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 Leadership
President’s Report | Northwest Now
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president's reflections
E
ven though we all have experienced extreme challenges, seemingly insurmountable
obstacles, and even loss of close family or friends in this past year, as Jennifer and I have with the loss of her father, we continue to remain resilient, resolved and steadfast in our hope of a better tomorrow. These challenges and obstacles have helped us to reflect on how they might become opportunities. And, they have indeed! This past year has been one of the most challenging years in our institution’s history, yet our incredible team of instructors, administrators, staff, and students have done some truly amazing things. Some of the highlights from this past year are: • First Scholastic Institute graduates at Oxford High School – received their diplomas and Associate’s Degree at the same time; • Football: 2020 State and National Champions; • Began the School of Health Sciences this past year and saw growth in several programs: Nursing, Health Care Assistant, EMT/Paramedic, Respiratory Technology; • Cheerleading: 2021 Double National Champions (Gameday and Traditional); • To date, have raised over $3 million dollars in our “Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow” Capital Campaign; • Healthy and safe campuses – extremely low COVID student positivity rate all year; • Completion, this summer, of our newest residence hall, “Calhoun Hall”; • 7 of 8 NJCAA competition sports went on to play in the postseason this year; • Successful Volleyball inaugural season; • Preparing for the re-start of men’s and women’s tennis in 2022 • Began a new Phlebotomy training program; • Our new PTA program began this fall; • Graduates in the new Utility Line Worker Program in Olive Branch; • New partnership with University of West Alabama to make transfer easier for students; • 4 students named to the PTK All-Mississippi Team; • 2 PTK Chapters—Senatobia and DeSoto—earned the REACH designation for membership development; • Opened a new health clinic at the Senatobia Campus; • Silver level status of being a “Military Friendly School”; • First cohort of colleges nationwide to be included in Achieving the Dream’s “Building Resiliency in Rural Communities for the Future of Work” initiative; • Scholarship endowment exceeded $14 million; • Northwest nursing students assisted the MS Department of Health in administering COVID vaccines; • Innovative instructors were able to help students be successful in their studies and charted a course for instructional methods for the future; • Graduated almost 1,000 students this past spring; • Began providing credit classes at Everest in Water Valley; • Record participation in Rangers Giving Day 2020; • Construction continues at The Concourse in Batesville, and classes began in August; • And the list goes on and on! Recently, I was selected by Phi Theta Kappa to receive its Paragon Award. Out of 500 college presidents nationwide, I was one of 22 recipients of this prestigious award. This award is given to presidents who have shown strong support of student success by recognizing academic achievement, leadership and service among students at their college. Too, I was honored with receiving a MS Business Journal 2021 Top CEO award, and I was recognized at a ceremony in Jackson along with several other CEO’s. I was excited personally and professionally about these accolades, but I was most excited to be able to place a spotlight on all of the great work at Northwest we’ve been able to accomplish together this past year! This past year has truly been a remarkable year! This fall has ushered in a whirlwind of activity with classes and events. We continue to look forward to more capacity in classrooms, many student events and activities, all the while making sure our campuses are safe and our college community is healthy! Now, more than ever, it’s a great day to be a Ranger!
Dr. Michael J. Heindl
President, Northwest Mississippi Community College
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www.northwestms.edu
Leadership
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Dwayne Casey
Dr. Matthew Domas
Patti Gordon
Jeff Horton
Associate Vice President of Workforce Solutions & Career Technical Education
Vice President of Instruction
Executive Director of Institutional Advancement
Vice President of Administration and Finance
Phyllis Johnson
Dr. Don Jones
Dr. Stephanie Mullins
Dr. Keith Reed
Dean of eLearning
Dean of Lafayette-Yalobusha Technical Center
Dean of School of Health Sciences
Dean of DeSoto Center
Dr. Tonyalle Rush
Dr. Andrew Dale
Dr. Carolyn Wiley
Associate Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management
Associate Vice President of Community Relations
Associate Vice President of Academic Instruction and Institutional Effectiveness
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Leadership
2020-2021 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
President
Dr. Michael J. Heindl
Board Attorney
Vice Chairman
Secretary
Cory Uselton
Aleé Dixon
Lafayette County
DeSoto County
Tate County
Jamie Anderson
Dr. Rachell Anderson
William H. Austin Jr.
Tallahatchie County
Tunica County
DeSoto County
Jerry Barrett
Judy Bland
Steve Bostick
Jean Ann Casey
Tate County
Quitman County
Benton County
Calhoun County
John T. Lamar Jr. Tate County
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Chairman
Dr. Adam Pugh
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Leadership
2020-2021 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Steve Cummings
Bill Dawson
Diana Grist
David Hargett
Yalobusha County
Marshall County
Benton County
Tallahatchie County
Sammy Higdon
Jamie Howell
Dr. Evelyn Jossell
Dr. Lisa Langford
Yalobusha County
Panola County
Quitman County
Calhoun County
Chuck Thomas
Steve White
Dorothy Wilbourn
Marshall County
Lafayette County
Panola County
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INSTRUCTIONAL The business of the college is quality instruction and student learning across multiple delivery platforms. Excellence in instruction increases the potential for student success.
