The INSIDER Spring/Summer 2021

Texas College's Biannual Publication

MISSION STATEMENT

Texas College is a Historically Black College founded in 1894, by a group of CME ministers. Our mission continues to embody the principles of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. The College shall prepare students with competencies in critical and creative thinking related to the knowledge, skills, and abilities as defined in areas of study. Additionally, the College shall provide an environment to inspire intellectual, spiritual, ethical, moral, and social development, which empowers graduates to engage in life-long learning, leadership, and service.

CORE VALUES

To address the Mission, the College incorporates the Core Values listed below:  Academic Excellence — Develop a culture of curiosity and creativity that will challenge the frontiers of teaching/learning; stimulate research; raise the level of analytical reasoning and inquiry; and enable students to acquire leadership, human relations, communication, and technology skills.  Integrity — Instilling the pursuit of character, honesty, and sincerity of purpose as the moral rubrics upon which the behaviors of our graduates and College family are anchored.  Perseverance — Implanting diligence, enterprise, and pride in the application of skills, knowledge, and abilities developed during the course of study at Texas College.  Social Responsibility — Promoting in the College community a conscious awareness that we are all stewards of the resources entrusted to our care.  Tolerance — Emphasizing openness to divergent points of view and applying an eclectic approach to rational and analytical thinking.  Community Service — Encouraging self-extension in service to others as the heart and soul of our educational enterprise.

VISION STATEMENT

Texas College - a creative, culturally diverse, inclusive environment, preparing students who aspire to be purpose-driven, financially secure and marketable leaders.

Table of Contents

CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE: Dr. Dwight J. Fennell President Jake Martin Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

The President’s Pen Celebrating 127 Years Founders’ Convocation

2 3 4 5 6 7 7 9 10 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 8

Alumna Named ESSENCE CEO Retool Your School Success

Student Elected to UNCF National Office

Religious Emphasis Program

The INSIDER Magazine is a biannual publication produced as a service to students, alumni, donors and friends of the College. The Office of Public Relations makes every effort to ensure that the information contained in each issue is accurate and current. If you note any inaccuracies, please contact the Office of Public Relations. Mail Texas College 2404 North Grand Avenue Tyler, Texas 75702 Telephone (903) 593-8311, ext. 2327 Email pr@texascollege.edu NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION Texas College does not discriminate in any employment practice, educational program, or educational activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran status. The Vice President of Academic Affairs has been designated to handle student inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, and the Director of Human Resources has the responsibility for faculty-staff concerns in this regard. Contact information is: Texas College, Attn: Vice President of Academic Affairs/Compliance Officer, Office of Academic Affairs/Martin Hall 1 st floor, 2404 North Grand Avenue, Tyler, Texas 75702, (903) 593-8311, ext. 2342 office, (903) 526-4426 fax or Texas College, Attn: Director of Human Resources, Martin Hall, 2 nd floor, 2404 North Grand Avenue, Tyler, Texas 75702, (903) 593-8311 ext. 2201 office, (903) 593-4277 fax.

New Vice President Named for Academic Affairs Black History Month: Texas College Trailblazers Texas College Celebrates STEAM Across Disciplines 2021 Baccalaureate Service & Commencement Exercise

Class of 2021

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Community COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic

Fall 2021 Athletics Schedule

New Grant Expands Research & Aims to Save Lives

Fall 2021 New Staff 2021 Homecoming Your Future Starts Here Enrollment Directory

Fall 2021 Opening School Important Dates

21

Online Store

22 23

TCNAA Chapters Stay Connected UNCF Virtual Walk

24 25

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Dear Alumni and Friends, I pray that all is well and that you and your family are safe and sound during this unprecedented period that is before us. You remain in our prayers as we look for moments of normalcy to soon return. Let us be reminded that with God all things remain possible as he hears the prayers of His people. I am pleased to share this edition of the INSIDER Magazine. This biannual publication is produced by the College and designed to share salient activities that have been impactful for the College, community and friends. You will note that in spite of challenging moments, there have been events and activities that have and continue to bring joy and pleasure; we are pleased to share them with you. I pray that you will enjoy this edition of the INSIDER; please share it with others. Thank you for your continued support of Texas College.

