Colinian Spring 2025_upload

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Colinian

Volume 51 Issue I | Spring 2025

Copiah-Lincoln Community College Alumni Magazine

Softball celebrates MACCC title

The

Colinian Alumni Relations Staff

Table of Contents

Features

Angela Furr, Executive Director Julia Miller, Communications and Alumni Relations Coordinator Sarah Johnson, Finance and Scholarships Coordinator

Alumni celebrated

5

Alumni Association

Whitney Clark (‘11), President Robin Mitchell (‘97), Vice President Dr. Dara Moak (‘05), Secretary

Athletic Alumni Association

John Harper (‘09), President Maurice Johnson (‘96), Vice President Jacob Fleming (‘14), Secretary

Band & Colette Alumni Chapter

Steptoe Show Arrives SHOF inductee shares remarkable journey

Jessica Breazeale (‘04), President Geralyn Russell (‘01), Vice President Angela Smith (‘94), Secretary

Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the college administration, faculty or students.

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FREE TUITION

Foundation Board of Directors

Brad Jones, President Elise Munn, Vice President Sarah Johnson, Secretary Charles Hart, Treasurer Shannon Aker, Roshanda Alexander, Susan Berry, James Brown, Andrew Calvit, Scott Christensen, Craig Davis, Stacy Fells, Jr., Craig Gilbert, Aimee Guido, Jaymie Heard, John Hughes, Melton King, Steve McNulty, Aaron Oberschmidt, Morgan Poore, Dr. Troy Stewart, Tammy Torrey, Barry Tyson, Dustin Walker, Marney Walker and Matthew Windham

Homecoming 2024

20

Estate establishes scholarship

Inside

From the President From the Executive Director Scholarship Reception Tracking the Classes

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from the President In 2024, the Co-Lin family once again demonstrated the strength of collaboration, the power of perseverance, and the unwavering commitment to excellence that defines our three campuses. This year, we have not only upheld our tradition of academic and athletic excellence but have also embraced new opportunities to innovate, inspire and transform lives.

For the third year in a row, CoLin secured the top spot in the state for student success, ranking among Mississippi’s 15 community colleges with the highest graduation rate. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our exceptional students, faculty and staff. Their tireless efforts continue to set a standard of excellence.

Our Paramedic Training Program also received national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. This prestigious recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to providing top-tier paramedic education and training to our students.

We successfully completed our reaccreditation process, introducing our new Quality Enhancement Plan, Press P.A.W.S. This initiative aims to enhance student success by offering increased mental health support. Our goal is to foster a stronger foundation for academic

and personal achievement.

On our Natchez Campus, we are thrilled to announce a 12 percent increase in enrollment for the fall 2024 Middleton semester. This growth reflects increases across career and technical education programs and academic courses.

It is a testament to the tireless efforts of our Enrollment Services team and the collaborative spirit of our campus community. By expanding program offerings and creating new opportunities, we continue to meet the needs of our students.

We concluded the year by celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of our Co-Lin Softball team, who were awarded MACCC Championship rings—a well-deserved honor for their hard work, dedication and team spirit.

Congratulations to our student-athletes and coaches!

We also salute 21 years of exemplary leadership and dedication from our esteemed head football coach, Glenn Davis, who recently announced his

retirement. Coach Davis has led the Wolf Pack with unwavering integrity and passion, holding the distinction of the longest consecutive tenure among any current coach in the MACCC. As he embarks on this new chapter, we extend our heartfelt wishes for his continued success.

Last, but certainly not least, we recognized a substantial gift from the estate of the late Faye R. Posey. Her educational foundation will fully fund tuition for Magee High School students planning to attend Co-Lin. We are honored by the generosity of this gift.

You can find out more about this new scholarship on page 20.

As we move into 2025, we remain focused on our mission of empowering students and transforming lives. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our collective successes. Together, we are forging a brighter future for our college and our communities.

Dr. Dewayne Middleton Co-Lin President Class of 1996

All living retired Co-Lin presidents joined current President Dr. Dewayne Middleton for a panel on “Leadership Perspectives of Five Consecutive Presidents” at the Mississippi Community College Leadership Academy this fall. Pictured are (from left) Dr. Ronnie Nettles, Dr. Jane Hulon Sims, Dr. Howell Garner, Dr. Billy Thames and Middleton.

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from the Alumni Association President What a homecoming we had! Our campus was alive with excitement as alumni, faculty, staff, students and community members came together to celebrate. From honoring outstanding alumni to cheering on our football team to victory, the day was filled with pride and camaraderie. Moments like these remind us of the special bond we all share at CoLin. Homecoming is just one of the many traditions that make Co-Lin such a vibrant community. These events wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of our alumni. Annual dues paid to the Alumni Association allow us to host meaningful activities that bring us together and honor those who make CoLin extraordinary.

In February, the Alumni Association hosts appreciation meals for faculty and staff across all three campuses. Last

year, we had a fantastic turnout for lunches at Simpson and Natchez and a delightful breakfast for Wesson campus employees.

Clark These gatherings provide a much-loved opportunity for our faculty and staff to connect and recharge.

Additionally, during Convocation, we honor outstanding faculty and staff with a cash award as a token of our appreciation.

These events remind us of the incredible people who make Co-Lin the exceptional place it is.

We’re excited to continue these meaningful initiatives—and even introduce new ones—in the coming year. Your support makes all of this possible. Annual dues are $25 for individuals and $40 for couples. For those looking to make a lasting impact, lifetime memberships are available for $250 for individuals and $400 for couples.

Thank you for your generosity and unwavering support. Because of you, CoLin continues to thrive as a vibrant and welcoming community. We couldn’t do it without you!

Whitney Clark Whitney Clark Co-Lin Alumni Association President Class of 2011

Alumni Officers Two alumni organizations recently elected new officers.

The Alumni Association named Whitney Clark (‘11) president, Robin Mitchell (‘97) vice president, and Dr. Dara Moak (‘05) secretary.

For the Athletic Alumni Association, Dr. John Harper (‘09) was named president, with Maurice Johnson (‘96) serving as vice-president and Jacob Fleming (‘14) as secretary.

Whitney Clark While at Co-Lin, Clark was president of Sigma Kappa Delta, secretary of Phi Beta Lambda, freshman class vice president and sophomore class president in the Student Government Association, vice president of the Food Service Committee, a member of the President’s Council and Judicial Council, a Diamond Doll, a member of the Microcosm Staff and a writer for Wolf Tales, a member of Phi Theta Kappa, Future Teachers of America, Women’s Resident Council, the Academic Team and a Trailblazer. She was also a class favorite, voted Who’s Who Among American Junior Colleges, and was crowned as Co-Lin’s 2010 Homecoming Queen.