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"We are excited by the start of our new Diesel Technology program at The Concourse and the expanded academic enrollment on the main campus. In the coming year, we look forward to expanding programs in the health sciences in Oxford and in Southaven. – Dr. Matthew Domas
Instructional
CARES FUNDS BOOST
HEALTH SCIENCES RESOURCES In February, Northwest’s School of Health Sciences held a “show and tell” event to demonstrate the valuable ways in which the school has benefitted from CARES Act funding. Through $1,599,743 in funding provided through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the School of Health Sciences was able to purchase equipment that is elevating students’ skills training experiences. “It has impacted our programs across all of our 11 districts,” said Dr. Stephanie Mullins, dean of the School of Health Sciences. “These resources have opened up opportunities for our students to learn in so many new ways, and provided more of that hands-on training that is so desperately needed in health care facilities.” According to Mullins, much of the equipment is typically found at four-year universities, but not typically available to community colleges. “It has gotten students excited about health care, and faculty so excited about teaching,” Mullins said. Some of the equipment that faculty and students are most excited about includes simulation mannequins, a 3-D, touchscreen imaging table and electronic medical records. “The mannequins are awesome in the way that when clinical sites shut down and we weren’t able to get our students into some of these facilities, the simulation mannequins provided our students with these hands-on opportunities,” Mullins said. “We have a birthing mannequin, and we can practice prenatal care, labor and delivery and even a baby-after-birth simulation.” The 3-D anatomy table is not only being utilized by students in the School of Health Sciences, but is also available
to all science programs. Students are also utilizing newly-purchased electronic medical records to get into the practice before they actually begin their careers. The 2020-2021 school year looked a little different than in years past due to the COVID-19 pandemic, causing some concern that students may be wary of entering into the field of health care. However, Mullins said students have been more excited than ever to embark on a career that serves others. “Our motto at the School of Health Sciences is that you serve one to serve all,” she said. “As faculty, we serve one student, and that student is going to serve a patient. We’re going to multiply across the state, and hopefully have a real impact on health care in the state of Mississippi in helping to improve patient care.”
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These resources have opened up opportunities for our students to learn in so many new ways, and provided more of that hands-on training that is so desperately needed in health care facilities.”
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Instructional
TECH GRANTS AID STUDENTS IN HYBRID INSTRUCTION In the fall of 2020, Northwest leaders elected to use a portion of CARES Act funding to provide students with technology grants intended to bridge access gaps and support students’ personal success. Funding from the institution portion of Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF) provided devices and accessories for students in need, including computers, tablets, webcams, and hot spots to support critical technology needs made evident following the college’s transition to online and hybrid learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Administration and faculty members noted needs and barriers that existed for a number of students, and were proud to see those needs met.
Amid pandemic, Northwest instruction adapts As educational institutions around the country grappled with how to proceed in the Fall 2020 semester, Northwest embarked on a mission to deliver quality education with the health and safety of both students and employees at the forefront of the college’s plans. Thanks to measures enacted by faculty, staff and school leadership, the college as a whole was able to maintain less than a one percent virus positivity rate throughout the Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 semesters. Those measures included wearing masks inside all campus buildings, social distancing, a somewhat abbreviated semester that helped minimize the number of students on campus during the height of flu season, and a hybrid instructional model. Under the hybrid schedule, on-ground courses consisted of two 50-minute, in-person class meetings each week and 80 minutes of online instruction. More moderate alterations were made to the schedules of career and technical classes on a program-by-program basis. The move allowed for flexibility should circumstances have necessitated a move to a fully online environment. The Spring 2021 semester used the same hybrid model for courses, and concluded as scheduled in May. Due to the diligence and hard work of the entire Northwest community, the 2020-2021 school year was a fantastic success.
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Instructional
Evolving education for a changing world.
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INSTITUTIONAL A strong institution, in terms of its infrastructure, its people, its financial resources, its culture, and its reputation, provides the optimal environment for the success of our students.
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We are continuously investing in the success of our students by providing innovative, instructional equipment, and undertaking various projects across campus to build and maintain state-of-the-art facilities. Our team did and will continue to do everything possible to provide a safe, clean and conducive learning environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
– Jeff Horton
Institutional
FIRST-EVER CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
TO ‘IMPACT TOMORROW’ At Northwest, we foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and student success. We also strive for continuous improvement, with a standard of excellence in every area of the institution. That spirit of progress is what has brought us to this juncture in our exciting history – our first-ever comprehensive capital campaign. This campaign is not solely about raising money to advance our programs and facilities. Campaigns create excitement and raise awareness. Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow offers a groundbreaking opportunity to share our story of who we are today and who we aspire to be in the future. It will help us engage our alumni, build supporters, and attract gifted students to campus.
