PEARL RIVER COMMUNITY COLLEGE MAY 2018

Otwane awarded transfer scholarship PRCC’s third Jack Kent Cooke Foundation recipient in 4 years

By CHUCK ABADIE PRCC because they offered Director of Public Relations me lots of scholarships. PRCC has wonderful staff and A Pearl River Community faculty. The teachers are College student, Said D. overqualified and passionate Saucier, Otwane to Otwane, is the third in four about their work.” years to win the Jack Kent One of those teachers is Dr. Cooke Foundation Transfer Terri Ruckel, Dean of the speak at graduation Scholarship. William A. Lewis Honors PRCC will hold two graduation ceremonies for the first time Otwane is one of 47 schol- Institute at PRCC. in many years. ars nationwide to achieve this “Coming up with a few re- Students receiving associate in applied science degrees or cer- $40,000 per year award to fur- marks about my experience tificates in a career technical program will graduate at 10 a.m. ther his education. with Said (pronounced ‘s ay ee Friday, May 11. Speaker will be Kesha Saucier of Kiln, a mar- “I am still in a state of shock d’) is a difficult task,” said Dr. keting and management student who placed first in state DECA because this is a dream come Ruckel. “Said is a once-in a- competition earlier this year. true,” said Otwane. “It means lifetime kind of student about Students receiving associate in arts degrees will graduate at 1 that I can confidently walk down whom I cannot possibly say Said Otwane is pictured with his mom, Fatma Otwane. p.m. Friday, May 11. Speaker will be Said Otwane of Petal, a the path that I have chosen in enough good things. He is gra- Forrest County Center student who has received the prestigious life. It means that I can show my cious to all, uncompromisingly A president’s list scholar, faculty member, echoed Dr. Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholarship. mother (Fatma Otwane) that the authentic, and is always where Otwane has been recognized Ruckel’s praises. “When I first Both ceremonies will be held in White Coliseum. sacrifices she has made were not he said he would be doing for a host of academic honors. met Said, he struck me as a in vain. Doors that seemed what he was assigned or vol- They include: quiet, thoughtful, respectful sealed shut have now been flung unteered to do. I am delighted President of Beta Tau young man. As I got to know PRCC to host to music open for me.” that his ambitious bid for the Gamma Chapter of Phi Theta him over the course of teaching Otwane, 20, is a native of Jack Kent Cooke scholarship Kappa, ambassador of the him Calculus I, II, III, and IV, Mombasa, Kenya. He gradu- has been rewarded.” William Lewis Honors Institute, and Statistics, as well as serving camps during summer ated from Petal High School Otwane’s major is computer president of the Chess Club and as one of his Phi Theta Kappa The Sounds of the South band camp for students in middle before choosing to attend engineering. He plans to at- a member of Sigma Kappa advisors, I discovered that not and junior high school will be held Sunday, June 10, through PRCC. His mom and his aunt tend Columbia University. Delta, Mu Alpha Theta, the only was he thoughtful and re- Thursday, June 14. Crews from Mississippi Public Broadcasting are PRCC graduates. Said Dr. Ruckel, “He will History and Humanities Club, spectful, but Said is also hard- will be on campus filming the camp for a segment on “I knew from the start that I make his family and PRCC Video Game Club and Student working, intelligent, funny, gen- was heading to a fantastic proud no matter which univer- Government Association. erous, and very capable.” Mississippi Roads. n The Mississippi Lions All-State Band will be on campus place,” said Otwane. “I chose sity he decides to attend.” Dr. Doug Donohue a math See SAID, page 3 Monday, June 18, through Wednesday, June 27. The band, com- posed of outstanding high school musicians selected through audition, will be preparing for competition at the Lions PRCC’s Phi Theta Kappa International Convention in Las Vegas. Nursing has two events; chapters bring home hardware pinning cermonies set n The Beta Mu chapter of Alpha Delta Nu nursing honor so- ciety will induct new members at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 10, at Malone Chapel. The May 2018 associate degree nursing class will receive pins in a ceremony at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Brownstone Center for the Arts. n Two allied health programs at the Forrest County Center will hold pinning ceremonies on Thursday, May 10. Both cere- monies will be at the Woodall Center in Hattiesburg. The occupational therapy assistant class will receive pins at 5 p.m. The medical radiological technology students will receive theirs at 6 p.m. Summer night classes; Work schedule changes n Summer night classes begin on Monday, May 21, and will meet on the Memorial Day holiday the following week. First-term day classes begin Monday, June 4, and end with fi- nals on Wednesday, June 27. Second-term classes begin Thursday, June 28 with finals on Thursday, July 26. n The 2018 summer work schedule will begin Monday, June 4, and continue through Friday, July 27. Offices will be open 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. All campuses will be closed on Fridays. The college will be closed Wednesday, July 4, through Friday, Participants at Phi Theta Kappa’s Catalyst in Kansas City, of Prentiss, Myles Ellis of Moss Point, Marella Failla of July 6, in observance of Independence Day. Mo., from the Poplarville campus’ Iota Mu chapter included Picayune (2017-18 president); Alejandra Alcantara of The normal, five-day work schedule will resume on Monday, advisors Lisa Wall, Jeff McCoy, Dr. Trevor Hunt and Robin Carriere, Caitlin Sumrall of Poplarville, Jonathan Johnson of July 30. Nix. Students were Stanton Ladner of Perkinston, Gage Hattiesburg, J. D. O’Brian of Baxterville (2018-19 president); Adult education awards Kennedy of Kiln, Kyle Stallings of Gulfport, Fred McCollum Charlie Burge of Purvis, and William Masters of Purvis. diplomas on May 24

Students who have earned their high school equivalency diplomas through PRCC can participate in the 2018 Adult Education Graduation Ceremony. The ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 24, at the Lake Terrace Convention Center in Hattiesburg.

Participants from Beta Tau Gamma at the Forrest County of Hattiesburg, Vera Thacker of Hattiesburg, Raven Sterling, Center included advisors David Collum, Dr. Amanda Parker, Sarah-Ashlyn Barber of Hattiesburg, Thaddeus Barncastle Drs. Ryan and Terri Ruckel, along with Mr. Adam Parker. of Hattiesburg, Megan Glory Breland of Hattiesburg, Students were Nathan Young of Sumrall, Said Otwane of Michael Pascarella, Cody Hudson of Oak Grove, Michael Petal, Melissa Novak of Hattiesburg, Taylor Barefoot of Evans of Purvis, Dustin Loftin of Hattiesburg, and Jordan Brooklyn, Lorenzo Catlett of Hattiesburg. Jennifer Pacheco Shoemake of Hattiesburg, PTK students, staff are recognized Pearl River Community College was received a Distinguished Community MS/LA Region. well represented at the Phi Theta Kappa College Administrator Award. Only 25 Dr. Terri Smith Ruckel, a Beta Tau International Catalyst Convention in were presented in recognition of out- Gamma advisor, received a Continued Kansas City, Mo., where chapter and in- standing support of PTK. The Iota Mu Excellence Advisor Award. She and her dividual awards were presented. chapter and the Beta Tau Gamma chapter husband, Dr. Ryan Ruckel, coordinate The Iota Mu chapter on the Poplarville at the Forrest County Center nominated the MS/LA Region and received awards campus was honored as one of the Top Seal jointly. for leading a Five-Star Regional and for 50 chapters for its Honors in Action Dr. Jana Causey, vice president for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in re- Project - The Impacts of Implicit Bias on Forrest County Operations, received an gional programming. Race Relations. The project was based Alumni Award of Appreciation based on Beta Tau Gamma members Said on research by the students. Iota Mu also her nomination by the Beta Tau Gamma Otwane of Petal, Cody Hudson of Oak was recognized in the Top 100 of more chapter. The award recognizes PTK Grove, Melissa Novak and Lorenzo than 3,000 PTK International chapters. alumni who support current and future Catlett, both of Hattiesburg, participated Dr. Jennifer Seal, PRCC vice president members. She recently was appointed to in the Parade of Scholars. for planning and institutional research, the PTK Alumni Advisory Board for the n More PTK coverage, page 3 May 2018 • Page 2 The Drawl NEWS Today’s subject: coffee, Shopping center coming benefits are plentiful By EMILY BRANAN tle extra help remembering. With all of those The Drawl Staff Writer bones for A&P and equations for college alge- bra, your brain needs a memory booster. Here is a little fun fact: The first coffee house While coffee will give you the energy to keep in America wasn’t Starbucks, it was actually studying, it also has more final exam benefits. called “The King’s Arms.” Studies show that the caffeine in coffee actually It opened in New York in 1696. That means provides a short-term memory boost! Americans have been enjoying coffee for the So, say goodbye to Red Bull and hello to past 322 years! espresso. There are many reasons that you should drink According to OneMedical.com’s article, “10 more coffee. It can actually improve your health Healthy reasons to Drink Coffee”; coffee ap- and your study habits. There are many people pears to affect the particular areas of the brain who would say that coffee is bad for you and responsible for memory and concentration, pro- that it will give you the jitters, insomnia, and viding a boost to short-term memory. make you restless. Are you always at the gym trying to get in However, the benefits of coffee drinking out- your PE hours? Coffee can help you with that weigh the negatives. Y’all need to see the posi- too! tives that coffee can do for you. It has many A study by the Department of Kinesiology at benefits that will improve your life specifically. the University of Georgia, posted in The First, I will start off with some of the great Official Journal of The American Pain Society health benefits you will receive if you drink cof- says that drinking two cups of coffee after a fee regularly. There are many health benefits for workout will cut post-workout pain by 48 per- coffee that are backed by scientific research. cent. The potential health benefits related to those There are countless positives to drinking cof- who drink coffee include protecting against fee, yet there are a few negatives. Just like with Construction is continuing on the Ramey’s Marketplace shopping center across U.S. 11 Type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, most things, there is a negative side from campus. liver disease, and liver cancer. This to coffee. information is from Coffee can cause insomnia and CaffeineInformer.com. restlessness. Your recommended Drinking coffee promotes a healthy maximum amount of caffeine is 400 New shopping center heart and has antioxidants that are milligrams, roughly the amount that good and cleansing for the skin. you’ll get from four cups of coffee. Coffee also helps increase your fiber So, if you drink four cups of cof- intake for the day. A cup of brewed fee, you may have trouble sleeping, across from campus coffee is equivalent to 1.8 grams of as to be expected. fiber. Basically, in moderation of 1-2 When students come back to class for the fall pumps. It will serve everything from hot deli The daily recommended intake of Branan cups a day, coffee is very good for semester, a new shopping center will be open lunches, sandwiches, sushi, salads, an olive bar.” fiber is 20-38 grams, so you are off to you. across from campus. The current store offers a small selection of a good start by starting your day off with a cup Moderation is key, just like in almost every Construction started in late 2017 on Ramey’s sushi but doesn’t have a deli. of coffee. Coffee not only helps with your over- other aspect of life. Coffee is also not recom- Marketplace and eight smaller stores. Ramey’s began in Waynesboro in the 1950s all health but it also helps to keep you energized mended for pregnant women, small children, or “Hopefully we’re going to fill it up,” said de- and now operates 22 stores in Mississippi, throughout the day. people with high cholesterol. veloper Jimmy Pickering. “That’s what we’re Alabama and Louisiana. Next, here are some benefits of coffee that But, as long as you do not fit into these three shooting for. We’ve got some more people “It’s going to be a really unique store,” will speak personally to all of us as college stu- categories, you should drink more coffee. This looking. We’ll just have to see.” Hodges said of the new location. “We don’t dents. Undoubtedly you have used some type of information is from medicalnewstoday.com. Little Caesars Pizza will fill one space. have any stores with the fuel pumps or the con- caffeine to help you stay up to study for an In conclusion, I believe that drinking coffee “They’ve signed the lease,” Pickering said. venience store inside the store. Everything will exam. has more pros than cons. I drink a cup almost The main attraction will be Ramey’s - a much be state of the art.” Many people are fans of energy drinks such every day of the week. bigger store than the current location on South Pickering’s long range plans include con- as Red Bull & Monster, or soft drinks such as I plan on continuing my coffee drinking Main Street with more amenities. structing more retail space to the north of the Coca-Cola or Dr. Pepper to give them an ener- habits because it tastes great, wakes me up in “The store will be 27,500 square feet,” said first phase. gy boost. the morning, and is proven to be beneficial to Ramey’s chief operating officer Thomas “We found the location and are slowly devel- However, coffee is much healthier for you. your health. Hodges. “It will have a small convenience store oping it,” he said. “We’re just trying to find Coffee beans are 100 percent natural. They In summary, coffee can help prevent many within the grocery store and will have fuel some different businesses that are interested.” grow straight out of the ground and then are put diseases, keep your heart healthy, give you en- into bags for you to brew yourself. ergy, and help you to better retain and remem- Wouldn’t you rather know what you are put- ber information. ting into your body to get that caffeine boost? All in all, it is a great drink with many health Finals week a nightmare Other drinks are full of artificial flavors and benefits. I hope this article convinced you to chemicals that you can’t even read the name of. make coffee a part of your daily diet, as it can Coffee is a much healthier, more natural alter- improve your overall life. native. n Emily Branan is a freshman student for so many students With finals here, I know we could all use a lit- from Purvis. By TAYLOR N. LEE even the small push to the “A” they have strived The Drawl Staff Writer for all semester. NBA finals: Although students may stay up all night dur- Finals week can be one of the best and one of ing finals week, have nervous breakdowns, and the worst weeks of the entire semester. even cry, it all comes out to be worth it in the Playoffs are now underway Going into finals week, students are more end. Once students go in to take their finals and stressed than ever. Once they come out, a huge get the grade they studied so hard for, they for- By MYCHAEL WILLIAMS opponent in the first round with the Thunder. weight is lifted off their shoulders. Students can get about all the stress they had when they went relax and take a break after a week of stress and in. The Drawl Staff Writer The Oklahoma City Thunder couldn’t hold Donovan Mitchell in the series. no sleep. Therefore, going into finals week students With only eight teams left, the Cleveland Mitchell scored 38 points in the last game to During finals week, college students are need to remember to stop and destress. Cavaliers clinched a spot by beating the finish the Thunders’ playoff run. It was a big pushed to their limits. Each student Although students need to study and Indiana Pacers in game 7 of the first round. surprise that the Jazz won and in only five tries to cram as much information as remember all the information they Lebron James has been carrying the games, finishing 4-1 in the first round. they can in order to ace their finals. can there is always time to stop and Cavaliers by scoring 46 points in the second The last two teams competing for the confer- Many will not sleep and drink as take a breath. Students need to re- game against the Pacers. The Pacers won game ence championship are the New Orleans much coffee as they can handle just member to stop and take a small nap three, but Lebron bounced back with 44 points Pelicans and Golden State Warriors. to make it through the week. in between stressful late-study ses- in game four of the series. In the last game, The Pelicans started the playoffs right by Though students see finals week as sions. James scored 45 points, winning the series to sweeping the Portland Trailblazers. Anthony one of the scariest weeks of their Although finals may be the most move to round two of the playoffs. Davis scored 35 points in the first game against lives, once it is over all of the stress important part of the semester, they The Toronto Raptors journey to beating the the Trailblazers to start off the short series. goes away and they see that the are not worth nights without sleep. Wizards and even playing against Davis didn’t put up any bigger sleepless nights were all worth it. Just remember to take a nap and get the Cavaliers wasn’t easy either. numbers until the last game, ending Students will always dread finals Lee some sleep because it may affect you The Raptors beat the Wizards in six with 47 points in game four of the week and hope that they will make it in the end. A night without sleep be- games, finishing the series 4-2. The series. through without failing or having a meltdown. fore a big final could jeopardize your grade. winner of this game will move on Golden State beat the Spurs in Many students, even myself, will put off study- During finals week along with not sleeping, to the next round and compete for five games to continue to the next ing until the very last second, but still find a way some students may snack on junk food and for- the Eastern Conference title. round. With Stephen Curry being to study all the information and succeed. get to head to the cafeteria or the kitchen to grab Two other teams are also playing out the entire series, it was a relief There are two different types of finals week some real food. Junk food can mess with a stu- to get to the next round: the Keven Durant could help the team students, the ones who prepare weeks in ad- dent’s brain just like no sleep can. So, a good Philadelphia 76ers, and the Boston in those games. Durant scored 32 in vance and stay up all night to make sure they healthy meal and sleep is the way to stay fo- Celtics. Starting off with the the first game, and 34 in the fourth have study every bit of material, and the ones cused during finals. Celtics, they made it through the Williams game of the series. who studied the day before and stay up the en- In the end, most students will come out of fi- first round taking the Milwaukie Golden State is trying to defend the tire night to make sure they are prepared. nals week with no stress and ready for the sum- Bucks to game seven to continue. The 76ers title after beating Cleveland last year in the fi- No matter which finals student you are, it’s mer. Just by making forward progress on study- nearly swept the Miami Heat in a 4-1 series. nals. All these playoff game will last until May stressful. ing, getting sleep, and eating a decent meal can Moving over to the Western Conference, the 31 and then the finals will begin. Even students who prepare a week in advance change a student’s entire finals week. Houston Rockets are playing the Utah Jazz. I think the Finals will come down to either can be as stressed as students studying the night Although students may struggle they will The Rockets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves the Philadelphia 76ers or Cleveland Cavaliers before. The reason finals week is so stressful is come out on top and forget about all the stress in a 5-game series 4-1. playing the Golden state Warriors. because it’s the final grades that could make or finals week may have put on them. James Harden pushed his team in game six, n Mychael Williams is a freshman stu- break a student. A student’s final grades can n Taylor Lee is a freshman student from scoring 41 points. The Utah Jazz had a tough dent from Atlanta, Ga. give them the final push they need to pass or Waveland.