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After Co-Lin, Clark attended Mississippi State University and graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Public Relations.

Currently, she is the Office Manager at White & Associate. She is a six year member of Junior Auxiliary of Brookhaven serving as the 2024-2025 President.

She is an independent marketing specialist and a member of the Executive Board of Directors for the Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce. Clark is an active member of Center Street Church of Christ where she serves as a mentor on the youth committee.

Robin Mitchell Mitchell originally attended Co-Lin in the fall of 1980 with an interest in nursing.

However, she became a fulltime banker before returning to Co-Lin’s nursing program.

She always dreamed of eventually pursuing a nursing degree and becoming a part of the second graduating Associate Degree Nursing class. After Co-Lin, Mitchell ventured out in healthcare gaining all the experience and knowledge she could.

She went on to receive her

Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Mitchell previously worked as an ER/Acute Care nurse, Mitchell and worked as Director of Education at Lawrence County Hospital before returning to Co-Lin. In July 2014, she joined the Co-Lin family as a coordinator/trainer for workforce development, overseeing community projects and training. In October 2023, she took on a new role as the Nurse Navigator for all of Co-Lin’s nursing programs, focusing on student success. She also teaches part-time for Hurst Review Services in Brookhaven. She is part of the Emergency Nurses Association, Mississippi Nurses Association, and MS Governor’s Homeland Security.

She is married to Jeff Mitchell, and they reside in Jayess. They have two daughters, both graduates of Co-Lin and three grandchildren. Mitchell enjoys following and supporting them in all their activities. Mitchell is also an

Moak

Harper

Johnson

Fleming

active member of Monticello Baptist Church.

Dara Moak Moak graduated from Co-Lin in 2005 before continuing her education at the University of Southern Mississippi. She received her Bachelor of Science in 2007, a Master of Education from Delta State University in 2008, and a PhD from Concordia University of Chicago in 2024.

Moak is a teacher in the Brookhaven School District and an athletic trainer for King’s Daughters Medical Center.

She received the SEATA Young Officers, continued on page 23

Homecoming 2024

50th Reunion

Members of the Class of 1974 received golden anniversary pins at the alumni awards reception. Pictured are (first row, from left) Michael Tanner, Bill Smith, Becky Thompson Perrett, Helen Mullen Dowling; (second row) Randy Davis, Martha Salters, Pat Drew; (third row) Larry Ashley, Randy Johns and Phil Hinton.

60th Reunion

Members of the Class of 1964 gathered prior to the alumni awards reception. Pictured are (from left) Eleanor Burge, Glenda Anderson Morgan, Connie Barton Anderson and Howard Brister.

Homecoming Court

The 2024 Homecoming Court was presented at the Homecoming football game at halftime. Those selected by their peers were (from left) Simpson County Center freshman maid Maylin Berry, Wesson campus freshman maids Carmen Lambert and Reagan Fortenberry, Homecoming Queen Makyia Stallings, Wesson campus sophomore maids Syllia McCalup and Carlee Case, Simpson County Center sophomore maid Kadence Phillips and Natchez Campus sophomore maid Jada Stampley.

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Sports Hall of Fame

Calvin Butler, football, represented by (from left) Elaine Looney, Cathie Butler Looney, Aimee Butler Burns and Alton Ricks. They are pictured with Athletic Alumni Association President Dr. John Harper.

The Copiah-Lincoln Community College Athletic Alumni Association inducted six members into the Sports Hall of Fame.

This year’s class includes the late Calvin Butler, of Hazlehurst, Kiara Etienne, of Houston, Texas, Andrew McGee, of Stillwater, Oklahoma, Xavier Qualls, of Lutz, Florida, Marianna Reeves, of Camden, South Carolina, and Johnny Steptoe, of Amite, Louisiana.

Kiara Etienne, women’s basketball, and her coach Gwyn Young

“This honor shows Calvin Butler has left a legacy of hard work, determination, and a love of athletic excellence,” his daughter Aimee Butler Burns said.

Butler was married to Susan Spitchley, and they had three daughters, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He died Sept. 21, 1985 after a battle with cancer.

After Co-Lin, Etienne played basketball at Prairie View A&M University. She currently works as a pipe fitter.

“Being inducted into the Hall of Fame means so much to me,” Etienne said.

“Never in a million years, would I have thought a girl from a small town would accomplish such a thing. I’m glad to see all my hard work and dedication to the game of basketball has paid off.”

Calvin Butler Butler was a 1947 graduate of Co-Lin, where he was a member of the Wolf Pack football team. He enrolled at the college after serving in World War II in the U.S. Navy.

After Co-Lin, Butler played football at Mississippi Southern College, where he was recruited for the professional football draft by the Baltimore Colts. After college, he worked as a high school coach and a sales engineer. He was a deacon and Sunday school president at his church, and he served as a poll worker and the president of the advisory council at Copiah Academy.

Kiara Etienne Etienne is a 2011 graduate of Co-Lin where she was a member of the Wolf Pack basketball team. She was named a secondteam NJCAA All-American in 2011, the NJCAA National All-Tournament Team, NJCAA AllRegion 23 and MACCC All-State First team.

She led the team in scoring with 14.6 points per game. She made nearly 80 percent of her free throws and finished as the team’s top three-point shooter. Her team finished 27-4 overall and 11-1 in league play. They won the MACCC South Division Championship, the MACJC State Championship and the NJCAA Region 23 Championship. They also made a NJCAA National Tournament appearance.

Andrew McGee McGee is a 2008 graduate of Co-Lin, where he was a member of the Wolf Pack football team. While at Co-Lin, he was named 1st Team All-American and to the All-State team. He was also named Mr. Co-Lin. After Co-Lin, McGee played football at Oklahoma State University. He was named to the First Team All Big 12. He currently is employed as the director of education at Leadercast. He is actively involved in his church and regularly volunteers at the YMCA and juvenile centers.

Andrew McGee, football, and his coach, Glenn Davis

Xavier Qualls, baseball, and his coach Keith Case

Marianna Reeves, softball, and her coach Johnny Williams

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Sports continued on page 7

Band & Colette Alumni Awards The Band and Colette chapter inducted Buddy Gibbons, of Los Angeles, California, formerly of Monticello, into its Hall of Fame and honored Allison Dann, of Brookhaven, as the Stanley Stewart Outstanding Young Alumni recipient.

Buddy Gibbons Gibbons is a 1990 graduate of Co-Lin, where he was a member of the Blue Wave Show Band, the Sojourners and the choir.

After Co-Lin, he received a Bachelor of Science in social science from the University of Alabama.