Campaign Projects - Phase 1
PERFORMING ARTS CENTER - $1,350,000 A new Performing Arts Center will include a 1,200-seat performing arts auditorium, additional smaller performance spaces, multiple rehearsal rooms, band hall, art gallery, performing arts classrooms, recording studio and faculty offices. AVIATION PROGRAM - $930,000 This expanded program will include a new Private Pilot Training Program, Ag Aviation Program and an expansion of the Aviation Maintenance Technology Program. DESOTO CENTER—WORKFORCE TRAINING CENTER $750,000 A new innovative workforce training center and instruction building focused on career and technical program development, which may include Culinary Arts & Hospitality, health care programs, and the expansion of the Associate Degree Nursing Program. PANOLA COUNTY CENTER—THE CONCOURSE $750,000 This project will provide new space for the development of career and technical programs including Diesel Mechanic, Carpentry, Robotic Welding, Industrial Electronics, Advanced Manufacturing, and Cyber Security.
Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow A Campaign for Northwest Mississippi Community College
Capital Campaign Goal
$4,560,000 Amount raised as of June 2021
$2,036,850
LAFAYETTE-YALOBUSHA TECHNICAL CENTER PROGRAMS - $450,000 Enhancements planned include: expansion to the Practical Nursing Program and additional Allied Health Programs such as Dental Hygiene, Radiology Technology, Sonography, Occupational Therapy Assistant and expansion of the Associate Degree Nursing Program. SOCCER / SOFTBALL COMPLEX - $330,000 This project will include locker rooms for soccer and softball teams as well as coaches offices and team meeting rooms.
Campaign Projects - Phase 2
INDOOR ATHLETIC PRACTICE FACILITY - $350,000 A 30,000-square foot facility will include a pool and multi-use indoor practice and recreational spaces. NORTHWEST FARM - $200,000 Land use, arena renovation, and facility expansion will advance and develop college programs such as a Farm to Table Program, Crop Production Program, and Veterinarian Technology Program. BELL TOWER - $250,000 A brick and cast stone bell and clock tower designed as a central point of gathering in the heart of the Senatobia campus. This project will chime on the hour, and will be used for special events and as a focal point on campus.
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Institutional
FOUNDATION RECEIVES FIRST MILLION-DOLLAR DONATION Longtime Northwest Mississippi Community College business supporter Dunlap & Kyle is a company not just concerned with its own success, but also in the educational success of Northwest students. The company’s generosity was on full display when it bestowed the Northwest Foundation’s first $1 million gift. Bobby Dunlap, founder of Gateway Tire and CEO of Dunlap & Kyle in Batesville, built his businesses after leaving the Navy in 1953. He transformed the Mule Barn, his father’s side business that was, in essence, a junkyard, into one of Mississippi’s largest family-owned companies. Since then, the business has grown into a family of companies that also includes Hesselbein Tire Co. and Gateway Tire. As of 2016, the company had 58 retail locations, located mostly in the South, and 16 wholesale distribution centers, located from northern Ohio to south Texas. Northwest has been a consistent recipient of the company’s generosity for years. “I think Northwest and the other community colleges do more for the community than people realize,” Dunlap said. “I know there are a lot of good kids at Northwest.”
Dunlap is serving as Honorary Chairman of the “Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow” capital campaign for the college.
Charitable Assets
8,843,122
9,317,198
10,717,596
10,561,161
12,232,330
13,676,263
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
VALUE OF FOUNDATION ENDOWMENT $13,676,263 Statement of Financial Position: A copy of the full audit is available upon request from the office of Institutional Advancement. 12
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Institutional
TOTAL AMOUNT RAISED in 2020
$972,269
$771
1,220
DONORS
Donations received by:
AVERAGE GIFT
PER DONOR
595 New Donors in 2020
2,466 Gifts
INDIVIDUALS BUSINESSES CHURCH FOUNDATIONS/TRUSTS CIVIC/CLUBS NWCC PAYROLL DEDUCTIONS
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Institutional
2+2, eLearning earn Intelligent.com nods This year, two Northwest programs have been recognized among the top colleges in the state and nation. Northwest landed on Intelligent.com’s “Top 60 Online Colleges” list in a pool of nationwide honorees, specifically named “Best Online College in the South.” The college’s eLearning program was also recognized by the student-focused site last year. “We are truly elated to have received this award again,” said Phyllis Johnson, dean of eLearning. “During these COVID times with many courses going online, checking for good quality content is so important for the students, instructors and the college. We have some really engaged faculty that put their whole heart into
their efforts to make Northwest a success. In order to positively impact students, we engage, equip and empower our faculty to do their job and do it well.” Northwest also nabbed a spot on Intelligent.com’s “Top 33 Colleges in Mississippi” list, specifically honored as the state’s “Best 2+2 Program.” According to Intelligent.com, their comprehensive research guide is based on an assessment of 2,277 accredited colleges and universities nationwide. Each college is evaluated based on curriculum quality, graduation rate, reputation, and post-graduate employment. Northwest is proud to be among those honored with this recognition.