SACS accreditation Some advice: Sometimes it’s necessary Pearl River Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on to resume before you can begin Colleges to award associate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Ga. 30033-4097, A resume is a vehicle providing a prospec- be proud of. telephone 404-679-4500, or at http://www.sacscoc.org for By Dr. BENNY HORNSBY Special to The Drawl tive employer with many types of informa- Counting my time in the military, I’ve done questions about the accreditation of Pearl River Community tion about you. this for literally hundreds of folks. College. The Commission is only to be contacted to learn about One of the neat things about Resumes help you to sell the most impor- Do I really know what I’m talking about? the accreditation status of the College, to file a third-party com- being an English teacher is tant product you have - yourself! Well, look at it like this: I wrote my wife’s re- ment at the time of the College’s decennial review, or to file a that graduating students often While I know there must be classes in our sume, and she got the last three jobs she ap- complaint against the College with evidence that appears to ask me to help them write their college curriculum that at least touch on ef- plied for. support non-compliance with a standard or requirement. All resumes before they seek for- fective resume writing, if you are close to What recommendation could be better than normal inquiries about the institution, such as admission re- mal employment. graduation or only looking for a good part- that? quirements, financial aid, educational programs, etc., should be It’s fun because I enjoy talk- time job to pay the bills, I will make you this Sometimes it is necessary to resume before addressed directly to Pearl River Community College and not ing with them, especially free offer: email ([email protected]) me you can begin. to the Commission’s office. those on the vocational-techni- your pertinent information and I will help n Dr. Benny Hornsby is an adjunct in- cal side of the house. you smooth it up into a resume that you will structor of sociology at English at PRCC. Non-discrimination statement I have found that many have a pretty good handle on what Pearl River Community College offers equal education and em- they are going to do with ployment opportunities. The College does not discriminate on the themselves and their lives in basis of race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender iden- the “outside” world. On the tity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability. For inquiries other hand, I’ve noticed, too, regarding the non-discrimination policies or to request accommo- that some are grossly unpre- dations, special assistance, or alternate format publication please pared to achieve the goals they contact Tonia Moody Seal, Director of Admissions and Records express - particularly in regard and ADA/Civil Rights Coordinator, at P.O. Box 5537, Poplarville, to securing that “dream” job. MS 39470 or 601-403-1060. For inquiries regarding Title IX, con- Specifically, I’ve noticed tact Maghan James, Assistant Vice President of Student Services that many individuals who are and Title IX Coordinator, P.O. Box 5560, Poplarville, MS 39470 entering the job market do not or 601-403-1253. possess an up-to-date and at- tractive resume. The DRAWL May 2018 • Page 3 NEWS

Administrators, Phi Theta Kappa Advisors, and award-winning students from both the on stage at Phi Theta Kappa’s All Mississippi Academic Team Awards Banquet on March Poplarville campus and Forrest County Center in Hattiesburg join for a group photograph 28 at the Cyde Muse Center in Pearl. Highlights of Phi Theta Kappa events this spring semester

Melissa Novak, 19, of Hattiesburg was introduced to the audience at the All-Mississippi Academic event. Advisors David Collum, Dr. Amanda Parker, and Dr. Ryan Ruckel along Discover your path with President Dr. Adam Breerwood were asked to join her on stage. this summer at Carey

Phi Theta Kappa advisors, from left, Trevor Hunt, Robin Nix and Lisa Wall (far right) are pictured with Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, president and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa.

Drs. Ryan and Terri Ruckel, and Jana Causey were on hand for Otwane’s Jack Kent Cooke announcement at the Forrest County Center. SAID

n FROM page 1 World traveler he is not. “I haven’t done His path from Kenya to the U.S. when he much international travel beyond my home was 12 years old was not a simple one, as he country and here. I have been to England, but explains. I want to see as much of the world in person as “My mother would travel between Dubai I can.” and Kenya for work,” he said. “She planned to As he works his way towards a May 2018 relocate our family there because it would graduation, Otwane reflects on all his experi- make a lot of things easier. One day, she got ences and those who have helped him along the opportunity to move to the United States. the way. She decided that the U.S would provide us bet- “PRCC has allowed me the opportunity to ter prospects and opportunities. lessen the burden that my mother faces,” he said. “It has allowed me to grow and become a “She also chose the U.S because my siblings better individual. It has led me to grow as a and I would face a huge language barrier if we scholar. It has given me a home that I did not were to go to Dubai. She is the only one who know I needed. It has brought wonderful, car- Enroll Online www.wmcarey.edu speaks Arabic.” ing, and supportive individuals to my life.” May 2018 • Page 4 The DRAWL NEWS National Technical Honor Society induction

The National Technical Honor Society at Pearl River Community College’s Forrest County ment repair technology; Keshia Smith of Hattiesburg, medical billing and coding technolo- Center held its induction ceremony April 23 at the Woodall Advanced Technology Center. gy; Kelly Smith of Laurel, medical lab tech; Shelby King of Sumrall, practical nursing; Inductees included from left: Front row - Vincent Martino of Poplarville, electronics tech- Belinda Caldwell of Moselle, medical billing and coding; Jamison Thornton, of Richton, nology; Amanda Dearman of Sumrall and Amber Sullivan of Hattiesburg, both in business Mary Taylor of Brooklyn and Robert James King of Hattiesburg, all in electronics technolo- management technology; Mallory Nuccio of Poplarville, Rachel Jones of Picayune, and gy. Fourth row - Amy P. Smith, advisor, business technology; Riley Davis of Purvis, Jessica Steele of Pearlington, medical radiologic technology; Tammy DoNascimento of Jonathan Parks of Hattiesburg, William Lofton of Hattiesburg, Garon Carr of Purvis, Purvis and Haley Mabile of Richton, practical nursing; Kendric Killings of Hattiesburg and Michael Cooper of Hattiesburg and William Lofton of Hattiesburg, all in electronics technol- Arzaver Lang of Petal, welding and cutting. Second row - James David Collum, advisor, ogy; Jared Jones of Columbia, welding and cutting technology. Not pictured are: Seth electronics and industrial engineering technology and biomedical equipment repair tech- Gomez of Petal and Rashad Hogan of Hattiesburg, electronics technology; Tyrinda nology; Jennifer Parker of Pachuta, medical billing and coding technology; Emily Norwood Johnson of Hattiesburg, practical nursing; Savion Jones of Hattiesburg, medical lab tech- of Ellisville, medical lab tech; Lauren McGraw of Petal, business management technology; nology; Jessica Lambert of Poplarville, medical radiology technology; Collene Martin of Neeosha Ruffin of Meridian, occupational therapy assistant; Alexandria Redfield of Byram, Hattiesburg, medical billing and coding; Mary McSwain of Richton and Samatha Nicholson practical nursing; and Michael Evans of Purvis, electronics technology. Third row - Tim of Hattiesburg, practical nursing; Allison Sullivan of Hattiesburg, medical lab technology; Donati, advisor, electronics and industrial engineering technology and biomedical equip- and Caitlyn Vance of Picayune, electronics technology. Lyceum scholarship Ingalls Shipyard tour

Melissa Novak, 19, of Hattiesburg has been announced as a 2018 Lyceum Scholarship recipient by Ole Miss. The award pays full tuition for two years, worth more than $16,000. Pictured is Dean of The Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute and Beta Tau Gamma PTK Advisor, Dr. Terri Ruckel, Novak, Dr. Jana Causey, Vice President of Forrest County Operations, and Dr. Ryan Ruckel, Beta Tau Gamma PTK Advisor and Instructor.