With over 250,000 placements on network television, Gibbons is a highly respected and sought-after musician. His work has garnered him endorsement deals with a variety of musical instrument, professional audio and consumer products manufacturers and his social media presence appears on NextBigSound.com as a “viral” content provider.

Gibbons has recently composed music for networks such as CBS, NBC, Fox Sports, Animal Planet, Hulu and Netflix.

He was also commissioned by the Los Angeles Dodgers to create the team theme song and stadium intro music for all Dodgers home games, television broadcasts, and web presence. For the past several years, Buddy has been hosting a high level internet show called “The Groove Diner” in which he interviews some of the most successful and famous musicians and actors in Los Angeles.

He and his wife, Natalie Gibbons, have one child: Walker Parrish.

“I owe a great deal of my success to my time at Co-Lin, and to be recognized by

the very place that helped me launch my life is a sincere honor,” he said.

Allison Dann Dann is a 2012 graduate of Co-Lin, where she was a member of the Blue Wave Show Band. After Co-Lin, Dann received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the Mississippi University for Women and a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in human resources. She is currently enrolled in Mississippi State University’s community college leadership program.

She currently serves as the coordinator of housing and student life at Co-Lin. She is a Cub Scout den leader for Family Pack 1248, assists with the Overbrook Festival and helps with several fundraisers held at Magnolia Blues BBQ. Dann has two children: Isaac Wise, 10, and Anderson Snowden, 7.

“Winning the Stanley Stewart Young Alumni Award means so much to me, especially since I was nontraditional,” she said. “Juggling my education while raising two kids has been challenging, but Co-Lin provided me with the support and opportunities I needed to succeed.

This award is not just a recognition of my hard work; it’s a celebration of the community that has helped shape my journey. I’m passionate about giving back to Co-Lin because it has truly transformed my life. This honor inspires me to continue making a positive impact and encourages others in their educational pursuits. I’m proud to be part of a community that values growth and opportunity.”

Former Co-Lin Band Director Stanley Stewart (right) presents Buddy Gibbons with a platter commemorating his Hall of Fame induction.

Former Co-Lin Band Director Stanley Stewart (right) presents Allison Dann with the Stanley Stewart Outstanding Young Alumni award.

Sports Hall of Fame continued from page 6 “My time at Co-Lin was one of the most important times in my life. It shaped who I am today,” he said.

“Being inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame solidifies my time and acknowledges my accomplishments during my time there.”

McGee and his wife a have a 4-year-old son.

Xavier Qualls Qualls is a 2006 graduate of Co-Lin where he was a member of the Wolf Pack baseball team.

While at Co-Lin, he was named to the NJCAA All-American team.

After Co-Lin, Qualls played baseball at Southeastern Louisiana University. He was named to the 2000s All Decade Team at SELU. He currently works as a national sales executive with Molson Coors Beverage Company. He is a Lutz Little League baseball coach and

a member of Disabilities United resource group.

“Being inducted into the CoLin Sports Hall of Fame is an incredible honor,” he said. “I’m extremely humbled to be among a fraternity that connects me to a long and impressive list of athletes and just overall human beings. I’m proud to be in such great company and inspired to give back to the community that has given me so much.”

He and his wife, Tara, have two children, Taya, 8, and Cassius, 5.

Marianna Reeves Reeves is a 1996 graduate of Co-Lin where she was a member of the Wolf Pack softball and basketball teams.

Selected for her outstanding softball achievements, she was named a 1st team All-American by the NJCAA, with a batting average of .617 and a slugging percentage of 1.062. She was

also named to the All Region team both years and Co-Lin softball MVP in 1996. Her team won the 1996 state tournament, finished in the top three of the Region XXIII finals and placed seventh in the nation at the national tournament. She was also recognized as a MACJC All-Star in basketball in 1996.

The basketball team finished the 1995-96 season with a tie for the regular season South Division and runner-up in the Region XXIII championship.

After Co-Lin, Reeves played basketball for one season at the University of West Alabama. She graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science in physical education.

She currently is an elementary PE teacher and a member of the South Carolina Foster Parent Association.

“It means the world to me to be inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame at Co-Lin,” she said.

“The two years I spent playing two sports that I love were filled with so many wonderful experiences and memories with people that I cherish every single day.

She is married to Debbie Smith Reeves, and they have four children: JJ, 11, Bryce, 10, Xae, 9, and Finley 8.

Johnny Steptoe Steptoe is a 1987 graduate of Co-Lin, where he was a member of the Wolf Pack basketball team. While at Co-Lin, he was named the No. 1 player in the country. After Co-Lin, Steptoe attended the Southern University in Baton Rouge.

“It means a lot to be selected,” he said. “I really enjoyed myself when I went there, and choosing Co-Lin was one of the best moves I’ve made.”

Steptoe has three sons and one daughter.

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Alumni of the Year Matt Bowers (‘92), of New Orleans, was selected as Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s 2024 Alumnus of the Year, and Jarvis Wilbert (‘12), of Hattiesburg, formerly of Brookhaven, was selected as the inaugural Young Alumnus of the Year.

Matt Bowers Bowers attended Co-Lin in 1992 where he was a member of the Wolf Pack baseball team under Coach Keith Case. After Co-Lin, he received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Mississippi.

Bowers serves as president, founder and chairman of Matt Bowers Auto Group. He is responsible for the development of strategic operational initiatives that promote revenue growth and profitability across the company, including strategic acquisitions.

Matt Bowers Auto Group is comprised of 11 award-winning franchise car dealerships doing business in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. His conglomerate of dealerships produces revenue over $1 billion annually and employs over 900 employees.

In addition, Bowers was appointed by the governor to the Board of Commissioners for the Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District. In his role at LSED, he is commissioned to manage the states’ assets in Metro New Orleans which include the Caesars Superdome, Smoothie King Center, TPC of Louisiana and others.

In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two teenage sons, going to sport events, and relaxing on his ranch in Oxford.

Jarvis Wilbert Wilbert graduated from Co-Lin in 2012, where he was a member of the Wolf Pack baseball team under Coach Keith Case. After Co-Lin, he received a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a Master of Business Administration at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Wilbert is a senior territory manager with Eli Lilly and Company, where he advocates for patients with chronic illnesses. He also gives back to his community through Lily’s Global Day of Service. He has worked in food kitchens serving underprivileged people in the Delta and assisted with the construction of an orphanage in Gulfport. He also has coordinated a 5K in Hattiesburg to promote suicide prevention.

Wilbert was recognized as USM’s Young Alumni of the Year in 2021 and named to the Mississippi Business Journal’s Top 40 under 40 in 2023.

