Competition. Two young men,

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Hardest Vaughn of Tunica, Mississippi, and Russell Furr Jr. of Marks, Mississippi, and two contending ladies, Jessica Haygood of Marks, Mississippi, and Dierdra Gooden of Tunica, Mississippi, kicked off the event with a striking routine in maroon and black attire.

After formally introducing themselves to the audience, the contestants proceeded to model their fitness and swimwear to the five-judge panel, making up 10 percent of their total score. They were interviewed privately by the judges before the event.

The students also participated in a talent showcase, evening wear display, and

an on-stage question segment. The students were critiqued on a scale from 1 to 10 during each part of the competition.

Jessica Haygood, a rising sophomore majoring in biology, was crowned the winner by Miss CCC 2018-2019 J’Terrica Trotter. She sang a gospel song titled, “You Are” by recording artist Kurt Carr for her talent. Being named Miss CCC is indeed an unforgettable moment she will forever cherish.

She was, at first, very hesitant about agreeing to contend for the title but is now excited about what’s in store while serving in her new student leadership role.

anewReign

“It feels great to have won the title. It doesn’t feel ordinary because this is not something I would usually do, but I’m glad I stepped outside of my comfort zone and I’m really just still surprised.”

but I just wasn’t sure,” said the Honors College and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society member. “But I went ahead and decided I should do it. I decided not to worry,” said Furr.

Furr, who will be entering the Fall semester as a sophomore at Coahoma, is a sports medicine major aspiring to become an athletic trainer. He expressed that the road to the competition was pure enjoyment, describing the practices as lots of “laughter and jokes.”

Before the announcement of the winners, CCC President Dr. Valmadge Towner encouraged first-year students to participate next year, reminding them that the experience develops them as students. He stated that the four contestants were all winners in his book.

“Everybody was trying to persuade me,

“God has more destined for you than

being in this room where you are,” he said, emphasizing that their participation is not about the probability of losing.

Assistant Director of Student Engagement LaShasa Griffin said she is already looking forward to next year’s competition.

“Any one of them could have won,” she said. “So, I’m pleased with however the outcome came because they had the nerve to do it and it was a great, competition.”

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PEOPLE ON A Mission

She's Got Game

Brilliant. Athletic. Accomplished. These attributes combined make CCC Women’s Basketball Head Coach Stephanie Murphy a one-of-a-kind asset to the Tiger Nation community.

A 2018 addition to the Coahoma Community College Athletics staff, Murphy made an immediate impact upon her arrival at CCC. Murphy’s hard work and intensity rubbed off on her team right away. As a result, the Lady Tigers have impressively collected the most wins Coahoma has seen in an entire decade by going 7-16 last season. They also won their first MACJC North Division game, which concluded in a 63-62 victory against Northwest Mississippi Community College, since 2016.

Did you know that Murphy is currently occupying her first college-level coaching position? Murphy braved out a long process to get where she is. She knows deep in her heart that she would not have gotten through the process alone.

Murphy’s journey to Coahoma started a long time ago in Tutwiler, Mississippi.

Murphy has been a productive basketball player since she was a little girl. She took her game to a more advanced playing field at West Tallahatchie High School in Webb, Mississippi.

“West Tallahatchie had an unbelievable community environment and support. I got support from the teachers, and the classmates were real tight,” said Murphy.

“The people in the community supported me and pushed me to do my best. They always remembered the little girl with the basketball in her hands. I feel a great sense of pride for a community that still supports me.”

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New Leadership Tapped for Women's Basketball Murphy’s toughness and intensity were instilled by West Tallahatchie Head Coach Eddie Ray Culley. Culley led West Tally to the MHSAA state finals. “Coach Culley wasn’t just a father figure, but he was a father to all of us,” said Murphy.

“He made me believe that I can be different. He was responsible for my confidence, development, and growth at a young age.”

Murphy spent her collegiate career at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss).

She was recruited by legendary head coach Van Chancellor.

“Ole Miss was eye-opening. Oxford, Mississippi, was like night and day to the things that I was exposed to,” said Murphy. “It was a culture shock for me coming from an all African-American community to a predominantly Caucasian (white) university. It made me more of a well-rounded and diverse person.

Seeing the difference between different backgrounds on campus made me adapt to the times.”

Coach Murphy started her coaching career at Tupelo Junior High School. Former Itawamba Community College Head Coach Nanci Gray, who was then serving as the head coach at Tupelo High, sought out a candidate to lead the girls’ basketball team at Tupelo Junior High School.

Murphy gained beneficial experience working with the Tupelo High freshman team on Gray’s staff.

Murphy finally got the chance to occupy the position of head coach on the high school level. She served at the helm for two seasons at Meridian High School.

Murphy transferred her intensity and success to Brandon High School. She coached at Brandon for seven seasons.

Murphy led all three schools to the state tournament and to Super 10 rankings.

“I always had a good work ethic and

worked hard to be a good person,” said Murphy. “I’m very thankful that those opportunities came around.”

The CCC Women’s Basketball program has not been consistent since the era of former head coach Ella Morris. Now, the Lady Tigers could be a household name in the MACJC Conference. Morris was legendary, leading CCC to various titles and postseason appearances.

This year, Coahoma inducted the 1987 CCC Women’s State Championship team to the CCC Athletics Hall of Fame. Morris and many of the team members watched the current CCC women’s team put on a show. The team enjoyed every minute of the game with confidence and optimism that the Coahoma Women’s Basketball team will continue to rise.

Morris knew Coach Murphy very well and even tried to recruit her to play for CCC. She admires Murphy’s coaching style and feels that the program is in the right hands.