Leadership scholarship National Technical Honor Society and Business Management students at the Forrest County Center campus toured Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula on April 20 and got to see the USS Fitzgerald. Students were able to hear about job possibilities and network while touring the shipyard, payroll, and medical facilities. Pictured from left are Pauline Goff, Manager and Talent Acquisition for Ingalls Shipbuilding; Amber Sullivan, Business Management, Hattiesburg; Amanda Dearman, Business Management, Sumrall; Amy P. Smith (NTHS Advisor/Business Technology Instructor); Emily Norwood, Medical Lab Tech, Ellisville; Kelly Smith, Medical Lab Tech, Laurel; JaKory Jackson, Business Management, Hattiesburg; Jimmy Fields, Staffing Specialist for Ingalls Shipbuilding. Sigma Kappa Delta induction

Congratulations to sophomore Nathan Young of Sumrall who has been announced as a 2018 Leadership Scholarship recipient by Ole Miss. Pictured is Dean of The Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute and Beta Tau Gamma PTK Advisor, Dr. Terri Ruckel, Young, Dr. Jana Causey, Vice President of Forrest County Operations, and Dr. Ryan Ruckel, Beta Tau Gamma PTK Advisor and Instructor. Young plans to major in engineering. Transfer Fair at FCC

Sigma Kappa Delta, Pearl River Community College’s English Honor Society, Alpha Epsilon chapter, held its induction ceremony March 26 at the Forrest County Center. Inductees included from left: Front row - Emilie Williams and Scarlet Burge, both of Hattiesburg; Katlyn Marie Storey of Petal, Kaitlyn A. Gory, Allison Pickett, Sarah-Ashlyn Barber, Hannah Lee and Jaclyn Marie Standley, all of Hattiesburg. Standing - Heather Peerboom, faculty advisor; Dewayne B. John, Jr. and Thaddeus Barncastle, both of Hattiesburg; Patrick Peerboom of Purvis, Catherine D. Jointer and Jarmard R. Keys, both of Hattiesburg; Lauryl Leigh Nguyen of Petal, Maria Zuniga of Hattiesburg, and Dan Childers, faculty advisor. Other faculty advisors are Greg Underwood and Drs. Terri and Ryan Ruckel. Officers: President - Michael Evans; vice president - Yolanda Laster; secre- tary - Caitlyn Penton; social media officer - Dylan Nguyen. Bridge program taking applications The Transfer Fair (March 29) at the Forrest County Center Applications are now being accepted by the grade point average in high school, graduation gave students the chance to office of Student Support Services at Pearl River from an Adult Basic Education Program, being a visit with representatives from Community College (Poplarville campus only) non-traditional student who has been out of other colleges and universi- for our 13th Annual Summer Bridge to College school for more than five years, or having a dis- Program, also known as START. ties about continuing educa- ability. The START program, which runs from July 2 Participants must also meet at least one of the tion beyond PRCC. to July 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through following criteria: Considered low-income or Above, student Said D. Thursday, plus one Friday, allows students to neither parent has graduated from a four-year Otwane of Petal visits with earn up to 9 college credits while learning skills college with a degree, or have a disability. Ole Miss advisor Kalie to help them be successful in the community Students accepted for the Summer Bridge Kirkland. college setting. (START) program pay no tuition for the courses Right, student Sarah-Ashlyn Classes taught in the program are: Basic taken during this program. Barber of Hattiesburg talks Computation Skills (Algebra), Basic To request a Summer Bridge Program with Deena Kuntz (seated, Communication Skills (Writing & Reading), (START) Application, contact Lauren Baker, right), program coordinator and Community College Survival Skills. The Summer Bridge Program Coordinator at 601- for the Mississippi State primary criteria for Student Support Services 403-1043 or Cindy Tanguis at 601-403-1285. Engineering program on the participation is the need for academic support The deadline to apply for the program is May Gulf Coast. based on any of the following: ACT scores, 31, 2018. The DRAWL May 2018 • Page 5 FORREST COUNTY CENTER 2018 Awards Day Parker recognized for The Forrest County Center of Pearl River Women Under 40 award

Community College presented awards The American Association for Women in Community to top students and faculty April 26 Colleges selected Dr. Amanda Parker to receive its Women Under 40 award. Parker is assistant vice presi- dent for Pearl River Community College’s Forrest County Operations. The award recog- nizes “movers and shakers” who are making a difference at the college where they serve. “I am truly honored to receive this recognition for doing the job that I love,” she said. “I am proud to serve the faculty and students in the community col- lege system. Working at Pearl Dr. Amanda Parker, assistant vice president for Forrest River Community College is a County Operations, has been named to the Women Under reward every day as we see the 40 list by the American Association for Women in impact we have on the stu- Community Colleges. She is shown here with PRCC dents.” President Dr. Adam Breerwood and Dr. Jana Causey, She was nominated by Dr. PRCC vice president for Forrest County Operations. Jana Causey, vice president for Forrest County Operations. Since coming to PRCC 10 for student scholarships and “She has been teaching for years ago, she has been a sci- volunteers as an advisor to Phi about 12 years, and her reputa- ence instructor and chair of Theta Kappa honor society. tion precedes her,” Causey the Health and Sciences Parker is a graduate of the wrote in her nomination letter. Department at the Forrest Mississippi Community Dr. Jana Causey, Vice President for Forrest County Operations, and Dr. Amanda Parker, “As her direct supervisor, I have County Center. As an instruc- College Leadership Academy Assistant Vice President for Forrest County, presented the Wildcat Way Award to sopho- witnessed an individual who is tor, she provided her students and the PRCC Leadership more student Said Otwane of Petal, the third PRCC student in four years to win the Jack passionate and dedicated to her with many YouTube videos Class. Kent Cooke Foundation Transfer Scholarship. He is one of 47 scholars nationwide to students as well as a great leader about anatomy and physiolo- As part of the Leadership achieve this $40,000 per year award to further his education. to our institution. Her student gy, microbiology and bio- Pinebelt Class of 2016, she evaluations tout glowing re- chemistry. organized a Special Needs marks about her effective teach- In her role as assistant vice Expo to connect area individ- ing and support to students.” president, she supervises de- uals with special needs and Parker holds degrees in bio- partment chairs and student their caregivers to local and logical sciences and biochem- services operations. In addi- state organizations for help in istry from the University of tion to her administrative du- achieving their maximum po- Southern Mississippi where she ties, she teaches workout tential and attaining a rich taught for a year in the classes for students, faculty quality of life. Department of Chemistry and and staff, organizes and leads Parker and her husband, Biochemistry. Zumbathons to raise money Adam, have a daughter, Kara. 2018 Melissa Bryant presented the Practical Nursing award Rookie to Deena Barnes of Hattiesburg. of the Year Dr. Terri Smith Ruckel (center) was recognized as one of 15 advisors to receive a Continued Excellence Advisor Award. Dr. Jana Causey presented She is pictured with Dr. Jana Causey and Dr. Ryan Ruckel. Dr. Adam Breerwood with a Rookie of the Year plaque, Presential celebrating his first year as president of Pearl River Scholar Community College. Dr. Jana Causey recog- nized Hollye Knight, Learning Lab instructor, for being a Delta State Tim Crowe presented the University Presidential Philosophy/Religion award Scholar during Awards to Scarlet Burge of Day at the Forrest Hattiesburg. County Center.

Kristie Windham and Hope Husband pre- Aaryn Purvis and David Bunch presented Abigail Warden presented Rudy Gatlin presented the Dan Childers presented the sented the Medical Radiologic Tech award the Psychology and Sociology awards to the Biology award to Fine Arts award to Kyle English award to Stephen to Angelina Smith of Hattiesburg. Robin Amanda Smith of Petal. Yolanda Linares of Mexico. Simpson of Petal. Beane of Hattiesburg.

Heather Peerboom presented the Writing Dr. Shana Allen presented the Dental Tommy Broom presented Laurel Ramsey presented Debbie Ferrill presented the Contest Awards to Ariel McGee of New Assisting award to Veaunka Gulley (right) of the Heating, A/C & the Medical Billing and Business Management Tech Orleans, Chaz Roberts of Hattiesburg and Hattiesburg and the Dental Hygiene Tech Refrigeration award to Coding award to Keisha award to Amanda Dearman Emilie Williams of Petal. award to Olivia Shook of Hattiesburg. Jeffrey Waites of Hattiesburg. Smith of Hattiesburg. of Sumrall.

Tracie Thornton and Karinna Lee presented Tim Donati and David Collum presented Christina Otalvaro presented Doug Donohue presented Jason Pitts presented the the Physical Therapist Assistant Tech the Electronics Tech award to Johnathan the Spanish award to Takyra the Math award to Tori Welding award to Jared award to James Ryan Ellis of Columbia. Parks of Hattiesburg. Lesha of Hattiesburg. Blackston of Lucedale. Jones of Columbia.

Greg Underwood presented Silvia Preston presented the Cheri Alder presented the Cheri Alder presented the Jeff Tinnon presented the Mary Ann Stewart presented Criminal Justice award to Computer Science award to Geography award to Jacob History award to Kyle Chemistry award to Tori Communications award to Timothy Young of Hattiesburg. Bryan Young of Jackson. Chambliss of Hattiesburg. Simpson of Petal. Blackston of Lucedale. Mallori Dykes of Beaumont. May 2018 • Page 6 The DRAWL NEWS 3 students place first, qualify for nationals Three Pearl River Community College stu- tional organization arranges for masonry dents placed first in state SkillsUSA competi- helpers, Gilkey won’t go to the conference. tion and will advance to the national confer- PRCC’s Quiz Bowl team also placed first in ence. state competition but didn’t score high enough Wayne Halcomb of Poplarville and his to advance. Members are Bethany Harris of helper Joseph Gilkey of Lumberton won the Hattiesburg, Chelsea Jeffries of Perkinston, masonry competition. Gabriel Ericson of Terrel Ladner of Bay St. Louis, Justin Ladner Silver Creek was first in technical drafting, and and Colin Leake, both of Kiln. Brandon Fletcher of Picayune came in first in Tyler Terwilliger of Pass Christian won third architectural drafting. place in welding competition. The team of Fletcher, Ericson and Halcomb will compete Jacob Cuevas of Kiln, Seth Davis of Slidell, during the SkillsUSA Leadership Conference La., and Nathan Hartfield of Purvis also placed June 25-29 in Louisville, Ky. Because the na- third in welding fabrication.

Internship program

Above, Alex Hernandez and Brittany McLaurin, Pearl River Community College students who won SkillsUSA state competition are, from both of Picayune, are left, Wayne Halcomb of Poplarville, first in masonry; Jacob Cuevas of Kiln, Seth Davis of working as interns for Slidell, La., and Nathan Hartfield of Purvis, third in welding fabrication; Tyler Terwilliger of NASA at the Stennis Pass Christian, third in welding; Justin Ladner of Kiln, Quiz Bowl team which placed first; Space Center. Brandon Fletcher of Picayune, first in architectural drafting; and Colin Leake of Kiln, Quiz Left, Cierra Plaisance Bowl team. (left), and Hannah Rester, both of Picayune, work part-time at the Hancock Student brings home County Port and Harbor Commission after complet- international DECA award ing internships there. POPLARVILLE - A Pearl River Community College student placed third in the Collegiate DECA International Career Internships gives students Development Conference competition. Caitlin Sumrall of Poplarville competed in the real-world experience hotel and lodging category at the conference held April 11- An internship program through Pearl River only reason they already have real-world work 15 in Washington, D.C. Community College has two students already experience in their field. The competition was in the seeing the benefits of the degrees they will “We would probably still be working mini- form of a case study in which soon receive. mum wage jobs in a retail store,” Rester said. she was given an hour to re- Cierra Plaisance and Hannah Rester, both of PRCC has two more students working as in- view a business or marketing Carriere, work part-time at the Hancock terns for NASA at the Stennis Space Center issue and 20 minutes to pres- County Port and Harbor Commission while through the same program. ent her ideas to the judges. finishing the requirements to complete the Alex Hernandez of Picayune works in Sumrall also teamed with business management technology program. human resources services processing forms for two students from other “We started off as interns,” Plaisance said. incoming employees. schools to win first place in a “Then they hired us as temporary employees.” “It’s been a new experience,” he said. “I’m mini-case study competition, The internship program is funded by the fed- used to basic jobs - I’m a server full time.” receiving a $50 cash prize. eral Workforce Innovation and Opportunity The job is teaching him new professional Act through the Southern Mississippi Planning skills, he said. DECA advisor Katie Ball Caitlin Sumrall of Poplarville, left, won third place in hotel accompanied Sumrall and six and Development District. “I’m learning life lessons, too,” he said. and lodging competition at the DECA International Career Plaisance and Rester will receive their The internship lasts for 12 weeks, and other PRCC students to the Development Conference recently in Washington, D.C. conference. Associate in Applied Science degrees on May Hernandez doesn’t know if he will be hired Pictured with her is Katie Ball, PRCC business marketing 11 and go back to work. when it ends. and management instructor and DECA advisor. “They’re actually going to keep us until “I think they’ve put enough time and re- June,” Rester said. She is working as an ad- sources into me that they’ll hire me, but noth- ministrative assistant while Plaisance is work- ing’s definite,” he said. Welding students make good ing with economic development marketing. Brittany McLaurin of Picayune also is work- No permanent jobs are open right now but ing at NASA while in school. She also is work- the women will be at the top of the list when ing in human resources but is formatting and one or more becomes available. editing documents and assisting technical writ- Both think the intermship program is the ers. Nursing program awards

POPLARVILLE - Eleven Pearl River Community College welding students were tested April 27 for employment at Ingalls Shipbuilding. All 11 passed the entrance test and were offered letters of employment. They are, from left: Sitting - Eduardo Rocha of Harrison County, Hancock Center; Erron Joseph of Lamar County, Poplarville campus; Dillon Peters of Washington (La.) Parish, Poplarville campus; and Ricardo Booth of Jefferson Davis County, Poplarville campus. Standing - Charlene Grable, Talent Acquisition, Ingalls The Pearl River Community College associate degree nursing program brought home sev- Shipbuilding; Garrett Bass of Marion County, Poplarville campus; Nathan Hartfield of eral honors from the recent state convention. The Mississippi Organization for Associate Lamar County, Poplarville campus; Gabriel Key of Marion County, Columbia Workforce; Degree Nursing (MOADN) and the Mississippi Organization for Students of Associate James Bush of Stone County, Hancock Center; Jerrica Skipper of Pearl River County, Degree Nursing (MOSA) held their annual state convention in Tupelo, MS in March. Lauren Poplarville Workforce; and Damon Griffith of Marion County, Poplarville campus. Not pic- Abercrombie of Carriere, from left, and Taylor Autin won second place in the Scholar’s Bowl; tured: Brenda Comeaux, Hancock Center. Caroline Whitfield of Picayune received the nomination for the Bobbie Anderson Scholarship by PRCC ADN faculty; instructor, Marlene Shivers was named Nurse Educator of the Year; instructor, Ryan Andrews (not pictured) was elected to the nominations commit- CNA graduates tee, and program director, Dr. Arlene Jones was elected president of MOADN.