He received territory manager of the year and platinum performer for the Gulf Coast area in 2023.

“To receive any accolade, I credit the people that helped me get there,” he said. “Whilst I may not be the wealthiest person from a financial standpoint, I’m wealthy in the fact that people notice my humbleness. They notice that I’m a hard worker. They notice I will go above and beyond to help the next person get to where they need to be.”

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Top: Alumni Association president Stephenie Sullivan presents Matt Bowers (‘92) with the Alumnus of the Year award. Below: Sullivan presents Jarvis Wilbert (‘12) with the Young Alumnus of the Year award.

The Steptoe Show finally, rightfully arrives

by Cliff Furr (‘02) Special to the Colinian Have you ever had a person in your life that you’ve heard talked about for years, but who you’ve never actually met faceto-face?

Last fall during the annual Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, I finally got to meet a man that I’ve heard spoken of innumerable times over the years inside Mullen Gymnasium, but never actually met.

His name is Johnny Steptoe, and he was an All-American in Wesson after the 1987 season.

Those who saw him play have called him the greatest talent to ever wear a Co-Lin basketball uniform. Steptoe now rightfully sits forever in the school’s sports hall of fame after his induction.

When he was coming out of Amite High School in Amite, Louisiana, Steptoe could have picked to play at any junior college in the nation as they all wanted the 6-foot-7 forward.

San Jacinto Junior College in Texas, a powerhouse program that won NJCAA National Championships in 1983, 1984, and 1986 was the team that many figured would land a player of Steptoe’s talent.

At that time, Co-Lin basketball was led by Mike Jones, a member of several hall of fames himself thanks to the success he experienced leading the men’s basketball program at Mississippi College after leaving Wesson.

Jones was nothing but a winner during his four-years as head coach at his alma mater of Co-Lin from 1985-1988, going 122-21 during that time as he twice took the Wolves to the NJCAA National Tournament.

Jones wasn’t planning on conceding a player of Steptoe’s stature to any other schools, and he knew he held an advantage over programs like San Jac, mainly in that CLCC is located only 72 miles due north of Tangipahoa Parish and Steptoe’s family.

As outstanding as his play was on the basketball court, Johnny Steptoe is admittedly a shy person, more comfortable not being in the spotlight, even when he’s being inducted into the hall of fame at his alma mater.

“I’ve just never been someone

that felt comfortable talking tipped off. in front of a bunch of people,” “We definitely won some said Steptoe. “My words will get games before they ever started jumbled up in my head, and I’ll because of how intimidating we start to stutter. I’ve just always were warming up,” said Jones. been shy.”

“When it came to jumping, His old coach would tell there just wasn’t much that you that a flip switched inside Johnny couldn’t do.”

Steptoe when he hit the court.

Competing coaches didn’t “He is a naturally shy person, want their players watching Cono doubt Lin jump about it,” out of the said Jones. gym during “He is softwarmups, spoken and hence humble the state in how association he carries banning himself, the practice but there before the was never NCAA ever anything did. shy or soft Chris about the Caughman way he was part of played the a handful game.” of former The teammates dunks. that came That’s to support what you Steptoe the hear about program Coach Mike Jones presents Steptoe in story that after story with his Sport Hall of Fame medal and recognized award. when the 2024 people Hall of describe what it was like to Fame class at the Thames Center watch Johnny Steptoe set foot in Wesson. on a basketball court.

Caughman, a native of This was the mid-1980s, Mendenhall, vividly remembers and we unfortunately don’t the first time he laid eyes on have a YouTube Channel full of his future teammate while highlights that we can pull up attending basketball camp at and watch, so we must rely on LSU. the stories of what many called “It was the summer before “The Steptoe Show” to paint the my senior year and everyone picture for us. was talking about a guy from Today, you can dunk in Amite High that was the the warmup line of an NCAA number one player in the state basketball game, as you could of Louisiana,” said Caughman. when Steptoe played in the “There was a dunk contest to 1980s. There was a ban on the end the camp, and Johnny asked practice for many years and them if they could raise the goal. one of the first places it was They did and he won it by doing outlawed was in the junior a 360 on an 11-foot goal.” college ranks of Mississippi.

There are more stories What Steptoe and his like that, the type that tell of teammates could do during twosomething they saw Steptoe do line layups after the women’s on the court, told with raised game ended was worth the price eyebrows. Told with qualifiers of admission according to those like, ‘I know this is going to who paid to get into the gym sound unbelievable, but I swear early for a CLCC home game. it’s true.’ Most who saw him Jones didn’t mind his players play have a story like that showing off before their game attached to “The Steptoe Show.” tipped. When the opposing Longtime Co-Lin women’s team looked down and saw head coach Gwyn Young was Steptoe and his cohorts taking witness to many of those off, it could make their stomach highlights from Steptoe during tighten up, thinking about what his playing days. Years later would happen when the game while recruiting a high schooler,

the girls’ coach shared a memory from his time suiting up at a junior college that faced Jumping Johnny.

“He said he stepped in to take a charge, got his feet set, and he felt Johnny’s shorts brush against the top of his head,” said Young. “Steptoe had split his legs on the way up and jumped right over him.”

Steptoe was rated the top junior college transfer in the nation following his sophomore season. His academics still needed work though, and his recruitment was a wild time for both Steptoe and Jones.

“UNLV was the best team in the nation at that time and their coach Jerry Tarkanian really wanted him, but he would have needed to stay in Wesson for some more coursework,” said Jones. “North Carolina State, Louisville, any great program during that period was trying to get him, but he ended up signing with Southern University in Baton Rouge.”

Steptoe was eager to keep playing, but his basketball career after Co-Lin never took flight, as he battled eligibility issues.

He played just nine games for Southern University during the 1988-1989 season. In that brief Division I career, he averaged a team best 20.6 points per game, for a Southern squad that made the NCAA Tournament and had a future NBA guard on the roster in Bobby Phills.

Steptoe declared for the 1989 NBA Draft but was not picked.

That didn’t mean teams in the association didn’t know about him.

Jones tells a great story about having practice interrupted by a phone call, when he tells the interrupter to take a message, they replied he might want to come grab the phone, since it was Pat Riley, head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, on the other line.

“They all wanted him to go play overseas,” said Jones.

“That’s what the NBA scouts wanted for him, to go overseas for a couple years and develop.”

