Tyler Bailey
Byhalia | Sophomore PATHWAY
NURSING – SENATOBIA CAMPUS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP
The Estelle H. Bobo Endowed Scholarship
What does receiving your Foundation scholarship mean to you?
Receiving a Foundation scholarship means a lot to me. It helps ease the financial burden of school, but it also keeps me motivated to be successful in my studies. Nursing school is one of the hardest career pathways to endure, so it provides some relief to have the financial support from Northwest. I work two jobs and pick up on odd jobs to be able to fund my tuition. I do not receive any financial assistance from family, so it means so much to get the support I am given from Northwest. It is a blessing to have donors who believe in students and help pave a way for them to be successful.
Why did you choose your path in nursing? I chose nursing as my career because I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. After taking time to pray over my future, God put the calling to help those in need in my heart. Choosing the nursing career will give me the opportunity to support those who are dealing with their darkest times and advocate for their well-being.
Are there any instructors who make a big impact in your life here?
There are many instructors that have made a significant impact on me. All of the staff in the Gary Lee Spears Nursing Building are very supportive of their students.
Stacy Taylor is highly intelligent and is supportive of all the aspiring nurses. She has been very uplifting and has helped break down the bulk of nursing theory to give us an easier understanding of the information.
Mrs. Deshotels is another instructor who is highly intelligent and is supportive of her students. Specifically speaking, the “Faith and Fellowship” program she hosts, helps keep us comforted to know that Jesus is with us throughout the whole way.
Miss Anne is a staff member in the nursing building who is supportive of the students and always has a smile on her face. She is invested in our success and is not shy to give students compliments to brighten their day.
president's reflections
As I reflect on the past year at Northwest, I am reminded that we live in a time of extraordinary change.
The world around us is evolving at a remarkable pace. Technology through AI innovation continues to transform how we live and work. Workforce demands are shifting rapidly. The State of Mississippi needs more workers as more businesses and industries are moving into the State. Students arrive on our campuses with new opportunities, new challenges, and new expectations. In many ways, higher education is experiencing one of the most significant periods of change in its history.
Yet amid these changing times, one thing remains constant and for which I am very thankful: our commitment to transforming student lives.
At Northwest, we understand that change is something to embrace. In fact, our history is a beautiful story told by way of adaptation, innovation, and service. Our institution has evolved over the years to meet the needs of our students and communities. As the world changes, the College changes with it while remaining grounded in the values that have defined us since our founding.
This year, I have been encouraged by the momentum that continues to build across our college. That momentum is reflected in the success of our students. Thousands of learners pursued their goals through academic transfer programs, career-technical education, workforce training, healthcare programs, and adult education opportunities. Each graduate who crossed the stage this year represents a life changed, a family strengthened, and a community enriched.
Momentum is also evident in the investments we continue to make in our campuses and programs. From facility improvements and technology enhancements to the renovation of the Library, the Theatre Building, Athletics Performance Facility, and the new Centennial Bell Tower we are creating learning environments that prepare students not only for today's opportunities but for the opportunities of tomorrow.
We have also seen growth through our partnerships with business, industry, and community leaders. As workforce needs continue to evolve, NWCC remains committed to developing programs and training opportunities that help meet the demands of a rapidly changing economy. Our role has never been more important as employers seek skilled, adaptable, and innovative graduates.
Beyond the classroom, our students continued to excel in athletics, performing arts, leadership activities, and service initiatives. Their achievements remind us that education is about more than earning a degree—it is about developing the character, discipline, and confidence needed to succeed in life.
As we look ahead, we do so with great anticipation. The coming year will be especially significant as NWCC celebrates its centennial. Reaching 100 years is a remarkable milestone, but it is also an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come and how much potential lies ahead.
The world our founders knew a century ago looks very different from the world of today, yet their vision remains relevant. They believed education could transform lives and strengthen communities. That belief continues to guide us as we prepare students for careers and opportunities that may not even exist today.
In changing times, institutions must choose whether they will simply react to change or help shape the future. At Northwest, we intend to do the latter.
Because of the dedication of our faculty and staff, the support of our trustees and communities, and the loyalty of our alumni, NWCC is well-positioned for continued growth and success. The momentum we have built this year gives us confidence for the future.
As we celebrate a year of growth and achievement, we also celebrate something even more important: the ability to move forward with purpose in a changing world.
The times may change, but our mission endures.
Go Rangers!
Sincerely,
Vision
Northwest Mississippi Community College transforms our students’ lives, enriches our communities, and strives for excellence in our educational programs and services.
Mission
Northwest Mississippi Community College is an open-access, public, two-year institution primarily serving Benton, Calhoun, DeSoto, Lafayette, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica, and Yalobusha counties. NWCC is a learning-centered community providing educational opportunities with quality instruction for students from all walks of life. Our college fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and student success. We strive for continuous improvement, with a standard of excellence in every area of the institution. Our college partners with businesses and industries that seek to grow the economy and the workforce, as well as partners with alumni, friends, and others. Engagement takes place in all communities that the college serves.
Values
ACCOUNTABILITY
INTEGRITY
EXCELLENCE
RESPECT
SERVICE
SUSTAINABILITY
ACCESSIBILITY
CREATIVITY
POSITIVITY
LEADERSHIP
Dr. Michael J. Heindl President, Northwest Mississippi Community College
SEVENTEEN STUDENTS SELECTED FOR HALL OF FAME HONOR
Story by Julie Bauer | Photo By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Seventeen Northwest students have been inducted into the 2025-26 Hall of Fame, the highest honor a student can achieve at the college.
The selection of students named to the Hall of Fame is based on their academic accomplishments and involvement in student life at Northwest. Hall of Fame nominations are submitted by Northwest instructors and voted on by a committee. This year’s honorees were recognized at the March 5 Board of Trustees meeting on the Senatobia campus.
Eleven students attend the Senatobia campus:
• Carleigh Calarco of Hernando
• Olivia Callahan of Lake Cormorant
• Emileigh Grace Doner of Oxford
• Caroline Hamm of Belden
• Mya Harden of Water Valley
• Ashlyn McCullough of Hernando
• Kendal Moseley of Horn Lake
• Justice Pope of Pope
• Cody Rivera of Southaven
• Tucker Smith of Perkinston
• JP Swain of Oxford
Four students attend the DeSoto campus:
• Chamiel Bryant of Dundee
• Gabrielle Hamilton Itayem of Southaven
LUCIA NELSON NAMED HUMANITIES COUNCIL TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Northwest art instructor Lucia Nelson was selected as the college’s Humanities Council Teacher of the Year. As a part of this honor, she presented on a Humanities top March 27. The council has been recognizing outstanding instructors at Mississippi's colleges and universities since 1995.
The title of her presentation was “From Museum to Music: The Appropriation of Fine Art in Album Covers” and was a study of visual appropriation and dialogue between art history and pop culture. In the presentation, she explored the topics of album cover design and analyzed how musicians and designers repurpose art to create new meaning.
Nelson has loved various album covers,
but there are a few from the classical art period that stick with her, such as Muddy Waters’ “Father and Sons” album inspired by the Sistine Chapel ceiling by Michaelangelo. It takes what’s expected about the painting and subverts it.
Nelson explained this is a big part of the postmodern art movement and is recycling older art and turning it into something new.
According to Nelson, art isn’t simply just a means of beauty or a vain attempt at capturing the world. Instead, art helps us solve complex issues, cope with challenging ideas, and reflect on history.
“It’s the only skill I came into the world with,” Nelson said.
Nelson explained that art is more than its beauty and interesting angles. It’s about
• Drewry Jones of Olive Branch
• William Pitts of Holly Springs
Two students attend the Oxford campus:
• Olivia Ball of Oxford
• Joshua Cole Rogers of Oxford
problem solving, and it is a visual history of what was and what currently is. It teaches us about people in the past as well as people in the present. Sometimes art even teaches us about ourselves.
Outside of work, she is raising two teenage sons, Noah and John Dee, one of which will be starting his freshman year at Northwest in the fall of 2026.
Art Instructor, Lucia Nelson
Photo by Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
NORTHWEST’S DR. KEITH REED NAMED SOUTHAVEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MAN OF THE YEAR around campus
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Northwest’s Dean of the DeSoto Center Dean, Dr. Keith Reed was named Southaven Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Man of the Year. This is an annual award bestowed on the best of Southaven.
Dr. Reed said he was honored and surprised to be nominated for the award. He currently serves on the Southaven Chamber Board of Directors, Board of Directors for the Chamber Foundation, Finance Committee, and Curriculum Committee for Bridge Academy.
“To actually win the award has been surreal,” said Dr. Reed. “I am eternally grateful for the Southaven Chamber and all of its members for their kindness and consideration. Southaven is an amazing city, the best in my opinion and I am so glad to be a part of this community. I became affiliated with the Southaven Chamber through Northwest DeSoto Center. The college has been a member for many, many years.”
Dr. Reed was one of eight individuals and businesses honored alongside other impressive individuals including Ole Miss DeSoto’s Kacy Dixon.
The Southaven Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that strives to foster economic prosperity, community development, and business
development in Southaven. They do this by advocating for local businesses, providing educational programming, and serving as a foundation to help assist small businesses.
MILITARY TIMES 2025 BEST FOR VETS COLLEGE
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Northwest was named on the Military Times 2025 Best for Vets college rankings on Nov. 17, 2025. This year’s rankings include 357 institutions, making the largest field in the program’s history.
“For 15 years, Best for Vets has helped transitioning service members find schools that not only welcome veterans but actively invest in their success,” said Jon Simkins, executive editor of Military Times and Sightline Media Group. “The record-breaking participation this year shows that higher education leaders are listening and working to create environments where veterans can thrive academically and personally.”
Northwest is honored to be a part of this list, and is included thanks to many administrators, such as Dr. Don Jones, assistant dean at DeSoto Center who prioritize the needs of veterans. Jones said he is deeply honored that Northwest was chosen for this honor.
“Our military-connected students hold a special place in the NWCC family,” said Dr. Jones. “We salute their service, respect the unique experiences they bring, and greatly value the leadership, discipline, and determination they contribute every
day in our classrooms and across our campuses.”
Dr. Jones said that this dedication begins under Northwest’s President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl’s leadership all the way down to every department and employee as they’re fully committed to serving those who served their country. To him, this recognition is just confirmation of that commitment and showcases the importance of that.
“We strive for optimum care of our active duty service members and veteran students, as well as their spouses and dependents,” said Jessica Poole, Northwest’s Financial Aid counselor/VA SCO. “As the college’s VA certifying official, I am blessed to serve this particular body of students.”
THEATER STUDENTS TAKE HOME ALLIE AWARDS
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Northwest's Theatre Department took home several awards at this year’s Northwest Mississippi Theatre Alliance Awards (Allie Awards) ceremony on Feb. 6, 2026.
The Allie Awards was founded in 2002 by Mathew Lipscomb III to support the performing arts. The Allie Awards celebrate talent and excellence in Northwest Mississippi. Northwest competes alongside other community theatres like DeSoto Family Theatre.
Many Northwest theatre students won for their roles in the fall production of “The Diviners” including: Noah Barnette of Southaven, who won Best Leading Actor in a Play for Buddy; Anna Denton Landrum of Hernando, who won Best Featured Actress in a Play for Darlene; Steven Black of Memphis, Tenn., for Best Lighting; Theatre Instructor Alyssa
Algee of Sardis for Best Sound, and Theatre Instructor Kayla Manzolillo of Ethelsville, Alabama for Best Director of a Drama.
Carter Juzeszyn of Southaven won Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for his role as Mr. Mushnik in “Little Shop of Horrors” and Kaileigh Kellum of Houlka won Best Props for her work on Little Shop. Olivia Callahan of Lake Cormorant received the Wesley Williamson Legacy Award.
“I could not be more proud of our students and the dedication, passion, and professionalism they brought to this production,” said Manzolillo. “Seeing their work recognized at this year’s Allie Awards was incredibly rewarding. This marked my fifth year participating in the Allie Awards, an organization that has had a lasting impact on the local
theatre community and has long served as a valuable source of networking and outreach for the Northwest theatre program.”
Manzolillo said she’s heard a lot of positive feedback from people including frequently hearing “it (the Diviners) stuck with me – I keep thinking about it.” She said it means a lot to her to create work that resonates with audiences.
“It was a surprise and a blessing to be recognized so many times for both productions,” said Algee. “We are incredibly proud of the work that our students do; they pour their hearts and souls into each production and it is so rewarding to be able to watch them walk across that stage and receive an award for all of their hard work. A big thank you to Mat Lipscomb and the Alliance for their recognition.”
Students and faculty at the Allie Awards
VISITORS’ DUGOUT AT JIM MILES FIELD NAMED AFTER SALMONS
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Alumnus Robert Salmon (Class of 1964) made a generous contribution to the Northwest Foundation to name the visitors’ dugout at Jim Miles Field. It will be named The Robert and Sharon Salmon Visitors’ Dugout. Northwest is very dear to the Salmon family, and Robert loved being a part of the Northwest baseball team.
“Robert Salmon is one of those who exudes the Northwest spirit,” said Patti Gordon, executive director of Institutional Advancement. “You can tell by just talking to him that Northwest had such a positive impact on his life. He loves to stay connected, and you will see him at Ranger baseball games and just whatever is going on at the time. I am honored to know him and call him a friend.”
Robert said he hopes that the Salmon name is always affiliated with Northwest, and that in the future, his grandchildren continue coming to the college. He said he is proud that the Salmon name is represented at a place that helped shape his life.
The Charleston native played baseball and ran track while he attended Northwest from 1962 to 1964. After his run at Northwest, he continued his education at the University of Mississippi, where he received a Bachelor of Science.
Northwest was able to bridge the gap for him to figure out what he wanted to pursue. He started college thinking that he wanted to pursue engineering, but found that he really liked his science classes at Northwest with science instructor Bobby King, who ultimately made Robert want to pursue pharmacy school.