Sincerely, Dwight J. Fennell President

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Celebrating 127 Years

Texas College’s first building, a four-room frame house, in 1894.

January 9, 2021, signifies a momentous occasion in the life of Texas College – the 127th Anniversary of the Historically Black College's founding. Founded in 1894 by a group of CME ministers to educate a disenfranchised population, Texas College has served as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the East Texas region and beyond, providing educational opportunities for the past 127 years.

“In spite of these turbulent times, it is a blessing to know that we have an institution that has endured.,” noted Dr. Dwight J. Fennell, President. “The founders were visionary and insightful to create the first educational institution for Blacks in Tyler, Texas, during a time when it was both unpopular and dangerous to do so. Now, 127 years later, we can boast that the livelihoods of untold numbers have been enhanced because of the bold stance and unselfishness of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. On behalf of the college family, we are pleased to be a part of her rich history. May God continue to bless her richly!” To view a brief historical overview of Texas College, scan the QR code.

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Founders’ Convocation

Texas College formally celebrated the College’s 127 th anniversary with the annual Founders' Convocation. The event took place virtually, via the Zoom platform, on Wednesday, February 24, 2021. Though virtual, the convocation welcomed a cadre of guests, including Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick, III, Chairman of the Texas College Board of Trustees and Senior Bishop of the CME Church, Texas College Trustees Patricia McKenzie and Gwendolyn Collins, as well as Merdis Buckley, Executive Director of the Texas Association of Developing Colleges. Bishop Othal Hawthorne Lakey served as the convocation's speaker.

Bishop Lakey is the 44 th Bishop of

the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. During his tenure, he faithfully served as Presiding Bishop of the Second and Sixth Episcopal Districts, as well as the Editor of The Christian Index, the official publication of the CME Church. In addition to his ministerial service, Bishop Lakey also lent his expertise to Texas College as a professor. Moreover, Bishop Lakey is an esteemed author and historian, with a multitude of books that illustrate the history of the CME Church. Utilizing his first-hand experiences in the aforementioned roles, Bishop Lakey employed an array of engaging stories, as well as history, to commemorate Texas College’s 127 th anniversary. Bishop Lakey’s delivery afforded an insightful and impactful Founders’ Convocation address not to be missed. To view a recording of the 2021 Founders' Convocation, scan the QR code below.

Bishop Othal Hawthorne Lakey

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Texas College Alumna Appointed ESSENCE CEO

On February 9, 2021, Essence Communications, Inc. (ESSENCE), officially appointed Dr. Caroline A. Wanga to serve as Chief Executive Officer for ESSENCE and Chief Growth Officer for Essence Ventures, parent company of ESSENCE. This official appointment follows her seven month service as Interim CEO for ESSENCE. Wanga joined Essence Ventures as Chief Growth Officer in June of 2020, departing Target Corporation, where she served as Chief Culture, Diversity and Inclusion Officer. Wanga, a Texas College Alumna (2005), began her Target career in supply chain. While in the supply chain realm, she served in a variety of transformational leadership roles, including modernizing Supply Chain, Business Intelligence, Digital and Strategy capabilities. In 2014, Wanga became Target’s Diversity & Inclusion Senior Director. The following year, she assumed the role of Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer for Target and would continue to excel, serving in executive leadership roles as the Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and Vice President of Human Resources. And, in 2019, her role would continue to expand as she became the Chief Culture, Diversity & Inclusion Officer. Wanga is revered as an inspirational thought and transformational leader, public speaker, and an expert at successfully cultivating a work environment that champions accountability, inclusivity, diversity, and innovation in the corporate world. Among other accolades, Wanga has been named a Top Executive in Corporate Diversity by Black Enterprise and recognized as one of Savoy's Most Powerful Women in Corporate America, as well as is a member of the Executive Leadership Council (ELC), the Talladega College Board of Trustees and the American Airlines Community Council. She previously served on the Intersectionality, Culture, and Diversity Advisory Board for Twitter and as co-chair of the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) Diversity & Inclusion Initiative. Wanga was awarded the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree by Texas College at the 2021 Commencement Exercise.