“Coach Murphy has done a remarkable job turning around this program,” said Morris. “Coahoma Women’s Basketball is on the way back up. I watched her play in high school and I knew it was going to be tough to recruit her to CCC. I really felt that she would be the one that would turn the whole program around.”

success at CCC in the future is because of that first group.”

Murphy has hit the ground running for her second season. Presently, more than 10 players have been recruited for the 2019 season. She is looking to take over the MACJC North. Murphy knows the CCC Women’s Basketball program will go “all the way up.”

“I know what it takes to be successful,” said Murphy. “I want these young ladies to be successful not just in basketball but in life. We’re teaching them life skills so they can be the best people that they can be.”

Murphy went through “The Uprising” of the CCC Women’s Basketball. She’s hoping that, in year two, Coahoma will be rising to the top in Women’s College Basketball.

“When people think of Coahoma, we want them to know that we’re in the same breath as Itawamba, Jones College, and etc.,” Murphy said. “We’re trying to change the narrative of being on the bottom to one of the top teams in the league. I believe in all-around excellence at Coahoma Community College.”

Murphy’s first group at CCC made some great strides during the 2018-19 season. The hard work paid off for the players not just in victories on the court but also off of the court. The Lady Tigers improved on their team GPA, and two key players were signed to scholarships to four-year institutions. Walneika Holmes signed with Jackson State University, and Dzondria Young signed with Jarvis Christian College.

“I wanted them to have faith in themselves and do the little things that make them successful,” said Murphy. “I’ll be forever thankful for this first group. Any

coahomacc.edu 33

A Mission COMPLETE

“

“

Graduates, today, you have achieved something special, something that only 70 percent of Americans your age have achieved.

34 ROAR Magazine

- Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover

THE 67th

COMMENCEMENT Glover incites passion to continue forward.

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early 500 graduates of the Coahoma Community College Class of 2019 crossed the stage of the Pinnacle to receive diplomas signifying a milestone on their paths toward greater endeavors.

Family and friends attended Coahoma’s 67th Commencement to congratulate the Class of 2019. Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, a native of Memphis, Tennessee, who currently serves as Tennessee State University’s first woman president and the international president of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Incorporated, gave the commencement address.

Glover included examples of current world issues, such as inequality, to tell the graduates they have the ability to be agents of change.

“Graduates, today, you have achieved something special, something that only 70 percent of Americans your age have achieved,” said Glover.

“Many of you will find solutions to problems that have plagued us, solutions to issues pertaining to STEM, forming public/private partnerships, global competitiveness, food security.”

She emphasized the need for them to serve, reminding them that they now possess the knowledge through education to give back.

“Make service your goal because a service flame was ignited many years ago,” Glover urged. “We cannot let that flame go out because too much of a price has been paid, too many challenges lie ahead.”

Glover continued to imbue the graduates with a message that encouraged them to maintain a spirit of faith while furthering their life plans with the inspirational theme: All of our days are not in yet.

“You’ve outlived what was trying to outlive you,” she said. “You outlived that bad day, an unfair situation.”

“God will open the right doors and he will close the wrong doors.

If He’s put a dream in your heart, he will bring it to pass.”

Coahoma President Dr. Valmadge Towner commended Glover and thanked her for fitting the speaking engagement into her schedule.

Peyton McDonald receives his Associate in Arts in General Studies/Interdisciplinary Studies degree.

“It is a staple of achievement for this college to be able to have the president of Tennessee State University to grace our campus. She’s well accomplished,” said Towner.

“We welcome the opportunity to have you come back on campus again. What a splendid message.”

Before degrees were presented to the Class of 2019, Dr. Towner recognized the Golden Class of 1969 who commemorated the 50th anniversary of their CJC graduation during the ceremony.

Rena Butler, president of the CCC Board of Trustees, concluded with a brief farewell message to the class.

“Today, you have completed another chapter in your life, said Butler, “A chapter that included many challenges, determination, hard work, and most of all, the greatest accomplishment of success.”

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COAHOMA SKILLSUSA MEMBERS CLAIM

TOP AWARDS

The Coahoma Community Chapter of SkillsUSA competed at the SkillsUSA Mississippi State competitions that were held at the Trade Mart Center and Clyde Muse Center in Jackson, Mississippi, in March 2019.

CCC saw much success at the events and placed in the following categories: Brandon Giles & Aldrict Hill – 1st place Brick Masonry Dontarius Jackson – 2nd place Culinary Arts Tre’Sha Banks – 2nd place Commercial Baking Devi’Yonna Young – 3rd place Restaurant Service Ann Shelton-Clarke, dean of the Division of Career and Technical, offered her congratulations to the students and well-wishes for the future.

“I am delighted to hear the news of our students’ special placings in their respective programs areas,” said Shelton-Clark. “I hope this will be the beginning of many accomplishments for our students.”

SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. The organization helps students excel, providing educational pro-

36 ROAR Magazine

grams, events, and competitions that support career and technical education (CTE) in the nation’s classrooms.

“It is indeed an honor well deserved and I have no doubt that this is the beginning of greater things to come,” Shelton-Clark added.

The team headed to Louisville, Kentucky, on June 24-28 for the 2019 National Leadership and Skills Conference. All first-place winners at the state competition advanced to the nationals. CCC students Brandon Giles & Aldrict Hill competed with other students in Brick Masonry from the other 49 states.

More than 6,000 outstanding career and technical education students—all state contest winners—will compete hands-on in 100 different trade, technical, and leadership fields. Students will work against the clock and each other, proving their expertise in occupations such electronics, computer-aided drafting, precision machining, medical assisting, and culinary arts. Contests are run with the help of industry, trade associations, and labor organizations, and test competencies are set by industry. Leadership contestants will demonstrate skills including extemporaneous speaking and conducting meetings by parliamentary procedure. The competitions are open to the public and free of charge.