In the early 1980s, Robert founded Southern Discount Drugs of Charleston, which helped him serve his community,
but was limited due to space constraints. Then, in 1995, he founded the Diabetic Shoppe in the Charleston area. Quickly, it became a flagship business in the area and began offering mail-order business for diabetic equipment, supplying customers in Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas, Alabama, Tennessee, and Louisiana.
Robert serves not only as an entrepreneur to his community, but also as a community leader and visionary. His family is wellrespected in the Charleston community. He and his wife have been married for 52 years, and continue to work together in the family business.
Robert also serves on the Northwest Alumni Board of Directors and attends a wide range of Northwest events, like football games, the Northwest Soirèe, and Heindl Center events. He has been a generous supporter and proudly calls Northwest his alma mater.
Their twin daughters, Peyton Salmon Brown and Leslie Salmon Heafner, are also both Northwest alumni.
Left: L-R: Peyton Salmon Brown (daughter), Robert Salmon (Class of ’64), Sharon Salmon (wife), Leslie Salmon Heafner (daughter), Salmon Heafner (grandson)
Photo by Carly Fox
Below: Robert Salmon – 1964 Ranger Baseball
NORTHWEST CONCOURSE COMPUTER CENTER NAMED FOR HENRY G. GRAEBER
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Northwest Mississippi Community College is proud to announce that the daughter of Henry G. Graeber, Helen Graeber Overstreet has chosen to make a donation and name the computer center located at the Northwest Batesville Concourse in memory of her father.
Henry Graeber, who was originally from Quitman County, graduated from Marks High School, attended Rhodes College, and then graduated from the University of Mississippi with a degree in business. His family founded the Graeber Brothers Gas Company in 1937 in Marks. Henry owned the Grenada location and managed the Senatobia Graeber location, which was just down the road from Northwest’s main campus. He also served on the Baddour Center’s Board of Directors in Senatobia.
Henry resided in Como and Oxford for most of his adult life before he passed at the age of 85 in 2013. During his life, he enjoyed playing the piano, playing tennis, reading, and tending to his rose garden. He had a deep commitment to Marks Presbyterian Church and helped with funding the organ there. He was an active member of his community, serving as a Rotarian and Paul Harris Fellow. He also purchased a piano for First Methodist Church in Como and was generous in supporting additional churches and cemeteries in Panola and Tate counties. He and his wife of 60 years, Becky, traveled the world together and she joined him in most all his activities, including hunting and fishing. Naming the computer lab was significant to Helen because her father never let age stop him from learning new technology. He confidently accepted and embraced computers when they were introduced in the 1980s. Despite being in his mid-50s at the time, he challenged himself to
use new technology in his daily work. The location at The Concourse in Batesville was important to her because for most of Henry's life, he resided in Panola County. He always enjoyed being challenged and solving issues; because of that, he was successful in his endeavors.
Patti Gordon, executive director of Institutional Advancement, stated, “It was important to Helen to have her father’s name always associated with Northwest. Mr. Graeber had a strong connection to the Senatobia community, recognized the impact that Northwest had, and valued education. We are grateful for Helen’s generosity and commitment to supporting Northwest students.”
Henry G. Graeber - 1965
NORTHWEST CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE FACILITY
Story By Caleb Burggraaf | Photos By Carly Fox
Northwest celebrated the opening of its brand-new Athletic Performance Facility on Thursday April 9 with members of the Board of Trustees joining college administrators, members of the athletic department, and student athletes attending the ribbon cutting event.
‟This literally is a ‛game-changing’ facility for our institution,” Northwest President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl said. “From a new sports medicine and athletic training space for our seven women’s athletic programs, to being the new home for the National Championship Ranger Cheer teams and Dance team, and from the aspect of being able to provide safe practice surfaces for many of our athletic teams, the Ranger Athletic Performance Facility is the premier facility in the nation for athletics. Special thanks to the Northwest Board of Trustees for their continued support of all students at the College—along with our great student athletes.”
The $14 million project features a 70-yard covered turf practice field for multiple sports and a state-of-the-art cheer and dance practice facility with locker rooms, offices, and a meeting space. It also has a dedicated area for sports medicine and trainers specifically for female studentathletes.
Northwest’s growth is showcased not
only in athletics, but also in the dedication to the student's academic experience, providing the best environment for success for the full student body.
‟We are proud to provide state-of-the-art facilities for our students,” Vice President for Administration and Finance
Jeff Horton said. "Whether it's the newly-renovated Learning Resource Center at Senatobia, the new Health Science and Career-Tech space on our DeSoto Campus or the soon-to-break ground facility to expand our Health Science programs at our
Northwest Cheerleaders at the newly-constructed Athletic Performance Facility Cheerleading gym.
“We continue to set a high standard for junior college athletics, and this new athletic performance facility is a testament to that commitment ”
Oxford campus. We know that facilities play an important part in the student learning experience. I want to thank our great facility partners Eley Guild Hardy, Innovative Construction Management and our construction team here at Northwest for delivering this incredible space for our students.”
ICM had representatives on site as well for the ribbon cutting, and they said they are proud to continue their partnership with Northwest for projects that will have a lasting impact.
“We are very blessed in our working relationship with Northwest and for them trusting us to be the construction managers over this project,” said Blane Sellers, division manager of operations for ICM Construction. “Their leadership team is fantastic, and they care so much about this community, and it shows in the decisions that they make and the impacts it has on their students. We are thankful to be a part of their team and to be entrusted with such an important project for the College. We are also thankful for the design team and their vision, and all of our trade partners. Those are the guys putting in the work every day. We are excited to continue the relationship at Northwest.”
This complex gives the Ranger athletic programs a continued boost in their competitive goals on a national stage with the new facility covering over 56,000-square-feet with both indoor and outdoor facilities for use.
“The Athletic Performance Facility is an amazing addition to the Northwest campus,” Athletic Director Jake Gordon said. “Not only does it help with the aesthetics of the campus, but it gives our athletes a place to practice, regardless of what the weather is looking like. It is definitely something that they can be proud of.”
Northwest athletics, such as football, men’s and women’s soccer, baseball, and softball now can practice regardless of weather conditions. The space will also be available for student activities and college events.
“I think it will certainly help with recruiting. Our facilities here continue to get better and better every single year and guys see that,” Head Football Coach Benji Parker said, adding that it provides more options for practice when conditions aren't optimal. “It will help us when we have bad weather and when it gets too hot, we can go in there and cool off a bit so it will certainly benefit us big time when we can’t go outside.”
“It’s obviously a game changer,” said James Beattie, twotime national champion head women’s soccer coach. “We are the only ones in the country that will have a facility like this to utilize, so for us it’s just another thing we can use from a technical standpoint and a recruiting standpoint."
It is also the new home for Northwest cheer and dance, giving them their own space to continue their success. The two teams
have won a combined 12 national titles since 2021.
“It’s going to be amazing having a facility like no other in the country," Head Cheer Coach Brandon Casey said. “This is a game changer for recruiting and bringing athletes on campus to see what all Northwest is about.”
“It means the world for us to have this facility,” Head Dance Coach Patrice Christian said. “To have the marley floor, the mirrors, just to have a space that is only ours is not only amazing, but also rare. We know that isn't something that everyone gets, and definitely not at this level so we are extremely grateful.”
The space also includes an athletic training space solely for female athletes, more than doubling the previous space available for athletic training that was available.
“We continue to set a high standard for junior college athletics, and this new athletic performance facility is a testament to that commitment,” said Justin Ware of Athletico and Northwest head athletic trainer. “Within the facility, we’ve created a dedicated athletic training room for our female athletes, providing them with a comfortable and supportive space for injury prevention, treatment, and recovery.”
The building is also visually appealing, with artwork from various moments in Northwest sports history adorning the walls inside as well as a striking exterior that was put together by the Marketing & Strategic Communications office.
“Beyond everything this facility provides, I’m especially grateful for the work of our Communications team in capturing and showcasing the stories of our student-athletes,” said Dr. Andrew Dale, associate vice president for Community Relations. “From the large-scale photography displays to the exterior mesh wraps, this building doesn't just support performance—it tells the story of Northwest. It truly is a work of art.”
Members of the Northwest men's soccer team playing on the APF field with Athletic Director Jake Gordon.
NORTHWEST CUTS RIBBON ON FRESHLY Remodeled Pugh Library
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Northwest’s R.C. Pugh Library opened its doors again after a renovation project that revitalized the college’s library into a large learning hub equipped with a state-of-the-art maker space, a cozy fireplace, study rooms, and more. College administration, the Board of Trustees, Northwest staff and faculty, alongside students joined together to hold the ribbon cutting on Nov. 20, 2026.
Board Chairman Cory Uselton welcomed everyone to the new facility that he hailed as a success for Northwest and that cultivates success in Northwest students.
“This space has been completely reimagined,” said Northwest President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl.
Dr. Heindl said special attention was made to the functionality of the library both in its original iteration and this reimaging, such as its connection to Tate Hall which has computer labs, restrooms, and student support offices; the specific studyoriented spaces like the booths and private study rooms, and all the other little details that make the library shine.
“The results will speak for themselves when you visit the newly- renovated R.C. Pugh Library,” said Jeff Horton, vice president for Administration and Finance. “I believe it rivals any library you would find in the state. We would like to thank our partners at Murphy and Sons, Inc., EGH Architects and the team at the Bureau of Buildings for their work on this project.”
The $4.9 million project had each detail carefully curated for the new space designed by Eley Guild Hardy, contracted by Murphy and Sons, Inc., and overseen by Northwest’s Director of College Construction and Maintenance, Mary Ayers. The funding for this project was approved in 2022, and after design and approval processes were completed with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History construction began in October of 2024.
Ayers explained that they wanted to keep the original design aesthetic of the building, which was completed in 1953 with additions made in the late 1960s. “The new brick was hand matched to the 1967 masonry,” said Ayers. “All new windows were designed to mimic the horizontal design of the original 1953 and 1967 windows.”
Inside, the 16,857square-foot space was reimagined with wide open spaces for books in addition to new study spaces and learning resources. It implements the mid-century
modern design elements connecting with its historically styled past.
Beyond the design, the library is about what they offer to their patrons, and no one knows this better than Dr. Melissa Wright, the college’s director of Learning Resources. Dr. Wright talked about the importance of the evolution of libraries, not just as being only places where books are kept, but as a living institution that changes with the needs of the community.
“We now have a much more vast array of resources and educational materials to use due to increased use of technology,” said Dr. Wright. “But what has not changed is our core mission of transforming student lives and enriching our communities by promoting literacy, teaching critical thinking and research skills, and instilling a love of learning. This hasn’t varied in the almost 100-year existence of the Northwest libraries, and it won’t.”
She said that the thing that makes all this happen isn’t as much a building–as nice as that may be but the team behind the building, who comes back in every day and greets students with smiling faces and a helping hand, who educate students on resources, how to make buttons or sew, or helps them into a student room to study for their final. Dr. Wright said this building wouldn’t mean much without the folks who show up every day and ask, “What can we do to help?” According to Dr. Wright, her library team is a leader’s dream come true as they have the same vision.
Dr. Wright didn’t want to miss recognizing who makes their job special and this building so exciting: the students. She noted the response for students requesting to learn about the programs, maker space, and book clubs is particularly exciting.
Dr. Wright said she’d be remiss not to thank all the people behind the renovations, and the administrative leadership, especially Dr. Heindl, who made these renovations possible.
For students like Mya Hardin of Water Valley, this is more than about books. As PTK president of the Senatobia chapter, she was able to help move books from the temporary library located in the Tunica Building back to the R.C. Pugh Library after renovations were complete. During the process, she said she realized that she didn’t just see a beautiful library, but something more.
“I see opportunity,” Hardin said. “I see support and I see a college willing to pour into their students.”
Northwest Board of Trustees members, staff, faculty, students, and community members celebrate the ribbon cutting for the renovated R.C. Pugh Library on Nov. 20.
Photo by Carly Fox
NORTHWEST AVIATION PROGRAM FINDS ITS PILOT
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
Northwest Mississippi Community College in spring of 2026 hired it's first-ever Director of Aviation, Robert Pochert for the forthcoming program. Pochert, a retired Air Force veteran, former FedEx flight instructor and former Delta State University professor, has made the move into this position bringing his wealth of knowledge with him.
Pochert received his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington. Afterward he began service in the Air Force while earning a Master of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management.
With his long career and extensive research, he brings a lot of knowledge to this new role which is gearing students up to take flight in both pilot training and UAS.
“For me, building a ‘clean sheet’ design is a fantastic opportunity to shape a program from the start so that it can grow and evolve as technology grows and evolves,” said Pochert. “Both manned flight and unmanned aerial systems are technology dependent and rapidly evolving. Designing the rollout and expansion of these programs is a complex puzzle that will be exciting to solve.”
As aviation continues to evolve, changes are upcoming for the FAA flight school rules, which are being updated for the first time in 40 years.
“There are exciting changes that might enhance the training experience and lower the cost of becoming an airline pilot,” said Pochert. “For
Unmanned Aerial Systems, the technology is rapidly evolving with the integration of AI as an ‘onboard’ agent which will fundamentally change the UAS industry over the next few years. The FAA is in the process of writing new guidance that covers larger UAS and Advanced Air Mobility vehicles. This is an exciting time for both industries. Northwest’s programs will not be static once launched; they will constantly evolve as technology evolves.”
“NORTHWEST’S PROGRAMS WILL NOT BE STATIC ONCE LAUNCHED; THEY WILL CONSTANTLY EVOLVE AS TECHNOLOGY EVOLVES.”
Growing up, Pochert was a military brat who traveled around the world, so he said he didn’t exactly have a hometown. Even as an adult, his own career took him all over the world, but now he considers himself a north Mississippian.
BASEBALL ALUMNI
Our annual baseball alumni tailgate was held on March 28 as the Rangers took on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Bulldogs in a double header. Alumni Chris Lindsey and Don Embrey, both members of the ’82 championship team, cooked and sold lunch plates with proceeds supporting the baseball program. In between games, baseball alumni were recognized on the field. Mark your calendars for the alumni tailgate each spring!