COLLEGE AGAIN EARNS MILITARY FRIENDLY BADGE When Military Friendly released its 2021-2022 Military Friendly Schools list, Northwest once again found itself among those recognized with the distinction. Institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Methodology, criteria and weightings were determined by VIQTORY with input from the Military Friendly Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey response set and government/agency public data sources within a logic-based scoring
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assessment. Military Friendly is owned and operated by VIQTORY, a servicedisabled, veteran-owned business that connects the military community with civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial opportunities. According to the organization, it measures an institution’s ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer), and loan default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans. “Our standards assist schools by providing a benchmark that promotes positive educational outcomes, resources and support services that better the educational landscape and
provide opportunity to the military community,” said Kayla Lopez, national director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly. The 2021-2022 Military Friendly Schools list can be found at militaryfriendly.com.
Institutional
RIBBON CUTTINGS CELEBRATE
NEW COMMUNITY RESOURCES MARSHALL COUNTY SITE OFFERS ADULT ED, WORKFORCE TRAINING
Photo by Sue Watson/The South Reporter
The Marshall County Training Center held its soft opening in the summer of 2020, with a grand opening that followed in June of 2021. Gov. Tate Reeves, members of the Marshall County Board of Supervisors and leaders from the Mississippi Development Authority were on hand for the momentous occasion. The facility offers day and night Adult Education classes, WIN Job Center services funded through Three Rivers Planning and Development District, including assessments, job referrals, internships, and tuition assistance, and Workforce Solutions training, including industrial forklift, welding/metal fabrication, industrial electrical, manufacturing problem solving and trouble shooting, and more.
EVEREST ADULT ED OPENS WATER VALLEY DOORS
In September 2020, Northwest leaders were on hand when Base Camp Coding Academy (BCCA) held its soft opening for Everest, a hub for technology and education in Water Valley that is also the organization’s new home. The yearold location is not only allowing more growth for BCCA, but is also providing space for Northwest, a founding BCCA partner, to use for Adult Education, credit, and workforce training. Everest began enrolling students in the location’s Adult Education program at the start of the Fall 2021 semester. Inside the fully renovated former garment factory in the heart of downtown Water Valley, Northwest has been allotted an area of just over 18,000-square-feet for classroom and office space. “Since 2016, we have been part of a very fruitful relationship with Water Valley, Yalobusha County and the region in this partnership,” Domas said. “The opportunity is gigantic for us and for the county and the region. We’re excited about the future.” President’s Report | Northwest Now
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Institutional
Health, wellness top priorities at Northwest HEALTH CARE PROGRAMS CONSOLIDATED UNDER HEALTH SCIENCES UMBRELLA Last year, Northwest leaders made the decision to consolidate all ten of the college’s health care programs and create the School of Health Sciences. “Being under one umbrella helps to formulate a cohesive group where we all have the same vision,” said Dr. Stephanie Mullins, dean of the School of Health Sciences. “In doing so, we’ve been able to combine a lot of resources.”
EMPLOYEES, STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM FIRST ON-CAMPUS CLINIC
With the goal of lowering out-of-pocket cost and providing more timely access to healthcare for the Northwest community, the Northwest Health and Wellness Clinic opened on the college’s main campus in October of 2020. The new facility is a collaboration between the college and Northwest Health and Wellness. Services provided by the clinic include a variety of tests, such as those for COVID-19, strep and flu. The facility’s staff are also able to treat colds, bacterial infections and sinus issues, as well as perform basic physical exams. Telemedicine appointments have been made available to those who cannot physically visit the clinic. Services are available to all Northwest students, employees and the immediate family members of employees who reside in the same household.
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BCBS GRANT FUNDING MAKES WAY FOR NEW GYM, EQUIPMENT
Thanks to a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Northwest was able to acquire the necessary funds to purchase additional fitness equipment for the college’s Senatobia campus in the fall of 2020. College leaders applied for the grant in order to meet the needs of Northwest’s new Physical Therapist Assistant program, though the equipment is also open and intended for general use by students and employees. The college converted its largest studio in the McLendon Center to an additional fitness center. Grant money also allowed the incorporation of new fitness equipment to the existing Student Fitness Center. Ribbon cuttings were held for both fitness areas on Sept. 23.
Institutional
Budget for Current Operations $6,432,605 Local Appropriations $709,090 Other Sources $2,593,463 State Grants and Contracts
$22,118,739 Tuition & Fees
TOTAL REVENUE
$53,063,866
$228,179 Private Grants & Contracts $79,844 Investment Income $72,997 Federal Grants & Contracts
$20,828,949 State Appropriations
$227,168 Bad Debit Expense
$3,741,538 Student Aid
$8,426,935 Institutional Support
$23,116,115 Instruction
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
$51,388,167
$1,280,167 Academic Support $7,002,290 Operation & Maintenance
$6,062,545 Student Services
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PERSONAL The main focus of the institution is students’ personal success, from entry to graduation to their next step beyond college.
