student spotlight
Hadassah McGee Hernando| Sophomore
PATHWAY RESPIRATORY THERAPY PROGRAM FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP The Sterling and Lilibeth Withers Endowed Scholarship About McGee: Hadassah is a sophomore involved in Phi Theta Kappa and is studying Respiratory Therapy at the DeSoto Center. A recipient of the Sterling and Lilibeth Withers Foundation Scholarship, she said she feels so honored and said that she loves Mr. Withers. “Every time I see him it just seems to be a party. He is a great person to be around,” McGee said. Why did you choose Northwest? Coming from a small private school in Tunica, I wanted a place where I could feel comfortable. At Northwest you can walk in and immediately recognize faces. The teachers and staff recognize you, and to a student that means everything. What are your plans for the future? My plan for the future is becoming a Registered Respiratory Therapist. Are there any instructors you want to recognize? I would like to recognize Mrs. Debra Lenox, my respiratory program director and teacher. From the moment I talked to her even about what an RT is, her kindness and empathy impacted me. She goes above and beyond to help a student understand the material and makes you feel like you’re a part of a family. What does receiving a Foundation scholarship mean to you? Receiving a Foundation scholarship meant the world to me. I knew college would be expensive and I was stressed about how I could pay for it, but the Foundation scholarship lifted weight off my shoulders. It gave me the security to solely be able to focus on my school and not worry about the expense. I am beyond grateful for it, and I’d like to thank the Withers for their kindness and generosity.
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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president's reflections
D
ear Northwest Family, It’s such an exciting time to be a Ranger! The word “momentum” comes to mind as I reflect upon what has been happening at Northwest over the last few years, but especially throughout this past year. So much has been accomplished for our students and our communities, and I’m so thankful for the great work that our faculty, staff, and administration are doing daily to help accomplish our shared goals. As we come to the end of another great year in the life of our College, I’d like to list a few of the accomplishments from this past year below:
Vision Northwest Mississippi Community College transforms our students’ lives, enriches our communities, and strives for excellence in our educational programs and services.
Mission
• Greatest increase in headcount enrollment in the semester of any of the other 14 community colleges in our state; • 1,778 graduates in May 2023; • Recognition by Aspen Institute’s College Excellence Program for being in the top 150 institutions out of 1,000+ colleges nationally; • Women’s Soccer Program – 2023 MACCC/NJCAA Region 23 Champions and Coach Beattie recognized as Coach of the Year; • 10th year in a row that the Ranger football team has played in the postseason; • Completed Phase 1 of the Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow Capital Campaign; • Opening of the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts in January with two successful seasons completed; • Chick-fil-A restaurant opened in the fall to serve our students and community; • Opened the ARC: the Advising and Retention Center on the Senatobia Campus; • Broke ground on the Ranger Center: Career-Technical and Health Science Center in DeSoto County; • Construction continues for a new men’s residence hall on the Senatobia Campus; • New and expanded programs in Water Valley, Southaven, Batesville, and Senatobia; • Millions in external funding through federal and state grants to help expand CTE and Health Science training; • Record number of student athletes to earn NJCAA All-Academic status and the most students to earn this designation in the Conference; • “Find Your Path” marketing campaign was launched; and Much, much more!
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.
As we all turn our attention to the holidays and the end of the year, I’d like to thank you for your continued friendship, support, and investment in our great College. If at all possible, I’d like to invite you to continue to invest in this life-changing institution or perhaps invest in Northwest for the first time. There are few endeavors that one could contribute to that would mean more than investing in the life of a student. Please consider partnering with Northwest at the end of this year so that we can continue to positively impact and transform student lives for years to come.
Values
Merry Christmas and Go Rangers! Sincerely,
ACCOUNTABILITY INTEGRITY EXCELLENCE RESPECT SERVICE SUSTAINABILITY ACCESSIBILITY CREATIVITY LEADERSHIP
Dr. Michael J. Heindl
President, Northwest Mississippi Community College
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www.northwestms.edu
around campus
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Northwest Mississippi Community College Alumni Association Board of Directors had its annual Homecoming meeting on October 19, 2023. Present for the meeting are pictured above (L-R): Patti Gordon – executive director, Institutional Advancement; Mike Boren – Tunica County representative; Gary Oakley – Tate County representative; Jeff Horn – vice president; Jackie Myrick – president; Stephen Box – Calhoun County representative; Linda Maynor – Yalobusha County representative; Dr. Michael Heindl – NWCC President; Brenda Miles Gray – Benton County representative; Robert Salmon – Tallahatchie County representative; Bonnie Burkes – Secretary/Treasurer; Jerry Lightsey – Panola County representative; Mary Bonds – Faculty representative; Sylvia Evette Clark – At Large representative; Dr. Laquita Smith-Parker – Staff Representative; Don Randolph – Marshall County representative; Gracie Slocum Perry – advancement services coordinator Photo by Carly Fox
PRESIDENT'S SERVICE AWARDS 2023 The President’s Service Award is given each year to one faculty member and one staff member who go above and beyond what is required of them in their duties.
Jessica Poole (R), financial aid counselor, received the President’s Customer Service Award from Northwest’s President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl (L).
Anne Marie Ross (R), early childhood education technology instructor, received the President’s Customer Service Award from Northwest’s President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl (L).
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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around campus
SANDY GRISHAM EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARD The Sandy Grisham Excellence in Teaching Award is given each year to an outstanding academic faculty member from the Senatobia Campus who uses creativity, technology and innovation in the classroom. The award winner receives a monetary award from the Northwest Foundation -The Sandy Grisham Excellence in Teaching Endowment.
Courtney McMullen, nursing instructor(M), received the Excellence in Teaching Award at the Senatobia Campus from Northwest’s President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl (L), and Northwest Vice President of Instruction, Dr. Matthew Domas.
DESOTO EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARD
OXFORD EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARD
Dr. Darrell Barnes, natural science instructor (M), received the Excellence in Teaching Award for DeSoto from Northwest’s President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl (L), and Northwest DeSoto’s Dean, Dr. Keith Reed (R).
Katina Johnson, practical nursing instructor (M), received the Excellence in Teaching Award for Oxford from Northwest’s President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl (L), and Northwest Oxford’s Dean, Dr. Don Jones (R).
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Administrative Hires
Kristin Davis
Northwest promoted Kristin Davis of Senatobia to associate vice president of Academic Instruction. A longtime resident of Senatobia, Davis has spent her life’s work here at Northwest. “I have been here at Northwest for 19 years,” Davis said. Davis has worked in various positions at the college from Career Center director to a full-time faculty member of the Social Science team where she taught Human Growth and Development, Psychology, and Child Psychology. About six years ago, she moved into the role of District Director of Social Science Instruction. She’s played a vital role as advisor of Phi Theta Kappa, Theta Sigma Chapter of Senatobia over the past seven years. She has seen the organization rise and improve through the years. “I look forward to this new role, meeting faculty, and getting to know each division’s strengths,” Davis said. Davis studied psychology and counseling at the University of Memphis. She’s completed postgrad work through Capella and the University of Memphis in Psychology, Leadership, and Community College Leadership. In 2013, she completed the Mississippi Community College Leadership Academy. Outside of work, Davis said she enjoys reading, cooking, and “of course, eating.”
Dr. Craig Lafferty
Northwest has hired a new Dean of Health Sciences, Dr. Craig Lafferty of Memphis. Dr. Lafferty has a background in medical research and experience as an instructor. Dr. Lafferty started his college career at the University of Memphis but after looking for a change, transferred to Arizona State University where he got a bachelor’s degree in biology. After his undergrad, Dr. Lafferty did a myriad of work at different higher education institutions such as Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science where he received his DPM in Podiatry, the University of Kentucky and the University of Tennessee where he did research and received a Master of Science. Dr. Lafferty said that he was excited about this new step in his career at Northwest and that he was impressed with the consolidation of health sciences at Northwest, and the way they have continually broken enrollment trends. In the future, he hopes to help the college grow. “Definitely to expand and maintain community partnerships,” Dr. Lafferty said. The small class size, the community outreach, and everything that makes a community college is what Dr. Lafferty said he loved about a place like Northwest.