1 5 2 4
1 Baseball alumni were recognized for past contributions on the field and their continued efforts to give back to the program they helped build.
2 Max Lee (class of ’60), Johnny Still (class of ’60), and Robert Salmon (class of ’64) 3 Stephen Box, Brian Hunsucker, Chris Mitchell, and John Lucado. 4 Don Embrey, Chris Lindsey and Richie Craven. 5 Patti Gordon and Coach Mark Carson welcome former baseball Head Coach, Jim Miles back to campus.
ANNUAL REPORT 2025
Message from THE FOUNDATION BOARD PRESIDENT
Dear Alumni and Friends, Greetings from the campus of Northwest Mississippi Community College! The 2025-2026 school year has been filled with excitement and many accomplishments. Our vision remains to transform students’ lives, enrich our communities and strive for excellence in our educational programs and services. Currently there are over 90 educational academic, technical, and career pathways across all of our campuses. Our students are thriving, and their accomplishments promise to make a better Mississippi! Not only are our students excelling in the classroom, they also have been superb in sports. The Ranger football team won the MACCC Region Championship and the women’s soccer team won the National Tournament AGAIN this year.
The campus continues to grow with new projects such as a newly-renovated R.C. Pugh Library, The Athletic Performance Facility, and the Centennial Bell Tower. Please make an effort to come see these! The Heindl Center for the Performing Arts continues to bring in top Broadway touring productions and celebrity attractions. Last but not least, the Northwest Soiree - A Garden Gala, happened April 18th. This is the premier fundraising and community recognition event of the year. Awards were given for Outstanding Alumni Professional Achievement, Young Alumni Professional Achievement, Corporation, and Spirit of Northwest, honoring those that represent the legacy of Northwest.
Thank you for your generosity in supporting Northwest. Great days are ahead for our institution! Please continue to invest. Your gifts are an investment in the future of our state and will help us maintain the highest standards of excellence in education.
It has been an honor and privilege for me to serve as your Foundation board president. I hope to see you soon!
Dr. Stephen Joe Northwest Foundation Board President
By
The Northwest Foundation Board of Directors welcomed new member Jay Tindall, of Senatobia and Treasurer, Chuck Jackson of Senatobia at the 2026 first quarter board meeting.(L-R) Patti Gordon – executive director of Institutional Advancement, Dr. Michael J. Heindl – NWCC President, Jay Tindall, Chuck Jackson, Dr. Stephen Joe – Foundation Board President, Niles Norris – Foundation Board Vice President
Photo
Carly Fox
DR. STEPHEN JOE
2026 Foundation BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JIMMY MCCLURE
HUGH M. CANNON
JAMES DUNN
CINDY
DEBBIE PERKINS
IKE SAYLE Tallahatchie County Owner, Sayle Oil Company
DR. PATSY SLEDGE Tate County Retired Principal
DR. LORRI WILLIAMSON Yalobusha County Retired, Ole Miss Administrator
STERLING WITHERS Tunica County Owner, Withers Properties
JEFF HORN
JAY TINDALL Tate County Retired Banker
GIVING SOCIETIES
The Northwest Foundation depends on loyal donors to strengthen the college’s efforts of innovation and provide a quality education for students. We appreciate each and every donor who helps move Northwest into the future.
Columns Giving Society
The Columns Lifetime Giving Society recognizes the overall cumulative total of a donor’s gifts and pledges to Northwest. The Foundation is deeply appreciative of the contributions and impact these donors have made in the growth and success of Northwest. Since 1926, the columns of the James P. McCormick Administration Building have long served as an icon for Northwest and a standing reminder of our history. Northwest is proud to honor its most devoted donors with membership to the Columns Society, in honor of their dedication and commitment to our future.
Magnolia Society
Lifetime donations/pledges of $250,000 + BankFirst Cadence Bank
Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi Dunlap & Kyle Company, Inc.
Endurance Physical Therapy
Mr. and Mrs. Norris Faust Jr.
Mr. Morgan Freeman
Graeber Foundation
Haley Barbour Center for Manufacturing Excellence
Mini Systems, Inc.
Northcentral Electric Cooperative
Mr. and Mrs. William G. Yates
Tate Society
Lifetime donations/pledges of $100,000 - $249,999
ACI Building Systems, LLC
Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Memphis
Frances Marie Dean Trust
Delta Regional Foundation
GE Aerospace Foundation
Ms. Trudy Hall
Elinor Herrington Charitable Trust
Clarence Thomas Hill Estate Bequest
Horn Lake High School Alumni Foundation
John Deere Corporation
Colonel Charles R. Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. Kim Kreunen
Dr. William Longest
Mississippi Board of Nursing
North Mississippi Education Consortium
Mr. and Mrs. Russell Paulk Jr.
City of Southaven
State Farm Companies Foundation
Tallahatchie Valley Electric Power Association
In Memoriam:
Mr. John L. Basinger
Colonel Charles R. Johnson
Dr. William Longest
Sycamore Society
Lifetime donations/pledges of $50,000 - $99,999
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Ainsworth
Batesville Presbyterian Church
Benefit Concepts, P. A.
Mrs. Elsie Blanke Estate
Mr. and Mrs. Barry Bouchillon
Dr. Robert I. Bourne Jr.
Bower Foundation
Brown Insurance Agency
Cannon Motors of Mississippi
CITE Armored
Dr. Dan Copeland
Mr. Wendell Couch
DeSoto County Public Safety Memorial
Dollar General Literacy Foundation
Entergy Services, Incorporated
First Financial Bank
First Security Bank
Gene Haas Foundation
City of Hernando
Mrs. Marty Holloman Estate
Horseshoe Casino & Hotel
Ms. Jacqueline James Estate
Dr. and Mrs. Brant Kairit
Mr. and Mrs. J. Gary Kornegay
Ms. Linda S. Laine
Estate of Jim and Angelē McClure
Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare Foundation
Dr. Susan Avery Mitchell
Mr. and Mrs. Niles Norris
Ms. Jean Nunnally
City of Olive Branch
Mrs. Helen Overstreet
Panola County Habitat for Humanity
Reedy Acres Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Reynolds
Mrs. Valeria B. Robertson
Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Salmon
Sayle Oil Company
Dr. and Mrs. Robert L. Smith Jr.
Dr. and Mrs. Ray Thweatt
VFW - Post 7531
Dr. and Mrs. William H. West
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Williams
Women's Foundation of Mississippi
In Memoriam:
Dr. Robert I. Bourne Jr.
Mrs. Dorris Crawford
1927 Society
Lifetime donations/pledges of $25,000 - $49,999
American Equity Investment Life Ins. Co.
2nd Chance MS, Inc.
American Equity Investment Life Ins. Co.
A T & T
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Barrett
Mr. and Mrs. Louis Blanchard
Mr. Marcus L. Burks
Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr.
Mrs. Marilyn Canada
Mr. Fred Carlisle
The Chrysler Foundation
Citizens Bank and Trust
CLEAResult Consulting CoBank, ACB
Mr. Jerry Davis
Delta Rice Services
Delta Trauma Care Region
DeSoto County Literacy Council
Mrs. Patricia B. Dhority
Mrs. Paul R. Duncan
Mr. and Mrs. James E. Dunn
ExxonMobil Foundation
FedEx
First Horizon Bank
Graves Oil Company
Guaranty Bank
Mr. Michael Haley
Dr. Neil Haraway
Eley Guild Hardy Architects PA
Dr. and Mrs. Michael Havens
Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl
Hinds Chapel Church
Mr. Timothy D. Hogan
Dr. and Mrs. Marshall E. Hollis
Mr. Carson Hughes
Jones-Pointer Foundation Trust
Mr. George Max Lee Jr.
Lions Club of Senatobia
Mr. and Mrs. Mathew Lipscomb III
Maddox Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Leon McCullouch
Mechanics Bank
Mississippi Community College Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Marc Montville
Mrs. Becky Moore
Governor Ronnie Musgrove
Olive Branch Lions Club
Panola-Tate Livestock Association
Mrs. Frances C. Perkins
Drs. Ramesh and Purnima Purohit
Renasant Bank
Mr. and Mrs. Mike Robison
Senatobia Investment Company
Dr. Patsy Sledge
Dr. and Mrs. Gary Lee Spears
Mr. J. E. Spurlock
Storey Insurance
Tennessee Valley Authority
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Thomas
Trustmark Bank
UBS Financial Services, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Sterling Withers
In Memoriam:
Mr. Don Clanton
Ms. Evelyn-Hayes Lee
Mr. Pat Lewis
Mr. Kirk and Mrs. Carole Moore
Mr. Harold Nichols
Mr. J. E. Spurlock
Legacy Society
The Legacy Society recognizes individuals who have made commitments to Northwest through planned gifts. Legacy gifts help build financial support for future student scholarships, academic programs, or capital initiatives. Written documentation is required for membership.
Sarah Garner Ainsworth
Mike and Celia Boren
Norris W. Faust Jr.
Sandy and Vaughn Grisham
Mike Harris
Linda S. Laine
Helen G. Overstreet
Russell Paulk Jr.
Dr. Kenneth L. and Mary Sipley
Lynda J. South
Melvin (Jay) Tindall Jr.
In Memoriam:
Debbie Harris
The President’s Circle recognizes donors who contribute $500 or more in agiven year to the Northwest Fund. Members maintain their recognition by giving every year.
Doctorate Level
Annual donation of $5,000 or more to the Northwest Fund CITE Armored Clearway Energy Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi
2025 President’s Circle
Delta Regional Foundation
Five Star Equipment Co., Inc.
Bank of Holly Springs - Main Branch
Mini Systems, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Russell Paulk Jr.
Sayle Oil Company
Master Level
Annual donation of $2,500 - $4,999 to the Northwest Fund
Atmos Energy BankFirst
Baptist Memorial Hospital - DeSoto
Benefit Concepts, P. A.
Bright River Wealth Management Group
Delta State University Foundation, Inc.
Five Star Dental
Guaranty Bank
Mainline Office Products
Mendrop Engineering Resources, LLC
Mike's Food & Gas
Williams, Pitts & Beard, PLLC
Bachelor Level
Annual donation of $1,000 - $2,499 to the Northwest Fund
ACI Building Systems, LLC
Bolton and Associates Wealth Management Group
Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr.
Camp Creek Landscape, LLC
Cannon Motors of Mississippi
Clearloop Corporation
Cooperative Energy
Mr. and Mrs. Whit Crowley
Mr. Bradford J. Dye III
Entergy Services, Incorporated
First Financial Bank
First Security Bank
Gold Strike Casino
Mr. Larry Hall
Ms. Molly Hawkins
Kizer Flooring, LLC
Lamar & Hannaford, P. A.
Mr. John Lucado Jr.
Magnolia Eye Group
Mississippi Land Bank
Musgrove Whitwell, PLLC
Packaging Corporation of America - Olive Branch
Dr. Jason Parolli
J. T. Ray Company, Inc
Renasant Bank
Mr. Doc Sanders
Senatobia Investment Company
Southern Beverage Distributors, LLC
Specialty Orthopedic Group
Mrs. Marianne Veazey
Windstone Dental, LLC
Associate Level
Annual donation of $500 - $999 to the Northwest Fund
Mr. Ryan E. Byrne
Mr. Hugh Mitchell Cannon
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Darnell
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Horn
Mr. Adrian W. Luttrell
Mrs. Catherine Miller
Ms. Marcia Thrailkill
2025 Advocacy Society
The Advocacy Society is for employees who participate in the payroll deduction program. The Foundation is grateful to our generous employees who have made the decision to help students before they even receive their paycheck.
Beth Adams
Piyatilake Adris
Alyssa Algee
Mary Ayers
Darrell Barnes
Maya Berry
Pearl Blair
Barry Briscoe
Josh Buchanan
Kathy Buchanan
Dr. Carol Cleveland
Meg Crockett
Dr. Andrew Dale
Betty Darnell
Elizabeth Dickerson
Dr. Matthew Domas
Melissa Evans
Dr. Timothy Flake
Betty Ginn
Patti Gordon
Joshua Guest
LeeLee Haraway
Jasmin Harris
Kelly Hayes
Dr. Michael Heindl
Jere Herrington
Kenneth Hodnette
Jenny Hurt
Victoria Jankowski
Matthew Johnson
Dr. Don Jones
Dr. Parker Jones
Marla Kennedy
Dr. Craig Lafferty
Samantha Latham
Leslie Legendre
Debra Lenox
Deborah Littrell
Lillian Morris-Hilson
Lucia Nelson
Angel Nickens
Victoria Penny Marcus Perkins
Anna Grace Perry
John David Randall
Dr. Keith Reed
Ivivian Reed
Robin Robison
Anne Ross
Walter Ruby
Dr. Tonyalle Rush
Casey Saturday
Bill Selby
Kim Steinman
Susan Sugg
Jeff Triplett
John Ungurait
Linda Webb
Jennifer Williams
Monica Williams
Dr. Denise Willis
SCHOLARSHIPS
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS ESTABLISHED IN 2025
The Woolfolk Sisters Judy Woolfolk Weeks and Bonnie Woolfolk Smith Memorial Endowment
The Henry Thomas “H.T.” Dixon and William Earl “Bill” White Endowment
Anonymous Endowment
The Bobby Ray Franklin Memorial Endowment
The Taylor Leighann Inglish Memorial Endowed
The Northwest Foundation manages over 435 named endowed scholarships. For a complete list of these scholarships, along with named annual scholarships, please scan the QR code on this page.
TOTAL AMOUNT RAISED in 2025
$1,557,516
289 1,920 GIFTS
1,941 DONORS
$811
AVERAGE GIFT PER DONOR
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2025, THE VALUE OF THE NORTHWEST ENDOWMENT WAS $17,680,571.
Scan Here for a list of all scholarships
received by:
2025 DONOR LIST
Northwest donors, supporters and alumni help pave the way for students to pursue their brightest futures and for Northwest to continue to stay true to its mission of upholding a standard of excellence. We thank them for their commitment to education in our communities with their gifts and pledges in 2025.