STAY CONNECTED. GET THE

App!

coahomacc.edu 37

A HISTORY ON A Mission

38 ROAR Magazine

70 YEARS ON A MISSION: An Ode to the Exemplary Tutelage by Coahoma’s Outstanding Professors.

S

ince 1949, Coahoma Community College has been a staple in the Mississippi Delta for cultivating the capabilities of students from around the state and beyond. Besides the beautiful campus and quality academic programs, the driving force behind the school’s years of success has been its exceptional professors.

Instructors at the college have dedicated their time to shaping the next generation of professionals. They understand the future is in their hands, so that inspires them to go above and beyond to prepare their students to make this world a better place.

Former Coahoma President Dr. McKinley C. Martin remembers the inception of Coahoma Junior College and Agricultural High School and their quest to educate the Delta’s black youth.

always been versatile, and the teachers prepared their students to move on at an accelerated rate. Coahoma’s current professors are perfect. We’ve been blessed to have faculty who care about the students.”

Coahoma continues to employ extraordinary educators to foster the talent of this current generation. Shirley Ferguson-Hicks, a cosmetology instructor in her 26th year with the institution, has been one of the prominent teachers responsible for producing talented scholars.

Growing up, Hicks developed a love for hair design. Her growing affinity for cosmetology, coupled with watching her father save lives through education, prompted her to follow in his footsteps.

“During that time, African-American students attended schools at nearby churches because there was a lack of schools and black teachers,” said Martin. “There were a lot of black people located in the Delta counties during that time.”

To combat the teacher shortage, Martin said that aspiring black professors attended the Normal School for Teacher Training. The program was an extension of a training program offered on Coahoma’s campus by Rust College. Martin said that students would attend the training on Saturdays and during the summer months.

He credits B. F. McLaurin, who also served as president from 1945 to 1966, for starting the program for teachers who only had a high school diploma.

Once black teachers were equipped with more knowledge, they became a beacon of light not only for their students but also for other children in the community. Martin continues to praise those educators who had a positive influence on his life.

“Those educators had a huge effect on my life. They were like parents to us. They were very friendly, and they were very accessible. Back then, we would have the same teachers for years. They equipped me to compete on all levels after I completed college.”

Martin expressed his pride in the caliber of professors that the school has employed over the years.

“The college has a history of recruiting qualified instructors to mold students and set them on the right path,” said Martin, who led the school from 1980 to 1992. “The school’s programs have

B.F. McLaurin -First President 1945-1966

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1960: Sophomore College Class in Safety Education demonstrates Safe Driving Practices to the Driver Education class and School Bus operators.

“My passion for cosmetology and my parents inspired me to become a teacher,” said Hicks. “Displaying my passion through educating others and creating lifelong opportunities brings me joy. My father was an educator who impacted the lives of at-risk students that didn’t have many opportunities. His love for teaching birthed my passion.”

There are plenty of effective methods professors use to resonate with their students. Being honest with her students about her ascension from student to professor is what works for Hicks. She chronicles the highs and the lows of her life so that her students can understand the importance of perseverance.

“I want to be a role model for my students. I share my triumphs and disappointments I had as a student, cosmetologist, and instructor. I share my experiences with them so that they can see that I was once in their shoes. Now that I’ve overcome the hurdles, I want to guide them in the right direction.”

For Hicks, the formula for student success is transparency. By giving clear instructions and establishing expectations, Hicks can produce exceptional students who strive for the best. Watching the students succeed assures her of a job well done.

“I’m transparent as an instructor because it helps students to un-

40 ROAR Magazine

derstand what is expected of them and how to achieve excellence.

I set high expectations for my students so that they can progress and achieve their goals. It makes me proud to see my students earn academic and professional success. There is no greater joy than seeing the impact I’ve had on a student’s life. It motivates me to push even harder to become an exceptional instructor that my students will always remember.”

The dedication of teachers like Hicks is why so many students graduate from Coahoma and go on to flourish in society. One of those promising students turned prospering alumni is Mississippi State Representative Orlando Pace.

Since 2015, Paden has worked tirelessly to uplift and serve Mississippi’s 26th District. It’s that aspiration that was instilled in him from 2002-04 at Coahoma that drives him to bring positive changes to his community.

“Coahoma instilled in me a great work ethic and a desire to serve my community and promote the great things that go on at the college,” said Paden. “Coahoma provided a haven and thriving learning environment.”

Professors at Coahoma set high standards. They expect their

pupils to exceed in the classroom and beyond. Paden remembers the rigorous lessons that were taught to him. He’s grateful for a group of professors that wouldn’t allow him to settle for less.

“The instructors always challenged me to go beyond what was required for class. Because of my training, I was able to obtain internships and perform academically at a four-year institution. The foundation that Coahoma provided has allowed me to participate and compete in policy and politics globally.”

Giving back is essential to Coahoma’s growth, so Paden makes it a priority to pay it forward to the institution that provided him with an unshakable foundation.

“I give financially to the foundation, scholarships, and alumni affairs. I also facilitate and sponsor workshops for the current student body. Coahoma is a college that cares for the students’ life endeavors.”

Supportive faculty is what drove Dierdra Gooden, a Tunica, Mississippi, native, to reach her potential as a leader. Gooden’s leadership ability was on full display during her days as a cheerleader at the school. When her professors noticed her talent, they immediately encouraged her to hone her skills.

Gooden took their advice and ran for the coveted position of Student Government Association president. It turns out, her peers agreed with her teachers and voted her into the position. She credits those faculty members who helped her purpose.

“During my time as a cheerleader, some of the instructors saw potential leadership qualities in me,” said Gooden. “From there, they motivated me to pursue the position of SGA president. I am forever grateful to them for seeing something in me that initially, I didn’t see in myself. The faculty members here are amazing, and they do their best to help us elevate.”