Jones smiles, thinking about the shy, family-based Steptoe going to play in Spain or Greece or Germany for a Euro League team in the early 1990s. Maybe imagining what could have been but knowing his former Steptoe, continued on page 19

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from the Director Hello Alumni and Friends, you will find an opportunity I hope you all had a to plug in and visit campus wonderful holiday season. soon. Basketball season As usual, the busy fall is in full swing, and at semester seemed to fly by press time, both men’s again this year, and as the and women’s teams are spring semester kicks off, on winning streaks. Other it has been fun to relive spring sports will begin some highlights from the soon, and if you can’t make fall, such as our annual it to a game in person, be Foundation scholarship sure to check out the awardFurr reception, Homecoming winning live stream on and the championship Facebook and colinathletics. ring presentation for last com. It is arguably the best year’s softball team. Whether we were stream in the state among community recognizing scholarship recipients and colleges, thanks to the excellent work of donors, or celebrating our outstanding our technology and sports information alumni and athletes, we loved every crews. opportunity to welcome our alumni back Besides athletic events, we are looking to campus. I hope you enjoy the photos of forward to recognizing our generous those events in this issue. donors at the Foundation’s annual Hall Looking ahead to this spring, I hope of Fame dinner in March, as well as the

10 | The Colinian

annual golf classic fundraisers benefiting all three campuses in April and May. We celebrated a record-breaking year in fundraising last year, and I would love to exceed our goal of raising a million dollars again this year. Whether or not we reach that goal, our mission of supporting students and faculty remains the same, and we could not do what we do without YOU. Thank you for what you do to help keep Co-Lin “The Place to Be!”

Angela Davis Furr Class of 2002 Executive Director of Foundation | Alumni Relations

Scholarship Reception

Lura, Larry, and Dale Greer

Ellie Barrentine

Bob & Julia Arnold Journalism & Communication Studies

Akira Chatman

Alton & Lucille Keys Science

Julianna Wilson

Keith Daniels Memorial

Clifton Jernigan

A.J., Charlene and Susan Mangum

Madeline Logan

with scholarship representative Larry Greer

with Co-Lin president Dr. Dewayne Middleton

with Co-Lin president Dr. Dewayne Middleton

with scholarship representative Dr. Ken Walley

with Co-Lin president Dr. Dewayne Middleton

Abner W. Cooper Memorial Post 27

Clyde Wilson Band & Colette and Ann D. Bradberry

Stanley Stewart Band

Mark Hamilton Memorial

Associate Degree Nursing Student Sponsored

Daniya Collins

Taylor Papizan

Katelyn Morrison

Koltin Mueller

Ashlyn Howell

BankPlus

AT&T

Bateman Creative Writing Award, Dr. James M. Ewing Jr. Memorial Annual Book, the Hodges Family, and the J. Edgar Simmons, Jr.

Jason Counts Memorial and Maggie Flowers Ewing

Glover Mae Boarden Book

Harleigh Porter

Dakota Smith

Tianna Clark

Bobby O’Quinn Memorial

Marjorie Aiken Rector Memorial

with scholarship representative with scholarship representative with scholarship representative with scholarship representative with scholarship representative Jessica Breazeale Jessica Breazeale Dr. Tim Lea Jessica Breazeale Marsha Raiford

Ashlyn Thurman

Justin Hailey

with scholarship representative Dustin Walker

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

J.M. Ewing Memorial

Beall Family

Becky Doty Vocal

Ben Simmons

Angel Dixon

Ana’leyah Palmer

with scholarship representative with scholarship representative with scholarship representative Margaret Ewing Thomas Margaret Ewing Thomas Margaret Ewing Thomas

with scholarship representative with scholarship representative with scholarship representative Margaret Ewing Thomas Ann Kimbrough Becky Doty

Tyler Leggett

with Co-Lin president Dr. Dewayne Middleton

Morgan Chisolm

with scholarship representative Dr. Stephanie Duguid

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Scholarship Reception

Brookhaven Lions Club

Robert Adcock

C.C. Clark and Maurice Ansel “Tony” Tynes

Alexandria Wall

Calvin White, Lula Stevens, and Thomas A. Ross Art

Emily Rushing

Carolyn Collums Thomas Memorial

Amanda Miller

Centurion

Jon Warren

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

Charles W. “Billy” McGehee and Nigel Wentworth Memorial

Nigel Wentworth Memorial

Charlie and Johnnye Ferguson Martin Vo-Tech and Charlotte Hill Memorial

Co-Lin Educators’ Federal Credit Union and Laura Zelle Weems Memorial

Curtis M. Weston

Ethan Coleman

Macey Steele

Jacob Buffalo

Jamyria Robinson

David Smith Memorial

David Calcote Memorial

Doris Ball Green Music, John E. Russell Memorial, and Julia Guess

Dr. Phyllis H. Lanier Memorial Science and John William “Bill” McGuire, Sr.

Dr. Dewey Metts

Cody Jensen

Kaylee Johnson

Bentley Barton

Elise El-Rai

Jackson Easton

Dr. Howell and Candace Garner Leadership

Dr. James H. Stribling Memorial

E.A. ‘Beby’ Turnage Memorial

Dr. Roy W. Daughdrill Mathematics

E.K. Walley Memorial

Andrew Jones

Kilynn McKenzie

Ethan Chambliss

Gabrielle Evans

Amari Barnes

with scholarship representative with scholarship representative Joann Wentworth Joann Wentworth

Diamond Harris

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

with Vice President of Business with Vice President of Business Affairs Dr. Richard Baker Affairs Dr. Richard Baker

with scholarship representative with Vice President of Business with scholarship representative with scholarship representative with Vice President of Business Janet Matthew Janet Matthew Affairs Dr. Richard Baker Dr. Dianne Watson Affairs Dr. Richard Baker

with Vice President of Business with Vice President of Business with Vice President of Business with scholarship representative with scholarship representative Affairs Dr. Richard Baker Affairs Dr. Richard Baker Affairs Dr. Richard Baker Dr. Roy Daughdrill Dr. Ken Walley

12 | The Colinian

Scholarship Reception

W.C. “Pop” & Henry S. Allen

Ralph and Dot Franklin Colette

Ed Norwood Golf

Elbert and Eugenia Allen Memorial

Frank and Evelyn Oswalt

Reagan Newman

Reagan Newman

Kolby Cox

Mason Brand

Sophie Sisson

Glynn Hadskey, Sr. Memorial

Graydon L. and Helen E. Mullen Memorial

Hattie Lou Montgomery Middleton Memorial

J.J. Wesson Memorial and Luther Garrett

ILR Scholarship

Samuel Bandy

Zyrian Jackson

with scholarship with scholarship representative with Vice President of Business with scholarship representative with Vice President of Business Affairs Dr. Richard Baker representative Dr. Ken Walley Jessica Breazeale Affairs Dr. Richard Baker Nora Berch

with Vice President of Business with Vice President of Business Affairs Dr. Richard Baker Affairs Dr. Richard Baker