Pearl River Community College’s Workforce program continues its long history of prepar- ing new entry level workers to enter the expanding world of Certified Nursing Assistants Above, the PRCC scrapbook placed second. Students (CNAs). With the critical shortage of RNs and LPNs, Certified Nursing Assistants are who designed the scrapbook are, from left, Alecia Clay, more in demand. PRCC has partnered with medical facilities throughout the region to Michelle Dediman, both of Picayune; Taylor Autin of help meet that need. PRCC has graduated 195 CNA students so far and has four more Carriere, Penny King of Petal and Rachel Holden of classes remaining this school year. Many of these students continue their nursing educa- Poplarville. tion toward becoming LPNs and RNs while working as a CNA. Above right, DeShannon Dew of Hattiesburg and Arica Featured in the photo above is the class graduation at Bedford Care, Monroe Hall in Bennett of Carriere (not pictured) won second place with Hattiesburg. They include Tondra Barnes, Myeisha Bickham, Georgia Brazieal, Jodi their t-shirt design at the MOADN/MOSA convention. Cook, Brianna Dupree, Britney Eisworth, La Kai Ewing, Deidra McNair, Neiesha Mobley, Below right, Bonnie Miller of Carriere was elected to be the Bobrieion Polk, and Chiquella Reynolds. vice president of MOSA at the state level. The DRAWL May 2018 • Page 7 NEWS Leadership Honors Forum 2018 Dental Hygiene pinning

The Leadership Honors Forum sponsored a dance the night of April 26 as a service proj- ect to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The group raised $1,000. Pictured are, seated from left, Ashton McNeese of Bogalusa, La., Kayla Stein of Poplarville, Morgan Sanders of Picayune, Lena Kinder of Poplarville; standing, instructor Dr. Eric Leatherwood, Victoria Pardew of Purvis, Jacob Namias, Emily Lane and Reuben Rigney, all of Picayune; Kat Bond of Carriere, Justin Mary of Oak Grove, Rachel Harris of Poplarville, Michael Clark of Columbia and instructor Dr. Robby Johnson. Leadership program making a difference In 2004, the Leadership Honors Forum joy in leading with authority, which is serving (LHF) class at PRCC’s Poplarville campus others by meeting their legitimate needs.” began to use the semester’s end to put theory Since 2004, 15 classes have worked hard to- into practice. ward the common vision of servant leadership After 14 weeks of learning about leadership, through projects such as: Working to raise HATTIESBURG - Pearl River Community College’s Dental Hygiene program recently students of the LHF use the last two weeks of handicap accessibility awareness on campus, pinned 16 graduates in a ceremony at the Advanced Technology Center. The students in- class to imagine, design, create, and implement beautifying the campus grounds, volunteering cluded, from left: Front row - Crystal Prive and Morgan Griebel, both of Gulfport; and a service project or fundraiser to benefit a at the local nursing home, and filling back- Catie Grace of Perkinston. Second row - Lisa Nguyen of Gulfport, Sydney Klein of Bay cause or a part of the community of the class’s packs with food for elementary school students St. Louis and Sarah Beth Simmons of Gulfport. Third row - Olivia Shook of Purvis and choosing. in need. Amanda Green of Carriere. Fourth row - Madeline Dunaway of Bogue Chitto, Erica Lewis This year, the 2018 class of the LHF con- LHF students have also sponsored charity and Lauren Sibley, both of Hattiesburg. Fifth row - Lauryn Arthur of Picayune and Kate ceived and implemented a benefit dance in softball games, sold catfish and BBQ plates, Ward of Petal. Sixth row - Jourdyn Cowart of Poplarville, Kalyn Burge of Lucedale and Shivers Gym to raise money for St. Jude and have hosted dog trial events to raise funds Noel Byrd of Richton. Department Chairman is Dr. Shana Allen. Instructors are Donna Children’s Research Hospital. for various causes. Lunn and Charity McCoy. The students raised $1,000 to donate to St. Over the past 12 years, the students of Jude in the names of Allen Barber and Poplarville’s LHF have raised, in aggregate, Dewayne Rogers. nearly $16,000 for organizations such as Spring Barbeque The 2018 class worked diligently throughout Brothers’ Keepers Ministries, St. Jude the semester and has demonstrated in no small Children’s Hospital, and the American way these last two weeks their leadership Diabetes Association, as well as for individuals skills. needing assistance offsetting medical costs. The 2018 class of the LHF embodies James - Eric Leatherwood, C. Hunter’s observations that “(t)here is great Humanities Department River Rewards winner

Above, Kristen Macke of Pearl River, La., left, and Alayna Walley of Houma, La., play on the water slide at the Spring Barbeque on April 25. Below left, Bradford Clark of Long Beach watches as the bola flies to the ladder while playing against Cody King of Columbia. Below right, West Zimmerman of Bay St. Louis, left, and Jevaun Ennis of Maypen, Jamaica, play corn hole at the Spring Barbeque.

Math instructor Shelby Harriel was selected as the April River Rewards winner. Congratulating her are President Dr. Adam Breerwood, Vice President Dr. Jennifer Seal and bookstores director Candace Harper.

Pearl River Community College Adult Education

PLEASE JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE PEARL RIVER COMMUNITY COLLEGE'S ADULT EDUCATION GRADUATES ON Discover EARNING THEIR HIGH SCHOOL the EQUIVALENCY DIPLOMAS Yesteryears THURSDAY, 24TH OF MAY at the Pearl River Community College Museum 6:00 IN THE EVENING The museum was recently given a hand-hewn canoe by the Wynon Stewart family. The canoe, one of the last dugout canoes built in the area, was the project of Argie Stewart, stand-out basketball and football player at Pearl LAKE TERRACE CONVENTION CENTER River College in the late 1920’s. The canoe will be placed on exhibit in the mu- suem by late fall 2018 after a suitable heavy-duty rack is built by our welding 1 CONVENTION CENTER PLAZA program. The canoe was dugout in 1924, when Stewart was 16. It was crafted HATTIESBURG,MS from a 34’ ax-cut cedar log (probably cut in the mid-1800’s) that was found in a creek near Crossroads. The log was hauled out on a four-oxen cart and sawed into 18’ and 16’ lengths. Lib Ford of Angie was employed to teach Argie how to ‘dig out’ the canoe. This 94 year old canoe will go on permanent exhibit in the musuem.

The museum is located next to Pearl River Hall and across from Jefferson Davis Hall Museum hours for the spring 2018 semester are as follows: Monday 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Wednesday 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Thursday 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

The museum is also available to open for special events. Groups or classes that are planning to visit the museum should be scheduled in advance. Call museum director Ronn Hague at 601-403-1316 for more information or to schedule your group. May 2018 • Page 8 The DRAWL NEWS Awards Day: Outstanding students recognized POPLARVILLE - Top students at Pearl River Community College received awards April 17 during a program in the Brownstone Center. Recipients of the new The Wildcat Way Award exemplify the PRCC motto of Pride, Respect, Class and Character. They are Camden Dusang, Alejandra Alcantara and Taylor Martinolich, all of Carriere; Tyler Ladner, McKinsy Harris and Dalton Spiers, all of Poplarville; Will Lee and Taylor Ramsey, both of Hattiesburg; Carmen Douglas of Sumrall, Calynn Ladner of Pass Christian, Samuel Palode of Pearlington, Hannah Ladner of Kiln, Stanton Ladner of Perkinston, Austin Warner of Franklinton, La., and Ryan Barnes of Slidell, La. Alcantara and Gage Kennedy of Kiln were recognized for their selection to the 2018 Phi Theta Kappa All-Mississippi Academic Second Team. Basketball player Jerrod Rigby of Bay St. Louis and soccer player Kayla Nobles of Hurley were honored as Scholar Athletes of the Year. The Leadership Award at the Hancock Center went to Haley Roberts of Gulfport and Madison Roberts of Kiln received the Hancock Center Citizenship Award. Other awards are as follows: Medical billing and coding - Aubrey Witsell of Poplarville. Barbering - Tara Williamson of Hattiesburg. Family and consumer science - Jennifer Cooley and Rebecca Kelly, both of Hattiesburg. Theater - Lucas Williams of Picayune. Students who demonstrate the Pearl River Community McKinsy Harris of Poplarville, Hannah Ladner of Kiln, Music - Andrew Chase Mitchell of Hurley. College mantra of Pride, Respect, Class and Character re- Stanton Ladner of Perkinston, Will Lee of Hattiesburg, Speech - Courtney Sones of Carriere. cieved The Wildcat Way Award at the annual Awards Day Dalton Spiers of Poplarville,Taylor Martinolich of Carriere, Special studios - Kaley Lambert of Poplarville. on April 17. They are, seated from left, Carmen Douglas of Taylor Ramsey of Hattiesburg, Austin Warner of Political science - McKinsy Harris of Poplarville. Sumrall, Camden Dusang of Carriere, Calynn Ladner of Franklinton, La., PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood, Creative writing - Morgan Campbell of Hattiesburg. Pass Christian, Tyler Ladner of Poplarville, Samuel Palode and Ryan Barnes of Slidell, La. Criminal justice and history - James Dyess of Prentiss. of Pearlington, Alejandra Alcantara of Carriere; standing, PRCC Public Relations photo English - Bailey Fornea of Sandy Hook. Psychology - Jake Runyan of Picayune. Sociology - Robert Holman of Poplarville and and Melanie Daley of Foxworth. Spanish - Emily Lane of Picayune. Fundamentals of nursing - Caroline Olvera of Picayune. Medical/surgical nursing I - Caroline Whitfield of Picayune. LPN to ADN bridge - Tyler Wagner of Slidell, La. Women’s health and newborn nursing - Stephanie Ardis of Columbia. Nursing care of children - Kailey Kemp of Hattiesburg. Mental health nursing - Lauren Abercrombie of Carriere. Medical/surgical nursing II - Lindsey Martin of Lumberton. Electronics technology - Christian Mitchell of Picayune. Accounting - Garyn Miller of Columbia. Biology - Kayla Stein of Picayune. Dr. Kyle Hill, right, presented Fine Arts and Communication Business - Ryan Counts of Carriere. awards during Pearl River Community College Awards Chemistry and physics - Brandon Ashe of Picayune. Day. Recipients are, from left, Lucas Williams of Picayune, Brandon Ashe of Picayune received the Physics Award Computer sciences - Tyler Ladner of Poplarville. theater; Chase Mitchell of Hurley, music; Courtney Sones from Dr. Ross Setze, left, and the Chemistry Award from Mathematics and engineering - Gage Kennedy of Kiln. of Carriere, speech; and Kaley Lambert of Poplarville, spe- Dr. Glen Dale during Awards Day. Anatomy and physiology - Mollie Lee of Poplarville. cial studios. PRCC Public Relations photos Hancock Center English - Alexus Palode of Pearlington. Hancock Center history - Sabrina Zazueta of Kiln. Hancock Center mathematics and psychology - Savannah Hedden of Diamondhead. Hancock Center sociology - Amanda Green of Kiln. Hancock Center welding - Ray Pomeroy Gulfport.

James Dyess of Prentiss received the Criminal Justice Dr. Ross Setze presented the Engineering and Mathematics Award from Dr. Robert Johnson, left, and the History Awards to Gage Kennedy of Kiln at Awards Day. Award from Dr. Jim Walsh at Awards Day.

I DIDN’T KNOW WHERE TO GO OR WHAT TO DO AA/EOE/ADAI UC 78163 4.18 UC 78163 AA/EOE/ADAI

My son was born with a rare heart condition and had to undergo a triple bypass heart surgery. It was a very difficult time for me, and I didn’t know where to go or what to do. While he was hospitalized, I met a medical social worker who helped me through the entire process. I realized I want to help people in the same way. Now, I’m working toward the goal of becoming a social worker. I’ve had some classes and instructors here at the USM Gulf Park campus who have really changed my life. JAIME NORWOOD Senior The DRAWL May 2018 • Page 9 NEWS Theater Dept. presentation: Big River

The cast of Big River berates Huckleberry Finn with the song Do You Wanna Go to Heaven?

Tom Sawyer (DeAndre Finley of Pontotoc) listens as his friend Huckleberry Finn (Lucas Williams of Picayune) talks about his future.

Theater instructor Chris Flynn sings Guv’ment as Pap, Huck Finn’s drunken father.

Above, Miss Watson (Cammie Moree of Sumrall) fusses at Huckleberry Finn (Lucas WIlliams of Picayune) about school and church as the Widow Douglas (Courtney Sones of Carriere) and her slave Jim (Hunter King of Carriere) listen. Below, Huck (Lucas Williams of Picayune) talks with the scoundrels Duke (Matthew Lucas Williams of Picayune Thigpen of Columbia), left, and King (science instructor Robert Maynard) about their who stars as Huckleberry scheme to steal a fortune. Runaway slave Jim (Hunter King of Carriere) sits on the dock Finn in Big River sings in chains. Waitin’ for the Light to Shine. Huckleberry Finn (Lucas Williams of Picayune) and the runaway slave Jim (Hunter King of Carriere) pole their raft down the Mississippi River.