Ms. Rhonda Cobb
$100,000 and above
Dunlap & Kyle Company, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. William G. Yates
$20,000 - $49,999
2nd Chance MS, Inc.
ACI Building Systems, LLC
Anonymous Donor
BankFirst
Bower Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Norris Faust Jr.
Graeber Foundation
Mini Systems, Inc.
Northcentral Electric Cooperative
Tennessee Valley Authority
$10,000 - $19,999
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Ainsworth
Mr. Michael Joe Cannon
Mr. Wendell Couch
Delta Regional Foundation
Dollar General Literacy Foundation
Ms. Trudy Hall
Horn Lake High School Alumni Foundation
Mr. Gary Inglish
Mr. and Mrs. Mathew Lipscomb III
Mrs. Helen Overstreet
Mr. and Mrs. Russell Paulk Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Reynolds
Sayle Oil Company
Specialty Orthopedic Group
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Thomas
Mrs. Mary Carolyn Tindall
Dr. and Mrs. William H. West
Mrs. Gladys Dixon White
$5,000 - $9,999
Anonymous Donor
Bank of Holly Springs - Main Branch
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Brooks
Mrs. Raye Brooks
Brown Insurance Agency
Cadence Bank
CITE Armored
Clearway Energy
Coldwater United Methodist Church
Create Foundation, Inc.
Five Star Equipment Co, Inc.
Graves Oil Company
Guaranty Bank
Mr. E. F. Hale III
Mr. Timothy D. Hogan
Mr. Mike Inglish
John Deere Corporation
Dr. and Mrs. Brant Kairit
Mr. and Mrs. J. Gary Kornegay
Mr. and Mrs. Kim Kreunen
Mr. Chris Lindsey
Dr. Susan Avery Mitchell
Governor Ronnie Musgrove
Ms. Jean Nunnally
Parker Hannifin Foundation
Reedy Acres Foundation
Mrs. Krista Schauffler
Dr. Patsy Sledge
Mr. and Mrs. Artie Smith
Mr. Walter R. "Sonny" Stewart
Dr. and Mrs. Ray Thweatt
$2,500 - $4,999
Mr. and Mrs. Sameer Agrawal
Atmos Energy
Baptist Memorial Hospital - DeSoto
Benefit Concepts, P. A.
Mr. and Mrs. D. James Blackwood Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Barry Bouchillon
Bright River Wealth Management Group
Cannon Motors of Mississippi
Mr. Jerry Davis
Delta Airlines Foundation
Delta State University Foundation, Inc.
Entergy Services, Incorporated
First Financial Bank
First Security Bank
Five Star Dental
Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl
Joyce Estes, LLC
Mainline Office Products
Mendrop Engineering Resources, LLC
Mid-South Scaffolding
Mike's Food & Gas
Mississippi Land Bank
Moore's Financial Group
Ms. Priscilla Oates
Mr. Parker Pickle
Renasant Bank
State Farm Companies Foundation
Storey Insurance
Williams, Pitts & Beard, PLLC
Windstone Dental, LLC
Mr. and Mrs. Sterling Withers
$1,000 - $2,499
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Barrett
Bernhard Energy Solutions
Ms. Sandra Bloodworth
Bolton and Associates Wealth Management Group
Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Branan
Bridgforth, Buntin and Emerson, PLLC
Mr. and Mrs. Teddy Bryant
Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr.
Camp Creek Landscape, LLC
Cavender's
Cedar Gap Wealth Management LLC
The Honorable Justice and Mrs. Robert P. Chamberlin
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Clayton
Clearloop Corporation
Cooperative Energy
Mr. Rip Copeland
Cornerstone Equine Veterinary Services
Cox Excavation & Land Development, LLC
Crenshaw Auctions
Mr. and Mrs. Whit Crowley
Mrs. Patricia B. Dhority
Mr. Kevin Doddridge
Mrs. Margery Duncan
Mr. and Mrs. James E. Dunn
Mr. Bradford J. Dye III
Mrs. Marjorie Earl
Elite Earthworks LLC
Mr. Ryan England
Mr. N. C. Ferguson Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. William Fite
Dr. and Mrs. Greg Freeman
G Squared Private Wealth
Mrs. Betty Ginn
Gold Strike Casino
Mr. John M. Gossard
Dr. Greg Graves
Ms. Melissa Greene
Mr. and Mrs. Hilly Griffin
Mr. Larry Hall
Mr. Edward Hargett
Mr. Jeff Haugen
Ms. Molly Hawkins
Hernando Smiles
Mrs. Barbara Herron
Mrs. Angela Brooks Hodge
Mr. and Mrs. Ken Holden
Dr. Charles Ingram
J. T. Ray Company, Inc
Mr. and Mrs. Chuck D. Jackson Jr.
Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Joe
Johnny Coleman Builders, Inc.
Ms. Michele Johnston
Kirk Auto Company
Kizer Flooring, LLC
Lamar & Hannaford, P. A.
Ms. Mary A. Love
Mr. John Lucado Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Lucchesi
Magnolia Lighting
Magnolia Eye Group
Mr. and Mrs. Dick Marchbanks Jr.
The Honorable and Mrs. Jimmy McClure
Mr. and Mrs. Leon McCullouch
McDonald Welding and Construction LLC
Dr. and Mrs. David Hughes McElreath
Mrs. Becky Moore
MS Farm Bureau Federation
Musgrove Whitwell, PLLC
Dr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Myrick, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Neely
Mr. and Mrs. John Nicholson
Mr. and Mrs. Niles Norris
North Mississippi Education Consortium
Olive Branch Lions Club
One Source Auto Glass
Packaging Corporation of AmericaOlive Branch
Panola County Farm Bureau
Panola County Livestock Association
Dr. Jason Parolli
Mr. Wilford Payne
Mrs. Frances C. Perkins
Ms. Debbie Perkins
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Plumlee
Prime Manufacturing Services, LLC
Mr. and Mrs. James Redding
Mr. Robin Robison
Ross Sod Farms
Mr. Doc Sanders
SecurTrust Federal Credit Union
Senatobia Investment Company
Mr. Lance Skalnik
Southen Beverage Distributors, LLC
Spencer Lee's Transmissions
Ms. Lisa Strong
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Tallo
Mr. Cass Tapley
Tate DeSoto Cattlemen's Association
Ms. Dale K. Thompson
Town Creek Farm
Tri-County Council Vietnam Era Veterans
Tristate Industrial Hydraulics LLC
Trustmark Bank
Mr. and Mrs. John Ungurait
Mrs. Marianne Veazey
Mrs. Wrennie West
Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. White
Mr. John T. Wilkinson III
Winona Tractor & Equipment, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Scotty Wofford
Mr. Lawrence Young
10th Inning Bar & Grill At Snowden Grove
A & B Distributing Company
Advance Electric Co.
Ms. Charlotte Alexander
Mr. and Mrs. Marty Allison
BankPlus
Mrs. Frankie Berryhill
Boren and Hawkins, Incorporated
Dr. Lucie Bridgforth
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Brown
Bryant Lane Cowboy Church
Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
Mr. Ryan E. Byrne
C4 Cowboy Church
Susan Canada
Mr. Hugh Mitchell Cannon
Mr. Robert Canon Jr.
Ms. Mary P. Chandler
Mrs. Shirley Clanton
Cold Water Ranch
Dr. Andrew Dale
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Darnell
Ms. Rachel Dhority
Dr. Angela Dortch
Dr. and Mrs. Scott Dunaway
Duncan Williams Asset Management - Amy Koch, CRPS, CPFA
Easley Contractors
Mr. Jacob Edwards
Guardian Title, LLC
Ms. Sydney Gully
Mr. Darry Hardy
Mr. and Mrs. Ken Harris
Mr. Kent Hawkins
Mr. and Mrs. Dewayne Herrington
Hinds Chapel Church
Hollingsworth Paving, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Horn
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Jarjoura
Dr. Everlyn S. Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Judd
Mrs. Leone King
Mr. Kenneth Krzyzkowski
Dr. Craig Lafferty
Mrs. Barbara Lawrence
Lions Club of Senatobia
Mr. Adrian W. Luttrell
Ms. Peggy M. Mark
McBrideco, LLC
Mr. Bill McCulley
Ms. Paula W. McGown
Mr. Cameron Meek
Mrs. Catherine Miller
Mrs. Jean W. Moore
Norton's LLC
Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Nuernberg
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Oelke
Pampered Paws Southaven
Parman Energy Group
Ms. Victoria Penny
Ms. Lenora Prevatt
Mr. Juan Quinonez Zepeda
Ms. Jennine Ramage
Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Ramage
Mrs. Joyce Randall
Ms. Sandra Reed
Mr. Walter Ruby
Dr. and Mrs. David Sartin
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Schwerdt
Dr. and Mrs. Robert P. Scruggs III
Mr. and Mrs. Briggs Smith
Southaven Chamber of Commerce
Southaven Honda
Mr. and Mrs. David Speltz
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Starnes
Sullivan Financial Services
Sycamore Arts Council
Tate County Co-Op
Ms. Marcia Thrailkill
Mr. Deston Todd
Mr. and Mrs. James Venable III
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Walker
Mrs. Ida F. Wallace
Mr. William L. Wallace
Mrs. Linda Webb
Mr. Eric White
Mr. Bob Whitwell
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Williams
Mr. and Mrs. David Wiseman
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Wood
A Family Legacy:
Adams Family Rooted in Northwest History
Story and Photos By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
The Dr. A. M. “Mac” Adams family of Senatobia has a long legacy at Northwest, starting with Dr. Adams’ father, Audie Mac Adams, the family patriarch. Audie came to Northwest in 1938, not long after the college was established, to teach agricultural courses, which later became vocational technology courses.
When the Adams family first arrived at Northwest, like a lot of faculty at the time, they moved onto campus. A little over a decade later, Audie’s son, Mac, would attend Northwest. Dr. Adams said he stayed active in the college community, often playing cards or ping pong with friends in the basement of the administration building where at the time, students took most of their classes.
Dr. Adams fondly remembers his time at Northwest, both living on campus growing up and as a commuter student. He said he felt like he received a fine education, remembering many of his instructors and the courses they taught, such as Mrs. Chase who taught English, Mr. Burks who taught chemistry, and Ms. Stratton, who, while he was a student, got married and became Mrs. Wilborn. He attended from 1955 to 1957 and then transferred to the University of Memphis for his bachelor’s degree before he pursued his M.D. at the University of Tennessee Medical School.
Years after practicing medicine, Dr. Adams became the team
physician for Northwest, before Dr. Ed Field took the reins in 1995. Dr. Adams said that a lot has changed on campus since the days he attended, where it was a small college with only a few buildings, to a large campus with growth in every aspect. Dr. Adams said he hopes the next 100 years produce as much advancement for the college as the last. He shared that he is especially proud of the expansion of both academic and athletic ventures.
Dr. Adams was married to the late Linda East Adams. Their daughter, Shannon, continued the Northwest legacy, studying Graphic Design. She played basketball for the Lady Rangers under Coach Harry Adair and in her off season, joined the Northwest tennis team.
After Northwest, Shannon went on to study Recreation and Leisure Management at the University of Mississippi where she was also on the cheer team. She has been employed at the Baddour Center in Senatobia for 36 years and is currently a physical fitness manager.
Both Dr. Adams and Shannon hold Northwest in high esteem and are proud to have been a part of what was built here. They said they cannot wait to see what the future holds for both the college and community in the next 100 years.
Always a Ranger
FROM STUDENT TO STAFF
This is a profile series featured in each issue of Northwest Now about employees who were once Northwest students. This is a storytelling opportunity describing why someone came back to Northwest and why they are “Always a Ranger ”
Prabha Malhotra
Malhotra has a Ranger's heart to spread knowledge, love, and encouragement.
Story & Photo By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
In 2003, Prabha Malhotra came onto the Northwest DeSoto campus with the intention of taking her daughter to college, and soon she found herself registering for classes. Malhotra said she started by taking mathematics and anatomy and physiology courses. These courses felt more accessible with her limited English. At that time, she said she was striving to improve her English by watching videos from First Regional Library in Hernando.
“I thought if I’m staying here, I should learn their language,” she said on urgency to learn English while being a student at Northwest.
Malhotra is originally from Jabalpur, India. Growing up there she said she had English courses much like American students take Spanish in high school. They learn parts of the language, but few master fluency in those short courses.
She worked on continually improving and studying more courses. In 2009, the hard work paid off and she completed her first Northwest chapter when she graduated from the Respiratory Therapy program. Malhotra began her career in respiratory therapy rotations at Baptist Memorial HospitalDeSoto. Despite all of her work to learn English, she found there was still too strong of a communications barrier with her accent. She said it proved difficult for patients to understand her, and she felt as if it were no longer the right fit for her.
“I realized in hospitals it wasn’t good for me,” she said.
So, when a position opened in the computer lab at Ole Miss DeSoto, she knew she was interested in returning to the campus. She enjoyed the pace and spending time with students and the librarians. When a part-time position opened at the Northwest library, she quickly applied for the opportunity which she said she’s thoroughly enjoyed.
Malhotra and DeSoto Center librarian Courtney Hicks have worked together nearly a decade. Hicks said not only is
Malhotra interesting and kind, but she also loves learning about Malhotra’s culture through stories and especially food.
“Prabha started working full-time a few years back, which meant she was here during the day much more,” Hicks said.
“This was great because it was the first time I got to experience her food. She is a wonderful cook and is always very thoughtful to bring the dishes she knows I like. She is also wonderful with children. She lights up when someone brings their child to the library. Several instructors' children love her. My son is no exception. He is a bit more shy, but loves when Prabha sends mangos home to him or a certain Indian dessert she makes – it tastes like little pancake balls with syrup.”
Malhotra said that one of the greatest pleasures of working at Northwest DeSoto is tending to the plants around the campus and even propagates plants to give to other employees.