Like other students that have graced Coahoma’s hallways, Gooden reflects on the wisdom that has been bestowed upon her. As she looks at her upcoming final undergraduate year at the school, she feels prepared to be successful in her future endeavors.

“The professors here have inspired me with their encouragement.

Their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that we are equipped for the next level is unmatched. I appreciate them for preparing me for life beyond this beautiful institution.”

DIVISIONS ON A Mission

“Pack”

LEADING THE

Division of Health Sciences Continues Successful Track.

To save a life is to possess the expertise for such a heroic feat. For program directors, staff, and faculty in Coahoma’s Division of Health Sciences, gearing up students for life-sparing missions is a piece of cake.

dents in the sleep study program.

Coahoma Community College applauds the entire department for maintaining the highest rate of graduates and being a topperforming department of the institution.

Notably, because of dedicated staff and instructors, the Practical Nursing program has maintained a high pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX- PN®) for six straight years. This achievement makes Coahoma’s practical nursing track an exceptional one.

From student success to a considerable amount of scholarship funding, Health Sciences has seen win after win.

Students who graduate from the PN program must take the NCLEX-PN® to become licensed practical nurses or LPNs.

The Division of Health Sciences peppered the 2018-19 term with triumphant pinning ceremonies and graduations. In addition to departmental achievements, 100 percent of the 2019 Polysomnography Technology graduating class passed the CPSGT exam (Certified Polysomnographic Technologists), a standard set for future stu-

The licensure exam is computer-adaptive, which means test questions are based on one’s level of knowledge in a particular field of study. With 75-205 test questions, students are presented with multiplechoice items, as well as multiple alternate format items, that validate minimum competency for an entry-level nurse position,

according to PN program director Dr. Chequitia Dixon.

According to Dixon, the test evaluates critical thinking and clinical judgment. Test takers have up to five hours to complete it.

Some of the questions require test takers to, among other things, work out dosage calculations for fill-in-the-blanks, drag and drop items, and identify parts in graphics. There’s also an audio segment that requires headphones. PN graduates are required to take the Assessment Technologies Institute comprehensive review, an online practice test that assists with student preparation for the NCLEX-PN®.

The Mississippi Community College Board composes the Practical Nursing curriculum, and instructors are responsible for executing the didactic and clinical components of the material.

HEALTH SCIENCE OFFERINGS: Associate Degree Nursing | Emergency Medical Technician | Practical Nursing | Respiratory Care | EKG | Paramedic | Polysomnography | Phlebotomy | Nursing Assistant

42 ROAR Magazine

Because students are expected to excel in course curriculum, they spend many hours in intense study.

Dixon, who recently received her doctorate in nursing education and administration from William Carey University, is elated that the program is thriving.

“The overall goal of the Practical Nursing program is to provide quality education to the students we serve in a welcoming environment that facilitates learning,” says Dixon.

“In addition, we provide a service to our community by producing competent entry-level licensed practical nurses to address the nursing shortage in the Mississippi Delta. The PN faculty is dedicated to student success and often go above what is required to support our students. Our students receive frequent advisement and are challenged to strive for excellence despite their current circumstance.”

Clinical affiliates have CCC graduates in this particular field on their radar. As a result, the program has kept up a 94 percent job placement rate for the past five years.

Each year, PN students represent Coahoma Community College at the Mississippi Licensed Practical Nurses Association convention, and they usually place in one or more of the competitions. At the MLPNA convention held last year, the Jay Slaughter Nursing scholarship was awarded to Coahoma alumna Klydra Johnson, and Mirion Thompson placed second in

the Prepared Speech category.

Dixon credits the PN instructors and administrators for the program’s production of workforce-ready LPNs. “Having been a PN instructor for five years, I understand the hard work and dedication required of the faculty to ensure student success,” said Dixon. “The faculty are compassionate, firm, and loving. We expect nothing but the very best from all of our students.”

“I send my sincere appreciation to Emily Gordon, Janet Johns, and Annie Hankins, who are the outstanding faculty;, Dr. Chequitia Dixon, an excellent director of practical nursing,; Wendy Harris, a skilled administrative assistant;, and Aneika Moore, an outstanding Student Navigator.

Coahoma Community College is very fortunate to have qualified, caring faculty and a program director who skillfully guide the students to success.”

The PN instructors strive to continue lifelong learning by attending professional development seminars, remaining active in professional nursing organizations, and pursuing advanced degrees in nursing education, Dixon said.

Dixon hopes each graduate pursues higher degrees in nursing, acquires leadership positions, and impacts the nursing profession by lobbying for law improvement in health care.

Beverly Overton, dean of the Health Sciences department, said graduating classes of the Practical Nursing program have been consistent in earning high passing scores ranging from 90 to 100 percent on the NCLEX-PN®.

As dean of CCC health science programs, two main goals she has for the PN program are to retain and graduate students.

She also wants all graduates to pass their national registry, which enables them to find employment.

Beverly Overton, dean Division of Health Sciences Dixon thanks Overton for the contributions given to make student excellence possible.

“Ms. Beverly Overton, dean of Health Sciences, is supportive as an administrator,” said Dixon. “She ensures students’ needs are met and funds are appropriately allocated for student success.”

For more information about the Division of Health Sciences, Contact: (662) 621-4210 coahomacc.edu/healthsciences

coahomacc.edu 43

BOSCHERT

BOSCHERT AND HARPER TAPPED FOR HEADWAE AWARDS

Barbara Boschert, history instructor and chair of the Social Science Department, and Yasmine Harper, CCC 2018-2019 Student Government Association president, were selected to represent Coahoma Community College at the 32nd Annual Higher Education Appreciation Day—Working for Academic Excellence (HEADWAE) Program. The event took place on Tuesday, February 26, 2019, in Jackson, Mississippi.

they are fitting representatives of the institution.