Dr. Caroline A. Wanga

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Home Depot Retool Your School Success

On Monday, February 15, 2021, despite the unprecedented Texas snow storm, Texas College Steers banded together for the 2021 Home Depot Retool Your School Grant Program competition. Determined by cumulative consumer voting online, as well as the social media platforms Instagram and Twitter, Home Depot upped the ante for 2021, pledging a total of $1 million in campus improvement grants to 30 Historically Black Colleges and Universities. With HBCUs divided into three categories, or “clusters,” based on the institution’s student enrollment, 10 grants were allotted per cluster. Texas College’s designation, Cluster 3, proved to be the most competitive group, with the top institutions garnering more votes than larger clusters. Despite the stiff competition, Texas College alumni, students, faculty, and staff demonstrated their determination to win. Derivative of concerted collaborative planning efforts between the Texas College National Alumni Association and the College campus, Texas College employed a strategic and systematic approach for the 30-day voting period. Comprised of voting teams, daily challenges, voting shifts, as well as other tactics, this approach positioned Texas College to emerge victorious. These collective around-the- clock efforts, diligent and unwavering, amassed 382, 999 votes, the highest Texas College has ever recorded throughout the competition's 12-year existence. These votes propelled Texas College to success, securing a grant award of $30,000. “To Trustee Collins, the entire Texas College National Alumni Association, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the College, as well as Mrs. Angelia Fennell and Mr. Jacob Martin for their on-campus coordination and shaping of the grant’s proposal, I extend many thanks,” commented President Dwight Fennell. “Their efforts of great support leading to this significant contribution to Texas College is appreciated and well-received.” Due to the support of this initiative, the campus improvement grant award of $30,000 will be utilized to rehabilitate the President’s Living Room Patio. The project is slated to begin in the Fall 2021 academic term. To view the virtual Home Depot Retool Your School 2021 Winners Announcement Ceremony broadcast on April 14, scan the QR code.

Texas College announced as a $30,000 recipient at the virtual Home Depot Retool Your School 2021 Winners Announcement Ceremony.

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Texas College Student Elected to UNCF National Office

Texas College student Harold Trey Young was elected to UNCF’s National Pre-Alumni Council Board (NPAC). Young will serve the NPAC as the Southwestern Region Representative for the 2021-2022 term. The NPAC is the preceding student component of the National Alumni Council, and serves as the umbrella organization and governing body for each Pre-Alumni Council (PAC) on UNCF-member college campuses. The NPAC provides leadership for PAC students and actively encourages student participation in alumni activities prior to and after graduation. Young, a Dallas, Texas native, is a senior at Texas College majoring in Business Administration. Following completion of his baccalaureate degree, he plans to pursue a real estate license, with aspirations to open his own firm and establish himself as a real estate mogul.

Harold Trey Young

Religious Emphasis Program

Texas College, founded by ministers of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, annually pays homage to its Christian founding with a Religious Emphasis activity. This year, the College hosted the event virtually on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. Rev. Dr. Jamie Capers, Texas College Campus Minister, served as the event's speaker. The occasion's focus surrounded the role of the Black Church in social change. To view a recording of the 2021 Religious Emphasis Program, scan the QR code.