“I feel very certain that not one single plant would be alive in the library if it weren't for her,” said Hicks. “Her knowledge comes in handy when we have our terrarium workshop, and stay tuned: she is going to host a jewelry making workshop using some of the beads she has collected throughout the years.”
Malhotra is also big on family and loves getting to spend time with her family, cooking and gardening. She has two daughters, Swati and Kancha, and one son named Shiv. Prabha is proud to be Always a Ranger.
Centennial
THE LAST 100 YEARS
Story By Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
For the past 100 years Northwest has been transforming students’ lives through education, enriching communities through outreach and services, and striving for excellence and growth.
1926– 1930s
Northwest’s first decade was transformational. Northwest, which was founded under Tate County Agricultural High School and led by Porter Walker Berry, forged into what we now know as Northwest Mississippi Community College. Shortly after the college was established, the world was ravaged by the Great Depression, which swept the world by storm as quickly as the Dust Bowl.
In 1935, the student newspaper, the Ranger Rocket, described the challenges students and faculty faced during that time as “the yawning jaws of the wolf have been almost close enough to the instructors of our youth to make things very uncomfortable for them.” However, those students and faculty were undaunted by the “tough breaks.” The Ranger Rocket stated that faculty members selflessly took care of the youth, creating a spirit that they described as enabling the laity of Tate County with pride and education.
1940s
At the start of World War II, the war shook not only the world, but Northwest’s little slice of it. Many students and staff left college to serve their country, including
former Northwest student and faculty member, W.C. Haley. Haley embarked on his first mission in Normandy, France. That first mission proved historic and is now known as D-Day. He served the country for a total of 65 missions in the U.S. Army Air Corps. After returning from the war, he eventually returned to Northwest and served as a faculty member.
With the invention of the G.I. Bill, also known as the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, it allowed veterans opportunities that they might not have had the option of before the war. The bill was a response to their heroic contributions to the war effort, and helped them find jobs with the influx of servicemen transitioning back to civilian life. The post-war life brought in a new rush of students looking for skills that would be applicable to the jobs and emerging technologies of that time. This helped the growth of the student population and the economy as a whole.
After the war, students commemorated those who fought with a day of remembrance on May 31, 1946, to honor soldiers. At that time, 23 Northwest students had served in the war.
Agricultural High School & First Northwest President
Porter Walker Berry Leader of Tate County
W.C. Haley
Veterans of Foreign Wars Club
1950s
Post-war life created what we now know as the “baby boom” and suburban growth. The rise of rock ‘n’ roll and Mississippian Elvis Presley were on the frontier.
In 1951, with over 15 campus organizations and a growing number of athletes, the college was experiencing a student life boom after World War II, although, that wouldn’t last for long. With the Korean War beginning, Northwest enrollment suffered. From fall to spring of the 1951-1952 school year there was a reduction of 35% of students due to the large percentage being members of the armed forces. During this time the Department of Defense established rules allowing Full-time college students to pause draft eligibility depending on academic eligibility. In 1952, the college began
the process of becoming a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. In its first review, it was remarked that Northwest President R.C. Pugh had done an excellent job with leadership and that the faculty and staff were interested in the development.
Improvements were made to the campus as well, welcoming a library and a president’s home. The new library was named after Pugh, who had just retired. They also upgraded The football field, and for the first time the team would play under lights. It was opened in the fall of 1953.
1960s
In the early 1960s Bob Dylan wrote, “The Times They Are-A-Changin’,” and it couldn’t have proven more true than for a decade of civil rights activism, antiwar efforts and the space race. Martin Luther King Jr. marched
through Senatobia on June 6, 1966. This march was part of a wider effort, King’s “March Against Fear.” At this march, participants passed by the college campus on their way up Highway 51 to Memphis. Only a year prior, Northwest integrated.
The college decided to integrate well before other schools in the area, and it was recounted as a smooth transition led by President Reese D. McLendon and Dean of Students James P. McCormick. Years later, another Northwest president, Dr. Gary Lee Spears, wrote, “No racial disturbances of any significance ever occurred on campus. During the sixties, when many colleges experienced student rioting and the disruption of educational processes, Northwest Junior College continued to grow and expand with harmony between the races, between faculty and students, and with continued support of the community.”
1970s
In the throes of the Vietnam War, a 1979 Northwest Rocketeer yearbook brought a lighter tone to the 70s with its opening paragraph, “Dreams bring students to Northwest – dreams of what you want to become, dreams of being partially ‘on your own,’ dreams of the exciting life of a college student. Northwest is here to give a student the chance to become someone he wants to become.”
Dreams for students, dreams for growth, and one of those dreams was realized with the college expansion to DeSoto County, opening the original DeSoto Center, and course offerings grew. In the early 1970s, there were 52 major courses offered, which included 27 academic programs, 13 two-year technical courses, and 6 vocational courses. Just a few short years later, in 1973, Northwest began the nursing program.
Northwest revived old passions for agriculture with an arena that became the center for livestock shows, rodeos, and other events. Northwest’s livestock judging even broke records in state and national competitions in 1972.
1980s
The college continued to grow in the 1980s, and a new campus opened in Oxford to help a rising student population. Surprisingly Northwest President Henry B. Koon’s presidency came to a halt after passing unexpectedly from a heart attack in 1985. After Koon’s administration, Northwest welcomed its first female president, June S. Gardner, as an interim president. After her brief administration, they hired Northwest’s youngest president Dr. David M. Haraway of Olive Branch.
Dr. Haraway began a campaign to improve the college, seeking to
support faculty and staff by increasing their salaries and improving the reputation of the college among the populations it served. He also wanted to help better equip programs for the problems and jobs of the day.
1990s
In 1995, the DeSoto Center moved to Church Road and W.E. Ross Parkway into the $7.3 million, 94,000-square-foot, two-story facility built on 36 acres donated by the W.E. Ross family.
In addition to the tremendous additions to the DeSoto Center, in 1998 there were additional land and building purchases. Housing was also upgraded to allow for more beds on campus by transforming the DeSoto apartments from faculty and staff housing into a student residence hall. There were also new investments put into the farm with a 43,000-squarefoot multipurpose livestock facility built at the Northwest Farm.
2000s
In 2002, the college welcomed its first-ever women’s and men’s intercollegiate soccer teams. At this time, rules insisted on recruiting in-state, typically in the service district, with only one out-of-state player allowed. To help expand and build other sports, a multi-sport complex was being built that consisted of a soccer field, softball field and an intramural football field.
Growth continued at the college on every campus as well as in the Adult Education program, which experienced growth in its programs and higher rates of graduates. The Fine Arts Auditorium experienced a refresh with a new foyer and lobby design and refurbished seating and stage areas, and in 2005 the college opened the David M. Haraway Center,
a facility which houses the student cafeteria in addition to meeting and dining areas for the Board of Trustees and a conference and banquet area for community use.
Following Dr. Haraway’s retirement, the board selected Dr. Gary Lee Spears to serve as the college’s eighth president. During his tenure, campus beautification became a focus as the main campus expanded and began to transform into one of the most picturesque community college campuses in the state.
The Northwest Foundation established one of its hallmark events, the 2+2 Golf Tournament, which began raising funds for the 2+2 Scholarship benefiting students attending Northwest and the University of Mississippi at the Southaven campus.
2010s
The 2010s allowed Northwest to reach new heights and go far in its scholarship, education, and accessibility.
In 2010, Northwest nursing received a grant that helped them purchase new lab and classroom equipment.
Northwest Libraries also took on the massive challenge to digitize all yearbooks for the college, thanks to the LYRASIS Mass Digitization Collaborative Sloan Foundation Grant.
The Northwest Foundation reached a milestone in its endowment funds, which for the first time surpassed $10 million. Northwest Ag Tech instructor Shane Louwerens released a book on the work his students completed on Elvis Presley’s John Deere tractor, which was a top secret refurbishing project that culminated in an installation ceremony at the Graceland auto
museum attended by the students who worked on the project.
This decade also began the tenure of visionary president, Dr. Michael J. Heindl, who was selected as the college’s ninth president in 2018.
2020s
The 2020s kicked off in an unexpected way with the COVID-19 Pandemic, an experience no one was prepared for or expecting, but Dr. Heindl, alongside the Northwest administration, took the lead in making sure that students, staff, and faculty were prepared in the changing environment.
Northwest nursing alumni fought the virus and helped patients across the South. In an article titled “In the War
Zone: Northwest Alumni Face Pandemic Head-on,” chronicles the harrowing journey of these alums and their experiences.
As the pandemic roared on, so did progress with a variety of new buildings being constructed, including Calhoun Residence Hall, the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts, the Castle Baseball Facility, the Softball and Soccer Facility, the Ranger Center, and the Athletic Performance Facility. Other renovations and innovations include the R.C. Pugh Library renovation, the opening of Chick-Fil-A in the McLendon Center, a Tennis and Cheer Gym, and renovation of Yalobusha Hall as the One Stop Shop for students. ❈
Always aRanger
ALUMNI TAILGATES
Join us at home games at our Alumni Tent. It is a great time to catch up with your Northwest friends and support the Rangers. Food, drinks, and fun provided.
2026 Football Schedule
Aug 27 @ Jones
Sep 3 Gulf Coast
Sep 10 @ Copiah-Lincoln
Sep 1 Delta
Sep 24 @ Northeast
Oct 1 Coahoma*
Oct 8 @ Holmes
Oct 15 Itawamba
Oct 22 Southwest
Oct 29 @ East * Homecoming
WANT TO SHARE YOUR NORTHWEST MEMORIES?
Please contact Dr. Melissa Wright at mwright@northwestms.edu with info about mementos, memorabilia, clothing, uniforms, articles, and other Northwest-related materials that you're willing to share or loan to the college for exhibitions related to the Northwest Centennial.
NORTHWEST
GARDEN A Gala
Story by Sarah Smith- Hutchison &
The Northwest Soirée, the college’s premier fundraising and recognition event hosted by the Northwest Foundation, took place April 18, 2026. The theme for this year’s event was A Garden Gala. Despite the rain, the evening bloomed with chatter and lively entertainment.
This event featured an online auction that opened a week prior to the Soirée, a social hour, a ceremony honoring award recipients and live entertainment by Mississippi born singersongwriter Dave Barnes.
“The Northwest Soirée continues to reflect what is possible when a community comes together with purpose and heart,” said Patti Gordon, executive director of Institutional Advancement. “This year’s event not only exceeded expectations—raising $219,910 in total revenue and generating $173,304 in support of our students—but it also demonstrated growth in both engagement and impact. An increase of more than $31,000 over last year’s event and expanded attendance are clear indicators that our mission resonates with our community. Every sponsorship, every bid, and every ticket purchased represents a belief in the power of education to transform lives. We are grateful to our donors and supporters who make this work possible and who continue to invest in the future of Northwest students.”
The honorees included Mississippi’s first female Attorney General, Lynn Fitch for the Alumni Professional Achievement
Award. AG Fitch is known for her outstanding work and service to her community. She is frequently seen around the state endorsing her advocacy initiatives, One Pill Can Kill, which fights against drug abuse, and Be the Solution, a campaign to educate and inform on human trafficking.
For the Young Alumni Professional Achievement Award, Satsha Burden was selected. Burden currently works as a test engineer and test manager at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) for the Department of Defense in Tennessee. During his time at Northwest, he was an accomplished student and cheerleader.
Northwest Board Attorney, John Lamar, was chosen for the Spirit of Northwest Award. An alumnus of the College, Lamar was a student athlete, playing football here before attending law school. Lamar has since had an accomplished career at Lamar and Hannaford, P.A.
The Outstanding Corporation Award was awarded to Sayle Oil Company due to their dedication to service and their customers and supporting their community.
The 2026 Soirée was a success for Northwest and our students. The event profited $173,304 with $22,931 being raised from the online auction A total of 288 people attended the Soiree and Dave Barnes' concert. The funds from this event will provided students at Northwest with new opportunities.
Photos by Carly Fox and Sarah Smith- Hutchison
1 2026 Award Recipients: John Lamar, Satsha Burden, Attorney General Lynn Fitch, and Ike Sayle representing Sayle Oil Co. 2 Titanium sponsors Russell and Anabelle Paulk accept a commemorative poster from President Michael Heindl, Patti Gordon, and Dr. Stephen Joe 3 Attorney General Lynn Fitch and Ike Sayle exchange greetings of mutual respect 4 Northwest is grateful for Tracy Crutcher continuing to be Presenting Sponsor through Mini Systems, Inc.
5. Mississippi born musician Dave Barns entertains the crowd 6. President Heindl, Board of Trustees member Steve Cummings, Amanda Beattie , Head Coach Women's Soccer James Beattie, Betsy Grubbs, Nat Grubbs
7 Dedicated staff from Student Services and Enrollment Management 8 Foundation Board member Hugh Cannon enjoys the elegant buffet 9 Supportive faculty members are Garden Gala ready. 10 Foundation Scholarship recipient Ava Mayfield expresses appreciation alongside her mother and grandmother, Brooke Little Mayfield ’02 and Arlene Little ’78 both NW alumni 11 Foundation Board member James Dunn (right) visits with David Slocum, who is representing Higginbotham Insurance.
Presenting
Mini Systems, Inc.
Titanium
RJ Genetics - Russell Paulk Enterprises, LLC
Diamond
Delta Regional Foundation
The Ed & Becky Meek Foundation
Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services
Platinum
Sayle Oil Company
Gold
Bank of Holly Springs
BankFirst
Clearway Energy
Cite Armored
City Wide Facility Solutions
Five Star Dental
Montgomery Martin Contractors, LLC
Northcentral Electric Cooperatives
Reedy Acres Foundation
Upchurch
Silver
Atmos Energy
Baptist Memorial Hospital - DeSoto
Delta State University Foundation
Five Star Equipment
Guaranty Bank
Mainline Office Products
Mississippi State University
Tallahatchie General Hospital
Bronze
ACI Building Systems
BankPlus
Cadence Bank
Cannon Motors of Mississippi
The Carlisle Family
Cooperative Energy
Entergy
FNB Oxford
First Financial Bank
First Security Bank
Gold Strike Casino Resorts/
Cherokee Nation Entertainment
J.T. Ray Co.