A young fool (Jonathan Huck (Lucas Williams of Picayune), Duke (Matthew Dixon of Petal) sings Thigpen of Columbia) and King (science instructor Robert Arkansas on a Mississippi Maynard) encounter a young fool (Jonathan Dixon of River dock. Petal) on the dock. JazzCats and The Voices

Tyler Johnson of Carriere, Torian Miller of Sumrall, Bailey Humphrey of Brooklyn and Destiny Trest of Petal sing with the Voices on April 26 in the Brownstone Center. Choir concert

Above, Antwon Jefferson, left, and Cammie Moree of Sumrall sang solos with the RiverRoad pop choir’s performance of Flashlight from the movie Pitch Perfect 2 during the April 17 concert in the Brownstone Center. Left, Torian Miller of Sumrall signs as the Chase Mitchell of Hurley plays the flugelhorn on My Romance at the concert. In addition PRCC Singers perform to playing with the JazzCats, Mitchell sang with The Voices. He will spend the summer Lord of the Small on April playing with Carolina Crown, one of the top bands in Drum Corps International competi- 17. tion, before attending the University of Southern Mississippi. Below, the PRCC Singers perform April 17 Left, Josiah Hicks of under the direction of Taylorsville plays an LaDona Tyson alto sax solo with the JazzCats. Right, Haidyn Lee of Brooklyn sings with The Voices at the April 26 concert. May 2018 • Page 10 The DRAWL NEWS Hancock Center report New String of Pearls Students visit New Orleans; breakfast a big deal By RAYMUNDA BARNES Hancock Center The students and instructors graced New Orleans with a lit- tle Wildcat presence. On April 24, Jackson Square Savannah Hedden of Diamondhead received the Hancock became the history classroom Center Mathematics and Psychology awards and Ray for the students at the Hancock Pomeroy of Gulfport received the Welding Award at Center. PRCC’s Awards Day. Raymunda Barnes, assistant vice A visit to the St. Louis president for the Hancock Center, presented the awards. Cathedral, The French Market, and Cafe Du Monde gave the students a hands-on cultural experience that they would not have received in the traditional history class. Great food at one of the Three students were on campus recently to sign up for the 2018 String of Pearls dance many locally owned restau- team. The students, pictured with their parents, are seated from left: Savanna Duke of rants was a treat for the group. Wilmer, Ala., Caroline Nelson and Ryan Waguespack, both of Pearl River Central. The group said their goodbyes to dancing the Dark Vader character and the beautiful sun reflecting on the Mississippi Steps you need top take River as they returned to Waveland with thrilling stories to share about their trip. Haley Roberts of Gulfport, left, received the Hancock Center n in preparation for fall Instructor Raymond Leadership Award and Madison Roberts of Kiln received the Jarrell and Mr. Barnes provided Hancock Center Citizenship Award at Awards Day. By MICHELLE WILSON-STOKES that you have nothing checked out that can welding students at Hancock credit to your account and keep you from reg- Dean of Student Services High School, Bay High School, istering or getting a transcript. and Pass Christian with first- Ready, Set, Go! 3. Pay all balances. Check your Riverguide hand knowledge about the The end is near. The semester is almost over. account. If you owe a balance - library materi- welding program at the You have studied hard. You have read every als, parking fines, etc. - pay it. It makes com- Hancock Campus. single passage in that history class. You have ing back to school in August easier. If you are The students had the oppor- made it to the finish line. graduating, you cannot get a transcript when tunity to ask questions regard- Halt! Stop! Don’t close this chapter just yet. you owe a balance. ing the welding program. Said There are a few more things you need to do 4. Complete all paperwork for financial aid. Jarrell, “Welding is the future to make your next semester progress smoothly. It is time to renew your FAFSA application for and many of you are in it.” 1. Schedule an appointment with your advi- the 2018-2019 academic year. You can com- The students were excited to sor to register for summer and/or fall classes. plete that at fafsa.ed.gov. hear that they were one-step Your advisors are waiting to hear from you. 5. Start collecting all paperwork (2016 taxes, closer to being in the welding Scheduling your classes early insures that W2s, etc.) just in case you are selected for ver- program by being a part of their Mr. Barnes presented the History Award to Sabrina you get all the classes you need at the ideal ification. Also, if you plan to attend school in school’s Vo-tech welding pro- Zazueta of Kiln, left, and the English Award to Alexus times that work for your busy schedule. the summer of 2018, complete the 2017-2018 gram. Palode of Pearlington. Even if you are graduating and moving on to summer application on the PRCC website. n The Hancock County a four year institution, go ahead and make con- Finally! These small steps can make a huge Chamber of Commerce’s tact with the college or university you plan to difference in August when you come back to Education Committee hosted attend and meet your advisor. school. Take the time to do each one, and it the Chamber Recognition 2. Turn in all materials. It is easy to forget will take away some of the guess work of what Breakfast for Hancock about library materials that you checked out a fall 2018 has in store. County’s 480 seniors. long time ago. Double check and make sure Happy summer! Barnes chairs the Hancock Chamber Education Committee and had the pleas- The Hancock County chapter of the PRCC Alumni Bone Marrow Drive ure of hosting Mississippi’s Association held its annual PRCC Golf Tournament at the First Lady Deborah Bryant. Diamondhead Country Club to raise scholarship money. She spoke to the students and The top teams in net score and in gross score were pre- encouraged them to make sented prizes. Winners in each category are pictured with “good decisions.” Hancock County chapter president J. Larry Ladner (far left) Dr. Scott Alsobrooks, Vice- and Board of Trustees member Frank Ladner (far right). President for Workforce and Winners were: Economic Development, also First-Place Gross (from left): Pat Graham, Nick Johnson, spoke to the students about Lou Mozingo and Joe Stewart. ACT Work Ready First-Place Net (from left): Kerry Callagher and Rodney Communities. Ladner. Not pictured are Don Necaise and Mike Sheffield. He pointed out to the seniors that, “Many jobs are available in this economy that do not re- quire a four-year degree.” This breakfast has become a massive deal to the seniors in the community and many look forward to it each year.

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Left photo, Alexus White of transfer scholarships Poplarville swabs the inside of her mouth while partici- pating in the Sarah Boone Community College Academic Excellence 1 Memorial Bone Marrow Scholarship Drive co-sponsored by Phi Theta Kappa Iota Mu chap- Amount: $6,000 ter and the associate de- 3.0-3.49 GPA on at least 48 transferrable community college hours. Amount gree nursing program. Scheduled for five hours, reflected is a two-year total. Does not stack with the Phi
Theta Kappa scholarship. the drive lasted about 90 minutes - that’ s how long it took to use the 91 swabs Community College Academic Excellence 2 provided by the testing Scholarship company. The drive was held in memory of the Amount: $8,000 daughter of Ernie and Lynn 3.5 GPA or higher on at least 48 transferrable community college hours. Amount Lovell. Above, Shelby Lowery of reflected is a two-year total. Does not stack with the Phi
Theta Kappa scholarship. Laurel poses with nursing instructor Marlene Shivers and the giant swabs used to Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship promote the bone marrow Amount: $14,000-$16,000 drive. ($7,000 - $8,000 per year for two years) 3.25 GPA on at least 48 transferrable community college hours, and active membership in Phi
Theta Kappa. Amount reflected is a two-year total. Members of Board recognition the All-Mississippi Team will receive an additional one-time-only $1,000 scholarship, and another $1,000 one-time-only scholarship will be awarded to those students who become members of the All-USA Team.

)RUDIXOOOLVWRIWUDQVIHUVFKRODUVKLSVYLVLWILQDLGROHPLVVHGX come visit. apply now.

2IILFHRI$GPLVVLRQV  Pearl River Community College men’s basketball coach Chris Oney presented the 2018 DGPLVVLRQVROHPLVVHGX MACJC state championship trophy to the PRCC Board of Trustees during the board’s April 10 meeting. Board vice-chairman Tess Smith accepted the award. Pictured from left The University of Mississippi does not discriminate against any student protected by law based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, or genetic information. are PRCC President Adam Breerwood, Smith, PRCC Athletic Director Jeff Long and Coach Oney. The title was PRCC’s 16th, and the school’s sixth in the past 15 seasons. The DRAWL May 2018 • Page 11 NEWS PRCC awards medallions to Honors graduates

Graduates of the Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute at Pearl River Community College of Carnes, Dustin Loftin of Hattiesburg, Parker Mathis of Oak Grove, Torian Miller of are, first row from left, Alejandra Alcantara of Carriere, Brandon Ashe of Picayune, Taylor Sumrall, Susan Morgan of Petal, Jacob Namias of Picayune; third row, Dylan Nguyen of Barefoot of Brooklyn, Rebecca Barrett of Poplarville, Taylor Bolton of Leakesville, Oak Grove, Melissa Novak of Hattiesburg, Said Otwane of Petal, Jennifer Pacheco of Lorenzo Catlett of Hattiesburg, Allie Cooper of Picayune, Tyler Fiveash of Oak Grove, Wiggins, Caitlyn Penton of Leakesville, Danielle Smith of Oak Grove, Dalton Spiers of McKinsy Harris of Poplarville, Cody Hudson of Oak Grove, Jonathan Johnson of Poplarville, Vera Thacker of Oak Grove, Mekayla Williams of Leaksville and Nathan Hattiesburg; second row, Gage Kennedy of Kiln, Jacob Kutch of Picayune, Calynn Young of Sumrall. Not pictured is Chase Crosby of Saucier. Ladner of Pass Christian, Hannah Ladner of Kiln, Stanton Ladner of Necaise, Clay Lee PRCC Public Reltions photo Students receive more than $500,000 in scholarships POPLARVILLE - Graduates of the Dr. employee of the PRCC admissions depart- William Lewis Honors Institute at Pearl ment, he will continue his education at the River Community College received medal- University of Southern Mississippi College lions and congratulations on April 30 in a of Business. ceremony at the Brownstone Center for the PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood pre- Arts. sented the graduates with the medallions. They will wear the medallions when they “You have proven that you are capable of are the first students to receive diplomas at overcoming challenges that may come in graduation on May 11. front of you,” he told them. To become Honors Instititute graduates, “You have something special, a different they must complete a minimum of 21 hours level of committment. Your future is bright, of honors courses while maintaining a 3.4 but always remember that your foundation is grade point average. here at The River.” “They have done so much more,” said Dr. In addition to Barrett and Spiers, graduates Terri Ruckel, institute dean at the Forrest are Tyler Fiveash, Cody Hudson, Parker County Center. Mathis, Dylan Nguyen, Danielle Smith and In addition to hundreds of hours of com- Vera Thacker, all of Oak Grove; Lorenzo munity service, the students are members Catlett, Jonathan Johnson, Dustin Loftin and and leaders of campus organizations and Melissa Novak, all of Hattiesburg; Brandon honor societies and have received more than Ashe, Allie Cooper, Jacob Kutch and Jacob $500,000 in scholarships, she said. Namias, all of Picayune; Taylor Bolton, “Because of Honors, I believe in myself Caitlyn Penton and Mekayla Williams, all of more and hold myself to higher standards,” Leakesville; Gage Kennedy and Hannah Dr. Adam Breerwood, Pearl River Community said Rebecca Barrett of Poplarville, who at- Ladner, both of Kiln; Torian Miller and College president, congratulates Hannah Ladner tends the Forrest County Center. She plans to Nathan Young, both of Sumrall; Susan of Kiln after presenting her with an Honors major in accounting at Millsaps College. Morgan and Said Otwane, both of Petal; Institute medallion. With her on stage are Jacob The Honors Institute brought out qualities Alejandra Alcantara of Carriere, Taylor Kutch of Picayune and Calynn Ladner of Pass Dr. Adam Breerwood congratulates some of the students didn’t know they have, Barefoot of Brooklyn, Chase Crosby of Christian. Dylan Nguyen of Oak Grove, a Forrest said Dalton Spiers, also of Poplarville. Saucier, McKinsy Harris of Poplarville, County Center student, on graduating “A lot of times we don’t recognize our ca- Calynn Ladner of Pass Christian, Stanton from the Honors Institute. pabilites unless someone is there to push us Ladner of Necaise, Clay Lee of Carnes and PRCC Public Relations photos across the finish line,” he said. A full-time Jennifer Pacheco of Wiggins.

Establishment of the Dr. Kyle Hill Band Scholarship was announced at the Spring Concert on April 10. With Hill are, from left, his wife Debby, daughter Melody Davisson, son Austin Dr. Kyle Kill conducts the PRCC Wind Ensemble the 2018 Spring Concert, the last one Hill and fine arts faculty members LaDona Tyson, Hope Bass, Chris Flynn and Patricia Cone. before he retires.

Dr. Kyle Hill talks with PRCC board member Tess Smith Dr. Kyle Hill, a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, looks at the Dallas Dr. Kyle Hill reacts to the announcement that a band during his retirement reception. With them are his wife, Cowboys cup given to him by assistant band director and scholarship has been created in his name. Debby Hill, and their daughter, Melody Davisson. Cowboys fan Reuben McDowell.