Dr. Blake Bostick
Northwest’s Heindl Center for the Performing Arts welcomes new director, Dr. Blake Bostick of Nesbit. Bostick has been a part of the DeSoto County community for most of his life and is father of three with his high school sweetheart, Lindsey. Prior to becoming director of the Heindl Center, he served as director of Evening Programs at Northwest's DeSoto Center in Southaven. Bostick also serves as worship pastor and elder at Vintage Church in Horn Lake, where he leads music for the Sunday service and has done so for the past 10 years. He graduated with a degree in music in 2010, and got his M.A. in Higher Education from the University of Mississippi. Then in 2022, he received his Doctor of Education with a concentration in higher education from Delta State University. “Serving as the director of the Heindl Center is a wonderful convergence of my musical and academic background from my formal education and my career experience,” Bostick said. Bostick began his career at Ole Miss in 2010, where he did four years of recruiting/admissions, before being named as the director of Evening Programs at DeSoto Center in 2018. He said that the skills he acquired from his time at Northwest are very transferable to what he does now.
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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SUMMER
GRADS Story By Sarah Smith
Northwest Mississippi Community College officials announced 275 graduates have been awarded degrees and certificates for the Summer 2023 semester. Degrees were officially conferred by Dr. Michael Heindl, Northwest president, on July 28, during the college's 114th Commencement. Serving as Commencement speaker was Mississippi businesswoman and Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees member, Teresa Hubbard. Hubbard serves as president and CEO of the company she founded, CITE Armored, an armored truck manufacturing company.
President Heindl welcomes commencement speaker Teresa Aven Hubbard.
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MISSISSIPPI ECONOMIC COUNCIL HOBNOB Story By Dr. Andrew Dale Northwest Mississippi Community College Student Government Association students recently attended the Mississippi Economic Council’s annual Hobnob event. Students had the opportunity to visit with all of Mississippi’s statewide elected office holders including Tate Reeves, governor, Delbert Hosemann, lieutenant governor, Lynn Fitch, attorney general, Michael Watson, secretary of state, Andy Gibson, commissioner of agriculture, Mike Chaney, insurance commissioner and other elected leaders. Hobnob provides a unique opportunity for attendees to hear from candidates running for statewide office only a few days before the general election. Northwest students were guests of Mississippi Community College Board member Dolly Marascalco. Our students also had a brief opportunity to engage with the candidates and ask questions regarding their policy positions on the speeches that were given that day.
Kamarion Hooks, Brandon Taylor, Mcgheyla Patton, Governor Reeves, Jacqaline Vences, Dr. Michael Heindl, Claire Scruggs, Dean of Students Cooper McCachren, MCCB Board member Dolly Marascalco, and Amarion Hooks visit during the event.
Dr. Heindl, Kamarion Hooks, Claire Scruggs, Mcgheyla Patton, Lieutenant Governor Hosemann, Amarion Hooks, Jacqaline Vences, Cooper McCachren, and Brandon Taylor
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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2023 Convocation Story By Sarah Smith
Northwest Mississippi Community College held their annual employee convocation where all employees gathered to prepare, motivate, and fellowship for the 2023-2024 school year at the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts. This year’s convocation speaker was Jade Simmons, an electrifying pianist and motivational speaker. She gave a speech about breaking free from things that hold us back from being our most amazing selves. Dr. Tonyalle Rush, associate vice president of Student Services, informed employees about the updated strategic enrollment plan and goals which included increasing the number of direct from high school freshmen who enroll as degree-seeking students, increasing the number of dual enrollment students who convert to degree seekers, increasing the number of new adult learners who enroll as degree seekers, and increasing the number of students receiving a high school equivalency diploma who enroll as degree seeking students, as well as decreasing rates of students on academic probation, fall to fall retention, and equity among students.
Dr. Tonyalle Rush discusses the updated strategic enrollment plan which is to boost enrollment and retention among students.
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Dr. Michael Heindl discusses the mission, vision, and values of the College at this year's convocation.
Gracie Perry, Northwest’s advancement services coordinator, plays the drums with Jade Simmons.
around campus
Members of Northwest’s faculty completed their ACUE certification this summer. This credential helps instructors with validated research to improve student achievement and equality gaps.
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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around campus
TOUCH-A-TRUCK Story By Sarah Smith
Northwest Mississippi Community College’s Career-Technical Education and Workforce Solutions held their first Touch-a-Truck event on October 21 at the Howard Coliseum Parking lot. “We are excited to have this brand-new event on our campus and for our Career Technical Education Programs to be highlighted in such a unique way,” said Northwest’s President, Dr. Michael Heindl. “We hope this will appeal to a new generation of students and the Touch-a-Truck element will help increase awareness of the quality pathways connected to the college’s many career-technical education programs.” This event was the first of its kind for Northwest and will provide the public an inside look at what’s happening across the campuses and centers. “Our department is very excited about hosting this event as it will give us the opportunity to showcase the programs and services we have to offer at the college,” said Katie Broadway, Northwest’s Director of CareerTechnical Education and Program Advancement. “Between our NWCC programs, the City of Senatobia, and Tate County we will have utility trucks, 18-wheelers, tractors, classic cars, hot-rods, emergency vehicles, public works vehicles, and the list goes on.” There were trucks, tractors, first responders, hot rods, utility trucks, 18-wheelers, and a monster truck. Food trucks were also on site for a fun day. This event was sponsored by a variety of generous donors such as Canon Motors, PPG, Atmos Energy, Northcentral Electric Cooperative, Prime Manufacturing, Calbee, City of Senatobia and Tate County.
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giving back
2023 - 2024
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED IN THE 11 COUNTIES NORTHWEST SERVES DESOTO
225
BENTON
$220,050
5
TATE
$3,250
33
$82,000
PANOLA
LAFAYETTE
75
38
$70,400
QUITMAN
$1,600
$30,200
93
TUNICA
2
MARSHALL
$36,650
7
$7,200
YALOBUSHA
TALLAHATCHIE
11
$569,050
WAS AWARDED IN FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2023-24 ACADEMIC YEAR
606
TOTAL NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED FOR 2023-24 ACADEMIC YEAR
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$14,100
$10,650
CALHOUN
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$17,800
Each year, the Foundation Scholarship Selection Committee meets to award endowed and annual scholarships to students coming to Northwest. A total of 606 scholarships were awarded for the 2023-24 academic year— 401 to new students and 205 to returning students. Annual scholarships totaling $36,750 were awarded, and endowed scholarship funds totaling $532,300 were distributed to qualifying students from around the state. Scholarship recipients come to campus each year to sign their award letters and are given information about the scholarship they are receiving.
$532,300
AMOUNT OF ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
$36,750 AMOUNT OF ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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giving back
Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow A Campaign for Northwest Mississippi Community College
Alumni and Friends of Northwest Continue to Support Capital Campaign
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Story By Sarah Smith
e are pleased to announce that we have successfully achieved our initial fundraising goal of $4.56 million due to generous donations and wonderful relationships with alumni and friends of Northwest. There are still opportunities to support several vital projects that are either pending completion or recently conceived. Our overarching vision is to rally support for these initiatives, thereby affording others the chance to partake in the momentum we have generated. These Phase 2 projects include: • The construction of an Indoor Athletic Training Facility • Enhancements to the Northwest Farm • The erection of a Bell Tower on the Senatobia Campus Thank you to our generous donors and our committed employees who have supported the campaign thus far. Recently alumni and friends of the college such as Jay Tindall, Parker Pickle, Robert Salmon, Bobby and Kim Chamberlin, and Mat and Sandy Lipscomb have supported the campaign, and we couldn’t thank them enough for their generosity. We will continue to remain within the scope of the Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow Capital Campaign to give opportunity for additional alumni, individuals, and businesses to be a part of this positive progress. This campaign was initiated in
November 2020, and we are presently three years into what was originally projected as a three-to-five-year endeavor. In due course, we will determine the most opportune moment, before November 2025, to bring the campaign to a triumphant conclusion and celebrate the success of the Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow Capital Campaign.
Jay Tindall of Senatobia, class of 1979.
Parker Pickle of Hernando, class of 1974.
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Photo by Meg Crockett
Photo by Sarah Smith
giving back
Leaving a LEGACY
Mississippi Supreme Court Justice and Mrs. Robert P. Chamberlin of Hernando. Justice Chamberlin is class of 1985, and Mrs. Chamberlin is class of 1986. Photo by Sarah Smith
As part of the Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow campaign, the Foundation Office will be contacting individuals concerning estate gifts. Supporters of Northwest can choose to leave specific assets, a stated amount or a certain percentage of their estate to Northwest. Estate gifts help build financial support for future student scholarships, academic programs or capital initiatives. Life insurance policies can also be a gift by listing the Northwest Foundation as the beneficiary. The Foundation has established The Northwest Legacy Society, which recognizes individuals who have made commitments to Northwest through planned gifts. If we have written documentation of your planned gift, your name is included in our Legacy Society. 3 BENEFITS OF PLANNED GIVING FOR DONORS 1. Donors can create a legacy for themselves or their families.
Robert and Sharon Salmon of Charleston. Robert is class of 1965.