James C. and Neva B. Thames Memorial

James Gabriel “Gabe” Terrell Memorial

Andrew Lambert

Casen Dehart

James Robert “Jim” Lowery Memorial

Preston Selman

Aniah Smith

Sara Ezell

Carson Hughey

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

with scholarship representative Dr. George Huffman

James M. Lewis Memorial

Jesse W. Sandifer Memorial

Jewel Knight & Wesson Lions Club Kenneth Furr Memorial

Hailey Walker

Jaylynn Goss

Cloe Elkins

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

with scholarship representative Alton Ricks

Jodie Kyzar Greer George Memorial

John “Jack” Johnson and Wolf Pack Soccer

John and Suzanne Boyd Memorial

John Vernon and Allyene Pitts Williams

Reagan Fortenberry

Maelee Thibodeaux

with scholarship representative with scholarship representative Dr. Billly Thames Mary Jane James

with scholarship representative with scholarship representative with scholarship representative Burrell Kyzar Joy Wesbrooks Coach Tom Cosgrave

Ramie Stovall

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

Kalli Johnson

with scholarship representative Ann Williams

The Colinian | 13

Scholarship Reception

K.R. Hodges

Lamar and Pauline Taylor Stokes

Madelyn Moore

Kennedy Washington with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

with scholarship representative Bettye Boutwell

Lou Douglas and W.D. Hammons Family

Malcolm Nesmith Memorial

Marie Farr Walker Memorial

Mary Lilla Ashley Education Fund

Michael G. Lusk, Sr. Pre-engineering

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

Yariange Bello

Douglas Nelson

Laura Coghlan Williams Radiography

Heidi Smith

Tyler Cupit

Lena W. and Fred E. Thompson

Gracie Smith

Kaylee Walker

Beta Sigma Phi

Harlan Brewer

Ricardo Butler, Jr.

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

Mildred Newman Powe

N.B. and Catherine White & Wesson Lions Club Jimmy Hodges

Nelson and Melanie Wilson Case Memorial

Noel H. Assink Memorial

Nona G. Fortenberry

Ashlyn Sprayberry

Mara Norwood

Jaden Lea

Karl Decker

Hayden Foster

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

Peripatetic Club

R.E. “Bob” Anderson and Bonnie D. Anderson

Robert Britt Annual MLT

Russell Ellzey Memorial

Bernard L. Riley

Jax Leggett

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

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Jackson Taylor

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

Tyreka Wilson

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

Anna Hester

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

Corey Brown

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

Scholarship Reception

Sidney Wayne WIlliams Memorial

Brantley Day

Timothy McNulty Memorial

Southwest MS Resource Conservation & Development

Vana Kathryn Berryhill

Alex Smith

Tom Earl and Ruby Hogg James

Tara Reynold Memorial

Destiny Brown

Alec Neal

with Foundation board member Stacy Fells

with scholarship representative Steve McNulty

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

with scholarship representative Alicia Reynolds

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

Tommie and Mary Ellen Jones Memorial

W.S. Henley Memorial

Wade Alexander Memorial

Wayne King Memorial

Willie H. Smith

Jose Garcia

Tre’Kayla O’Quinn

Will Loy

Anthony Case

Meg Albritton

with scholarship representative Pam Reid

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

with scholarship representative Sharon Alexander

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

Albert “Sonny” Hill Memorial

Arlee W. Walker PreProfessional Science Memorial

Lester R. (Randy) Furr, Jr. Memorial Band

Daniel Fitzwater Memorial Annual

Donald and Sarah Johnson and Hardy Perritt Award for Excellence in Writing

Trevor Fortenberry

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

Lauren Peters

Galen Clark

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

Alton and Jean Ricks

Ball-Howington

Lilibeth Bergeron

Allayna Barnett & Allyson Sullivan

with scholarship representatives Jean and Alton Ricks

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

Elijah Lagg

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

Carlee Case

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

Jim and Martha Lightsey Immigrant

Alex Ixcajoc-Sales

with scholarship representatives Martha and Jim Lightsey

The Colinian | 15

Scholarship Reception

Jim and Martha Lightsey

Morgan Chisolm

Rev. Mary Stewart

Kaylee Prine

Copiah Bank

Charley Grace Davis

with scholarship representatives Martha and Jim Lightsey

with scholarship representatives Martha and Jim Lightsey

with scholarship representatives Steve Bozeman and Rebecca Barrentine

Cordelia Harvey Memorial

Damon Baldwin Memorial

Dennis White, John Matthew McClelland, and Wesson Lions Club James M. Lewis

Hudson McIntyre & Ashton Moore

Shelby Davis

Abby Mooney

with Foundation board member Dustin Walker

with scholarship representatives Geralyn Russell and Gail Baldwin.

with scholarship representatives Kim Edwards and Antoinette McClelland

Dr. Robert Bennie Channell

Drs. Donald and Catherine Cotten

Eva Allen Walley

Kailee Dunn & Kayleigh Griffin

Riley Kate Hinton

Marley Nelson & Jenna Fuller

with Vice President of Business Affairs Dr. Richard Baker

with scholarship representatives Drs. Donald and Catherine Cotten.

with scholarship representative Dr. Ken Walley

Foundation Wesson General

H. Keith Russell Memorial

Noah “Cap” Wallace Family

Georgina Labusch & Makenzie Rogers with Vice President of Business Affairs Dr. Richard Baker

16 | The Colinian

Anniston Palmer

with scholarship representatives Penny Russell and Jessica Boutwell.

Preston Selman

with scholarship representatives Cammie and Bill Smith

Scholarship Reception

Lauri Alison Boutwell Mathis Memorial

Mark Anderson Memorial Rotary

Madeline King & Jordyn Bridges

Landon Smith & Conner Cunningham

Rev. M.L. Douglas Memorial

Rhonda Posey and Don Smith Technology

with scholarship representative Bettye Boutwell

Krista Ranches

Nathan Steele EMT/Paramedic

with scholarship representative Stan Foster

Megan Allen

with scholarship representatives Andrea Blalock and David Steele

Lee Will and Mary Loyce Berry

Bailey Reid

Jackson Smith

with scholarship representatives Billy and Joan Dodd

with scholarship representatives Don Smith and Rhonda Posey

with scholarship representatives Kathy and Louis Dugas

Underwood Family

Tommy and Annette Sasser

Wojcik Family

Walker Williams & Allie Grace McNeil with scholarship representative Don Underwood