The Wind Ensemble gives Dr. Kyle Hill a standing ovation after Rep. Brad Touchstone, Dr. Hill hugs Demetric Cooley at the reception following the band concert. Looking on are, left, and Sen. John Polk present him with a Concurrent Resolution recognizing Hill’s ca- from left, Rhonda Moore Lewis, Mary Moore Steelman and Cameron Steelman. Cameron reer as a music educator. is a current PRCC student. The others were in Hill’s Lumberton and PRCC bands. May 2018 • Page 12 The DRAWL NEWS PRCC honors 5 outstanding alumni Pearl River Community College saluted five ficult than my last two years,” he said. alumni on April 12 with induction into the He coached high school basketball for 11 PRCC Lifetime Achievement Hall of Fame. years in Picayune and was an assistant professor Recognized for their accomplishments were at the University of Southern Mississippi for 20 J.P. Compretta of Bay St. Louis, Dr. Benny J. years. Hornsby of Hattiesburg, J. Larry Ladner of “It’s an honor to be associated with Pearl Kiln, Dr. Pamela Johnson Rowsey of Durham, River Community College,” he said. “I’m N.C., and Judge Jon Mark Weathers of thrilled to be selected to the PRCC Lifetime Hattiesburg. Achievement Hall of Fame.” “Your example provides us the opportunity to Johnson came to Pearl River from Picayune show our students that with the right approach as a 16-year-old reared by an aunt after the dreams do come true,” PRCC President Dr. deaths of her parents. Adam Breerwood said. “This is where I first learned to play the game The five honorees left Pearl River to further of Spades and the first place where I skipped their educations at several different institutions class to play that game,” she said. and followed different paths to accomplish their She holds a PhD from the University of The first class of the Pearl River Community College Fine Arts Hall of Fame was present- goals. Michigan and is chair of the Adult Health ed on April 17 during a choral concert at the Brownstone Center for the Arts. They are, “They were all built on the same foundation,” Department in the School of Nursing at the seated from left, retired speech and drama instructor Connie Holmes of Hattiesburg, Breerwood said. University of North Carolina Greensboro. She alumnus and trumpet player Howell Purvis of Purvis; standing, Dr. Kyle Hill, Fine Arts and Compretta spent one year at PRCC, graduat- has researched the factors that contribute to Communication chairman who presented the awards; Daniel, Connie and Becky Sprinkell ing in 1965. blacks having a higher incidence of chronic ill- of Gulfport, the family of student Michael Sprinklell who was killed in a traffic accident; “It was one of the best years of my life,” he ness than whites and holds her dream job of and Archie Rawls of Poplarville, retired band director and department chair. Not pictured said. “It set the foundation for me. It’s hard to mentoring nursing instructors - a path that is Dr. Mark Malone of Hattiesburg, William Carey University professor and former PRCC express how honored I am to receive this began at Pearl River. choral director. PRCC Public Relations photo award.” “It was here that I had the opportunity to An attorney, he served in the state House of dream and dream big,” she said. “It’s where my Representatives from 1976-83 and from 1988- quest for science began.” 2011. Although semi-retired, he maintains a pri- Weathers wasn’t sure he could reach his goal PRCC presents its 1st vate law practice. of becoming a trial lawyer when he enrolled at Hornsby’s high school grades were too low to Pearl River on the advice of a high school get into Pearl River, so he enlisted in the Navy. teacher who said he wasn’t ready for a universi- During 36 years of service, he enrolled in col- ty. But, he learned academic discipline and, as Fine Arts Hall of Fame leges and universities every time he had shore student government president, got his first taste duty and earned degrees from most of them. of public service. Pearl River Community College installed its choral director. “All those years I was in the military, it was “When I left the River, I knew how to study first members of the Fine Arts Hall of Fame on Howell Purvis of Purvis, 1955 graduate of my goal to teach at Pearl River Community and I had the confidence to know I could reach April 17 during a choral concert in the PRCC who has played Taps at 502 military fu- College,” he said. “It turned out real well.” my goal,” he said. Brownstone Center for the Arts. nerals since his retirement from the U.S. Secret Retiring with the rank of captain, Hornsby Weathers served two stints as district attorney Dr. Kyle Hill, chairman of the Department of Service. earned an associate’s degree in automotive tech- in Forrest and Perry counties, represented USM Fine Arts and Communication, presented them Archie Rawls of Poplarville, Pearl River nology from PRCC and was chair of the social and was in a private law practice before being between the performances of the RiverRoad graduate and retired PRCC director of bands, sciences department at PRCC’s Forrest County elected to the circuit court bench in 2015. pop choir and the PRCC Singers. chairman of the Department of Fine Arts and Center. He still teaches English and sociology “To be recognized as successful in your ca- “It is an opportunity to honor former students Communication and Brownstone director. part-time. reer in this manner is an honor and humbling,” and instructors in all areas of the arts, those Michael Sprinkell of Gulfport, a music stu- Ladner, known as Mississippi’s Ambassador he said. who have contributed to the success of the de- dent at PRCC who was killed in a 2003 traffic for Basketball, graduated from Pearl River in Photographs and biographies of the honorees partment over the years,” he said. accident. His parents, Connie and Becky 1958 and earned a bachelor’s degree at will hang in the Dr. William Lewis Honors They are: Sprinkell, and his brother, Daniel Sprinkell, ac- Louisiana College. Pearl River prepared him Institute to inspire students of today and the fu- Connie Holmes of Hattiesburg, retired drama cepted the honor. well. ture to set lofty goals. Videotaped interviews and speech instructor and director of the String “Your names are going to be cemented in the “My first two years of college were more dif- with each will also be available. of Pearls dance team. legacy of the fine arts of this great institution,” Dr. Mark Malone, music professor at said Dr. Adam Breerwood, PRCC president. “You William Carey University and former PRCC are part of the rich history of this institution.” Larry Whigham inducted into Sports Hall of Fame Larry Whigham of Friendswood, Texas, formerly of Hattiesburg, was inducted into the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) Sports Hall of Fame at a ban- quet April 24. Whigham went from being a lowly manager for his Hattiesburg High School foot- ball team in the late 1980’s to being an all-state performer at Pearl River Community College to being an exciting Alumni inducted into the Pearl River Community College Lifetime Achievement Hall of defensive player for the New Fame are, from left, J.P. Compretta of Bay St. Louis, Dr. Benny J. Hornsby of England Patriots. Hattiesburg, Picayune native Dr. Pamela Johnson Rowsey of Durham, N.C., J. Larry He was a standout defensive Ladner of Kiln and Judge Jon Mark Weathers of Hattiesburg. back for the Wildcats in 1991, intercepting five passes. He played in the MACJC JuCo Alumni advise students all-star game. This was after he missed the 1990 season at PRCC when he broke his col- PRCC Åthletic Director Jeff Long (right) presented Larry larbone in the first scrimmage to set some career goals Whigham his Sports Hall of Fame award. of fall practice. Few colleges sought Coach Bill Parcells con- reer. Three were against Dan Students and alumni shared breakfast and women’s basketball coach. “You’re your best Whigham’s services after he vinced him he could find a Marino. He intercepted two conversation April 18 at the second annual critic - if you’ll be honest with yourself.” finished at PRCC. One of niche on special teams. Marino passes versus Miami Lessons from Alums Breakfast hosted by the Dr. Janice Touchstone of Hattiesburg, a den- them was Northeast Louisiana He played so well on spe- on Nov. 23, 1997, including Alumni Association and Development tist, offered similar advice. in Monroe, La. There, he was cial teams in 1996 that he was one he returned 60 yards for a Foundation. “You have to know yourself,” she said. “I a reserve safety his junior year voted by his peers as the AFC touchdown, and finished the After the fellowship, five alumni talked have to conquer my fears and work on my and a starting cornerback his Special Teams Player of the game with a season high four about lessons they’ve learned since graduating weaknesses.” senior year. He played well Year. He was selected to his tackles to earn Miller Lite from PRCC. Once the students choose a career path, they enough his senior year to catch first Pro Bowl as an AFC spe- Player of the Game honors. Allen Anderson of Hattiesburg, owner of need to have written goals and affirmations, the eyes of NFL teams. cial teams player in 1997. He He earned AFC Special Anderson Design Center, told the students of said Greg Mitchell Jr., a banker in Picayune. Whigham was a fourth also played in the 1997 Super Teams Player of the Week in meeting the late L.D. Brinkman Jr., another “You need to do what makes you happy,” he round draft choice by the Bowl against the Green Bay the AFC Championship Game Pearl River alumnus who became the largest said. “If you have employees, do what you can Seattle Seahawks in 1994, but Packers. vs. Jacksonville (Jan. 12, flooring distributor in the country. When to make them happy and they’ll make your was cut and claimed by the Whigham was with the 1997) when he tackled Jaguar Anderson was ready to open his own business, customers happy.” Patriots. He couldn’t crack the Patriots through the 2002 sea- punter Brian Barker on his Brinkman provided encouragement and an ex- Many professions offer multiple specialities starting lineup at New son. He intercepted four pass- own four, which resulted in a ample. and it can take time to find the right one, cam- England. es during his professional ca- touchdown for the Patriots. “I realized what a big deal it is to have some- pus nurse Susie Hall of Poplarville said. She one whose path you follow,” he said. used nursing as an example. A panel of four PRCC graduates took turns “My suggestion is work at a hospital first advising the students to be dependable, ac- where it’s varied,” she said. Picayune alumnus funds countable and open to new experiences. Sponsors for the breakfast were Anderson “If you don’t hold yourself accountable Design Center, BankPlus, Owens Business every single day, no one else will hold you ac- Machines Inc., Paw Paw’s Campers and Cars two PRCC scholarships countable,” said Scotty Fletcher, PRCC and William Financial Group. Future teachers and nurses can receive assis- work in the area.” Above left, tance with the cost of attending Pearl River The teacher’s scholarship is in memory of Alumnus Dr. Janice Community College through two scholarships Griffing’s late mother, who taught in the New Touchstone makes funded by a PRCC alumnus. Orleans public schools for many years. a point during the Craig Griffing established the Zoe “The College Foundation Board of Directors Lessons from McGovern Griffing Teacher’s Scholarship and and staff are very appreciative of Craig Alumns Breakfast. the Craig Griffing Nursing Scholarship Griffing’s desire to support Pearl River Other alumni on through the PRCC Development Community College students the panel are, from Foundation. through the establishment of these left, PRCC Griffing grew up in Picayune and two scholarship endowments,” said women’s basket- has returned to his hometown. He Ernie Lovell, foundation director. ball coach Scotty earned undergraduate degrees from “Craig has a long time involve- Fletcher, campus PRCC and the University of ment as an administrator in the nurse Susie Hall Southern Mississippi and the health care field and is giving back and Picayune Masters of Business Administration to help those students in our nursing banker Greg from Loyola University New program be successful in their field. Mitchell Jr. Orleans. He lived most of his adult “Craig has also made a commit- Bottom left, life in New Orelans where he had a ment to helping students who want Allen Anderson, successful career in the health care to pursue a degree in education. He owner of Anderson administration field. Griffing has recognized the need to support Design Center, “That’s when I realized how im- our school systems with qualified and talks to students at portant nurses are to the health care industry,” energetic teachers. We are so proud of this in- the Lessons From he said. “There always seems to be a shortage vestment that he has made in our young peo- Alums Breakfast. of nurses so I thought I would do my little part ple.” to help with that. To apply for either scholarship, go to the “I’ve always admired PRCC’s nursing PRCC website and click on prospective stu- school so I wanted to do my small part to help dents, scholarship opportunities and founda- local people become nurses and hopefully tion scholarships. The DRAWL May 2018 • Page 13 NEWS Faculty-Staff Appreciation Night

Employees who have been at Pearl River Community College for 10 years were recog- Pearl River Community College’s Employee Appreciation Dinner with an ‘80s theme in- nized on April 30 at the annual Employee Appreciation Dinner which had an I Love the cluded recognition of employees for 15 years at the college. They are shown with presi- 80s theme. Dr. Adam Breerwood, right, presented them with lapel pins. They are, from dent Dr. Adam Breerwood, right, and are, from left, English instructor Marjory Thrash, left, eLearning director Michele Mitchell, Early Childhood Academy associate Carol computer science instructor Bobby Thrash, Forrest County Center counselor Angelia Rieden, eLearning coordinator Kimberly Ellis, assistant vice president Maghan James, Ryals, nursing instructor Cindy Skinner and English instructor and department chair nursing instructor Dr. Jessica Hemba and speech and drama instructor Chris Flynn. Deana Holifield.

Pearl River Community College retirees who were recognized at the Employee Appreciation Dinner were, from left, Forrest County Center advisor Dr. Barbara Gandy, director of bands Dr. Kyle Hill and commercial driving instructor Daniel Smith. They are pictured with PRCC Pearl River Community College employees who have worked at the college for 20 years president Dr. Adam Breerwood who dressed as Mario from the Mario Bros. for the ‘80- were honored at the ‘80s-themed Employee Appreciation Dinner. They are, from left, biol- themed dinner. Not present were Forrest County Center business services director Dr. ogy instructor Lonnie Burchell, Forrest County Center instructor Greg Underwood, Beverly Lewis, public services librarian Cynthia Wetzell, speech instructor Laura Berry, art Wellness Center director Dr. Tara Rouse, music instructor Dr. Pamela Jones, residence instructor Charleen Null, institutional research director Brenda Wells, financial aid specialist life coordinator Camelle WIlliams and workforce secretary Sheila Smith. They were pre- Sandra Martin, masonry instructor Porter Soley, Forrest Hall head resident Mary Dell Smith sented weekend bags by president Dr. Adam Breerwood, right. and Forrest County Center maintenance supervisor Bruce McAllister.