The HEADWAE program was established by the Mississippi Legislature to annually honor the scholastically talented students and exceptional faculty members of Mississippi’s higher education institutions. The goal of the program is to recognize and thank these remarkable individuals for their commitment to the future of the State of Mississippi.

HEADWAE Appreciation Day is enormously significant in that it provides an opportunity for Mississippi colleges and universities to showcase and honor their best.

Each year, member institutions of the Mississippi Association of Colleges and Universities (MAC), select a student and faculty member to be recognized during Appreciation Day Activities. The honorees are students who have excelled academically and faculty members who have made extraordinary educational and civic contributions on campuses and in their communi-

Dr. Rolonda Brown, dean of the Division of Academic Affairs, was elated with the selection of these Coahoma trailblazers and believes

“Yasmine was chosen for HEADWAE because she was an outstanding student. She displayed distinctive leadership on campus while demonstrating academic excellence. Dr. Boschert was selected because she has made extraordinary contributions to teaching and learning at Coahoma Community College,” said Brown.

ties.

Barbara Boschert believes that CCC’s greatest strength is its ability to academically prepare underprepared students for work or higher education.

Boschert joined CCC in 2008. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history and political science and a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from the University of Arkansas. She also holds a master’s degree in History Education from Delta State University and is a doctorate candidate in Educational Leadership. In 2004, the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards granted her national board certification to teach social studies to adolescents and young adults. She is also certified as a Master Teacher of Economics by the National Council of Economics Education.

Boschert is humbled by this honor and is truly proud of Yasmine and her achievements.

Yasmine Harper is a native of the Mississippi Delta, where she currently resides in Lambert. She describes herself as being nothing short of hardworking and overachieving.

Harper was a sophomore at Coahoma where she served as the 2018-19 Student Government Association president. Yasmine was also a member of the cheerleading team, a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, as well as the UptoUs nonpartisan campaign leader. Yasmine enjoys making anyone she comes into contact with smile, and she feels as if it’s her

duty to give everyone she encounters a positive experience. Yasmine recently completed her studies in both English and mass communications and is eager to pick up her first love, history. Upon completion at Coahoma Community College, she plans to further her education at Kentucky State University.

“To receive this honor was overwhelming. To know that my diligence isn’t in vain is warming and comforting. Of course, I work hard because I want to secure my future and I serve others because it’s the only way of leading. But it’s good to be recognized,” stated Harper. “I owe all honor and glory to God as well as those who support me and push me. I’m very grateful and still very humbled by this high honor.”

Appreciation Day activities included honoree recognition by political and corporate groups, educators from public and independent MAC member institutions, and others who value and support excellence in higher education. Hon-

orees were invited to tour the State Capitol where they were welcomed by legislative officials, followed by a recognition and awards luncheon program made possible by the support and generosity of Mississippi’s corporate community.

HARPER

“I am honored and humbled to represent CCC and to accompany Yasmine Harper, one of our most outstanding students, to HEADWAE. Watching Yasmine excel both academically and as a student leader has been exciting. As her history teacher, I am very proud that she will continue to study history with the ultimate goal of completing her Ph.D.

COAHOMA, MOST AFFORDABLE HBCU IN THE

Nation

cially burdened. We’re mindful whenever we are about to raise tuition, as to how much, and how frequently. We just try to be good stewards of our funds, so this is an essential component as well.”

Aerial Glasper, a sophomore majoring in Banking and Finance from Clarksdale, Mississippi, is the captain of Coahoma’s Dancing Jewels dance team.

In a 2018 report by StudentLoanHero.com, Coahoma Community College was named as the most affordable HBCU in the Nation. The company examined tuition and fee data from the 2017-18 school year in order to rank the most affordable public and private historically black colleges and universities in the United States. Today, there are over 100 HBCUs across the U.S. granting degrees to students of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Tunica, and Quitman counties.

Coahoma Community College President Dr. Valmadge T. Towner is pleased with these findings and hopes the results reap continued growth.

“Coahoma has been deliberate across the years about having little to zero indebtedness as a college through its ability to keep the tuition, and all student cost relatively nominal,” said Towner. “We’re able to achieve this because of the deliberate effort to keep the indebtedness down.”

Coahoma offers a nurturing environment for learning on one of the safest college campuses in the state of Mississippi, as reported by the State Department of Education. CCC has a wide array of activities that allow its students to develop socially and options for leadership growth and community involvement outside of the classroom. Many of these aspects are supported through state funds, but also through charitable giving from individuals and corporate sponsors.

Coahoma Community College offers its students more than 61 university parallel degree programs, eight Health Science programs, and 15 Career and Technical Education programs. The College offers classes online, in the classroom and at extension sites within its five-county service area of Bolivar, Coahoma, Tallahatchie,

“We also do a superb job in securing external funds through our partners, and those funds are made available to assist students financially. So, our partners allow us to help students,” Towner added. “Also, we have a lot of moving parts. Our board of trustees, our staff all are very sensitive to ensuring that our students are not finan-

46 ROAR Magazine

“We’re also privileged to be a part of what we believe is the best community college system in the nation, and that’s the MACJC,” Towner added. “Being a part of the MACJC allows us to have a sound financial foundation. So, that’s probably one of the most critical components. This affords our students the privilege to have an affordable education at our school.”

Beyond Coahoma’s affordability for students, Towner sees the enriching and high-performing academic and vocational offerings as the true star of Coahoma’s ongoing achievements.

“We offer a good education, actually for the cost. Our career-tech or CTE Division offers exceptional instruction in a diverse range of trades,” said Towner. “We have highly-ranked health sciences programs.

So not only are we affordable, but we’re also pretty good.”