Photo submitted
2. Planned gifts may offer tax savings for donors or their heirs. 3. Planned giving donors can determine how their gifts are spent.
3 BENEFITS OF PLANNED GIVING FOR NORTHWEST 1. Planned gifts secure Northwest’s future by providing a promise of future funding. 2. Leaving a legacy gift can inspire others to do the same, ensuring Northwest’s future growth and success.
Mat and Sandy Lipscomb, pictured at the Northwest Farm, are loyal supporters and brother, Jeff, is a Northwest football alumnus. The Lipscombs are Rangers at heart. Photo by Carly Fox
3. A legacy gift allows your philanthropic generosity to continue for perpetuity, benefiting future generations of Northwest students.
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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THE GAMEDAY EXPERIENCE Silent Auction Winners Enjoy the Experience of Being Football VIPs Story By Sarah Smith The Ranger Gameday Experience provided insider access to the gameday with access for four fans to lead the Kick-Off Coin Toss, sideline passes, access to the pre-game locker room visit with the Northwest Football team, and box seating in the college’s Multipurpose Building. This year’s winner was the Benjamin Hamilton family, who enjoyed cheering on the team against Pearl River on Sept. 21. Father and son got to talk to the coach and have a one on one with two Ranger players. The Gameday Experience will be auctioned off again this year at the Northwest Soirèe on March 2, 2024. 14
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The Benjamin Hamilton family enjoy Gameday Experience.
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$25,000 RAISED AT 2+2 GOLF TOURNAMENT Story By Sarah Smith | Photos by Sarah Smith and Carly Fox
Dr. Keith Reed, Northwest DeSoto Center dean and Dr. Patricia Coats, Ole Miss DeSoto Center director
Art Lacy’s team won first place at the 2+2 Scholarship Golf Tournament at Cherokee Valley Golf Course on Thursday, Sept. 28. The 19th annual golf tournament raised approximately $25,000. This tournament raises money for a scholarship for Northwest and Ole Miss students attending the DeSoto Center's Northwest and Ole Miss 2+2 Program. The 2+2 program allows students to obtain their associate degree at Northwest and their bachelor's degree at the University of Mississippi, all at the DeSoto Center. The beautiful sunny day was met with eager participants, and a lunch was sponsored by: Ace Construction, Fundamentals 1st Learning Academy, and Lion and Lioness Learning Academy. The tournament started at 1 p.m. and went until the late afternoon. Runners-up to Lacy’s team were Specialty Orthopedic Group’s team in second place, and Guaranty Bank’s team in third. In special events, Bowdre Emerson won in the Putting Contest. Allen Cardosi won for Longest Drive, and Closest to the Pin went to Jimmy Brooks.
Tournament presenting sponsors Kevin Doddridge (center left), CEO of Northcentral Electric Cooperative and Ritchie Hampton (center right), president of Cadence Bank, DeSoto County Market are welcomed to the course by (from left) Dr. Ryan Niemeyer, assistant provost for UM Regional Campuses; Dr. Patricia Coats, director of UM DeSoto Campus; Patti Gordon, Northwest executive director of Institutional Advancement; Dr. Michael Heindl, Northwest president; and Dr. Keith Reed, dean of Northwest's DeSoto Campus.
Donny Castle, Sterling Withers, Pat Ellis Stubbs, and Hugh Cannon enjoy the day and are long-time supporters of the tournament.
The Presenting Sponsors of this tournament were Cadence Bank and Northcentral Electric Cooperative. Additional supporters of the tournament were Gold Sponsors: Mini Systems, J Hotel Group – Holiday Inn Express Senatobia, and Renasant Bank; Silver
Sponsors: Entergy, Brown Insurance Agency and SecurTrust; Bronze Sponsors: Hollingsworth Paving, Inc., BankPlus, Guaranty Bank, National HVAC Service, Specialty Orthopedic Group, and Bolton and Associates Wealth Management Group. Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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Sign t h e Sign t h e StSteeinway inway
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Leave your Legacy. Leave your Legacy.
We invite you to be a part of Northwest’s Steinway legacy. The classic Steinway piano that is on display in the lobby of the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts has a celebrated history. It was purchased in 1970 and has been played by hundreds of students and faculty in a variety of Northwest performances. With your gift of $100, you can sign a customized Steinway piano top and leave a permanent Northwest legacy. This Steinway piece will be on permanent display in the lobby of the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts.
Retired Northwest employee LaJuan Tallo signs the Steinway.
Dr. Monty Monteith honors Jeff Triplett, director of Fine Arts Instruction.
All profits from Sign the Steinway allow us to enhance students’ learning opportunities and broaden faculty training. It helps move forward the Northwest vision of transforming students’ lives, enriching our communities and striving for excellence in our educational programs and services. Call 662-560-1105 to set up a Signing Appointment or visit northwestms.edu/about/foundation/sign-the-steinway
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Northwest alumnus Norris Faust finds a spot to sign.
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ALUMNI TAILGATING Story By Northwest Alumna Debbie Perkins Class of 1970 Tailgating at the Northwest home football games has become a new tradition. There is always an exciting atmosphere at the alumni tent, bringing together alumni, friends, and fans to celebrate and support the Rangers. It is a great place to stop for a refreshing soda and delicious food, and in my case, I also enjoy seeing how the tent is decorated. There is always a spirited theme and many times, creative flower arrangements. It is a place to connect with old friends and even meet new ones. NWCC continues to be such a wonderful beginning for so many students. So, whether you’re a seasoned alum or a newcomer to the experience, I encourage everyone to take the time to visit the alumni tent, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and become a part of this new tradition!
(L-R) NWCC alumni Gracie Slocum Perry, Jackie Van Winkle Myrick, Debbie Perkins, Stephen Box, and Sharon Elam Williams
WMCTV5 interviews Gracie Slocum Perry and Nathan Dowling, Fine Arts alumnus.
(L-R) Northwest student Maddie Sanderson and Foundation staff Meg Crockett and Patti Gordon welcome alumnus Jerry Lightsey.
NWCC alumni Tina Burcham Smith, Charles Barton, and Arty Smith
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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A REUNION FOR 1961-1963 RANGERS Story By Sarah Smith
The class of 1961-1963 held their college reunion this year at the Senatobia Campus in the Haraway Center. The reunion was planned by Northwest Sports of Hall of Famer, Jimmy Steward, class of 1963. Northwest President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl, welcomed everyone back to the Northwest campus and gave them some updates since their time of being a student here. The evening was spent amongst old friends and classmates. They looked at old photographs reflecting on what their time was like. Many of the attendees hadn’t seen each other in the past 60 years. Others who returned were a part of Northwest after their graduation, such as Joe Boyles who attended during 1961-1963 and continued after college as Northwest’s Financial Aid director for 34 years. “I had the best time calling everyone to invite to tell them about the reunion,” said Steward. “It was like we were talking back in our years at Northwest.” Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, Patti Gordon, gave remarks from the Foundation and announced the newest scholarship endowment – The Coach Bill Oakley and Family Endowed Scholarship, established by Gloria Franks Smith, class of 1963, and niece of Coach Oakley. The scholarship is in memory of Coach Oakley, his wife, Sue, their children, and their grandchildren who continue the Oakley coaching legacy. The basketball team represented at the reunion reminisced about Coach Oakley. They remembered the days of Coach Oakley making them dress up when they played away for ballgames. He required them to wear a tie, white shirt, and blazer, and their shoes had to be shined. Coach Oakley instructed them that they were representing the faculty, student body and everyone from Northwest, so they were to always be respectful and say thank you. They remember Coach Oakley as more than just a coach, but a friend who taught them life lessons. According to Jimmy Steward, “He treated us like part of his family. We were all so close.”
(L-R): Joe Boyles, Don Clanton, Billy Loftin, Emma Jean Wright, Minor Coleman, Gloria Franks Smith, Jim Miles, Sarah Garner Ainsworth, John Robbins, Lynda Scruggs Blount, Don Allison, Ellis Blount, Bill Kopf, Betty Belk Steward, Don Randolph, Jamie Miller Thompson, Howard Thompson, Jimmy Steward, and Tommy Webb
Betty Belk Steward and Jimmy Steward
Gloria Franks Smith, Sarah Garner Ainsworth, and Emma Jean Wright
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Tommy Webb, Ellis Blount, Bill Kopf, and Don Randolph
The following special awards will be recognized: The Alumni Professional Achievement Award: Michael Joe Cannon
NORTHWEST
MINI SYSTEMS, INC. The Young Alumni Professional Achievement Award: Jameson Rodgers
Outstanding Corporation Award: Reedy Acres Foundation
MARCH 2, 2024
Reedy Acres FOUNDATION The Spirit of Northwest Award: Jim Flanagan
The Northwest Soirèe is the college’s premiere fundraising and community recognition event at the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts on the main campus of Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia. The formal, ticketed event will highlight the performance: “A Nashville Songwriters Round with Jameson Rodgers and Friends.” Jameson is a Northwest baseball alumnus from Batesville. The event will also honor community award recipients who have contributed to the legacy of excellence at Northwest.