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Texas College Names Vice President for Academic Affairs

Texas College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jan E. Duncan to the position of Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Duncan comes to the college with broad experiences and expertise that covers all levels of secondary and postsecondary education. Most recently, she served as an instructional designer for the use of Blackboard for grade levels K-12. She was responsible for leading and executing the design, development and evaluation of complex training curricula, materials and programs to meet strategic organizational initiatives in the virtual space. At the postsecondary level, Dr. Duncan has served as an administrator and associate professor in the area of educational program preparation. She has guided students through the licensure process for teacher certification as well as helped to accredit educational programs as teacher training centers that would lead toward licensure. Additionally, Dr. Duncan has served in the department of technology as a professor having taught undergraduate courses in advanced educational technology. Her total educational experiences has involved student engagement that would help students find meaningful pathway careers following their educational experience. To this end, she has established herself as an educator and administrator committed to students success. Dr. Duncan also has extensive experience in grantsmanship. To her credit, she has received funding for several grants which have ranged from $500,000 to $1.5 million. Such grants have included the NASA Professional Grant for Math and Science (awarded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration); the HIV Prevention and Education Services Grant (awarded by the Department of Health

Dr. Jan E. Duncan

and Human Services); Student Support Services Grant (awarded by the U.S. Department of Education); Mentoring Children Initiative (awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services); and a Suicide Prevention Grant (awarded by the National Institute of Health). Dr. Duncan is a four-time graduate of Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi, earning a baccalaureate degree, two master’s degrees, and the doctor of philosophy degree; she has also completed extensive post-graduate work. Texas College looks forward to her experiences and expertise in helping to expand programs and majors as well as work towards sustaining institutional and program accreditation.

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Black History Month: Texas College Trailblazers

To celebrate 2021's Black History Month, Texas College highlighted Black influential figures, or trailblazers, that are also Texas College Alumni. Throughout the month of February, the College spotlighted two notable individuals weekly on Texas College digital platforms. With 127 years of rich history and countless successful trailblazing alumni, this list is by no means exhaustive, nor is it aimed to be. Rather, this feature is a brief glimpse into some of the individuals that were impacted by Texas College and utilized their education to become meaningful influencers beyond the gates of the College. Compiled below for review are the trailblazers featured for 2021's Black History Month in order of appearance throughout February. To read a brief biography, as well as their respective accomplishments, scan the QR code.

Texas College Trailblazers

Dr. Lillian K. Bradley

Mr. Leonard Evans, Jr.

Ms. Irma P. Hall

Dr. Mildred Jefferson

Dr. Billye Suber Aaron

Dr. Caroline A. Wanga

Dr. Jesse W. Jones

Rev. Dr. Orenthia D. Mason

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Texas College Celebrates STEAM Across Disciplines

March 8, 2021, served as the Fourth Annual HBCU STEAM Day of Action kickoff. Hosted by the Congressional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus and the Congressional STEAM Caucus, HBCU STEAM Day of Action is an initiative that surrounds highlighting the importance of HBCUs and education within the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) fields of study. Spearheaded by the “Godmother of HBCUs,” Congresswoman Alma Adams of North Carolina’s 12 th Congressional District seeks to not only illustrate the significance, but to advocate as well. Joined by over 70 leaders across a multitude of industries, the group met with Democratic and Republican Members of Congress in the House and Senate to champion support for STEAM education at HBCUs. Though the occasion’s name reflects just one day, the event has gained momentum in previous years and expanded into an entire week for 2021 from March 8-12. While Adams led the campaign in Washington D.C., her unwavering spirit was localized and mirrored at Texas College. Though the initiative focuses on STEAM fields of study, Texas College acknowledged that the concept’s reach was further than just those select areas. As a liberal arts institution, providing a comprehensive education that affords a wealth of knowledge and exposures that span across the academic areas, Texas College broadened the scope of STEAM Day to