COST PER SEMESTER:

$1,425.00

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PAYING FOR COLLEGE? PLEASE CONTACT OUR FINANCIAL AID OFFICE AT: (662) 621-4200 OR FINANCIALAID@COAHOMACC.EDU

MAROON

IS THE

NEW

BLACK

Real Tiger Fans Wear Maroon!

GET THE GEAR COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOOKSTORE VIVIAN M. PRESLEY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING (662) 621-4172 Hours of Operation Mon-Thurs: 8am-4pm Friday: 8am-4pm Closed: Sat & Sun

TIGER NOTES

YOUR DREAMS. YOUR SUCCESS. OUR MISSION.

Students

Kelly Willaims

Devi’Yonna Young Young competed at the SkillsUSA Mississippi State competitions that were held at the Trade Mart Center and Clyde Muse Center in Jackson, Mississippi.

Devi’Yonna placed 3rd in Restaurant Service.

Williams competed on the national level of the SkillsUSA competition in Louisville, Kentucky, representing Coahoma Community College and Mississippi as the first place winner of the SkillsUSA state competition. She proved to have a great deal of skill at napkin-folding, table-setting and whipping up guacamole.

Williams remarkably competed in the Restaurant Service category at nationals and placed No. 16 out of the 40-plus students that participated.

Brandon Giles

Paige Powell Powell, a pre-nursing major, received recognition as a transfer pathway student and was recognized as an All Mississippi Second Team member.

She was among many community college students from across the state honored for their outstanding academic achievements and leadership during the 2019 All-Mississippi Academic Team Recognition Ceremony on Wednesday, April 10, 2019, in Jackson, Mississippi.

Aldrict Hill Hill competed at the SkillsUSA Mississippi State competitions that were held at the Trade Mart Center and Clyde Muse Center in Jackson, Mississippi. Aldrict placed 1st in Brick Masonry.

Giles competed at the SkillsUSA Mississippi State competitions that were held at the Trade Mart Center and Clyde Muse Center in Jackson, Mississippi. Brandon placed 1st in Brick Masonry.

Brianna N. James Brianna N. James, a biochemistry major, received recognition as a transfer pathway student and recognized as an All Mississippi First Team member.

She was among many community college students from across the state recently honored for their outstanding academic achievements and leadership during the 2019 All-Mississippi Academic Team Recognition Ceremony on Wednesday, April 10, 2019, in Jackson, Mississippi.

SHARE YOUR NEWS! 48 ROAR Magazine

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

Tre’sha Banks Banks competed at the SkillsUSA Mississippi State competitions that were held at the Trade Mart Center and Clyde Muse Center in Jackson, Mississippi.

Tre’sha placed 2nd in Commercial Baking.

Engage

in campus life.

Visit coahomacc.edu/studentlife

Taylor Harris & Watesha McKnight Taylor Harris and Watesha McKnight gained hands-on experience in public health research through the Mississippi INBRE Scholars program.

As part of the 11-week process, the participants became certified in CPR, phlebotomy and HIV testing and counseling.

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

Mississippi INBRE seeks to engage talented researchers and students in biomedical research projects that will increase the state’s research competitiveness as well as impact the health of citizens of Mississippi.

IMPORTANT 2020 ACADEMIC DATES

STUDENTS ATTEND THE MISSISSIPPI BLACK LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

JANUARY 7-8: Registration / Dormitories Open

Members of the CCC Honors College joined elected and school officials, as well as religious and community leaders at the Mississippi Black Leadership Summit, an annual event sponsored by the non-profit One Voice Mississippi.

CCC freshmen Miltesha Nelson, Dynasty Latham, Ben Baltimore, Jr., Dedrick Gates, Aerial Glasper, Portia Trotter and Taylor Harris, along with sophomores Karinton Johnson, Kymbranecia Richard, Rameshia Martin and Brianna James gained insight from politicians striving toward change in their local cities and across the state of Mississippi.

JANUARY 9:

Day and Evening Classes Begin

JANUARY 13:

Online Full Session and First 8-week Session Begins

JANUARY 17:

Last Day to Register for Day and Evening Classes

MARCH 2-5:

Midterm Examinations

MARCH 9-13: Spring Break APRIL 10-13: Easter Break MAY 9:

Commencement Exercises

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

coahomacc.edu 49

TIGER NOTES

YOUR DREAMS. YOUR SUCCESS. OUR MISSION. Faculty and Staff Dr. Kishki Hall

Hall was chosen as the 2018 Humanities Teacher of the Year, an honor of prestige awarded each year to a faculty member who teaches within the realm of the humanities subject area and has been deemed a remarkable instructor by President Towner and Academic Affairs Dean Dr. Rolanda Brown.

Renee’ Hall Hall, coordinator of counseling services within the Division of Student Engagement, was the keynote speaker at the Quitman County Career and Technical Center Awards Ceremony on May 17, 2018, in Marks, Mississippi.

Kenneth Gooden Gooden, program coordinator for the Coordinated Community Response Team (CCRT), presented at the OVW’s Training and Technical Assistance Institute held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, June 10-13, 2019. The conference was sponsored by the Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women.

Melody Dixon ‘13 Dixon, a 2013 graduate of Coahoma Community College, was hired as communications specialist in July 2018. She joins the Office of Communications and Marketing.

Karen Woods-Done Rhett Nelson Nelson, paramedic and program director for Emergency Medical Technology at Coahoma Community College, was recognized by the Board of Directors of the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) for achieving 20 consecutive years of National EMS Certification. This distinction is an honor held by few EMS professionals.

Dr. Chequitia Dixon Dixon received a Doctorate of Philosophy in Nursing Education and Administration from William Carey University.

She was also named assistant dean of the Division of Health Sciences and has been selected to participate in the 20192020 class of the MS Community College Leadership Academy.