Landhawk Realty
Lawrence-Crane Theming and Design Company
Merrill Lynch - Bolton and Associates Wealth
Management Group
Mississippi Land Bank
Panola Paper Company
Principle Toyota of Hernando
Renasant Bank
SouthGroup Caldwell
University of Mississippi
Wade, Inc.
William Carey University
Williams, Pitts, and Beard, PLLC
Windstone Dental
Gift-in-Kind
Grapevine Liquor & Wine
Paulsen Printing
Southern Beverage Company
13. The Charleston community showed up in big numbers to support Sayle Oil Company! 14. Soirée Planning Committee: (l to r) Meg Crockett, Patti Gordon,
Karen Chester, Jillian Mitchell, Dr. Andrew Dale, Amanda Wilson, Len Lawhon, Gracie Perry, Dr. Michael Heindl, Dr. Blake Bostick
GARDEN A Gala
THE Legacy CONTINUES
It is, indeed, both a pleasure and an honor to announce new scholarship endowments, the beginning of a new legacy for those being honored by these scholarships and for the students who will be assisted for generations to come. The beauty of an endowment is that it will continue to help students for as long as this
The Coach Bobby Ray Franklin Memorial Endowed Scholarship
The Northwest is proud to announce that The Coach Bobby Ray Franklin Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been established by Northwest Football Alumnus Michael Joe Cannon of Oxford.
Coach Franklin was a legendary coach with numerous achievements, including leading the Northwest Ranger football team to the NJCAA National Championship in 1982 and 1992. He came to Northwest after his own football career, which included playing quarterback for Ole Miss and several years as a professional defensive back for the Cleveland Browns. Coach Franklin was chosen for the NJCAA Hall of Fame, Northwest Sports Hall of Fame, University of Mississippi Athletic Hall of Fame, Phi
college exists. It is also wonderful to think of how these students will use their education to make better lives for themselves, for their families and for the communities in which they will live. Thus, it is appropriate to name these pages, “The Legacy Continues,” because the effects of these extraordinary acts of generosity will last forever.
Delta Theta Fraternity’s All-Century Pro Football Team in 1999, and the MACJC Sports Hall of Fame in April 2007, among many other accolades. Most recently, he was inducted posthumously into the Sugar Bowl Hall of Fame Class of 2026. His career is not only decorated with awards, but with the success of the boys he built into men on and off the field. Coach Franklin’s dedication and commitment to helping students win both academically and athletically were stupendous, according to Cannon.
“Coach Franklin was a players’ coach, always willing to listen and help players,” said Cannon. “He believed in giving a guy a second chance, and because of that, so many guys went on to have a successful career, get a college education, and some played professionally. He had a desire and commitment to winning, and always strived to make sure our team had the best opportunity to win!”
Cannon also had the privilege of coaching under Coach Franklin when he returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach. Coach Franklin imparted many lessons that he has taken with him, one of which stands out: never give up. Coach Franklin taught Cannon that if you wanted a chance to win, you must go further than the extra mile. For Coach Franklin, that looked like driving all night after a game to visit and recruit players. Coach Franklin emphasized to him that players win games, not coaches. Throughout life, Cannon has reflected on the lifelong lesson he learned from Coach Franklin, which is to be successful in any profession, you must surround yourself with good people.
With this scholarship, it continues the
The value of the endowment is over $17 million. Through the generosity of so many, the endowment continues to grow. As it grows, so does the realization of the hopes and dreams of our students as well as the legacy of the special people who are honored by these endowments.
—Patti Gordon
spirit of self-improvement that Coach Franklin fought for in his years of coaching and supporting students. Cannon did not want his legacy to ever be forgotten. This scholarship will go to Mississippi students who reside in one of the 11 counties Northwest serves and maintain a 2.0 GPA.
The Woolfolk Sisters – Judy Woolfolk Weeks and Bonnie Woolfolk Smith – Memorial Endowed Scholarship
The Northwest Foundation is excited to announce that The Woolfolk Sisters, Judy Woolfolk Weeks and Bonnie Woolfolk Smith, Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been established and will be awarded to a student starting Fall 2026.
Both born in Tate County to Wesley and Robbie McCullough Woolfolk, the Woolfolk sisters had a long legacy in Tate County and the Senatobia community. Bonnie was born in the Arkabutla community and the family moved to Senatobia when she was two years old. At the age of eight she became “big sister” to Judy who was actually born in their childhood home in downtown Senatobia. Both girls grew up, attended Senatobia City Schools and other than a brief time after each were married, lived in Tate County their whole lives.
Bonnie married her high school sweetheart, Jimmy Smith of Coldwater, right out of high school. They immediately moved to San Diego where Jimmy was stationed during his time with the U.S. Navy. Upon returning to Tate County, the couple lived in Senatobia for several years before moving their family to the community of Poagville, where they
Coach Bobby Ray Franklin
resided until their two sons, Artie Smith and Randall Smith, grew up. Artie and his wife, Tina, live in Senatobia and have one daughter, Alyssa Smith Hoshell. She and her husband, Chris, have two children, Aiden and Adley. Randall and his wife, Teri, live in Hernando and have one son, Jordan Smith. Bonnie had a long career at People’s Bank, now First Horizon, as the bank teller who was known for greeting everyone with a cheerful smile. Upon her retirement from the bank, she purchased the Buster Brown Children’s Clothing Store in Senatobia. Once she retired, Bonnie loved spending time with her friends and family, especially the grandchildren, and even enrolled in various classes at Northwest. She and Jimmy enjoyed fishing and camping before they began helping care for their parents.
After high school, Judy attended Northwest, where she enjoyed every minute of cheering on the Rangers and was selected to serve on the Homecoming Court for two years. She married George Weeks, also from Senatobia, and they had a short stint in Starkville while he finished college at Mississippi State University. Judy and George became avid State fans and brought their “Bulldog Spirit” back to Tate County. They settled in Senatobia and chose to raise sons, John David Weeks and Bill Weeks, among family and friends. John David lives in Como with his wife, Emily, and together they have three daughters, Katie Lee Weeks, Ella
Rivers, and Sims Rivers. Bill and his wife, Kellye, live in Strayhorn and together have six children – Wes Weeks, Madison Weeks, Cooper Weeks, Mackensey Phelps, Skylar Weeks, and Bryson Weeks. Judy worked at Magnolia Heights School while her sons attended there. In addition to her work in the headmaster’s office, she was the cheer sponsor and photographer. She then went to work for Northwest in the Financial Aid Department, where she worked for over 20 years. When Judy passed away in 2020, her Magnolia Heights School family honored her life and service to education with a memorial tribute and dedicated the 2020 Chieftain yearbook in her memory. In September 2021, she was recognized posthumously with the Magnolia Heights Athletic Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Woolfolk sisters' connection with Northwest Mississippi Community College actually began as children with their father, who was one of the original security guards on the Northwest campus. The Woolfolk legacy with the College continued from there first to attend was Judy from 1965 to 1967. Next on campus was Bonnie’s oldest son, Artie, who received a football scholarship from 1976 to 1978 and her now daughter-inlaw, Tina, who was on the cheer team during the same two years. Bonnie’s younger son, Randall, followed from 1978 to 1980, on a football scholarship and his wife, Teri, attended from 1980 to 1982 and was also on the cheer
team. Judy’s oldest son, John David, hit the field on a football scholarship from 1989 to 91. Attending 1991 to 1993 was Bill, Judy’s youngest son. To date, quite a few of Bonnie and Judy’s grandchildren have also been Northwest Rangers: Alyssa Smith Hoshell, Jordan Smith, Wes Weeks, Madison Weeks and Mackenzie Phelps.
The Woolfolk sisters were pillars of the community known for their kind words of encouragement. “They were the sweetest, kindest people I’ve ever known. Both were faithful Christians who served as teachers and more in their local churches,” John David said about his mother and aunt. Bonnie and Jimmy were members of the former Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Poagville. Later in life, they attended Senatobia First Baptist. Senatobia Church of Christ was where Judy and George worshiped and where she was still attending at the time she passed away. Members of Judy’s church and others who worked with her at Northwest initially started the scholarship fund in Judy’s memory.
After Bonnie passed away in February 2025, her son asked that memorial gifts be directed to the Judy Woolfolk Weeks Scholarship Fund.
“My mom dearly loved her sister and they both loved Senatobia, Tate County, and Northwest,” said Artie. “Our family has been shown so much love over the years, I knew giving back was the right thing to do.”
Judy’s son later suggested adding Bonnie’s name to the scholarship, and with his brother’s approval, the scholarship was renamed to include both sisters. Artie and Tina expressed how meaningful it was to visit the Foundation Office and make the final gift needed to fully endow the scholarship. They shared that both Bonnie and Judy were givers, and this scholarship will be a way to give forever. Both the Smith family and Weeks family are grateful to all who contributed in memory of their mothers. The Woolfolk Sisters, Judy Woolfolk Weeks and Bonnie Woolfolk Smith Memorial Endowed Scholarship, will support a Tate County student who has at least a 2.0 grade point average.
The Woolfolk Sisters - Bonnie Woolfolk Smith & Judy Woolfolk Weeks
The
Henry Thomas “H.T.” Dixon and William Earl “Bill” White Endowed Scholarship
Northwest alumna and longtime Senatobia resident Gladys Brewer Dixon White recently established The Henry Thomas “H.T.” Dixon and William Earl “Bill” White Endowed Scholarship at Northwest. It was important to Gladys to honor her family, establish a memorial for her husbands, Henry Thomas “H.T.” Dixon and William Earl “Bill” White, and to help the next generation of young people in her hometown.
Gladys was born in 1932, and her future husband, H.T. Dixon, was born in 1927, both growing up in Tate County. As a young man, H.T. played football for Tate County Agricultural High School in 1943 before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in 1944. Gladys first met H.T. in 1949 while working at a local sandwich shop called the Snack Shack. She was only 17 years old at the time, and he was on leave from the Marines. Their connection was immediate, and the two married shortly thereafter. They packed up their lives and traveled around the country, living in Florida and Virginia, where their first son, Michael Thomas Dixon, was born. They also lived in Indiana and North Carolina during H.T.’s military career.
While living in Indiana, Gladys attended cosmetology school. She discovered both a talent and a passion for the work and soon began working as a hairstylist at the school. During these years, H.T. served as a drill instructor in the Marines and even taught himself to play “Taps” on the bugle, revealing his dedication to military tradition. When Michael was six years old, the couple welcomed their second son, Stephen Patrick Dixon. After
H.T.’s overseas service and military retirement, the family moved back to their hometown of Senatobia. H.T. took a job at the once-booming Chromcraft Furniture, and Gladys enrolled in the Northwest Cosmetology Program to earn her Mississippi license. She started her own beauty shop, Kut-N-Kurl, where she faithfully served the community for many years. She continued as a hairstylist until her retirement in 1990.
Along the way, through adventures and almost 50 years of marriage, Gladys and H.T. saw a lot of changes in their small town and in their lives raising their sons. They also experienced the joy of having two grandchildren, Nathan Dixon and Amanda Dixon.
As the chapter of H.T.’s life came to a close, Gladys remained deeply involved with her family, friends, and church family. In time, she met William Earl “Bill” White, who would become her second husband. Bill, like H.T., served in the United States Marine Corps following his high school graduation. He later earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of
Mississippi. Bill spent a distinguished 40-year career with AT&T, serving in administration in the company’s Atlanta office from 1953 until his retirement in 1993. Gladys recalled that she first connected with Bill after receiving a phone call from him while speaking with her granddaughter, Amanda. What began as a simple drive through the countryside soon developed into a meaningful friendship that eventually led to marriage. The couple wed in 2002 and enjoyed a happy life together for 15 years.
Reflecting on her life and marriages, Gladys said, “The Lord has blessed me and both of my husbands.”
This scholarship prioritizes a Tate County student who is studying HVAC and maintains a 2.5 GPA. The family’s connections to the HVAC industry make the scholarship especially meaningful to Gladys’ grandson, Nathan, who has built a successful career in HVAC, while his wife, Aleé Dixon, serves as an educator in Tate County. This scholarship prioritizes Tate County residents because of the impact Tate County had on Gladys and her family.
Henry Thomas Dixon Family
Gladys and Bill White
ELLA
BURFORD DARNELL
Northwest alumna Ella Burford Darnell, 99, of Independence passed away Feb. 2, 2026. A member of the class of 1946, she was the oldest-known living Northwest graduate prior to her death and would have been 100 years old on July 10.
An avid bowler until the age of 93, Darnell also loved working word search puzzles, playing Scrabble and solitaire and gardening. She was a member of Independence Church of Christ, and was preceded in death by her husband, James Howard Darnell; parents, Bernard and Lorraine Burford; sisters, Anna McCorkle, Elese Tidwell, and Ramona Smart, and brothers, James Burford, Leon Burford, and Joe Burford. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia McClure (Roland); sons, Ralph Darnell (Nancy), Larry Darnell (Katherine), and Gary Darnell; grandchildren, Courtney Bartliff (Josh), Jennifer Totty (Mike), Laura Power (Walt), and Kelli McGuffee (Nick); and great-grandchildren, Hunter Floyd, Kaylee Massey (Gaines), Baylor Bartliff, Brayden Totty, Luke Power, Olivia Power, Mary Ella McGuffee, and Myles McGuffee.
ROBERT
H. “BOB” DUNLAP
Philanthropist and businessman Robert H. “Bob” Dunlap, 96, of Batesville died peacefully Jan. 11, 2026 at his home surrounded by family, friends, and his nine beloved rescue dogs. Dunlap was Northwest’s most prolific donor, his generosity affecting the lives of numerous students over nearly 30 years of faithful giving to the college through the Northwest Foundation.