Visit heindlcenter.org to purchase your tickets! For sponsorship opportunities or additional information, please contact Patti Gordon at the Northwest Foundation
pgordon@northwestms.edu | 662-560-1103
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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Scholarship
SOCIAL
Story By Sarah Smith | Photos by Sarah Smith & Carly Fox
Northwest Mississippi Community College’s Foundation held their annual Scholarship Social in September where donors who gave to or established scholarships can meet the students that these scholarships benefited. This year’s event was held in the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts. The afternoon was spent with hors d'oeuvres, socializing, hearing from students who have been impacted by these scholarships, and listening to a performance by the Northwest Choirs and Entertainers led by Dr. Saundra Bishop, Lacey Halley, and Alex Belohlavek. Patti Gordon, executive director of Institutional Advancement, spoke on the benefits and changes these scholarships make in students’ lives. “Today serves as a wonderful testament to the profound impact of your generosity,” Gordon said. “The Foundation Endowment that you have helped build stands at $14 million.” Because of the generosity of donors, 606 scholarships have been given for the 2023-24 academic year. “These scholarships not only provide financial assistance, but also serve as a powerful affirmation of your belief in the potential and dreams of our students,” Gordon said. There were 129 scholarships represented at the event with 170 donors and 186 students in attendance.
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Scholarship recipients volunteer to assist in serving at the event.
Mary Carolyn Tindall and Perrin Caldwell Jr. visit with students.
giving back
Dr. Don Jones welcomes Dr. David McElreath.
Lesley Thweatt director of Nursing Instruction (R), visits with Nursing scholarship recipients.
Fine Arts students entertain guests on the historic Steinway piano.
Harold and Phelan Nichols enjoy refreshments.
Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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new vision
NORTHWEST HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING FOR
CHICK-FIL-A RESTAURANT Story & Photos By Sarah Smith
Northwest Mississippi Community anyone is welcome to dine-in or take out. enthused,” Griffin said. “They cannot College held their ribbon cutting for the “We couldn’t be happier to be in this wait to serve Northwest and Senatobia. Chick-fil-A on Oct. 12 at 1:15 p.m. The partnership with Aladdin to bring such a It’s our pleasure.” long-anticipated opening was met with quality brand to our campus for students The announcement for this restaurant much excitement and a rush of customers to enjoy,” said Jeff Horton, vice president came in early 2022, and in September from Northwest and the Senatobia for Administration and Finance. “This officially opened to the public. The community to Northwest’s McLendon restaurant is open to everyone, and the restaurant is a huge asset to our campus Center. and also to the local communities of Northwest administration asks that people Northwest Board of Trustees Senatobia and Tate County.” please only park in the yellow marked Chairman, Cory Uselton, spoke on behalf spaces and the visitor spaces. This opening is a collaborative effort of the Board saying what a blessing between Aladdin, Chick-fil-A Corporate, The Chick-fil-A seats 160 patrons and this arrival is to both the college and Innovative Construction Management offers all the typical menu items that you community. (ICM), and Northwest Mississippi would find through an ordinary Chick“It’s definitely an enhancement to our Community College. Dr. Heindl pointed fil-A restaurant. Mobile ordering through campus,” Uselton said. out that all of these organizations have the app is currently unavailable, but Chick-fil-A landing at similar values for how they Northwest is contributing to a want to meet their customers culture of college students who to how Northwest looks want to live on campus and to serve its students and get the college experience, as community. well as serving a community Also on hand for the ribbon striving toward the future of cutting were representatives growth. from Chick-fil-A Oxford, Tate “At Northwest, we County Board of Supervisors, believe that the student Tate County Economic experience comes first on Development Foundation, campus, and what better and Ranger Cheer and Dance way to display that than to teams. partner with a company Other speakers at the whose chief difference event included Claire among its competitors is Scruggs, SGA president; customer service?” said Dr. Jamie Anderson, chair of the Michael Heindl, president of Building Committee of the Northwest. Northwest Board of Trustees; Antonio Griffin, Food Tony Sandridge, president Service director at Chick-fil-A of Tate County Board of through Aladdin Campus Supervisors; Casey Rodgers, Dining, is elated to open president of ICM; and Britt after the college’s years of Herrin, executive director planning. Griffin said this not of Tate County Economic only provides a wonderful Development Foundation. option for dining, but also “On behalf of Chick-fil-A, employment and a chance for we are happy to be here,” said others to see the Chick-fil-A Chick-fil-A’s Senior Principal Northwest's President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl (right) and Jeff Horton (left), culture. Lead, Jeff Heath. “It’s a big vice president of Administration and Finance, at Chick-fil-A soft opening in “The team is ready and moment for us. Go Rangers!” September. 22
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NAME A SPACE. LEAVE A LEGACY.
N A M I N G O P P O RT U N I T I E S F O R H E I N D L C E N T E R F O R T H E P E R F O R M I N G A RT S The new Heindl Center for the Performing Arts includes a 1,200-seat performing arts auditorium, additional smaller performance spaces, performing arts classrooms, recording studio and faculty offices. The design allows for new performing arts program development. This first-class facility draws performances and accommodates crowds that enhance fine art appreciation for all the surrounding communities. A limited number of areas in the Heindl Center are available for naming. Donors have an opportunity to honor or memorialize individuals important to them, or may wish to show their support of art and culture. Naming opportunities also provide organizations a way to elevate their brand, while also showing their commitment to higher education, lifelong education, and fine arts. For more Information about naming opportunities please contact: Patti Gordon Executive Director of Institutional Advancement pgordon@northwestms.edu • 662.560.1103
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ALUMNUS of theYEAR 2023
Once a Ranger, Always a Ranger STERLING WITHERS Story & Photo By Sarah Smith
“I
wasn’t letting my books get in the way of my college education at the time,” said 2023 Alumnus of the Year, Sterling Withers of Lake Cormorant. Withers, who is affectionately known as “Boog” to many, studied at Northwest from 1966 to 1969, which he said were the best years of his life. “Northwest is the people,” Withers said. “My best friends today are Northwest friends.” Born and raised in DeSoto County, he attended Tunica County High School and graduated from Hernando High School before attending Northwest, which he said affectionately was like the 13th grade. “We all knew each other,” Withers said. Before Northwest, many of Withers' classmates were from rival high schools, but once he got to Northwest, “we were all on the same team.” A team that Withers calls the best community college in the state of Mississippi. The family man now looks back on life with a fondness of the places and experiences he’s been in life, and for one virtue he hails as ever important: perseverance. “It doesn’t all come easy to us,” Withers said. “But we can have some help along the way.” Withers talked about Dr. Jack Butts, who at the time was the Registrar at the college. Withers said that Butts asked him if he would be graduating, and Withers said that he worked out a plan and got him on the path to graduation after three years at Northwest. However, life wouldn’t be as simple as graduating and finding a job. Life would do what it does best and took an unexpected
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Sterling Withers with wife, Lilibeth, children, and grandchildren
turn for Withers. He was drafted into the Vietnam War where he would serve for nine months in country before being wounded, earning him a Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) and a Purple Heart for his service. Withers’ family has been a fundamental part of his journey through all these transitions. He notes he’s lucky to have his wife, Lilibeth, and his three children Sara Whitten, Tom, and Myra, and five grandchildren. He and his wife also have generously given to endow the Sterling and Lilibeth Withers Endowed Scholarship to benefit a Tunica County student. Withers was inspired by his own need as a college student. He said he has many fond memories of college, but back in those days none of them had much money, and so he hoped to help students pay their way through college. Withers said that he remembers in college hitchhiking home with friends because none of them had cars. Withers recounted not knowing where Bruce or Charleston was located, but over
the course of his time at Northwest, he learned all about those places as he made meaningful connections with people around the state. He decided to continue his education after the Vietnam War and a stint on the oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. He decided to attend Mississippi State, where he studied Ag-Economics. He would be in his mid-20s before returning to his studies. “I was a man when I went to State,” he said. After his time at MSU, he would return to his hometown and work as an assistant farm manager at Hunt Family Farm in Lake Cormorant, about five miles from where he grew up. While working on farms, he started to evaluate his future, and when he did, he found himself interested in the catfish business. He got started with a business