Woods-Done, director of the Division of Student Engagement, attended the following conferences: SACS on December 8-11, 2018, SACS Summer Institute on July 22-24, 2018, ATD Conference on February 20-23, 2018, Holistic Student Support Conference on October 8-11, 2018.

LaShasa Griffin ‘95 Griffin, assistant director of the Division of Student Engagement, completed the Mississippi Black Leadership Institute (MBLI), the institute is for emerging leaders from various disciplines across the state of Mississippi, who participate in a nine-month curriculum of civic engagement, public policy and governance, state history, and relationship development.

Alumni

Dr. Angelia McDowell ‘06, ‘10 Dr. McDowell, licensed in Mississippi and Tennessee, is the first board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Coahoma County and currently works as an independent consultant at The Woman’s Clinic of Clarksdale. Some of her accomplishments include being recognized as a Top Minority in Business by the Delta Business Journal in 2017; Honor Society of Nursing - Sigma Theta Tau International 2015; Healthcare Provider of Excellence, International Nurses Association 2013; and several Awards of Excellence from CCC. Dr. McDowell recounts that one of her proudest moments was returning to CCC to serve as keynote speaker for the Health Sciences Pinning Ceremony in 2018.

Carla Hickmon-Scott ‘04, ‘09 Hickmon-Scott received an Associate in Arts Degree in Pre-Nursing in 2004. She later received an Associate Degree in Nursing from Coahoma Community College in 2009. Carla later received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University, and now works as a Practical Nursing instructor at Hinds Community College, in Jackson, Mississippi.

Kandi Moody ‘09, ‘15, ‘17 Moody is a 2009 graduate of the Respiratory Care Program at Coahoma Community College. She went on to complete the LPN Program in 2015. In 2017, she graduated with honors from CCC’s RN program. After graduating, she started working in the ICU at Merit Health Medical Center in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Most recently, she graduated Cum Laude from Mississippi University for Women with a BSN.

Meta Hodges-Anderson ‘10 Hodges-Anderson is a 2010 graduate of Coahoma’s ADN program. She furthered her education at Walden University receiving her BSN in 2012 and MSN with concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner in 2016. Currently, she is employed with Delta Health Center, the Nation’s first Federally Qualified Health Center, as a Family Nurse Practitioner in a school-based clinic. She’s currently a member of the America Association of Nurses, Mississippi Nurse Association, National Nursing Society - Sigma Theta Tau, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is married to Tony G. Anderson and they have three daughters.

Shanelle Frazier ‘06 Frazier, a 2006 graduate and student employment coordinator in the CCC Office of Financial Aid, welcomed a handsome and happy baby boy, Tyler Johnson. He was born February 1, 2019. “He is my first love. I have always wanted children, and God has blessed me with my heart’s desire. Parenthood is AMAZING!!”

Randy Murry ‘14 Murry is a 2014 graduate of the first Associate Degree Paramedic Program at Coahoma. He currently serves as the EMS Operations Manager for Pafford Medical Services in Coahoma County, Mississippi.

Saint Lozon Ranson ‘09 Saint Lozon Ranson, a 2009 graduate of Coahoma Community College, made his acting debut during the 27th Annual Pan-African Film Festival, February 7-16, 2019, in Los Angeles, California.

Dr. Alvin Ward II ‘10 Alvin Ward II, Ph.D., an alumnus of CCC and Delta State University, created an opportunity for young students to satisfy community service obligations. In his hometown of Cleveland, Mississippi, Ward has adopted a stretch of Highway 61 to offer students age 12 and older the chance to collect community service hours.

Cassie Montgomery, ‘10 Montgomery, a 2010 graduate of Coahoma Community College’s Associate Degree Nursing Program, went on to obtained a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Alcorn State University, and a Master of Science in Nursing Education from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She is currently employed at Delta Regional Medical Center in Greenville, Mississippi.

coahomacc.edu 51

THE

ultimate HOMECOMING EXPERIENCE

THROWBACK l

We are taking a look back at 2018 and OUR favorite Homecoming memories.

Hoops

2019-2020

DATE

DAY

OPPONENT

TIME

PLACE

Oct. 19 Saturday

Bethel Univ. (Women) TBA Away (Exhib.)

Oct. 25 Friday East Central (Women) TBA Away (Exhib.)

Nov. 1 & 2 Fri. & Sat. S. Ark. Tech Univ.

TBA Away Nov. 9 Saturday Ark. Baptist (Women) 5:00 Home Nov. 9 Saturday Royal Ambass. (Men) 7:00 Home Nov. 16 Saturday Ark. Baptist (Men) 5:00 Home Nov. 25-26 Mon. & Tues. ECCC (Women) TBA Away Nov. 25-26 Mon. & Tues.

MS Delta (Men) TBA Away Dec. 2 Monday Arkansas Baptist 6:00 & 8:00 Away Dec. 5 Thursday SUSLA (Women) 4:00 Away Dec. 9 Monday Northeast 5:30 & 7:30 Away Dec. 14 Saturday Baton Rouge CC 4:00 & 6:00 Home Jan. 6 Monday Baton Rouge CC 5:30 & 7:30 Away Jan. 9 Thursday Northwest CC 5:00 & 7:00 Away Jan. 13 Monday East MS 5:30 & 7:30 Away Jan. 16 Thursday Holmes 5:30 & 7:30 Home Jan. 18 Saturday SUSLA (HC) 1:00 (Women) Home Jan. 18 Saturday Faith Based Prep (HC) 3:00 (Men) Home Jan. 23 Thursday Itawamba 5:30 & 7:30 Away Jan. 27 Monday MS Delta 5:30 & 7:30 Home Jan. 30 Thursday Northeast 5:30 & 7:30 Home Feb. 3 Monday Northwest 5:30 & 7:30 Home Feb. 6 Thursday East MS 5:30 & 7:30 Home Feb. 10 Monday Holmes 5:30 & 7:30 Away Feb. 13 Thursday Itawamba 5:30 & 7:30 Home Feb. 17 Monday S. Ark. Tech Univ.