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“During this unprecedented year, Student Services has maintained a high level of service to help our students achieve success. Student engagement was a top priority, from sending ‘start strong and finish strong’ messages, celebrating students with drive-thru graduation ceremonies and providing student services and activities on all campuses.” – Dr. Tonyalle Rush
Personal
BUSINESS JOURNAL LAUDS
HEINDL AS ‘TOP CEO’ In June, Northwest was delighted to announce the Mississippi Business Journal’s selection of Northwest President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl as a 2021 Top CEO. The award recognizes the state’s most influential business leaders who demonstrate excellence in their fields. Heindl, along with other honorees from across the state, were recognized at the CEO Awards of Mississippi on May 27. “It’s truly an honor to be recognized in this way, and I’m most excited in being able to place a spotlight on all the great work we are doing at Northwest to serve our students,” Heindl said. Northwest’s ninth president, Heindl assumed the office in July of 2018. Prior to his arrival at the college, he served as executive vice president of Administration and Finance at Gulf Coast Community College in Perkinston. In his time as a Northwest Ranger, Heindl has bolstered the college’s reputation as an institution providing exceptional opportunities for students as well as a strong resource for the communities it serves. Specifically, Heindl has helped ensure Northwest’s continued financial stability, including pioneering the Northwest Foundation’s first-ever capital campaign. As part of Northwest’s five-year plan,
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It’s truly an honor to be recognized in this way, and I’m most excited in being able to place a spotlight on all the great work we are doing at Northwest to serve our students.”
he has also ushered in new physical growth across the college’s 11-county district. New facilities brought to life or in progress under his leadership include: Calhoun Hall, a 45,000-square-foot, two-story female residence hall opening for occupancy in the Fall 2021 semester; the Northwest Health and Wellness Clinic, the college’s first on-campus health clinic, opened in the fall of 2020; an additional fitness center on the main campus, outfitted with equipment purchased with a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield; a new 1,200-seat Performing Arts Center, under construction now; the Softball and Soccer Complex, slated to be finished by the spring of 2022; The Concourse, a new workforce training center in Batesville that will house the college’s Diesel Mechanic Technology program, Welding program, Construction Trades program, and Adult Education classes, among others; and Everest, Mississippi’s first rural education and technology hub located in Water Valley that will house Base Camp Coding Academy, a partner of Northwest’s, and Northwest classroom and office space. During his tenure and with his enthusiastic support, the college has also seen athletic success, with the football program’s North Division championship win in 2019, MACCC and National Community College Football Championship titles in 2020 and Northwest Cheer’s two UCA College national championship wins in 2021. Along with the institution’s physical growth, Heindl has overseen the growth of the college’s Career and Technical offerings and the creation and expansion of its School of Health Sciences, including the addition of the Utility
Line Worker program in Olive Branch and Health Care Assistant and Physical Therapist Assistant programs. Finally, in a school year ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, Heindl has exhibited strong leadership in enacting new health and safety guidelines across all of the college’s campuses, moving the vast majority of classes online and initiating changes in scheduling and procedures in the interest of student and employee health. In February, Heindl was also awarded the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s Paragon Award for New Presidents. He was one of only 22 selected honorees from a nationwide pool of 500 college presidents. The Paragon Award is given to new college presidents who have shown strong support of student success by recognizing academic achievement, leadership and service among highachieving students at their college. That same month, Achieving the Dream announced its first cohort of colleges, including Northwest, in its new Building Resiliency in Rural Communities for the Future of Work initiative. The inaugural cohort of seven colleges based around the country will focus on increasing equitable student success and aligning postsecondary pathways to sustainable careers.
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Personal
PRESIDENT HONORED WITH PARAGON AWARD In what is considered a high honor, Phi Theta Kappa selected Northwest President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl as a 2021 recipient of the Paragon Award for New Presidents. More than 500 college presidents nationwide were eligible for the award, with PTK selecting only 22 to receive the honor. The Paragon Award is given to new college presidents who have shown strong support of student success by recognizing academic achievement, leadership and service among high-achieving students at their college. Recipients were nominated for the award by the students on their campus. “As a former PTK member years
ago when I was a community college student, I could not have dreamed that one day I would be receiving this honor as a community college president,” Heindl said. “Phi Theta Kappa does a tremendous job of serving some of the best and brightest students nationally and internationally, and I am deeply appreciative of being able to receive this honor in support of student success at Northwest.” Presidents receiving the 2021 award were especially celebrated for the honor due to the particularly challenging year college leaders have navigated that included racial and political unrest and a global pandemic.
Four named to All-Mississippi team In Spring 2021, four Northwest students were named to the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) AllMississippi Community College Academic Team. Abigail Brown of Olive Branch, Anmol Malhotra of Batesville, Hannah Holmes of Horn Lake, and Nicholas Gibson of Hernando were all named to the team. Malhotra was named to the First Team, and Brown, Holmes and Gibson were all named Second Team honorees. According to Kristin Watson, a Northwest PTK advisor, All-Mississippi Team honorees are selected through a Northwest campus committee and a PTK national committee. The All-Mississippi teams are recognized as some of the
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most outstanding PTK students, and each recipient is awarded a scholarship to pursue their educational goals. “These students work hard in their academic pursuits, and this allows them an opportunity to be recognized for all their contributions in not only academics, but also the community,” Watson said. “We commend these students on being selected
through a rigorous application process through Northwest and the national PTK organization.” Brown, a Psychology student, and Malhotra, a Pharmacy student, attend classes at the main campus. Holmes, a Business student, and Gibson, a Biology student, attend classes at the DeSoto campus.