Natalie Womack

with scholarship representatives Kelly and Nancy Fenwick

Tania Clark & Claire Keyes

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

ZZ Chapman Trust

Ken and Ruth Patterson

Ava Lambert, Shelby Davis, & Toni Watson

Evan Holifield, Coleman Bonds, & Kaylee Roth

with Vice President of Business Affairs Dr. Richard Baker

with Board of Trustees Chairman Melton King

The Colinian | 17

Scholarship Reception

Puckett Machinery Diesel Tech Annual

Tom and Doris Kelly

Duncan Hall & Grant Wilkinson

Brelie Phillips, Madison Jones, & Elijah Martin

with scholarship representatives Stacy Webb and Deidre Whitton

with Foundation board member Steve McNulty

Robert and Kathryn McRae/Rex Lumber

Trent Killingsworth Memorial

Zackary Taylor, John Wallace, Jacob May, & Tucker Gerald

Zachary McGehee & Braelynn Byrd

with scholarship representative Joe Dan Leggett

with scholarship representatives Sheila Killingsworth and Larry Killingsworth

Russell Ray Leadership

Anna Grace McCreary

with scholarship representatives Rae Brown, Katie Davis, and Mary Catherine Franklin

Silver Cross Home

Hannah Ginn

with scholarship representatives Sharon Allen, Jenny Allen, Harriet Proffitt, and Sylvia Buie

Presidential Scholars

Ellie Barrentine, Addison Lindley, Julianna Wilson, Benson Schexnaydre, Akira Chatman, Nathan Grice, and Madison Mason with Co-Lin President Dr. Dewayne Middleton

Lillian Hutto, Lauren McCaa, Greyson Ridge Clanton, and Jamari Tolliver

with scholarship representatives Arthur and Jerlene Boyte

Arther Boyte, Jr. Family

18 | The Colinian

Scholarship Reception Bryce Johnson

with scholarship representatives Pam Massa, Vicki Ramsey, Rita McElveen, Peri Akin and Jacqui Patten

Hazlehurst Garden Club Annual

Brandon Burt, Anna Grace Rice, Destiny Buckhalter, Gentry Smith, and Jacey Frazier with scholarship representative Stan Foster

Trustmark National Bank Annual

Steptoe continued from page 9 player to his core. Knowing that Europe was just too far from Tangipahoa Parish for that to ever work.

“I could have been a Chicago Bull at one time,” said Steptoe, who has gray streaking his wizened beard today. “It just never worked out, and then I ended up getting into some trouble.”

His face darkens with that last sentence, and he looks down, breaking eye-contact.

I reach up and put my hand on his shoulder, knowing some of the hard times he faced when he was a younger man.

“Johnny, I’ve made mistakes too. That’s part of being a human being. It’s all about how you respond. Your legacy of good is way bigger than any mistake you’ve ever made. You deserve this.”

His eyes meet mine, and he returns my smile, showing me the gentle side of this giant man.

Steptoe has overcome some physical ailments in his life suffered after his playing career ended. A couple different leg injuries have slowed his gait.

Nearing 60-years old, the days of him being able to jump and touch the top of the backboard are long in the rearview mirror of his life.

When the physical begins to deteriorate, we must lean on

connections that plumb to a deeper level. Everyone wants to be your friend when you are the number one recruit in high school, the number one recruit in junior college and you are jumping over people like they are traffic cones as you average 30 points per game.

Where are all the fair-weather friends when you don’t make it?

Where are they almost 40 years after you reached your highest heights?

I’m not sure where the people who gave Johnny Steptoe bad advice back in the 1980s are today. They probably schlepped off to whisper poison in the ear of the next great talent.

Who remains, when the thunderous noise of a packed Mullen Gymnasium has long ago faded?

For Johnny Steptoe, the answer to that question is Mike Jones, as his former coach has kept in constant contact with his most prized recruit through the ups and downs of life.

Jones is a Co-Lin Hall of Famer himself. He knows that Steptoe’s enshrinement has been long overdue, but he and the school both wanted the timing to be right for Johnny.

They didn’t just want to put his name on a plaque, they wanted him to come to Wesson and experience the honor in person.

So, with some coaxing from his coach, Steptoe returned to campus last fall for the first time since 1987. His family beamed with pride alongside his teammates as his bio was read during his induction.

They crowded around both him and Jones as countless pictures were taken by Steptoe’s children and grandchildren.

Both player and coach speak of each other with an apparent, abiding love.

“He just knew how to get the best out of you,” said Steptoe of his coach. “I’m so thankful for everything he’s ever done for me. I love him with my whole heart.”

When Jones made those recruiting trips 40 years ago in his pursuit of a supremely talented teenager, could he ever imagine the journey he’d see Steptoe follow, with all the good times and the bad?

No, he says, he had no idea.

“Johnny went through some tough times, some of those during the recruiting process when he was leaving Co-Lin,” said Jones. “It just made our bond stronger, and he tells me all the time that the biggest mistake he made was not listening to us when we tried to help him in his recruitment after Co-Lin. He’s always shown myself and his teammates

Johnny Steptoe dunks a basketball during his time on the Co-Lin team. nothing but love and respect and I think that’s why you’ve got so many people that are so proud of him receiving this accomplishment.”

The days of Johnny Steptoe busting out a 360 dunk in warm-ups before another packed game in Wesson and Mike Jones stalking the sidelines with a head full of black hair as he rips off his sports coat, daring the referees to make a call that goes against his Wolves now live in perpetuity.

That was the past, a past that those who saw it happen, won’t ever forget.

A past when “The Steptoe Show” was on center stage for the Co-Lin Wolves.

The Colinian | 19

Free Tuition

Estate gifts full-tuition scholarships to Magee High graduates

by Scarlett Hart scarlett.hart@colin.edu Copiah-Lincoln Community College and Magee High School held a joint event announcing the recent establishment of the Faye and Carey Posey Educational Foundation Scholarship, which will award full-tuition

20 | The Colinian

scholarships at Co-Lin for all students at Magee High School who graduate with at least a 3.0 GPA. Co-Lin Colettes, Magee High School band and cheerleaders, as well as officials from both educational institutions, were on hand for the exciting announcement.

The estate of the late

Faye R. Posey created the educational foundation which will fund the full-tuition scholarships through the CoLin Foundation perpetually.

Posey passed away at the age of 83 in May of 2024. She was a lifelong educator, serving and teaching in the Mt. Olive and Magee School districts for over 25 years.

“The Posey Estate will have a lasting impact on the lives of Magee High School graduates and their families,” said Co-Lin President Dr. Dewayne Middleton. “This is a huge announcement for both Co-Lin and Magee High, as this scholarship ensures that financial barriers will never stand in the way of a

student’s goals and ambitions to earn a college education.”