“Do the right thing, the right way, for the right reason,”
partner, Paul Battle, and later with his in-laws, the Owen family, to manage around 660 water acres. He was an original stockholder in Pride of the Pond where he spent his career. “Been in it since 1979,” Withers said. “If you’re going to be in an industry, you need to network.” Withers has worked with the principle of networking in his mind and found himself serving as president of Catfish Farmers of America and Catfish Farmers of Mississippi. He’s also been on the Tunica Academy School Board as their president, and of course, a member of the Northwest Foundation Board of Directors, serving previously as board president. Withers’ accomplishments cannot be ignored, from a small-town kid with little money, to a big catfish businessman. “Do the right thing, the right way, for the right reason,” Withers said. It’s a motto he lives by because in any of these positions he’s served, they all brought their own set of challenges and opportunities. Withers said, you don’t Winter 2023 | Northwest Now
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Sterling working on oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico
Sterling with wife, Lilibeth
feel bad when you always do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons. I’m really proud,” Withers said. “Proud of my time So, with each new opportunity, he evaluated what the right thing was, here. Once a Ranger, always a Ranger. including coming back to serve as a part of his Alma Mater. .his pride grew in a place he loved. The prospect of joining the Northwest Withers said seeing the changes and the vision of Dr. Michael Foundation Board came to him in an unconventional way. Heindl, president of Northwest, he feels that Northwest is on an “My banker, Mike Boren, knew I’d been to Northwest, and upward trajectory especially as more technical jobs are needed, asked me if I would consider serving on the Foundation Board. and Northwest can help serve that sector of the community. I asked Lilibeth if I needed another non-paying job, but she Withers is a generous donor to the Investing Today, Impacting said I should consider the offer, as she knew my feelings about Tomorrow Capital Campaign, which supports projects and expanded Northwest,” said Withers. programs at the college. After that, he agreed to have lunch with then - Northwest “I think I was chosen because I tell Scan to watch Foundation Director, Sybil Canon, to discuss joining the board. Sterling Withers the Northwest story,” Withers said “I don’t know how anyone told Sybil no,” Withers admitted Interview with a smile. “And it’s a good one.” with a smile. Withers said he was incredibly Withers said once he saw the list of people he identified as honored to be chosen Alumnus of the “movers and shakers” of northern Mississippi, he felt honored to Year 2023. be asked to serve as part of the board. “I’m really proud,” Withers said. “They were industry giants and good people. Really good “Proud of my time here. Once a people,” he said. Ranger, always a Ranger.” As a proud alumnus, he joined the Foundation Board and began to learn more about what Northwest did, and as he did,
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”
Always a Ranger FROM STUDENT TO STAFF
This is a profile series featured in each issue of Northwest Now about employees who were once students. This is a storytelling opportunity describing why someone came back to Northwest and why they are “Always a Ranger”.
Kim Steinman From Drum Major to eLearning Technology Specialist, Kim Steinman has always been a Ranger. Story & Photo By Sarah Smith
Attending Northwest from fall of 1984 to spring of 1986 as a first-generation college student, Kim Pope Steinman of Independence said her motivation to go to college was to continue playing in the marching band. Steinman played clarinet, and in the spring of 1985 became one of the drum majors for the Northwest Marching Band. Earlier that semester, in the middle of her freshman year, her father unexpectedly passed away. At the time, the college president’s secretary, Betsy Farrow, who was also from Steinman’s hometown of Independence pulled her out of class and explained to her that her father had suffered a heart attack and passed away. When Steinman returned to school about a week later, she said that Glenn Triplett, the Fine Arts Division director at the time, took her under his wing, and the next year she would become a drum major for the college’s marching band. In the Spring of 1986, she graduated with an Associate of Applied Science, and was an active member of Phi Theta Kappa. After college, she worked a variety of jobs including Senatobia Hospital, a steel plant, and FedEx. She would then have two children with her high school sweetheart, Greg. Steinman would become a Kim Pope Steinman and Greg Steinman circa stay-at-home mom to Jessica and Evan 1986
for a little while before taking a job with a local high school then eventually landing a job back at the college. In the summer of 2006, she joined the staff after 20 years since she’d been a student. Steinman credited her opportunity to come back to work at Northwest to retired eLearning Dean Phyllis Johnson, who Steinman said put her faith in her. “It was a great feeling to return to Northwest,” Steinman said. Within a few months of beginning work at the college, Steinman had an expected medical emergency. Her appendix ruptured which sent her home from work not even having been at Northwest three months. At the time, she hadn’t accrued any PTO or sick leave. But in December of 2006, the year Steinman began, there was a policy change and it worked retroactively for Steinman to be donated time off from fellow employees. “I tried to go to HR to get a list of the people who donated,” Steinman said. “I wanted to write thank you cards.” Steinman said that it was anonymous and to this day, she doesn’t know who donated their time off. But because of that and many more instances to come, she said she’s learned time and time again that Northwest is a family and that people look out for each other and take care of each other. Steinman’s legacy would continue at Northwest, when her daughter, Jessica Barham, started the next year in the nursing program, and now is an instructor in the Practical Nursing Department. There are many memories that Steinman has been a part of while at Northwest, but she said she fondly remembers picking up Jeb, her grandson, after work and watching the marching band on the practice field for about 20 minutes or so. Steinman says she never leaves a football game until after the band performs at half-time.
Kim Steinman is proud to Always be a Ranger.
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Northwest President, Dr. Michael J. Heindl crowned 2023 Homecoming Queen Evie Crawford of Tupelo during halftime festivities Homecoming Day Oct. 19 at Bobby Franklin Field. Crawford is a sophomore studying business administration and attends at the Senatobia campus.
Homecoming Queen Evie Crawford poses with Dr. Heindl after receiving her bouquet and crown. Photo by Carly Fox
The 2023 Homecoming Court is (L-R) Alandria Kennedy (Oxford Campus), Laniya Connor (Senatobia Campus), Gracie Lee (DeSoto Campus), Katy Kendell Ware (Senatobia Campus), Allie Reed Greer (Senatobia Campus), Violeta Suzette Segura Salazar (DeSoto Campus), Evie Crawford (Senatobia Campus), Sarah Landmesser (DeSoto Campus), Janashia McKinney (Senatobia Campus), Tylan Boyette (Oxford Campus), Marlee McCammon (Oxford Campus), McGeyla Patton (Senatobia Campus), and Tenel Walker (DeSoto Campus). Photo by Carly Fox
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Alumni Celebration On the day of Homecoming, the college held an alumni reception to honor Sports Hall of Fame inductees, Alumnus of the Year, and alumni celebrating 50+ years of being at Northwest. Members of the 1973 Golden Circle class enjoy tailgating (L-R): Scott Gabbert, Gary “Donut” Oakley, and Mike Boren
Victor Wyatt, class of 1966 (center) and Gerald Young, class of 1965 (far right) congratulate Doc Sanders, class of 1968, on being inducted in to the Sports Hall of Fame.
Alumni Johnny Still and Max Lee, both class of 1960, visit during the social hour.
Coach Bobby Franklin congratulates Andre Thompson, class of 1991, Sports Hall of Fame inductee (L-R) Jim Kelly Miles, Coach Jim Miles, class of 1963, and Jeff Horn, class of 1992 and vice president of the NWCC Alumni Association
Alumni Larry and Ellen Erwin, class of 1968
Members of the class of 1973 Rocketeer photos
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Sports Hall of Fame Class Northwest inducted five additional members to the 2023 Northwest Sports Hall of Fame class on Thursday, Oct. 19, as part of the college's Homecoming ceremonies.
Scan to hear the inductees’ stories
Sports Hall of Fame inductees: André Thompson - Football, LaTaryl Williams - Basketball, Tosheba Jones - Women's Basketball, Chris McMinn - Baseball, Doc Sanders - Football
Golden Circle Members
Alumni who graduated prior to 1973 were excited to receive their Golden Circle medallion. Classes of 1960-1971 represented here include (L-R) Sue Grimes Davis, Larry Erwin, Pamela Jones Edmondson, Ann Smith Darby, Jack Clayton, Vicki Cunningham Robison, Frances Jean Rowland Neely, Phil Oakley, Lauren Jones, Patsy Sanders, Cecil Williams, Lanelle Samuel Sinclair, Doc Sanders, Gordon Darby, Betty Poore Holland, Bud Young, Debby West Rutledge, Joy Loftin Henderson, Hugh Cannon, Ellen Welch Erwin, Larry Moore
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1973 GOLDEN CIRCLE MEMBERS: (Front Row, L-R) Belinda Adams Morris, Minnie Jones-Butts, Yvonia Adams Foster, (Back Row, L-R) Dr. Robert Smith, Otis Sanford, Gary Oakley, Herman Flowers, Mike Boren
Alumnus of the Year
Northwest President, Dr. Michael Heindl (left) and Patti Gordon (right) ,executive director of Institutional Advancement present Sterling Withers with the traditional Alumnus of the Year plaque.