Recipients of Above and Beyond certificates were, in front, assistant vice president Maghan James and Forrest County Center instructor Dr. Silvia Preston; standing from left, instructor Dr. Ross Setze, First Year Seminar coordinator Lisa Wall, institutional re- search assistant director Dr. Timothy Dedeaux, Student Success Center coordinator Whitney Chambers, career technical student services coordinator Tina Coleman, Forrest Recognized at the annual Employee Appreciation Dinner for 25 years of service to Pearl County Center instructor Dr. Timothy Crowe, instructor Robert Maynard, counselor River Community College were, from left, electrical technology instructor Tony Oldmixon, Christina Miller, admissions data management coordinator Hannah Miller, financial aid as- welding instructor Leland Kennedy, Forrest County Center math instructor Jacki Runnels sistant director Jaime Missimer, instructor Jonathan Morris, admissions director Tonia and medical laboratory technology instructor Evelyn Wallace. Seal and associate vice president Dr. Amy Townsend. Theme: ‘I Love the 80s’

Best dressed couple was Goose and Maverick from Top Gun (Anthony Izzo and Michael Avalon), best dressed individual M.C. Hammer (Scotty Fletcher) and best dressed group Axl Axl Rose and Slash of Guns and Roses with groupie (Dr. M.C. Hammer, aka Coach Rose, Slash and Guns and Roses groupie (Dr. Tara Rouse, Jamie Dixon, Meghan Byrd) Tara Rouse, Jamie Dixon and Meghan Byrd). Scotty Fletcher Right, Instructor Chris Left photo, Dr. Adam Flynn, Development Breerwood, aka Foundation accountant Mario of Mario Bros. Shana Breerwood, Right photo, Development Bookstore assistant Foundation director Grisela Somerville, Ernie Lovell aka J.R. aka Tina Turner. Ewing

Dr. Melissa Bryant, practical nursing chair, won the River Dr. Adam Breerwood congratulates instructor Jason Admissions specialist Dalton Spiers accepts his River Rewards Grand Prize, a 55-inch television. She is pictured Ramshur on winning the River Rewards second prize, a Rewards first prize, a Chrome Book, from Dr. Adam with Dr. Adam Breerwood. King Kooker. Breerwood. May 2018 • Page 14 The DRAWL SPORTS PRCC to offer cross country this fall By STAN CALDWELL “We hope to have a team of about “I ran some in high school, then who will be returning sophomores at like we can Sports Information Director five to seven participants,” said Jeff ran when I was in the Army and at PRCC or graduating seniors, who train them to Long, director of athletics at PRCC. the police and fire academy,” said can cover a 5K run in around 20 get their POPLARVILLE - Pearl River “As with all of our teams, we expect Johnson. “I started helping out at minutes. times down Community College will have an- to compete for championships and to Poplarville High as my kids have “We talked to people at Meridian to around 19 other sport to offer its student-ath- represent the institution in a positive gone through the program there, and and at Hinds, who are the only other or 20.” letes beginning this fall. way in the community.” now I’ve gotten into distance run- junior colleges in Mississippi with PRCC will Cross country will be the ninth David Johnson, who works with ning in a big way.” cross country, to see what kind of compete in sport that the college will offer, be- the PRCC campus police, will be the Johnson said he and Byrd will times they used to evaluate runners, three meets in ginning with next fall’s season. At head coach of the cross country conduct an open tryout when PRCC and they average about 19 to 20 the fall and team, and he will be assisted by hosts its Cheerleaders 5K run on this time, the Wildcats will only field minutes,” said Johnson. three in the Long a team in the women’s division. Meghan Byrd, who also serves as May 26. He said he is looking for “So if we can find some kids who spring season PRCC cheerleader coach. girls, either freshmen on campus are around 21 to 22 minutes, we feel at locations around the Gulf South.

Soccer players sign with MUW

A pair of Pearl River has coached the Lady Wildcats school. to major in elementary educa- Community College sopho- for 10 seasons. “Gray Massey “It’s an exciting thing, really tion. mores from the Lady Wildcat is getting two good ones. a cool thing, to be on the first Byrd said he expects one soccer program have elected to They’re good players and team at the W,” said Walden. more sophomore to sign with a continue their careers at the good students. This “It’s going to be a four-year school sometime in etDa nenoppO tnen ocatiLo n Time(s) Mississippi University for sophomore group challenge, but I’m the coming weeks. Tyrshu da , AugustAugu9 th illiam CW C yreailliam rg, MsbuiettHa MSrg, T BA (Men only)onl Women. helped us finish No. used to challenges. Wildcats get recognition Saturday, Augus 11t th obileM rville, MMplaPo S 2 PM (eMonl n y)onl Midfielder Caroline Grafe 2 in the country in My family, all of The 2017 PRCC state cham- (Kiln) and center back Sarah grade-point average my aunts, went pionship men’s soccer team y, AuguAuguadSun 1sty, 9 th psillsaM ps JMnsocka , MS 5 PM (Mne on y)l Walden (Pascagoula) signed last year.” there, so it feels like was recently presented with a commemorative display of an arulRegSea :sameGonsSea national letters of intent to play That’s important, home.” etDa nenoppO tnen ocatiLo n Time(s) for the Owls, who will be start- because MUW, as Grafe said she official resolution from the ing a women’s soccer program an NCAA Division also has family ties Miss.House of Representatives. endeW y, AuguAuguads 22sty, nd taI wwaamba rvilleplaPo rville, M S 2/4 PM this fall under the direction of III school, does not to the school. The resolution, co-sponsored riFad y, Augu 2stAugu4th slmeHo sd nlaegdRi ,2 MS /4 PM former East Central give out athletic “It’s my mom’s by Rep. John Corley of AuguAugusday,ueT 28st th CenstaE Cen ltra rville, MplaPo MSrville, 7 PM5/ Community College coach scholarships, but alma mater, and it’s Lumberton, District 103 repre- riFad y, Augu 3stAugu 1 st CoulfG Co sta P onstnrkie on,B M S T A Gray Massey. the pair were able to Byrd close to family, since sentative, and Rep. Chris sueTdpta y, eS rbemept 4th wthSou stew P rvillelaop rville M, S 7 PM5/ “It doesn’t get old,” said earn academic scholarships to my brother goes to Mississippi Johnson of Hattiesburg, District PRCC coach Jack Byrd, who attend the Columbus-based State,” said Grafe, who plans 87 representative, honored the Fptri Sad ey, rbemept 7th iaidreM nia rville, MMplaPo S 5/7 PM Wildcats for winning the state SaridF ptey, 1rbemept 4 th seonJ E,illellisv MS 7 PM5/ title in a shootout over sendeWad y, S9embepte r 1 th CenstaE Cen ltra rtucaDe M, M3S /5 PM Mississippi Gulf Coast. sueTdpta y, eS ptrbeme 25th Hs Hmeol s rvilleplaPo rville M, M S 7 PM5/ Players from the 2017 High School All-Star riFdpta y, eS ptrbeme 28th sdHin rville, MMplaPo S 7 PM5/ Wildcats, along with head coach Drew Gallant, were on sueTad y, Octo ebOcto2r nd CoulfG Co sta rville,rville,plaPo MS 5/7 PM hand to accept the display from urSatdaOcto y, ebOcto6r th wthSou stew Summit M, S 1/3 PM

Games a big success Corley and Johnson. The dis- th ct Osday,ueT ct r 9eobct iaidreM nia M,niaidre M5S /7P M

play will hang in the new soc- th The third annual PRCC High School All-Star Underclass Girls - Mikayah Mack, Ocean cer field house when the facili- riFy, Octo2OctoOctoad eby, 1r seonJ rville, MplaPo MS 5/ 7 PM5/ Game proved to be a resounding success, as a Springs. ty is completed later this year. Osday,ueT ct eobct 61r th taI wwaamba MultF Son, S 2/4 PM large crowd of basketball fans showed up at Underclass Boys - Trey Smith, Petal. M.R. White Coliseum April 10 to watch some Senior Girls - Maliyah Bullard, Pass Christian Top photo, PRCC sopho- of the top talent in South Mississippi on display. (who is a PRCC signee). mores Sarah Walden “I thought it was our best yet,” said PRCC Senior Boys - Tim Duncan, Long Beach and (left) and Caroline Grafe women’s basketball coach Scotty Fletcher. “We Mykah Brown, Petal. (right) sign paperwork to had high school coaches, college coaches and Wildcat sophomores in All-Star action attend Mississippi other junior college coaches come out to watch Three outgoing sophomores for PRCC took University for Women in the games. And the atmosphere was electric. the floor recently at East Central Community “The games were all close and hard-fought, College for the annual MACJC All-Star Game. Columbus. and afterward I had a lot of people come up to The Lady Wildcats were represented in the Bottom photo, PRCC me and tell me what a great event it was.” women’s game by 5-foot-6 guard Rah Franklin sophomore soccer for- More than 35 high schools from around the (New Orleans) and 5-10 forward Tyasia Willis ward Lacey Polderman state were represented in one of the four games, (Camden). signed a scholarship offer some from as far away as Germantown and Franklin started for the South All-Stars and from LSU-Alexandria on Clinton. finished with 6 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. May 5. She is the third Teams were divided for the Underclass (ju- Willis came off the bench and contributed 3 Lady Wildcat player to niors and under) Girls and Boys, and Senior points and 6 rebounds. The North won a sign with a four-year pro- Boys and Girls. thrilling 76-74 contest that featured nine lead gram. “This is a really good opportunity for kids changes and 17 ties. who have maybe fallen through the cracks in re- Rodney Mallett, a 6-foot guard from cruiting to get noticed,” said Wildcat men’s Lexington, played for the South in the men’s coach Chris Oney. “And it’s a chance for some game and had 5 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. young kids to get some attention.” The men’s game was also a thriller, as the North Most Valuable Players were named in each of prevailed 109-108 in overtime, playing through the four games. They were: 15 ties and 13 lead changes.

Three Lady Wildcats sign college scholarship offers Participants in the All-Star underclass girls game. Three sophomores from the 2017-18 Pearl at UNO, which was 15-15 this past season River Community College women’s basketball under fifth-year coach Keeshawn Davenport. team signed scholarship offers Tuesday to con- Malone said academics were a big factor in tinue their careers at four-year universities. her decision to attend UNO. The 6-footer from Sophomore guard Rehema Franklin (New Oxford High averaged 4.7 points and 3.5 re- Orleans) and center Kyla Malone (Oxford) bounds per game as a sophomore after averag- signed to play for the University of New ing 4.8 points and 4.0 rebounds as a freshman. Orleans, while forward Tyasia Willis “They have one of the best programs in my (Camden) signed with Bethel University in major (computer science) in the area,” said Tennessee. Malone. “I really liked the campus and the “This is a big step for our program,” said coach runs an offense I’m used to and comfort- PRCC coach Scotty Fletcher. able with.” “This group of sophomores was my first real Willis, who played for Velma Jackson High recruiting class, so to have two sign with School, led PRCC in rebounding with 9.1 per Division I programs and for Ty to have an op- game and also averaged 9.3 points per game. portunity to continue her career shows the di- She averaged 8.8 points and 7.8 rebounds as a rection we’re going as a program and as a col- freshman. She had 10 double-doubles during lege.” her career at Pearl River. Participants in the All-Star senior girls game. Franklin led the Lady Wildcats in scoring “Everyone was so friendly,” said Willis. “I with 12.5 points per game after an excellent liked the campus, the girls on the team, the freshman season in which she averaged 16.3 coach. I just enjoyed my visit there and felt at points per game. A native of New Orleans who home.” prepped at Edna Karr High School, Franklin is Bethel, located in McKenzie, Tenn., com- looking forward to playing in her home city. petes in the Southern States Athletic “It’s a really great feeling to be able to do Conference in NAIA’s Division I. The Lady what I love and continue to help my communi- Wildcats were 20-11 this past season under 12- ty,” said Franklin, who will major in business year veteran head coach Chris Nelson.

Participants in the All-Star underclass boys game.