Students may use the scholarship at the CoLin Simpson County Center or the college’s main campus in Wesson. Scholarship funds will be available as early as the upcoming Spring 2025 semester for any student who is currently enrolled at Co-Lin, or for those who want to enroll for the spring semester.

Additionally, this scholarship can be used along with ACT, athletic, or other scholarships at the college.

Students must apply online to receive Posey the scholarship. The application opens December 1 each year and is available at www.colin.edu.

“We deeply appreciate the generosity of Mrs. Posey and know her love of teaching and education will live on through her selfless gift,” added Middleton.

“

This scholarship ensures that financial barriers will never stand in the way of a student’s goals and ambitions to earn a college education.

”

Dr. Dewayne Middleton, Co-Lin President

Co-Lin Enrollment Specialist/Cheer Coach Mary Catherine Franklin, Co-Lin Simpson County Center Vice President Dr. Anika Floyd, Co-Lin Foundation Executive Director Angela Furr, Mississippi State Senator Andy Berry, Co-Lin President Dr. Dewayne Middleton, Simpson County Superintendent Dr. Paul Lawrence, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Angela Mixon and Magee High School Principal Duriel Banks were on hand for the scholarship announcement.

The Colinian | 21

Tracking the classes

In Memoriam

Pam Ashley (‘76) passed away May 18, 2024.

Congratulations

Dorothy Ainsworth Day (‘68) published a book she co-edited, Battles: Glimpses of Truth, in July 2024.

Katie Stewart Davis (‘10) was named one of Co-Lin’s enrollment services specialists.

Jessica Bueto Breazeale (‘03) celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting of Grace Foam Solutions, LLC in Wesson. Breazeale co-owns the business with her husband Ricky and Brent and Stephanie Duguid.

Britney Clark Murray (‘11) was named Co-Lin Workforce Coordinator/Trainer at Wesson Campus.

Dr. Dewayne Middleton (‘96) was recently honored by Congressman Bennie Thompson’s Office with an award recognizing outstanding Black professionals.

Wedding Bells

Lowery

Austin (‘04) and Katherine Ezell Williams (attended) welcomed a baby boy, Judah Walker, on Aug. 7, 2024.

Josh and Anna Davis (‘10) welcomed a baby boy, Dakota James, on Oct. 28, 2024. Anna is Director of eLearning.

Smith

Williams

Paul (‘08) and Katie Davis (‘10) welcomed a baby girl, Lyla James, on Nov. 20, 2024.

Bryce (‘19) and Kara Chapman (‘19) Lyla Davis welcomed a baby boy, Bennett Clark, on Nov. 20, 2024. Grandmother Shanna Clark is a Medical Laboratory Technology instructor on the Wesson campus.

Patricia Ann Mullins (‘62) passed away Aug. 4, 2024.

Robert Alan Freeman (‘67) passed away Aug. 4, 2024.

Kathleen Ashley (‘57) passed away Aug. 7, 2024.

Murray

Spiller

Marcus Feazell (‘72) passed away Aug. 13, 2024.

Scott

Reba Nell Gill Roberts (‘62) passed away Sept. 19, 2024.

Hartzog

Ethel Green Scott (‘77) passed away Nov. 22, 2024.

Kimberly Michelle Miles Darden (attended) passed away Nov. 22, 2024.

Carol Renee Dunaway (attended) passed away Nov. 25, 2024.

Stokes

Jeanna McManus Hartzog (attended) passed away Dec. 4, 2024. She was a retired workforce navigator at Co-Lin. Lamar Stokes (attended) passed away Dec. 10, 2024.

Myers

Canon (‘20) and Mikayla Travis (‘19) welcomed a baby girl, Piper Reese, on Nov. 21, 2024. Mikayla works in enrollment services.

Austin and Kristin Jergins Myers (‘16) welcomed a baby girl, Emery Lynn, on Nov. 22, 2024.

22 | The Colinian

Jimmie Charles Smith (‘66) passed away Aug. 4, 2024.

Andrew Spiller passed away Oct. 15, 2024. He was a member of the Co-Lin Board of Trustees.

Keith (‘15) and Jenna Boyd Smith (‘15) welcomed a baby girl, Meredith Drew, on May 10, 2024.

Cameron (‘08) and Britney Clark Murray (‘11) welcomed a baby boy, Myles Monroe, on Sept. 27, 2024.

Margaret Godbold McGee (‘70) passed away May 28, 2024.

Lavern Wallace Hardin (attended) passed away Aug. 23, 2024.

Cade (’21) and Shelbi Maxwell Lowery (‘22) were married on Nov. 16, 2024.

New Arrivals

Larry Bell (‘66) passed away May 18, 2024.

Send your alumni news and photos to Julia Miller, at julia.miller@colin.edu.

Please provide class year(s) and a phone number for verification.

Outstanding Faculty & Staff

The Alumni Association recognized Co-Lin’s 2024 Outstanding Faculty and Staff members at fall convocation. Those selected were (from left,) Carey Williamson, outstanding career-technical instructor for Wesson; Penny Hartley, outstanding academic instructor for Wesson; Corey Hart, outstanding staff for Wesson; Janice Jarvis, outstanding faculty/staff for Natchez;and Nicole Cheramie, outstanding faculty/staff for Simpson County.

Officers continued from page 4 Professionals Award in 2018.

She was named Teacher of the Year at Brookhaven School District in 2021. She is a member of NATA, MATA and LATA. John Harper While at Co-Lin, Harper was a member of the tennis team and was a football manager. After graduating, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Master of Public Policy and

Administration, and Doctor of Philosophy in Community College Leadership from Mississippi State University.

Maurice Johnson While at Co-Lin, Johnson was a member of the football team, where he was a standout linebacker for Co-Lin. He earned NJCAA All-American honors for his efforts on the gridiron. After graduating, he attended Florida A&M University. Johnson is

currently the defensive line coach at Co-Lin. Jacob Fleming While at Co-Lin, Fleming was a member of the football team, where he was a starter for two seasons at left tackle.

He was named First Team MACJC All-State. After his time at Co-Lin, Fleming then played at the University of Southern Mississippi. Fleming is currently the offensive line coach at Co-Lin.

On the Cover The 2024 Wolf Pack softball team recently celebrated their 2024 MACCC championship win with a ring ceremony in December.

Renew your alumni dues online today! www.colin.edu/alumni-foundation

Once a wolf, always a wolf

The Colinian | 23

P.O. Box 649 • Wesson, MS 39191-0649

Address Service Requested

I’d recommend anyone come to Co-Lin first. It has really set me up for success.

Anna Grace McCreary Sophomore Russell Ray Leadership Scholarship