2024
ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR & SPORTS HALL OF FAME Nominations are now open and will close on April 1, 2024 Nomination forms and more information can be found at
northwestms.edu/alumni To be eligible for this distinction, nominees must be alumni of Northwest Mississippi Community College, having attended at least 15 years ago for one semester or more. Graduation from Northwest is not necessary for consideration in the selection. Nominations can be made by any Northwest alumnus, faculty, or staff member. Submit by April 1, 2024 to be considered as a 2024 honoree
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THE
Legacy
CONTINUES
NEWLY ESTABLISHED SCHOLARSHIPS CONTINUE TO HELP STUDENTS AND BEGIN A NEW LEGACY FOR THOSE BEING HONORED.
The First Security Bank Endowed Scholarship
First Security Bank has recently established the First Security Bank Endowed Scholarship through the Northwest Mississippi Community College Foundation for students to help them in their future endeavors and to help them achieve their academic goals. “We are so thankful for the support that First Security Bank has given Northwest over the years through scholarships, sponsorships, and also by supporting our Investing Today, Impacting Tomorrow Capital Campaign,” said Northwest’s Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, Patti Gordon. “It is through partnerships with businesses like First Security Bank that allow Northwest to continue our vision of transforming students’ lives, enriching our communities, and striving for excellence in our educational programs and services.” First Security Bank’s President, and Northwest alumnus, Justin Hill, said that he’s grateful for his time at Northwest. At 18, he said Northwest not only provided him with a quality education, but it taught him important skills like time management and self-discipline, preparing him for his education at Mississippi State University (MSU). “Through this scholarship, we aim to empower Concourse students who lack all the necessary resources to pursue their dreams,” Hill said. “Our bank is committed to north Mississippi, and we recognize that the technical training programs offered at the Concourse in Batesville will produce a more employable and educated workforce for years to come. There is no greater investment than human capital.” First Security Bank started in Batesville in 1952 and has grown from $50,000 to 32
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almost $1 billion in assets. Their early motto was “Growing by Serving” which this scholarship shows well to the Mississippi community. The bank would grow into multiple branches in neighboring towns such as Tunica, Marks, Como, and Sardis, and have expanded their reach in the Mississippi community. In 2023, First Security Bank had almost 200 employees. The employees enjoy their potential and look forward to a career with longevity in banking. One employee who is an example of this is Ann Shankle, who recently celebrated her 65th year in banking. As a locally home-owned bank, FSB finds it important to participate in school programs such as sponsorships, clubs, and many other non-profit charitable organizations. Each year FSB and the Sardis Lake Corps of Engineers sponsor
the Sardis Lake Youth Fishing Rodeo. This event is for children aged 0-15, and prizes are awarded to top fishermen in each age category. According to FSB, education in and around the state is very important to First Security Bank. Through many school programs, bankers are involved in the classrooms teaching students about the importance of establishing a relationship with a bank as well as financial education. In 2024, FSB will be opening a Senatobia location near the Northwest campus. This effort was very important to the bank’s former presidents, John Meacham
First Security Bank endows a third scholarship for students attending The Concourse in Batesville. Representatives from First Security Bank, J.B. Lowrie, Earle Moore, and Tracy Goforth accept an endowment plaque from Patti Gordon, executive director and Fred Carlisle, Foundation Board president.
THE
and Larry Pratt, who were very big on the importance of helping students. The scholarship was inspired by Meacham and Pratt who believed in the importance of education. The scholarship has since been fully funded, and Northwest will begin selecting students for this scholarship next year. The requirements for the First Security Bank Endowed Scholarship are that students must be attending the Northwest Concourse campus in Batesville, with at least a 2.0 GPA, and be from one of the counties included in First Security Bank’s market area, including: Panola, Tate, Quitman, Tunica, DeSoto, and Marshall.
The Clarence and Merita Tapley Firefighter Memorial Scholarship
Cass Tapley is establishing the Clarence and Merita Tapley Firefighter Memorial
Scholarship in honor of his parents, Clarence and Merita Tapley, following the passing of his father on July 2, 2023. “I wanted to do something as a memorial to him and to honor my mother,” Cass said. “The idea of establishing a scholarship at Northwest seemed the perfect fit. The community as a whole represented Senatobia well during my dad’s illness and has continued to do so taking care of my mom. The scholarship also offered a way to begin to give back a little to my hometown.” Clarence and Merita were married for 62 years and moved to Senatobia soon after they married. Clarence spent 47 years as a firefighter for the Senatobia Fire Department, eight years as a chief deputy with the Tate County Sheriff’s Office, and 18 years with the Northwest Campus Police Department. To receive this scholarship, the student must meet the following criteria: be or have a parent, spouse, or grandparent
Legacy
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who is a firefighter or in law enforcement in Tate County and maintain a 3.0 GPA.
Clarence and Merita Tapley
BUILDING SCHOLARS
through Scholarships
Through the Northwest Mississippi Community College Foundation, individuals are able to establish scholarships that will help students continue their educational pursuits, as well as give honor to special people in their lives. By awarding scholarships, together, we are actively contributing to the process of building the scholars of tomorrow. Many times, students need help paying tuition, buying books, or coming up with extra expenses that can occur when going to college. This can apply to students just out of high school, but also to adults who realize that they must have career technical training or an academic education in order to support their families. Scholarships not only provide financial assistance, but also serve as a powerful
affirmation of someone’s belief in the potential and dreams of our students. An endowed scholarship will continue to help students for as long as this college exists, and those for whom the scholarship is named will forever be remembered. When endowed scholarships are established, the Northwest Foundation 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 the endowment. Scholarships play a pivotal role in shaping the future of deserving students. If you would like to help “build scholars through scholarships”, please contact the Northwest Foundation for more information.
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THE
Legacy
CONTINUES
In Memoriam DR. BOBBY HUGH PAPASAN
Dr. Bobby Hugh Papasan, 84, of Tunica, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 6, 2023. Bobby was born Dec. 12, 1938, in Pinedale to Robert Wayne Papasan and Mavour Ruth Gafford Papasan. Bobby was an honor graduate of Pinedale High School in 1957 where he was a star basketball player. He continued his education at Wood Junior College on a basketball scholarship and graduated with an associate degree in 1958. He then transferred to Mississippi State University earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1961 and a Master of Education in mathematics in 1964. He completed his formal education by earning a Doctor of Educational Administration from the University of Mississippi in 1982. Bobby began his educational career as a mathematics teacher in Cobb County, Georgia and New Albany, Mississippi. He and his wife Ann moved to Tunica in 1963, where he served as a math teacher and assistant principal at Tunica County High School. In 1967, he became principal of Tunica County High School. He remained in that role until he became superintendent of the Tunica County Public Schools in 1970. He served as superintendent from 1970-1988. Dr. Papasan’s career in education spanned four decades. His professional experiences and honors are too numerous to mention, but one particular endeavor significantly impacted educational opportunities in North Mississippi counties. The issue was a severe funding disparity impacting Tunica County and 23 other counties in the State of Mississippi. Bobby’s research and leadership led an effort that resulted in a Federal lawsuit against the State of Mississippi. The lawsuit went to the United States Supreme Court, and was settled in favor of the 24 North Mississippi counties. That settlement has and will continue to provide much needed resources for public education. Bobby served as a member of the Northwest Board of Trustees from 1979-1986. The Papasan family created an endowed scholarship which continues to provide money to incoming freshmen. Dr. Papasan was a founding member of the North Mississippi Education Consortium, a multi-million dollar collaboration to give teachers access to quality professional development, another way that Bobby’s legacy continues to serve the students and teachers of Mississippi. Doc, as he was affectionately called, was an avid collector. He was interested in anything old and rusty, but his main interest was in watches and clocks. He and his wife of 60 years, Ann, traveled all across the Southeast to clock shows. He was the proud owner of Dunn’s Jewelry on Tunica’s Main Street from 1985 until his passing. The store was connected to AnnTiques so that he could be close to his beloved wife. Dunn’s Jewelry was a gathering place where you could get your watch repaired, admire dozens of old clocks, meet friends, catch up on local news, solve the world’s problems, watch
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Ann crack pecans, examine Indian artifacts, and question Bobby about anything and everything. He is survived by two children, Jeff Papasan (Rhonda) of Tunica, LeAnn Flowers (Mattson) of Clarksdale; four grandchildren, Emmie Shing (Devyn), Gregory Flowers, Zachary Flowers, and Ann Gray Flowers Hardy (William); one great grandchild, Rowan Shing; one sibling, Ruth Ann of Myrtle; and one special aunt, June Jumper of Etta. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Ann Papasan; his brother, Larry Papasan; and his uncle, Gerald Gafford.