Personal
RANGER FOOTBALL
SECURES NATIONAL, CONFERENCE TITLES
After five years of waiting, the championship drought finally came to an end for Northwest football in December 2020. With a 40-13 victory at Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Rangers brought home, not one, but two trophies for winning MACCC and National Community College Football Championship titles, granting Northwest its fourth national championship and its 10th conference title. The Rangers also snapped the Bulldogs' 21game winning streak that dated back to the 2018 season. "It feels great," Northwest coach Benjy Parker said. "Everybody in our league had ups and downs with COVID-19, but our entire conference deserves a pat on the back for battling and making it through the season. I'm just proud of our team for getting this win." After the game, the Rangers were presented with another MACCC Coach of the Year award for Parker and the MACCC Championship trophy. Also, in a move that was announced just days before the contest, Northwest was also awarded with the National Community College Football Championship trophy, which will go down as a national title for the fall season. Both honors are the first for Parker since taking over as head coach in 2016. Parker previously helped Northwest to a national championship in 2015 as the Rangers' defensive coordinator. Northwest concluded the 2020 season at 6-0 overall, marking the program's first undefeated season since 2000 (10-0) and only the fourth all-time. President’s Report | Northwest Now
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DOUBLE THE FUN FOR NORTHWEST CHEER CHAMPS
The Ranger football crew was not the only Northwest team that brought home trophies in the 2020-2021 season, as the college’s cheerleading program made a triumphant return to the UCA and UDA College Nationals after a 20year absence and earned a pair of national championships. Under the direction of second-year coach Brandon Casey, Northwest competed in both the Game Day Cheer & Mascot and Open Cheer categories. In the Open Co-Ed Game Day division of the cheer and mascot category, Northwest earned a performance score of 94.9 in the semifinals and a 95.6 in the championship finals. In the Open Cheer category, Northwest rallied from a thirdplace finish in the Open Small Co-Ed semifinals to earn an 86.5 performance score in the finals. “This was such an amazing opportunity for us,” Casey said. “We are beyond blessed to have such a great support system from the college.” 22
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Personal
A culture of leadership Dr. Heindl poses with the Northwest Mississippi Community College Leadership Forum at the annual leadership retreat. Heindl and his executive team established the college's Leadership Forum at the beginning of 2019 in order to fulfill the institution's mission of transforming our students’ lives, enriching our communities and striving for excellence in our educational programs and services. Leadership Forum members consist of a wide range of individuals from all areas of the college that serve in leadership roles. As the Northwest Leadership team continues to grow, so does the college and its vision.
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Leadership’s influence, and whether a member of the Northwest family is a vice president, an instructor, or custodian, we all have an opportunity to have a positive influence amongst ourselves and the students we serve! ” President’s Report | Northwest Now
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INAUGURAL SCHOLASTIC INSTITUTE COHORT SEES SUCCESS In the spring of 2021, the college proudly graduated its first cohort of students enrolled in the Scholastic Institute. Scholastic Institute students are full-time college students at Northwest who are working toward their associate’s degree while also completing their high school graduation requirements at local high schools. The college’s first group of students began the program in August of 2019, and have now graduated with both a high school diploma from Oxford High School and their associate’s degree from the college.
15 STUDENTS ACHIEVE HIGHEST COLLEGE HONOR
Fifteen Northwest students achieved the highest honor a student can achieve at the college, earning a place in the 2020-2021 Hall of Fame. Students named to the Northwest Hall of Fame are selected based on their academic accomplishments and involvement in student life. Nominations for Hall of Fame are submitted by Northwest instructors and voted on by a committee. This year’s honorees were
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recognized at the March Board of Trustees meeting on the main campus. Eight of the students were from the Senatobia campus. Those students were Matthew Silvers of Hollandale, Raylah Quarles of Batesville, Aubrey Triplett of Coldwater, Luisa Macedo of Senatobia, Skylar Gardner of Southaven, Chapell Chumley of Tupelo, Tabitha Willis of Southaven, and Devontre Burdette of Senatobia.
Four students were from the DeSoto Center. Those students were Courtney Carlson of Southaven, Anna Davis of Sardis, Nicholas Gibson of Southaven, and Kierra Hudson of Holly Springs. Three Hall of Fame students were from the Lafayette-Yalobusha Technical Center in Oxford. Those students were Shonta Bowen of Oxford, Andreas Diercks of Oxford and Katelyn Jolly of Ecru.