PRCC sophomores Rah Franklin (left), Tyasia Willis (center) and Kyla Malone (right) pose Participants in the All-Star senior boys game. during a signing ceremony at M.R. White Coliseum. The DRAWL May 2018 • Page 15 SPORTS Lady Wildcats lose heartbreaker Breast cancer event Softball finishes season at 26-20 By STAN CALDWELL Sports Information Director Pearl River Community College softball suffered heartbreak last weekend at the MACJC State Tournament at Fulton. The Wildcats were eliminated from the four-team tournament in two games, dropping the tournament opener to host Itawamba 8-2 on Friday, then falling to East Central on Sunday 3-2 in eight innings in an elimination game. PRCC (26-20 overall) saw its season come to an end at the state tournament. East Central (34-12) was eliminated later in the day by host Itawamba, but the Warriors still earned a spot in this weekís NJCAA Region 23 Tournament. In the opener on Friday, PRCC couldn’t hold down the No. 3 team in the nation forever. After leading for 4 innings, the Wildcats surrendered seven runs in the fifth and sixth. Things looked good for Pearl River in the early going Friday. The Wildcats got two runners on the first inning and got runners to second and third in the second, but were unable to score in ei- Former Wildcat Deanna Favre, wife of NFL Hall of Fame ther inning. PRCC coach Leigh White congratulates sophomore Halle quarterback Brett Favre and a breast cancer survivor, That changed in the third when freshman Elizabeth Taggard Melone after Melone hit a two-run home run against threw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to a softball dou- (Picayune) got a one-out single and sophomore Halle Melone Itawamba Friday in the MACJC State Tournament. bleheader on March 26 against Mississippi Gulf Coast. (Oklahoma City) smacked a two-run home run. It was the seventh homer of the season for last week’s Player of Top photo, PRCC freshman the Week in the MACJC and NJCAA. Elizabeth Taggard stands at Sophomore Olivia Holley (Biloxi) allowed just two hits the plate awaiting a pitch through the first four innings, but the second one produced an un- during action against earned run in the fourth after a throwing error on a ground ball. Itawamba in the MACJC The Indians finally got to Holley (15-9) in the fifth, scoring State Tournament at Fulton. four runs after two were out on a two-run single off Holley and a Bopttom photo, PRCC two-run home run off freshman reliever Dallas Blaker (Bay St. sophomore pitcher Olivia Louis). Holley delivers a pitch to the On the other hand, the Wildcats only mustered two singles in plate against Itawamba. the final three innings. Itawamba broke the game open in the sixth with three more runs, two coming in on an error. Melone had two singles to go with her home run, and sopho- more Ilyssa Easton (Hurley) also had a pair of singles for the Wildcats. After Saturday’s schedule was washed out because of rain, the Wildcats came back on Sunday in a must-win contest. However, an error on a routine grounder allowed the winning run to score from first base to give East Central a walk-off win. ECCC grabbed a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the fourth inning, but the Wildcats answered in the next half inning, scoring twice in the top of the fifth. With one out, redshirt freshman Destiny Wesley (LaPlace, La.) singled. After another out, sophomore Anna Grace Cooley sin- gled, and both runners moved up to second and third on a passed ball. Sophomore Sarah Depperschmidt (Hurley) drove in both runs with a double. From that point on, however, Warrior ace Kaitlyn Oswalt si- lenced the Wildcats, allowing just one hit in 3 1/3 innings. Holley gave the Wildcats 7 2/3 innings in the circle, scattering nine hits, striking out three and walking three. After the Wildcats were retired in order in the seventh and eighth innings, East Central got a hit batter on base with two out in the bottom of the eighth, setting up the game’s final sequence. Holley finished her season with a 15-10 record. Coach Leigh White Wildcats qualify two for national finals rodeo For a program in only its second sea- Association. The men totaled 3,020 er category, also with 595 points. son of competition in college rodeo, points for the nine-event season, and the “They had a rough start in the fall sea- Pearl River Community College has women finished with 545 points. son, but came back and showed everyone made a pretty big impression. That performance, in the program’s that you can’t count them out,” said For the second consecutive year, the second season of college competition, Shaw. “The spring season hasn’t been Wildcats will be represented at the earned Shaw the selection as Coach of easy on any of us, but they’ve overcome College National Finals Rodeo, and this the Year in the Ozark Region. every obstacle that’s been put year they will have two competitors “It’s an honor and a privi- in front of them.” going to national finals. lege to be chosen Coach of the Although they did not qual- Sophomore Ryder Ladner (Kiln) and Year,” said Shaw. “It’s some- ify for the national event, sev- freshman Chase Graves (Poplarville) thing that’s voted on by all of eral other Wildcats had fine will be headed to Casper, Wyo. in June the coaches in the region, so to seasons as well. for the national finals. be recognized amongst all the Freshman Scott Davis “I’m very proud of both of them,” said great coaches we have in our (Lucedale) was fifth in the re- PRCC coach Robbie Shaw. “Ryder was region is very humbling.” gion in saddle bronc riding. PRCC sophomore Ryder Ladner (left) and freshman my pick to go last year, but he had a Ladner was second in the Freshman Tyler Stewart Chase Graves (left) show off the commemorative buckles tough year. This year, he stepped it up point standings for Men’s All- (Brandon) was sixth in bare- they earned for qualifying for the College National Finals when the time came. Around Cowboy, with 1,335 back riding. Rodeo in June at Casper, Wyo. “Chase, of course, is not a stranger to points. He will compete in the Shaw Ladner was seventh and winning at this level, and going to places calf roping event in Wyoming, Graves was eighth in steer “This isn’t an easy sport, already in planning for the like this. He’s done extremely well.” and he and Graves will both ride togeth- wrestling. but these kids have shown a second annual PRCC Rodeo, The Wildcats as a team finished fourth er in the team roping event. Freshman Abbi Holliday (Poplarville) great attitude, and have repre- scheduled for Sept. 13-15 at on the men’s side and sixth on the Ladner was second in the team roping was seventh in barrel racing, sophomore sented Pearl River well,” said the Lynn Cartlidge Multi- women’s side in the Ozark Region of the header category with 595 points, and Chelsey Johnson (Poplarville) was 12th in Shaw. Purpose Center in National Intercollegiate Rodeo Graves was third in the team roping heel- goat tying and 20th in breakaway roping. Shaw said the Wildcats are Hattiesburg. Wildcats complete spring drills with scrimmage Pearl River Community College foot- and getting it into the end zone.” (Hattiesburg), who caught a contested Lights, a four-week camp on each ball completed its spring football practice The Wildcats closed strong in 2017, pass for a touchdown. Thursday night in May: May 3, May 10, season with a full-scale scripted scrim- winning three of their last four games to “We’re headed in the right direction,” May 17 and May 24 for players grades 5-8. mage April 19 at Dobie Holden Stadium. post their first winning season since 2014 said Egger. “Guys are working hard. It “It’s all about getting young people out The Wildcats are looking to build on and only the second winning mark since was a great way to finish, going into the here, continuing to get coached and to try last fall’s 5-4 season, which included a 4- 2010. summer and getting ready for fall camp.” to teach them the fundamentals,” said 2 mark in South Division play. The Wildcats got some good work n PRCC will open its 2018 season on Egger. “And it’s a way to introduce them “I thought we got some good work in,” from rising sophomore tailback Ron Aug. 30 at home against Itawamba in a 6 to how we do things at Pearl River.” said second-year head coach Ted Egger. Thompson (Bassfield), who ran for a p.m. kickoff. The following week, Sept. The cost is $35 per session or $100 for “I thought we had some guys who got score and caught a touchdown pass, and 6, defending MACJC and national cham- all four sessions. Each session will run better and really showed up today, on returning sophomore Jesse Pernell pion East Mississippi pays a visit to from 6-8 p.m. both sides of the ball. (Poplarville). Poplarville, also in a 6 p.m. start. For more information contact Wildcat “I’m real excited about what our of- Another returning player who looked n Pearl River is looking to the future associate head coach Terrence Metcalf at fense was able to do in moving the ball sharp was wide receiver Kijana Breland as it will host Thursday Nights Under the [email protected]. Egger Right, PRCC nose pearl river wildcats tackle Jamerrick 2018 football schedule Waller wraps up running back Rod Thompson during action in a recent Date Opponent Location Times scrimmage at Thursday, Aug. 30 Itawamba Dobie Holden Stadium 6 p.m. Dobie Holden Thursday, Sept. 6 East Mississippi Dobie Holden Stadium 6 p.m. Stadium. Left, Wildcat wide Thursday, Sept. 13 CCo-Lin Wesson 7 p.m. receiver Kijana Thursday, Sept. 20 E East Central Dobie Holden Stadium 6 p.m. Breland runs the ball on an end Thursday, Sept. 27 HHinds Raymond 7 p.m. around play during Thursday, Oct. 4 JonesJ County Dobie Holden Stadium 6 p.m.

the final scrim- Saturday, Oct. 13 SSouthwest Summit 5 p.m. mage of sp[ring drills. Saturday, Oct. 20 GulfG Coast HOMECOMING Dobie Holden Stadium 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25 Mississippi Delta Goodman 7 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 3 1st round MACJC playoffs TBA

Saturday, Nov. 10 MACJC State Championship TBA

South Division games ROLL RIVER ROLL May 2018 • Page 16 The DRAWL SPORTS Baseball wins MACJC state title

Congratulations to our Pearl River Community College baseball team which clinched the MACJC State Championship. Great job men! The RIVER is RIS- ING...wow! That’s the third State Championship for PRCC this year - Men's soccer, men's basketball and base- ball.

- Dr. Adam Breerwood

Next: Region 23 begins May 16 By STAN CALDWELL PRCC Sports Information The cards fell right for Pearl River Community College Sunday, and as a result the Wildcats earned the right to raise another cham- pionship banner. PRCC took care of its business on Sunday, sweeping a double- header from Coahoma at Clarksdale, 12-2 and 10-0, then got the help it needed from Meridian, as the Eagles swept Jones County, also Sunday, 16-8 and 13-12 at Meridian. Seventh-ranked Pearl River (37-9 overall) finished atop the MACJC standings at 23-5, one game ahead of Jones and two games ahead of Meridian. The state title also comes with a bye through the first round of the MACJC playoffs, and the Wildcats will go directly to the NJCAA Region 23 Tournament, which begins May 16 at LSU- Eunice. “We challenged our kids after the Jones games (a Bobcat sweep on April 24) to just find a way to win these last few ball games and see what happens,” said Wildcat coach Michael Avalon. “They’ve responded well to the challenge.” The Wildcats made short work of the Tigers in both games, win- ning both via the run rule, five innings in the first game and six in- nings in the second. PRCC spotted Coahoma an early 1-0 lead after the first in- ning of Game 1, then went to work at the plate, scoring two runs in the second on a two-run home run by freshman Wiley Pearl River freshman Magruder O’Bannon slides across home plate safely, scoring the tying run in the first game of last Cleland (Columbia), after fresh- week’s doubleheader sweep against Co-Lin at Poplarville. man Shemar Page (Raleigh) sin- gled with two out. The Wildcats broke the game Region 23 2018 Final MACJC standings open in the third, scoring five runs on four singles, a double best-of-3 playoff and a hit batter. series pairings: Freshman Luke Harper Avalon (Meridian) and redshirt freshman n No. 1 seed - Pearl River Matt Taylor both singled to lead Community College (bye) off the inning, and sophomore Derek Eberly (Blountstown, Fla.) n No. 9 seed Hinds at No. 2 seed was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Jones County Sophomore Simon Landry (Ponchatoula, La.) drove in a run n No. 8 seed Northeast at No. 3 seed Meridian with a groundout, freshman Noah Barron (Hoover, Ala.) drove in n two runs with a double, and Page and Cleland each had RBI sin- No. 7 seed Gulf Coast at No. 4 seed Northwest gles. n No. 6 seed Itawamba at No. 5 The Tigers got a run in the bottom of the third with one out on seed East Central a double and a single, but Page got the last two outs to minimize the damage. n Four winners + PRCC + LSU PRCC added two more runs in the fourth and three in the fifth Eunice play in Region 23 to put the run rule into effect. Tournament @ Eunice, La. In the fourth, sophomore Scooter Ginn (Columbia) led off with a walk, stole second and scored after a double by Harper and an error on the play that allowed Harper to take third base. A sacrifice fly by Taylor drove in Harper. In the fifth, Landry and Barron singled to start the inning. Page drove in a run with a single and two runs came home on an error on a ground ball to the pitcher. Page (10-1) worked three innings, allowed three hits, struck out five and walked one. Freshman Colin Danley (Lucedale) struck out four in the final two innings and allowed just one hit. The Wildcats kept up the onslaught in the second game. Sophomore Bryson Medious (Columbia) smacked a one-out The Wildcats kept the pedal to the medal in the fourth, scoring Sophomore Drake Nightengale (Sumrall) pitched three in- solo homer in the top of the first to open the scoring, and the three runs and added a run each in the fifth and sixth.In the fourth, nings to earn the victory. Nightengale (3-0) allowed two hits, Wildcats added another run in the inning when Eberly walked, freshman Magruder O’Bannon (Long Beach) led off with a struck out five and walked one. took second on a passed ball, went to third on a wild pitch and walk, went to second on a single by Taylor and scored on a dou- Freshman Jerod Meggs (Kosciusko) pitched two innings, al- scored on a fielderís choice. ble by Medious. Eberly and Landry followed with RBI singles. lowing one hit and sophomore Luke Bradley pitched the sixth, PRCC added three more runs in the third. Medious led off with In the fifth, Ginn drew a walk to open the inning, went to sec- allowing a one-out single then inducing a game-ending double a walk, stole second and scored on a single by Eberly, who quick- ond on a wild pitch, took third on a passed ball and scored on a play. ly stole second and scored when the throw from the catcher sailed sacrifice fly by Taylor. Barron led off the sixth with a double, “We thought all along that it’s going to come down to the last into centerfield. Page followed with his second homer of the sea- went to third on a wild pitch and scored on a sacrifice fly by day of the season,” said Avalon. “And that’s just the way it is in son. Page. the MACJC.” 2018 Baseball sophomores

PRCC recognized its 2018 baseball sophomores and redshirt freshmen who will moving Kevin Carter, Bryson Medious, Preston Krummell, Noah Lewis, Drake Nightengale, Luke on after their two years in the Wildcat program prior to last week’s doubleheader against Bradley, Logan Walters, Simon Landry, Dylan Usry, Camden Dusang, head coach Copiah-Lincoln at Dub Herring Park. Posing after the ceremony were (from left) assistant Michael Avalon and assistant coach Anthony Izzio. coach Rhyne Hughes, assistant coach Sam Roberson, Scooter Ginn, Derek Eberly, PRCC Public Relations photo