MACK YOUNG
Mack Young, 79, passed away Oct. 10, 2023 at his residence near Marks. Charles Mack Young was born on May 5, 1944, to Stella Kent and Marion Tyrrell Young of Marks. Mack attended Darling School and Marks High School, Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia and also Mississippi State University in Starkville where he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture economics. He served as president of the Board of Supervisors for Quitman County, president of the Quitman County Farm Bureau Board and was the MSU Extension Service county agent until retirement. He also served on the Board of Directors of Lake Charles Hunting Club, Board of Directors for NWCC Foundation, and was a charter member of the Agricultural Economics Association. He served as president of the Quitman County MSU Alumni Association, charter member of WHY Hunting Club, and served in the National Guard. Mack truly loved the outdoors, gardening, peach/pecan trees and grafted many pecan trees in the county and surrounding areas. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, farmer, and enjoyed cooking, especially for his camp buddies. He was well-known for delivering peanut brittle from early November to December to most businesses and friends in Marks and also to the Northwest Foundation Office. He loved to joke, tell stories and his MSU Bulldogs! Those left to forever cherish the memory of Mack Young include his wife of 47 years Mary Thompson Young of Marks; one son, Madison Young and his wife Lora of Batesville; one daughter, Mackie Young of Brandon; two grandchildren, Avery Young and Max Young of Batesville; one brother, Marion Young of Greenwood; one sister, Betty Grace Taggart of Oxford and several nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, Tyrrell and Stella Kent Young, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Joyce Collins. Mack endowed a scholarship in 2012 at Northwest in memory of his mother, Stella Kent Young. He also played a leadership role in the establishment of The Quitman County Farm Bureau Endowment.
athletics
NORTHWEST COMPLETES COMEBACK;
Clinches 10th Straight Playoff Berth Story By Brian Lentz
Cameron Pascal (75) and Cam Young celebrate following a fourth quarter touchdown during the Rangers' 28-27 overtime win against Northeast. Photo by Carly Fox
F
aced with a 14-0 deficit late in the third quarter and on the verge of missing out on the MACCC Playoffs, Northwest stormed back to tie the game and force overtime, eventually earning the 28-27 victory against Northeast, Nov. 2 in Senatobia. In true must-win fashion, Northwest provided the biggest play of the night on the Tigers' two-point conversion attempt. After the Rangers scored first in overtime, Northeast responded back with a score and chose to go for the win after first mulling it over in a timeout. Chris McMillian took the handoff and had what seemed like open space on the left side to score the winning points, until Charles Thomas wrapped up the legs of the Northeast tailback, stopping McMillian just a couple yards shy of the pylon, sealing the victory for the Rangers. This was also the first overtime game for Northwest since Oct. 22, 2020, when the Rangers knocked off Northeast in
Booneville by a 34-28 final. Three of the last five overtime games since 2014 have featured Northwest and Northeast. As the No. 2 seed in the division, the Rangers traveled to South Division
Photo by Kevin Pitts
champion No. 4 Copiah-Lincoln on Saturday, November 11.The Rangers ended their season with a 48-14 loss to the Wolves in the first round of the MACCC Playoffs.
Photo by Kevin Pitts
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athletics
Five-Set Battle Ends Lady Rangers’ Season Story By Brian Lentz
Photo by Kevin Pitts
I
n recent years, volleyball matches between Northwest and Pearl River have gone back and forth, and the Oct. 28 Region 23 Championship clash was no exception. Though the Lady Rangers and Pearl River traded blows in a five-set battle of wits, it was the Lady Wildcats that ultimately came out victorious. The 3-2 loss ended the season for Northwest. Pearl River opened the match with a 4-1 advantage, only for Northwest to quickly battle back for a 7-7 draw. Both teams went back and forth for the next couple of points, but after an 11-11 tie, the Lady Wildcats went on a 4-0 run to widen the gap to 15-11. Late in the first set, Pearl River pulled away for a 24-14 advantage and ultimately captured the first set, 25-17. Despite the momentum behind the home team after claiming the opening set, Northwest did not back down. After a 5-1
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deficit to start the set, the Lady Rangers rallied back for an 8-8 tie and went on a massive run, earning a 17-12 lead. Pearl River battled back for a 22-22 tie, but Northwest fought through the rally to take the second set, 25-23. With the match all tied up at 1-1, Northwest managed to hold a lead for the majority of the third set. However, Pearl River eventually broke a 15-15 tie and battled through to earn the 25-21 decision, taking a 2-1 match lead. Northwest refused to back down though, as the Lady Rangers opened the fourth set with a 13-5 lead. Pearl River once again tried to rally down the stretch, but the Lady Rangers hung on to force the winner-take-all fifth set. As hard as Northwest fought all afternoon, the Lady Rangers finally ran out of gas in the final set. Pearl River opened with a 4-0 lead and turned a 7-3 advantage into a 15-4 clincher.
Jacia Hayes concluded her Northwest volleyball career with 17 kills in the loss, finishing as the program's all-time leader in kills (533) and total blocks (167). Kailey Gooch also contributed 14 kills and four blocks, ending in second for total blocks and fourth in kills. Sophomore Cristen Cleveland finished with a team-best 24 digs in the match, and the Hernando native leaves Northwest as the all-time leader in digs (560) and service aces (134). Kaley Rikard also finished second for career digs and service aces, while also finishing third in career kills. Micah Swift and Caroline Howard also conclude their Northwest careers in the top five for kills, blocks and digs. Swift finishes fifth for total kills and fourth in career blocks, while Howard leaves fourth in career digs. Northwest ends the 2023 campaign with the program's best record at 28-17 overall.
athletics
Northwest Captures First Region 23 Championship; GAINS AUTOMATIC BID TO NJCAA TOURNAMENT
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Story By Brian Lentz
s the clock hit the 89th minute during the Nov. 5 NJCAA Region 23 championship match, the celebration began to erupt on the Northwest bench. With every goal of the Lady Rangers’ 3-0 victory against Pearl River, the decades-long championship drought was slowly, but surely coming to a ceremonious end. “We are really excited for the girls,” Northwest coach James Beattie said. “They deserve it. We went to the national tournament last season and fell short in the semifinals. Hopefully we can use our experiences from last year and win the competition this time around.” For Northwest, it was the program’s first championship of any kind and it also signified a moment of redemption from last year’s Region 23 title loss in penalty kicks to Holmes. With the win, the Lady Rangers (20-1) captured the program’s first 20-win season and clinched an automatic bid to the NJCAA Division II Women’s Soccer Championship tournament, marking the program's second consecutive trip to Tucson, Ariz. Scoreless through the first 14 minutes, sophomore Evie Crawford got Northwest on the board off a corner kick from Mari Julia Delgado. The score marked Crawford’s 14th goal of
the season, tying her for the team scoring lead with Delgado, who also earned her team-leading 14th assist. The 1-0 lead would remain in tact for the Lady Rangers throughout the remainder of the first half. Pearl River simply couldn't find a response on the offensive side of the ball and eventually, the Lady Rangers pounced on the chance to stretch the lead. In the 65th minute, Emma Wilson’s second goal of the season made it a 2-0 advantage. Northwest put the icing on the cake in the 80th minute, as Kaley Harden's initial shot attempt was deflected off of Brandy Hernandez, who sent it into the net for her ninth goal of the season. In all, Northwest took 15 shots, including 11 on-goal. Pearl River was limited to six shots and just two on-goal. Anna Kathryn Harrell recorded eight saves for the Lady Rangers, moving her record to 18-1 on the season. For the year, the Tupelo native has 66 saves and just four goals allowed. The Lady Rangers faced Rock Valley College Nov. 12 in the first round of the NJCAA Division II Tournament, taking the 2-0 win. Northwest drew Johnson County in the second round of the event Nov. 14 but suffered a 2-1 loss, ending the season.
Northwest celebrates after being handed the NJCAA Region 23 championship trophy following their 3-0 victory against Pearl River. This is the Lady Rangers' first championship in program history. Photo by Brian Oakley
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memorials/honorariums
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, daughters and friends. Some gifts are designated for permanently endowed scholarship funds, which means the gift “keeps on giving” forever. The memorial and honorarium gifts listed were given between May 1, 2023 and Oct. 15, 2023 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.