Dunlap began his philanthropic partnership with Northwest in 1997 when he sponsored the purchase of championship rings for the Ranger football team. In 2000, he donated matching funds which endowed 10 new Foundation scholarships, and
since that time has established or assisted in the establishment of three more Foundation scholarships—the Gateway Tire Endowed Scholarship, the Kelly Wayne Hudson Endowed Scholarship, and the Susanne Spencer VanDyke Endowed Scholarship. Because of his extraordinary commitment, 596 students have had the opportunity to pursue higher education at Northwest, with $348,000 in scholarship funds awarded to these students.
In 2020, Dunlap made a five-year pledge to the college’s Capital Campaign, where he served as campaign honorary co-chair. Dunlap and Kyle contributed the college’s first-ever million-dollar gift to the campaign, which fueled projects at the Batesville Concourse, including Diesel Technology Academy, Industrial Automation and Controls Engineering Technology program, Workforce Training Center expansion, Commercial Truck Driving program, and Welding and Robotic Welding program. Dunlap’s dedication to helping those in his community has left a transformational impact on Northwest and its students for years to come.
Born in Batesville in 1929, Dunlap was a proud Navy veteran who devoted nearly a century of hard work to give back more than he received. He began his career working at Dunlap and Kyle Co., a small, family-owned business that sold cars, farm equipment, and tires. As chairman and CEO, Dunlap grew Dunlap and Kyle Co. (including Gateway Tire and Hesselbein Tire) into one of the largest independent wholesale and retail tire distributors in the South, with sales first topping $1 billion in 2021.
In 2023, Dunlap was named Tire Business magazine’s Tire Dealer Humanitarian of the Year in recognition of his lifetime of generosity. A lifelong member of Batesville Presbyterian Church, he was a proud Eagle Scout who embodied the scout’s oath of service throughout his life. He championed scouting across Mississippi and the Mid-South, funding facilities, scholarships, and opportunities for thousands of young people, particularly those who were Eagle Scouts. He was honored for his service to the Boy Scouts of America with the 2024 award of the National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award.
A lover of the outdoors, he was also a committed conservationist. He dedicated decades to reforesting land across Mississippi, planting millions of trees. His work ensured that future generations would inherit both a healthier environment and thriving wildlife habitats. Over the last 30 years, Dunlap supported the Palmer Home for Children as well as countless civic and religious organizations. Whether helping a church build a new sanctuary, supporting local athletics, or underwriting community development projects, his generosity shaped Batesville and the greater community.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Cyd Dunlap; his sister, Sarah Dell Gray; his five children, Michael (Beth Ann), Joe, Angela Waldrup, Amy Totaro, and Richard (Alicia); stepson, Booth Tarkington; 10 grandchildren, and seven greatgrandchildren.
MARILYN HOLMES ROWSEY
CANADA
Northwest alumna Marilyn Holmes Rowsey Canada, 84, passed away on Nov. 10, 2025 in Hernando. Born Nov. 13, 1940 in Memphis to Hubert Holmes Rowsey and Emma Hustler Faulkner Rowsey, she attended Courtland Public School and graduated from Batesville High School before studying at Northwest.
She met her husband of 55 years, Frank, in chemistry class at Northwest during summer school in 1958. Both Frank and Marilyn transferred from Northwest to the University of Mississippi where Frank earned a B.S. degree in Pharmacy and Marilyn earned a B.S. degree in Home Economics.
In 1966, Frank and Marilyn married, and Frank opened Hernando Pharmacy, a business that he owned and operated for 29 years. Marilyn began her teaching career at Sheffield High School in Memphis and taught school until they started their family. When her youngest son was in high school, she opened Occasions Cards and Gifts in Hernando, a business she owned and operated for 12 years. Marilyn was a long-time member of Hernando Methodist Church and Hernando Women’s Club and was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority at Ole Miss.
In 2010, the Canadas established the Frank and Marilyn Canada Endowment through the Northwest Foundation because of their strong interest in education and their desire to help students earn four-year degrees. The scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in an academic pathway and who are residents of DeSoto, Tate or Panola counties.
She was predeceased by her husband Frank, her parents, and by her sister Nancy Burford of Senatobia. She is survived by her two sons, Dr. Robert Bradley Canada and Jason Holmes Canada; nephew Denny Canada (Lisa) of Easton, Connecticut; niece Ali Canada Lyden (John) of Trumbull, Connecticut; nephew Cecil Burford of Atlanta, Georgia and nephew Chris Burford (Bronwyn) of Madison.
Story By Brian Lentz
Northwest Women’s Soccer provides DRAMA ON THE WAY TO BACK-TO-BACK NATIONAL TITLES
Story & Photos By Caleb Burggraaf
The Northwest women’s soccer team stunned Heartland Community College at the NJCAA Division II National Championship final game Nov. 22 rallying from down 1-0 in the final three minutes of the match to win 2-1 thanks to a shining performance from All-American Emma Jensen.
The sophomore from Germany scored the game tying goal in the 87th minute before hitting a penalty in the final minute to give the Rangers the win and in the process pick up their second national title. Northwest is the first team to ever win back-to-back titles since the DII classification was created in 2020, and is just the second team to win two titles as a Division II school.
The Rangers had to work to get there, rallying back from a 2-1 deficit
against Jones College to win 3-2 thanks to a Caroline Perkins game winner in overtime. This was after Northwest won their pool with wins over Southern Union Community College and Iowa Lake Community College.
Jensen nabbed the Tournament MVP award, and was also named an NJCAA All-American for the second consecutive year, earning her the attention of Oklahoma State University where she has moved on to continue her playing career.
Sophomore forward Allie Kimbrell also was named to the All-Tournament team along with Perkins.
The win in the national title game was, the 100th of Head Coach James Beatties career, all of which have come as the head coach of the Rangers.
Head Women's Soccer Coach James Beattie is joined by Northwest Mississippi Community College President Dr. Michael J. Heindl after the Rangers won their second consecutive NJCAA championship in Wichita, Kansas with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Heartland Community College.
The Northwest Mississippi Community College women's soccer team pulled off something that has never been done, becoming the first team to win back-toback national championships at the NJCAA Division II level after defeating Heartland Community College 2-1 in Wichita, Kansas.
BACK ON TOP! RANGERS WIN REGION 23 CHAMPIONSHIP
FOR FIRST TIME SINCE 2005
Story By Caleb Burggraaf
For the first time in 21 years, the Northwest Mississippi Community College women’s basketball team punched a ticket to the NJCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship thanks to a 60-55 win over Pearl River Community College in the Region 23 Championship game March 13.
“It feels good to make it to the (national) tournament. It’s been a while since Northwest has made it,” sophomore guard and Region 23 Tournament MVP Takera Bland said.
Bland was one of three Rangers named to the All-Tournament Team, joined there by fellow sophomores Alorian Story and Layla Hampton. Hampton and Story were also named to the All-MACCC team with Story earning First-Team honors while Hampton was named an Honorable Mention. Dekyra Mitchell was also named to the All-MACCC First-Team as a sophomore transfer to the Rangers.
The trip was the first to the tournament for Head Coach LaTaryl Williams, at least as a coach, who is in his fourth season at the helm of the Rangers and his eighth as a head coach. His
first trip to the national tournament was also with Northwest as a player when the Rangers made it to the Final Four in 1998, falling to eventual champion Indian Hills Community College (IA).
Williams said he leaned into his past experience from his tournament run when the Rangers entered the field as a lower seed, making it all the way to the Final Four before losing to the eventual National Champion’s in Indian Hills Community College.
“To be 23rd, I feel like it was kind of a snub, but at the same time we are excited about the opportunity. I’m very familiar with that when I played in ‛98; we had a really low seed and ended up beating the No. 2 seed and the No. 7 seed in the nation.”
Northwest received the 23 seed in the 24-team field and faced off against the 10 seed Dodge City Community College (24-4) out of Kansas in the opening round on Wednesday, March 25 in Lake Charles, Louisiana, falling to the Conquistadors 6350, closing the gap to as little as six late in the fourth quarter, but falling just short of a comeback to earn a trip to the Sweet Sixteen.
The Northwest Mississippi Community College women's basketball team celebrates their Region 23 Championship after taking down top seeded Pearl River in the championship game. It was the first time since the 2004-05 season that the Rangers have won the region title, earning them a spot in the 2026 NJCAA Division I National Tournament.
Photo by Maylee Willhite
RANGER CHEER, DANCE CELEBRATE Four National Titles at UCA/UDA in Orlando
Story By Caleb Burggraaf | Photo by Sarah Smith-Hutchinson
It was a stellar weekend last January for the Northwest cheer and dance teams, bringing home four national championships and finishing no lower than third in the nation in all of their events at the 2026 UCA/UDA College Nationals.
It is now the 10 total National title in Northwest cheer program history going back to 1999, with nine of those titles coming under current Head Coach Brandon Casey, and the third National title for the dance program under Head Coach Patrice Christian.
“It’s an incredible accomplishment for these athletes. Assistant Coach Rainy Bordelon and I have pushed them hard all season long, and they have trusted the process and worked incredibly hard to get to this point. It’s so rewarding to see all that hard work bring such a successful weekend and bring back three national titles,” Casey said.
The Rangers started by picking up a title on Saturday night when cheer came away with the national championship in the Open Co-Ed Gameday division, bringing home the win over Washburn University of Topeka and Iowa Western Community College with a score of 88.4667, which was nearly two points better than Washburn.
Cheer also finished second in the nation in the Open All-Girl Gameday division.
Saturday night’s finals also featured the Northwest dancers competing in the Open Dance Gameday finals, and the Rangers finished third in the nation, just behind Endicott College and Minnesota State University – Mankato.
On Sunday, cheer picked up wins in the Open Small Co-Ed Finals where they scored 81.65 points to just edge out Wallace State College for the championship and Open All-Girl where they
finished with an 86.9 to take the title over Pearl River who took second with an 80.6.
Dance was also in a groove on Sunday afternoon and brought home the hardware in the Open Hip Hop Division, scoring a 95 to outpace Stockton University’s 90.8 to pick up their third straight title in the Open Hip Hop division.
“It feels amazing,” Christian said. “These kids have worked extremely hard to make it happen, and they have raised the bar so high that they are competing on a DI-A level as a two-year school which is crazy. I want to talk about them and how much work they have put in because they genuinely put in so much work, so much heart, so much grit into our program that the results are what they are.”
The Rangers have won a national title in cheer all but one year going back to 2021, and Casey has now earned nine national titles in his time as the Northwest head cheer coach.
The Northwest dance team is not far behind in the success, picking up a national title every year going back to 2024, all of which have come from Christian's tutelage.
“These kids put in many, many hours and are great people,” Christian added. “Our culture is one we are super proud of, and they deserve the world.”
Casey also said the support and culture begins all the way at the top of the college and that is critical for the success of the programs.
“The support our teams receive from our college is something that not every school has. We are blessed with the best administration in the state if not the country. Their support is unmatched.”
NWCC Cheer and Dance teams celebrate at the end of UCA/UDA competitions with their 4 national titles at Disney's Wiide World of Sports complex.
Photo by Maylee Willhite
The Legacy of Memorial and Honorarium Gifts
A great many of the gifts that are received by the Northwest Foundation are given to pay tribute to those who have profoundly impacted the lives of others—parents, siblings, teachers, sons and daughters. The memorial and honorarium gifts listed were given between October 21, 2025 and March 2, 2026 in appreciation both to those who gave the gifts and to those who have lived extraordinary and inspirational lives. If you wish to make a memorial or honorarium gift, please contact the Foundation Office at 662-560-1105.
HONORARIUMS
TOMMY BAILEY
by Coldwater United Methodist Church
COURTNEY CARTER BOATRIGHT
by Mrs. April Lipscomb
BARRY BOUCHILLON
by Ms. Mary Carson Bouchillon
Mr. Richard C. Bouchillon
Ms. Susan Millette
Mr. Charlie A. Randall
LORI BROWN
by Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Thompson
HARLEY BUMPOUS by Ms. Sylvia Thompson
DR. BONNIE BUNTIN
by Mr. and Mrs. Al Canon
Dr. Gloria Kellum
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Patridge
ELIZABETH BURNS
by Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
DR. MICHAEL BUTTS by Mr. and Mrs. Don K. Scipper
CHUCK AND DIANE BYARS by Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Thompson
SYBIL CANON
by Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
Graeber Foundation
Dr. Gloria Kellum
BENJIE AND MELODY CARTER by Mrs. April Lipscomb
LARRY AND JO COLEMAN
by Mr. and Mrs. James Brett Curtis
EVA COVINGTON by Mr. Kelvin Covington
Trena Covington
KEITH GODBOLD
by Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
Dr. and Mrs. Marvin Lishman
SANDY GRISHAM by Mr. Michael Skrien
WILLIAM C. HALEY by Coldwater United Methodist Church
PAT HICKEY
by Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Thompson
SYLVIA HICKEY by Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Thompson
GLORIA HOPKINS by Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Young
CATHRYN HYDE by Mr. Sherman E. Austin
Ms. Ireska Booth
Ms. Bettye J. Caldwell
Ms. Thelma Cooper
Mr. L. D. Hardy
Mr. and Mrs. Larry Henderson
Ms. Daisy Herring
Ms. Deborah James
Mrs. Lera H. Kinnard
Mr. Gene Leland
Reverend and Mrs. Rufus L. Lloyd
Ms. Mary A. Love
Ms. Annie Jordan Ray
Ms. Annie L. Rice
Mrs. Mildred Washington
JOE JOHNSON by Tri-County Council
Vietnam Era Veterans
Ms. Trudy Hall
DR. GLORIA KELLUM by Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
Mr. and Mrs. Al Canon
TERRI KITCHENS by Dr. Lela Hale
RICHIE E. LAWSON by Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
Mr. and Mrs. Jay Turner
Dr. and Mrs. William H. West
SUE LOWE by Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Gant Jr.