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NORTHWEST NAMED AMONG FIRST
ACHIEVING THE DREAM INITIATIVE COHORT In February 2021, Northwest was proud to be announced as being among the first cohort of seven colleges nationwide in Achieving the Dream’s (ATD) new Building Resiliency in Rural Communities for the Future of Work initiative. The initiative aims to increase equitable student success by strengthening rural colleges’ capacity to prepare students for careers in today’s economy. The initiative is funded by the Cognizant U.S. Foundation, JPMorgan Chase & Co., The Community Focus Fund at the Chicago Community Foundation, Walmart.org, and Ascendium Education Group. “Rural community colleges have long served as drivers of their communities’ economic and civic vitality, playing a critical role in ensuring social and economic mobility,” said ATD president and CEO Dr. Karen A. Stout. “As Achieving the Dream works to support our colleges in fostering diverse and equitable campuses, we are mindful of the importance of building a network that reflects the diversity of institutions across our country.” Building Resiliency in Rural Communities for the Future of Work will increase rural colleges’ capacity to succeed with whole-college reform efforts, provide students with the workforce skills needed in today and tomorrow’s economy, and connect students with careers in the digital economy that pay family-sustaining wages. In addition, participating institutions’ reform efforts will include providing academic and personal supports and narrowing equity gaps. “We at Northwest Mississippi Community College are honored to be joining this first Building Resiliency in Rural Communities for the Future of Work cohort,” said Northwest President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl. “We know that the vision of Northwest, ‘Transforming students’ lives, enriching our communities and striving for excellence in our educational programs and services,’ fits perfectly with Achieving the Dream goals
of increasing capacity with whole-college reform efforts. These efforts include skills for students that are needed for today’s and tomorrow’s workforce and the opportunity to connect more students with careers in the digital economy that will pay family-sustaining wages.” The other six colleges that have joined this initial cohort, and the ATD Network, include: • Berkshire Community College – Pittsfield, MA • Clovis Community College – Clovis, NM • Columbia-Greene Community College – Hudson, NY • Halifax Community College – Weldon, NC • Louisiana State University-Eunice – Eunice, LA • Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College – Cumberland, KY Funders of this important initiative are also looking forward to supporting these colleges as they begin their work. “Equitable access to skills and realworld work experience is key to connecting students to good jobs, regardless of their ZIP code,” said Monique Baptiste, Vice President of Global Philanthropy, JPMorgan Chase. “As part of JPMorgan Chase’s efforts to advance racial equity and prepare people for the future of work, we’re committed to driving an inclusive economic recovery, including strengthening community college programs and connecting students to the skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce.” “Rural community colleges are well
equipped to provide upskilling opportunities for the rapidly changing workforce in their areas,” said Julie Gehrki, vice president of philanthropy for Walmart.org. “Walmart’s investment will enable Achieving the Dream to accelerate their work with these colleges, and we’re thrilled to support their effort.” In January, members of the cohort participated in a Learning Launch Kickoff Institute to onboard to the program and to ATD. On Tuesday, Feb. 16, the cohort was featured virtually at a Spotlight Session as part of DREAM 2021. Additionally, there will be a Rural Convening this summer, as well as ongoing coaching and capacity building for the colleges through ATD. Achieving the Dream (ATD) leads a growing network of more than 300 community colleges committed to helping their students, particularly low-income students and students of color, achieve their goals for academic success, personal growth, and economic opportunity. ATD is making progress in closing equity gaps and accelerating student success through a unique change process that builds each college’s institutional capacities in seven essential areas. ATD, along with nearly 75 experienced coaches and advisors, works closely with Network colleges in 45 states and the District of Columbia to reach more than 4 million community college students.
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COMMUNITY The college will be perceived as relevant when we work passionately as a team to produce quality outcomes that enrich our communities. Relationships are the catalyst for informing the college of educational content and skills needed within the region.
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"Northwest Mississippi Community College is steadily investing in the future of our region by adding new programs, instructional spaces and a student-centered culture. By doing so, we are adding opportunities for our future students and great value to our local communities and business partners.” – Dr. Andrew Dale
Community
UTILITY LINE PROGRAM
GRADUATES NINE In the spring of 2021, the Utility Line Worker program graduated its second ever class of students at a ceremony at Northwest’s Olive Branch location. Nine graduates took to on-site utility poles prior to the ceremony to demonstrate their various skills for the crowd attending the event. The program, which began in the fall of 2020, began as a partnership between the college and Northcentral Electric Cooperative. According to Northcentral CEO Kevin Doddridge, there will be a heavier emphasis on this particular partnership in the coming years as demand for this skillset continues to climb. The Utility Line Worker program is designed to prepare students for the electrical power transmission and distribution industry. The program is offered exclusively in Olive Branch.