MEMORIALS NORMA MARY AHLBERG by Mr. and Mrs. Gary Brown NOAL AKINS by Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl LYNDA T. AUSTIN by Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl BILLIE F. AVANT by Mr. and Mrs. Gary Brown MARY LOU BAILEY by Mr. Steve Cummings BART BEARD by Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr. BILL BECK by Mrs. Katherine Ward JEAN BECKUM by Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Brown Mrs. Mary Louise Crow Mr. and Mrs. Ken Dossett Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl Lions Club of Senatobia Dr. Patsy Sledge DIANE BIFFLE by Ms. Toni Barden CAMERON BLOUNT by Dr. Matthew Domas Dr. Don Jones Mrs. Marla Y. Kennedy Mr. and Mrs. Bill Selby Mrs. Linda Webb JAMES THOMAS "TOMMY" BONDURANT by Mr. N. C. Ferguson Jr. A. W. AND LANELLE BOUCHILLON by Mr. and Mrs. Barry Bouchillon
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PHYLLIS BRYANT by Ms. Sylvia Hickey GREG BURCH by Mrs. Jean Steadham Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Young BOBBY BURKHALTER by Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr. ELIZABETH "LIBBA" BYRD by Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr. HOWARD AND EDNA CARPENTER by Mr. and Mrs. Herman Coats TOMMY CARPENTER by Mr. and Mrs. Herman Coats BELA J. AND RUBY BLACK CHAIN by Dr. and Mrs. Buddy Chain Jr. GLENDA COCKE by Dr. Michael Butts DANNY RAY COLE by Mr. and Mrs. Dewayne Herrington Mrs. Linda Webb ELDRIDGE COLEMAN by Mr. Steve Cummings HORACE DEWITT COLEMAN by Mr. and Mrs. Gary Brown Ms. Pamela Hall EMMETT W. COLLINSWORTH by Mr. Wayne Ferguson Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl Mrs. Linda Ogg JOE COSBY by Ms. Shirley Bennett VIRGINIA COX by Mr. and Mrs. John Ungurait
ALAN CROCKETT by Mr. and Mrs. Todd Latham Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Nickens Mr. Robin Robison KEVIN CRUTCHFIELD by Ms. Pamela Hall JOEL VERNON DAVIS by Mr. N. C. Ferguson Jr. JAMES W. EUBANKS by Mr. and Mrs. Briggs Smith INEZ AND RAIFORD FANCHER by Mr. and Mrs. Briggs Smith CHEYNNE LANE FELLOWS by Mr. Keith Nicholson KATHRYN GABBERT by Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr. PHILLIP GARDNER by Mr. and Mrs. William Correro C.W. GARY by Mrs. Sue Lowe Mr. Johnny Miller CLARA GILBERT by Mr. and Mrs. Steve Williams ALVIN GILLESS by Ms. June Edington Ms. Sheila Logan EMMETT AND EVELYN HALE by Mr. and Mrs. Steve Hale PATRICIA HANEY by Mr. Steve Cummings DAVID HARGETT by Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl BRENDA WILLIAMS HAYS by Mr. Steve Cummings
memorials/honorariums MARK HEFLIN by Ms. Sylvia Hickey FRED HEINDL by Dr. Darrell Barnes Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr. Ms. Patti Gordon Mr. and Mrs. Dewayne Herrington Ms. Sylvia Hickey Mr. and Mrs. John T. Lamar, Jr. RICHARD B. HONEYCUTT by Mrs. Stacy Honeycutt Mr. William Wilbanks Dr. Carolyn Wiley MAC AND FLAVIA HUDDLESTON by Mr. Steve Cummings ROBERT A. HYDE by Ms. Effie J. Boothe Ms. Ora Lee Cox Ms. Mary A. Love Mr. OC Morris KITTY JENKINS by Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Schwerdt BERT JOHNSON by Ms. Trudy Hall CHARLES R. JOHNSON by Mr. and Mrs. Donald Amorosi Ms. Trudy Hall CHARLOTTE JOHNSTON by Mr. Marcus Perkins Mr. and Mrs. Greg Steinman DR. JASON JONES by Ms. Alyssa Algee Mrs. Lacey Gentry Ms. LeeLee Haraway
DOT MITCHELL by Mrs. Sue Lowe Mr. Johnny Miller
MARY EVELYN STARR by Springhill Historic Memorial Gardens Mr. N.C Ferguson, Jr.
MERELYN MOBERG by Mr. Steve Cummings
JAMES L. (TREY) SYLVESTER by Dr. Darrell Barnes
CLEN MOORE by Mrs. W. Jean Moore
ZACHARY TAYLOR by Mr. Steve Cummings
MARY ALICE MOORMAN by Mr. John David Randall
CHARLES AND JUANITA THOMAS by Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl
LEONARD MORRIS by Mr. Rufus Mackey Mrs. Lillian Morris‑Hilson
AMY DEMPSEY TIDWELL by Mrs. Susan M. Dempsey Mr. and Mrs. Keith Williams
JENNIFER LEIGH DAVIS PARRIS by Mr. Jerry Davis Delta Airlines Matching Funds
CAROLYN EVENDA TILLMAN by Mrs. D'Lo Trejo
VICKI PHILLIPS by Ms. Melissa Evans SCOTT POTTS by Mrs. Marla Y. Kennedy GUY PURDY by Ms. Beverly Mulloy STEPHEN PURDY by Ms. Beverly Mulloy LAURA REED by Mr. Clifton Reed Mr. and Mrs. John Wesley Reed ANNETTE RHODES by Mr. and Mrs. Gary Brown WILLIAM B. ROBISON JR. by Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr.
LARRY JONES by Mr. Steve Cummings
WALTER AND WANDA F. RUBY by Ms. Pamela Hall Mr. Walter Ruby
KATHRYN ANNE KREUNEN by Mr. and Mrs. Kim Kreunen
ROBERT SANDERS by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Brown
RAY MAGEE by Northcentral Electric Cooperative
SISSY BRIDGEFORTH SANFORD by Mr. N. C. Ferguson Jr.
MELVIN MCCLURE by Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Heindl
LEE SCRUGGS by Mr. Perrin Caldwell Jr.
PENNIE MCKINNEY by Ms. Euphiazene Gray
TIM SHORTER by Mrs. Lisa Barber Ms. Kathy Buchanan Mr. Matthew Johnson
HARVEY AND CAROLYN TILLMAN by Ms. Sylvia Hickey GLENN TRIPLETT by Mr. Jeff Triplett W. L. AND LULA BROOKS WALLACE by Mr. and Mrs. Harry Starnes JUDY WEEKS by Mr. and Mrs. Todd Latham JAMES AND JEWEL WILBORN by Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Gill PATSY WILBORN by Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Gill Mr. and Mrs. Briggs Smith ROBERT L. WILLIAMS by Mr. and Mrs. Steve Williams CHARLIE WILLIAMSON by Ms. Sylvia Hickey DREW YOUNG by Mrs. Judith Hartsell Hinds Chapel United Methodist Church Mrs. Jean Steadham Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Young CALVIN GROVER YOUNGBLOOD by Dr. Ruth Williams‑Hooker HONORARIUMS CHARLOTTE ALEXANDER by Dr. Carolyn Wiley
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memorials/honorariums DEBBIE BURROW by Ms. Sylvia Hickey
BRENDA GENTRY HOLMES by Dr. Michael Butts
DR. KEN SIPLEY by Mr. and Mrs. James Allison
AMELIA (AMY) F. BUTCHKO by Ms. Sandra Bloodworth
JERRY HURST by Ms. Pamela Hall
JEAN STEADHAM by Mrs. Judith Hartsell
EARLINE COCKE by Dr. Michael Butts
JOE JOHNSON by Mr. and Mrs. Donald Amorosi Ms. Trudy Hall
COL. PHILLIP L. TILLMAN by Ms. Sylvia Hickey Mrs. D'Lo Trejo
RICHIE E. LAWSON by Christ United Methodist Church
MARY ELLEN WILLIAMS by Mr. and Mrs. Steve Williams
EVA COVINGTON by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Reynolds BISHOP ELVAGE FONDREN, SR. by Ms. Flora Anthony DR. AND MRS. DAVID HARAWAY by Dr. Neil Haraway
BUTLER AND DALIAH MCLEOD by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Reynolds TOM AND JANE MURPHY by Mr. and Mrs. Steve Williams
We invite you to impact the life of a student by considering Northwest in your year-end giving plans. 3 WAYS TO GIVE
1 You may contribute by check made payable to the NWCC Foundation and mail to: NWCC Foundation NWCC Box 7015 Senatobia, MS 38668
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You may contribute online at www.northwestms.edu/foundation
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You may call 662-560-1105 and donate by debit/credit card.