BECKY LUTTRELL by Mr. Adrian W. Luttrell
ROBERT T. “TOMMY” MCCORMICK by Coldwater United Methodist Church
ELLA GRACE MCINGVALE by Mr. Charles E. Brigance
MARTHA MILLS by Mr. and Mrs. James Brett Curtis
KATIE THWEATT MITCHELL by Ms. Jean Nunnally
KIMBERLY MONTVILLE by Ms. Jean Nunnally
JEAN NUNNALLY by Mr. and Mrs. Chris McCall
SUMMERS GODBOLD PORTER by Mr. and Mrs. Keith Godbold
MEGAN AND CALLIE SANDERSON by Mr. and Mrs. Bill Scott
ASHTON GODBOLD SMITH by Mr. and Mrs. Keith Godbold
DR. GARY LEE SPEARS by Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
RACHEL STARNES by Mrs. Ida F. Wallace
Mr. William L. Wallace
DR. AMY STEWART by Ms. Earline Cocke
Mrs. Bettye B. Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. John Nicholson
MARYLEE STURGEON by Mr. and Mrs. James Brett Curtis
GEOFFREY THOMPSON by Ms. Sylvia Hickey
CHANCE THWEATT by Ms. Jean Nunnally
RAY AND NORMA THWEATT by Mrs. Beth Johnston
Ms. Katherine Pinter
MARY CAROLYN TINDALL by Coldwater United Methodist Church
VIETNAM VETERANS CLASSES OF 1964-1970 by Mr. and Mrs. Walter Neely
CASEY CARTER WELLS by Mrs. April Lipscomb
CLAUDE AND LISA WILLIAMS by Mr. and Mrs. James Brett Curtis
SONIA YOUNG by Mr. Les Young
MEMORIALS
SAM AND RUTH ANN ALLISON by Mr. and Mrs. Marty Allison
Mr. James R. Bryant
Mrs. Beverly Gaddy
Mrs. Joyce Randall
JIMMY NEAL ANDREWS by Mrs. Lisa J. Selph
DAVID ROBERT ARD by Mr. Steve Cummings
CHARLIE BALDWIN by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Judd
DEBBIE MUSGROVE BILLINGSLEY by Mr. and Mrs. Scott H. Billingsley
KENNETH BLOODWORTH AND WAYNE BLOODWORTH by Ms. Sandra Bloodworth
CAMERON BLOUNT by Dr. Don Jones
Mrs. Marla Y. Kennedy
Mr. and Mrs. Bill Selby
Mrs. Linda Webb
ROSS BOATRIGHT by Mrs. Sandra Roy
ESTELLE BOBO by Mr. and Mrs. Justin Bobo
Mr. and Mrs. Leon McCullouch
A. W. AND LANELLE BOUCHILLON by Mr. and Mrs. Barry Bouchillon
Mr. and Mrs. Don Waller
Mr. and Mrs. Bart Wise
LISA BRIDGEMAN by Mr. Steve Cummings
JOE AND MARY LOUISE WYNNE BROADWAY by Ms. Jean Nunnally
FRANK BROOKS by Mrs. Raye Brooks
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Brooks
Ms. Vickie Cook
Ms. Andrea Epes
Mrs. Angela Brooks Hodge
Ms. Pam Timmins
TOMMY AND PAULA TATUM BROWN by Brown Insurance Agency
DR. AND MRS. JACK BUTTS by Mrs. Leone King
Ms. Rebecca Meacham
Mr. and Mrs. Don K. Scipper
FRANK AND MARILYN CANADA by Dr. Lucie Bridgforth
Dr. Brad Canada
Ms. Susan Canada
Ms. Laura Carpenter
Mr. and Mrs. Brad Cook
Mr. and Mrs. Laney Funderburk
Mr. and Mrs. Lee Grant
Mr. Peter Groenendyk
Mr. and Mrs. Bubba Jones
Mr. Cameron Meek
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Norwood
Mrs. Linda Ogg
Mrs. Carolyn Plunk
Mr. Joe Rasberry
Mr. and Mrs. Don Waller
TOMMY CARPENTER by Mr. and Mrs. Herman Coats
HOWARD AND EDNA CARPENTER by Mr. and Mrs. Herman Coats
LARRY CARR by Mr. Steve Cummings
ROBERT L. CARTER by Mr. and Mrs. William G. Yates
BELA J. AND RUBY BLACK CHAIN by Dr. and Mrs. Buddy Chain Jr.
DANNY RAY COLE by Mr. and Mrs. Dewayne Herrington
Mrs. Linda Webb
JOE COSBY by Mr. Billy E. Smith
VIRGINIA COX by Mr. and Mrs. John Ungurait
BROWNIE CRAWFORD by Mr. Jacob Edwards
Reedy Acres Foundation
ALAN CROCKETT by Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Nickens
Mr. Robin Robison
PAMELA JOYCE DAY by Mr. and Mrs. Bill Kitchens
Ms. Beverly S. Thompson
FRANCES MARIE DEAN by Mr. and Mrs. William Fite
FRANCES LANE DEFENBAUGH by Ms. Sylvia Hickey
LARRY E. DHORITY
by Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Dhority
Ms. Patsy Gulbin
ROBERT “BOB” DUNLAP by Ms. Patti Gordon
Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl
RAIFORD AND INEZ FANCHER by Mr. and Mrs. Briggs Smith
Mr. and Mrs. William G. Yates
ANTHONY FARESE
by Mr. and Mrs. Bob Earwood
Farese. Farese. Farese, P. A.
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Thomas
BISHOP ELVAGE MILTON FONDREN, SR. by Ms. Deloris Fields
Ms. Mary Murphy
BOBBY FRANKLIN by Mr. Michael Joe Cannon
AARON GERMAN by Ms. Bette A. Hurdle
Mr. and Mrs. George D. Lofton
Mrs. Betty Salmon
MILLIE GOFORTH by Mr. Steve Cummings
JOANN BARBER GOOCH by Mr. Steve Gooch
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Harris
HENRY G. GRAEBER by Helen G. Overstreet
JAMES P. GRAEBER by Graeber Foundation
LEWIS GRAEBER by Graeber Foundation
ANITA GRAHAM by Ms. Sandra Beken
JESSICA GRESHAM by Ms. Linda S. Laine
EMMETTE AND EVELYN HALE by Mr. E. F. Hale III
PAMELA COOPER HALL by Mr. Larry Hall
LORETTA HANKS by Mr. Mahendra Agrawal
Mr. and Mrs. Sameer Agrawal
DAVID HARGETT by Mr. Edward Hargett
WILLIAM HICKEY by Ms. Sylvia Hickey
LOIS HILL by Mr. Steve Cummings
ROBERT A. HYDE by Mr. Sherman E. Austin
Ms. Ireska Booth
Ms. Bettye J. Caldwell
Ms. Thelma Cooper
Mr. L. D. Hardy
Mr. and Mrs. Larry Henderson
Ms. Daisy Herring
Mrs. Cathryn Hyde
Ms. Deborah James
Mrs. Lera H. Kinnard
Mr. Gene Leland
Reverend and Mrs. Rufus L. Lloyd
Ms. Mary A. Love
Ms. Annie Jordan Ray
Ms. Annie L. Rice
Mrs. Mildred Washington
TAYLOR LEIGHANN INGLISH by Ms. Rhonda Cobb
Mr. Jeff Haugen
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Montgomery
Panola County Livestock Association
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Shaw
JORDAN A. JARJOURA by Mr. and Mrs. Peter Jarjoura
KITTY JENKINS by Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Schwerdt
WILSON S. JETER by Mr. Jere Maki
BERT JOHNSON by Ms. Trudy Hall
COLONEL CHARLES R. JOHNSON by Ms. Trudy Hall
CHARLOTTE JOHNSTON by Mr. Marcus Perkins
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Steinman
BILLY JONES by Mr. and Mrs. Dreher Harris
DR. JASON JONES by Ms. Alyssa Algee
Ms. LeeLee Haraway
Ms. Alisa June Turner
FINIS N. AND VERA D. KELLY by Ms. Dale K. Thompson
DONALD KEY by Mrs. Carolyn Davidson
Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. White
HOLLY KOONCE by Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Branan
MARCIA KREUNEN by Mr. and Mrs. Kim Kreunen
PAUL LAWRENCE by Mrs. Margery Duncan
Mrs. Barbara Lawrence
BENNY LEE by Ms. Sylvia Hickey
ELIZABETH WYNNE LEWIS by Ms. Jean Nunnally
BARBRA W. MANNING by Ms. Paula W. McGown
JOE MANNING by Ms. Paula W. McGown
PAULINE MARCHBANKS by Mr. and Mrs. Dick Marchbanks Jr.
PATRICIA MARSHALL by Mr. Steve Cummings
ROBERTA MAYFIELD by Mrs. Marianne Veazey
JAMES AND NELDA MCCORMICK by Coldwater United Methodist Church
PENNIE P. MCKINNEY by Ms. Mary P. Chandler
Mr. Raymond Pullen
Ms. Euphiazene Gray
SANDRA KAY MERRILL by Mr. and Mrs. Dreher Harris
DOT MITCHELL
by Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Gant Jr. Mrs. Sue Lowe
CHIEF BILL MOORE by Mrs. Becky Moore
CLEN MOORE by Mrs. Jean W. Moore
NELL MOORE by Mr. Steve Cummings
MARY ALICE MOORMAN by Mr. John David Randall
LEONARD MORRIS by Mr. Sherman E. Austin
Mrs. Catherine Ferguson
Ms. Daisy Herring
Mrs. Belinda F. Morris
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard W. Morris
KENNETH MOSS by Mr. Steve Cummings
J. K. AND NORMA MOTE by Mrs. Travis Billingsley
Mr. and Mrs. Phil Mote
GINGER S. MURPHREE by Ms. Sandra Bloodworth
FOMAN AND NITA MUSSELWHITE by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Lilly
JEFFREY NICHOLS by Dr. and Mrs. Jeff Ginn
JOHN S. ORRELL by Mrs. Barbara Herron
Ms. Emmy Jarjoura
C. W. PARKER by Dr. and Mrs. Steve Akre
DENNIS PAULK by Ms. Patti Gordon
Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl
Ms. Debbie Perkins
South Panola High School Class of 1969
W. B. AND POLLY PERKINS by Mr. and Mrs. George Harris
Ms. Debbie Perkins
VICKI PHILLIPS by Ms. Melissa Evans
SCOTT POTTS by Mrs. Marla Y. Kennedy
MILDRED AND ROBERT REDDING by Mr. and Mrs. James Redding
LAURA REED by Ms. Annie L. Rice
ROBERT THOMAS AND NORMA SHUFORD RISER by Ms. Katherine Pinter
Dr. and Mrs. Ray Thweatt
LOWELL SALMON by Mr. and Mrs. George D. Lofton
ROBERT SANDERS by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Brown
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Williams
FREDDIE AND BERTHA SANFORD by Dr. Everlyn S. Johnson
DERRICK SCOTT by Mr. and Mrs. Bill Scott
WALTER T. SCOTT by Mr. and Mrs. David Stevens
MAMIE SHIELDS by Mr. Steve Cummings
TIM SHORTER by Ms. Kathy Buchanan
Mr. Matthew Johnson
BONNIE WOOLFOLK SMITH by Mr. and Mrs. Buck A. Moore
Mr. and Mrs. Artie Smith
ELIZABETH TALLO SNYDER by Mrs. Julie Bauer
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Tallo
J. E. SPURLOCK by Mr. and Mrs. Joe Lucchesi
MARY EVELYN STARR by Mr. N. C. Ferguson Jr. Springhill Historic Memorial Gardens
JAMES L. (TREY) SYLVESTER by Dr. Darrell Barnes
Mr. Taylor D. and Dr. Bonnie Buntin
LAUREN ELIZABETH TALLO by Mr. and Mrs. Richard Tallo
DALE TAYLOR by Mr. Steve Cummings
ELLEN DAHLBERG TERRELL by Mr. Harold Terrell
PAM THOMPSON by Mr. John Lucado Jr.
AMY DEMPSEY TIDWELL by Mrs. Frankie Berryhill
Mr. Bill McCulley
Mr. and Mrs. Keith Williams
GLENN TRIPLETT by Mr. Jeff Triplett
NAT TROUTT by Dr. and Mrs. Marvin Lishman
MICHAEL VANDERLIP by Ms. Donis Catledge
SHIRLEY VAUGHN by Ms. Sylvia Hickey
CHARLES AND LOIS F. VEAZEY by Mrs. Tamra S. Harris
Dr. and Mrs. David Sartin
PATRUM AND GANEL VEAZEY by Mrs. Marianne Veazey
C. B. AND MARJORIE WALKER by Mr. and Mrs. Ken Dossett
HERMINE D. WALKER by Mr. Robert T. McCormick
W. L. AND LULA BROOKS WALLACE by Mr. and Mrs. Harry Starnes
Mrs. Ida F. Wallace
Mr. William L. Wallace
JOHN S. WARNER by Mr. and Mrs. Scotty Wofford
JUDY WOOLFOLK WEEKS by Mr. and Mrs. Buck A. Moore
Mr. and Mrs. Artie Smith
Mrs. Linda Webb
LUCY WHITWELL by Mr. Bob Whitwell
C. CHAD AND REBA WILLIAMS by Mr. and Mrs. Larry Coleman
Mr. and Mrs. James Brett Curtis
MARY ELLEN WILLIAMS by Mr. and Mrs. Ray Glosson
MATTHEW WILLIAMS by Ms. Debbie Perkins
SARAH WILLIAMS by Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Thompson
TIMOTHY MATTHEW WILLIAMS by Mr. Robert T. McCormick
WESLEY WILLIAMSON by Easley Contractors
Ms. Patricia Meek
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Williamson
THOMAS P. & VIRGINIA WILSON by Mrs. Marianne Veazey
BEN AND ALMA WYNNE by Ms. Jean Nunnally
DREW YOUNG by Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Young
Chloe Murphy is a super involved Ranger transforming the lives of other students and her community. She's a Northwest Pathfinder, Orientation Leader, lead for FCA, and 2024 Miss Tate County Hospitality. Murphy received a Foundation Scholarship from First Security Bank.