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Community
Northwest, MSU sign MOU for degree program In 2020, Northwest Mississippi Community College and Mississippi State University (MSU) signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize partnership programs for students enrolled in technical education programs. The agreement outlines a pathway for Northwest students to complete MSU’s new Bachelor of Applied Science program, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to provide more opportunities in technical education and meet current and future workforce demands. The agreement also outlines which courses must be completed at each institution to fulfill degree requirements. “It’s great for our students to be able to seamlessly transfer their Associate of Applied Science credits to Mississippi State, giving them another option to get their bachelor’s degree, whereas before they would not have had that option as seamlessly or easily,” Northwest President, Dr. Michael Heindl said. “I’m excited about this for our students who will be the beneficiaries of this partnership.” Photo by Logan Kirkland
NORTHWEST, UWA INK DEGREE PARTNERSHIP In April, Northwest Mississippi Community College and the University of West Alabama (UWA) signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize a partnership intended to better serve students who wish to transfer from Northwest to UWA. As stipulated in the agreement, UWA has agreed to: guarantee admission to all Northwest students, based on a 2.0 GPA and completion of their associate’s degree from the college; provide pretransfer advising; and make all academic scholarships available to any student from Northwest with a 3.0 or higher GPA ($3,000-4,000 per year, renewable for up to four consecutive semesters). Northwest students who receive academic scholarships will also be eligible to apply for housing scholarships. “Northwest strives to provide a variety of transfer opportunities for students 28
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seeking four-year degrees,” said Dr. Matthew Domas, vice president for Instruction. “We are excited to partner with the University of West Alabama
in this effort. I encourage all graduating students to review what UWA has to offer.”
Community
NORTHWEST GIVES BACK
FOR A HEALTHY MISSISSIPPI STATEWIDE SHORTAGE SPURS PPE DONATION
When the COVID-19 outbreak began in the United States in the spring of 2020, health care facilities all over the country struggled to keep sufficient amounts of personal protective equipment (PPE) on hand. In response to this shortage, a team of staff and faculty members from Northwest proudly worked together to coordinate
a donation of PPE to the Mississippi State Department of Health. According to Patti Gordon, executive director of Institutional Advancement and the coordinator of the donation effort, supplies came from the college’s associate degree nursing, practical nursing, cardiovascular technology, and surgical technology programs.
Northwest initiated the effort after the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing and the American Association of Community Colleges encouraged colleges to help their local agencies. The supplies were picked up by MSDH employees, and transferred to Jackson.
NURSING STUDENTS JOIN MASS VACCINE EFFORT When the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines began in early 2021, Northwest was proud to partner with the Mississippi State Department of Health in that effort. Northwest nursing students in the college’s RN and LPN programs joined the state’s massive vaccination effort, beginning training on vaccine delivery in late January and heading out to assist with immunizations in mid-February. At that time, Dean of the School of Health Sciences Dr. Stephanie Mullins said they were proud to be part of the endeavor. “Northwest is committed to serving our community and supporting our industry leaders,” she said. “By supporting the MSDH in this overwhelming endeavor, Northwest’s School of Health Sciences students are able to meet the needs of the community.” President’s Report | Northwest Now
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Community
Ranger Hour hits SuperTalk airwaves In August 2020, The Ranger Hour debuted on SuperTalk North Mississippi (93.7 FM). Hosted by radio veteran Gary Darby and sponsored by Sycamore Bank, the one-hour show covers a wide range of Northwest topics each week, such as athletics,
student and staff accomplishments, community partnerships, upcoming events, and academic or career and technical news. The show typically hosts two guests for the hour. The Ranger Hour airs weekly on Thursdays from 9-10 a.m.
HEINDLS HOST HOLIDAY BRUNCH In November 2020, Dr. Michael Heindl and Jennifer Heindl hosted a “Breakfast, Brunch or Lunch” Thanksgiving celebration at the Haraway Center for employees. The Heindl family has traditionally hosted a Christmas Open House at their home, but due to the COVID19 pandemic, the 2020 celebration was held at the Haraway Center to allow for more space and the ability of employees to attend in shifts, with the event running from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the event, employees enjoyed delicious food and fellowship leading up to Thanksgiving Break.
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Community
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
CINDY HYDE SMITH
Dr. Heindl visits with U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith at her "Sweet Tea with the Senator" event in DeSoto County.
TRENT KELLY
U.S. Representative Trent Kelly poses with a few members of the Northwest Jazz Ensemble at a community leaders meeting held at The Gin in Nesbit. A community college graduate, Kelly and Dr. Heindl discussed the importance and impact of community colleges.
ROGER WICKER
U.S. Senator Roger Wicker made a pit stop at Northwest's main campus to speak to the Senatobia Rotary Club during one of the club’s weekly meetings over the summer. A north Mississippi native, Wicker has made it a priority to visit with the Senatobia Rotary Club during congressional recess periods since assuming his position in 2007.
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INCREASES IN SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWING SINCE JULY 2018 INSTAGRAM
166% increase in followers
124% increase in followers
79% increase in followers
YOUTUBE
65% increase in subscribers
165% increase in followers
TIKTOK (created in June 2021)
44% increase in followers
GRAPHIC STANDARDS
Northwest released its first ever graphic/brand standards to establish consistent and unified guidelines for the college's overall image. The guidelines were implemented to keep the college's brand identity coherent and recognizable. Northwest's Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications, along with Dr. Michael Heindl, created this style guide so that it directly aligns with the ethos of this institution.
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