5:30 & 7:30 Home Feb. 20 Thursday MS Delta 5:30 & 7:30 Away

JOIN THE

CCC ALL SPORTs BOOSTER CLUB TODAY!

Make checks payable to: CCC All Sports Booster Club and mail to Coahoma Community College Foundation, P.O. Box 1474, Clarksdale, MS 38614, or visit Josephine P. Rhymes in the TriCounty Workforce Alliance Office (Second Floor, Z. A. Barron Student Union, Coahoma Community College).

Miss CCC 2019-20 20 Jessica H aygood

Then& NOW For 70 years, we’ve had an unwavering belief in an education rooted in creativity, values, and intellectual curiosity.

Much has changed since Coahoma opened its doors in 1949.

Seventy years later, we remain a vital part of our community.

Miss CJC

Marching Maroon Typhoon

1973 Honors C o

llege Me

mbers

1957 CJC & CAHS BAND

54 ROAR Magazine

1970

CJC Honors Students

Graduation Cerem

ony

1966 illiams

ming, Kelly W

iss Homeco Crowning of M

1976 CCC Choir

1961 CJC Student Government Association

CCC Stud ent Governm ent Associat ion 2018-20 19

1981

coahomacc.edu 55

In Memoriam

Eddie Charles Smith

"Smitty"

E

asily distinguished by a perfectly neat mustache, heavily involved in extracurricular while a CJC Tiger, a long-term staff and faculty member of Coahoma Community College, a dutiful Coahoma County official and firm pillar of the community—the man affectionately remembered as “Smitty.” Fond memories of Eddie Charles Smith live on in the hearts and minds of Coahoma Community College alumni, friends, and administrators.

He made his departure at 82 years old in May of 2018, leaving an indelible mark on the campus community.

Smith was born in Friars Point, Mississippi, on November 27, 1935, to Emres and Rosie Lee Cole-Smith. He attended Friars Point Elementary, Coahoma Agricultural High School, and Coahoma Junior College. During his attendance at CJC, he participated in quite a few student activities, which included playing the saxophone and tuba in the Tiger Band and singing in the school choir. He also explored his athletic abilities playing on the CJC basketball and football teams. Driven and ambitious, Smith furthered his education at Tennessee State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree and graduate credits.

Having earned his bachelor’s, Smith resorted to his Plan B of entering a career in teaching after realizing he didn’t have the financial stability to attend medical school. He began educating students at Carver High School in Columbus, Tennessee, teaching general science, chemistry, and biology. During his five-year tenure there, he also practiced his photography skills, capturing shots at the school’s sporting events. His side hustle was selling novelty items. Smith began using his weekends and summer breaks to immerse himself even more into the world of science at various institutions like Christian Brothers University, the University of Southern Illinois, and Texas Southern University. This interest led to him being named a National Science Fellow.

In 1965, Smith was granted acceptance into graduate school at the University of Mississippi where he received his master’s in cell physiology as well as a specialist in bio-chemistry. The following year, he returned to his beloved alma mater, Coahoma Junior College, this time as an educator. He continued his budding career in teaching, instructing in science, general biology, human anatomy and physiology, and nutrition at Coahoma.

In the early 1970s, Smith got involved with local politics. He joined other Democratic county officials after being elected the Coahoma County supervisor over Beat 4. He enthusiastically served in this position until 2004. Through political relationships Smith forged with Mississippi legislators, he was able to advocate for educational advancement at Coahoma. This led to construction of the Coahoma Higher Education Center and the Allied Health Center.

While a student, instructor, alumni director, and sports announcer (Voice of the Tigers) at Coahoma, Smith experienced leadership under four of the institution’s presidents. He became a supporter of Coahoma’s Lyceum enrichment programs. His continued love for photography was recorded in the college’s yearbooks.

Smith served as the director of Institutional Relations alongside former CCC president Vivian Presley, who, at that time, held the position of vice president for Institutional Advancement while under the leadership of McKinley C. Martin in the 1980s.

Although proud of Coahoma’s progress and the prosperous path the institution was headed down, Smith pushed for a more aggressive approach to Coahoma’s recruiting in academics and athletics.

He tasked Coahoma graduates with spreading the good news to others about the beneficial education they received. Smith advised them to give back, not only financially but also by encouraging their children to attend Coahoma.

He gave student recruiters specific advice for drafting new Tigers to the Coahoma family. “Look your best. Behave appropriately, and talk to students like a surrogate parent,” he would say.

Unsurprisingly, Smith possessed the courage to help win civil rights for blacks. In 1966, around the time of his tenure at CJC, Smith joined James Meredith and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. in the historical 220-mile March Against Fear from Memphis, Tennessee, to Jackson, Mississippi, which rallied for voter registration in the black community. While studying at Tennessee State, he had gotten the chance to participate in the Nashville lunch counter sit-in demonstrations that brought desegregation in 1960.

The late Dr. L. C. Tyler, former pastor of Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church, took Smith in as a member.

coahomacc.edu 57

ROAR MAGAZINE Coahoma Community College 3240 Friars Point Rd. Clarksdale, MS 38614-9359

HOW CAN YOU HELP

COAHOMA? Returning to campus as a volunteer for special events is a great way to demonstrate support and loyalty.

Providing positive online reviews at the college website or other higher education review sites supports the recruitment effort that is vital for colleges to succeed.

As one of your college’s alumni, you should have the inside track on any funding they have to offer.

Another way to improve a college’s reputation is through community engagement.

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