Dr. Hamad Ali

transcend all disciplines. This expansion illuminated each field’s unique significance and contributions, as well as their correlation to each other and academia, especially at an HBCU – especially at Texas College. But, the aforementioned is not just a day or week-long initiative at Texas College, it’s woven into the fabric year-round. STEAM education yields more than just the benefit of knowledge and expertise within the specific realm. It reaches further, developing and inspiring thought processes that mold students for success. These interdisciplinary inclusions train one’s mind to critically and creatively think, assess, and seamlessly adapt to a plethora of scenarios. Regardless of career path and direct degree correlation, the education persists as a tool for success. This intellectual progression echoes the foundations of a liberal arts education at Texas College. Though STEAM education’s spanning beneficial intangibles are illustrated, the fields themselves are also being honed. “At the present time STEAM is becoming the new engine for life development in the age of technology and speed,” commented Dr. Hamad Ali, Division Chair for Business and Social Sciences. “All aspects of life are affected by technology. Therefore, we must be prepared to deal with the rapid changes,” said Dr. Ali. Though the degrees under his tutelage are not STEAM, he explains that all of his majors heavily incorporate STEAM concepts and applications. “The basic block for meeting the challenge of technology is to prepare students scientifically.” Dr. Ali elaborates that his students need courses in math, computer science, and physics to adequately prepare them for careers beyond graduation. He further notes incentivizing these efforts to ensure students receive the maximum preparation for their future. “Representative Alma Adams has opened the door to offer an understanding of HBCUs and their importance for the communities in which they operate,” noted Linda Johnson, Division Chair for Natural and Computational Sciences. With her division’s degrees aligning directly with the STEAM initiative, Johnson extends her thoughts to the importance of Representative Adams’ work and the significance of meaningful collaborations. “As this

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“As this initiative grows and expands, the opportunities for students attending HBCUs will grow,” said Johnson. “One recent partnership to tout is our Pre-Health Academy with The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, which prepares students for medical-related graduate work and professional school. I am proud to say that a number of our recent graduates are currently continuing their education in medical school, pharmacy school, forensics programs, and a litany of graduate programs in the sciences, just to name a few.” “As we continue to recognize and emphasize the importance of STEAM at Texas College, students will be prepared with the confidence to pursue careers in the sciences and beyond. Texas College, and HBCUs alike, are sources of intelligent, employable individuals; and, as we continue to grow our industry partnerships, the opportunities for our students will grow,” concluded Johnson. Johnson’s sentiment on the talent at HBCUs and their impact is evident, as depicted by the workforce statistics below.

Linda Johnson

HBCUs ACCOUNT FOR:

27%

40%

50%

of all Black STEAM graduates

of all Black engineers

of all Black public school teachers

50%

80%

of all Black lawyers

of all Black judges

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2021 Baccalaureate Service & Commencement Exercise

Baccalaureate Service To begin the 2021 Commencement Activities, Texas College hosted the 2021 Baccalaureate Service virtually on Friday, May 14. The baccalaureate service, a centuries-old tradition in higher education, affords graduates one final opportunity for spiritual development and fellowship before graduation. Rev. Dr. Charley Hames, Jr., Senior Pastor of the Beebe Memorial Cathedral in Oakland, California, served as the occasion’s speaker. In addition to this spiritual event, Texas College recognized both the Class of 2020 and the Class of 2021. To view a recording of the 2021 Baccalaureate Service stream, scan the QR code.

Commencement Exercise

On Saturday, May 15, 2021, Texas College hosted their first virtual commencement exercise for the Class of 2021. Though in a virtual landscape, the 2021 Commencement Exercise maintained the sacred event’s formality and significance with the traditional pomp, circumstance, and academic regalia. The occasion welcomed a host of guests, including Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick, III, Chairman of the Texas College Board of Trustees and Senior Bishop of the CME Church, City of Tyler Mayor Don Warren, Texas College Trustees Patricia McKenzie, Gwendolyn Collins, and Orenthia Mason, County Commissioner and Alumna JoAnn Hampton, as well as Merdis Buckley, Executive Director of the Texas Association of Developing Colleges. Dr. Caroline A. Wanga, CEO of ESSENCE and Texas College Alumna, delivered a powerful commencement address, emphasizing the importance of failure and resilience as she recounted her experiences at Texas College and her corporate trek to the status of chief executive officer. Following Dr. Wanga’s inspirational speech, 96 students crossed over into alumni status as their degree was virtually conferred by President Dwight J. Fennell, signifying the official culmination of their successful academic endeavors. Two scholars were additionally recognized for their stellar academic performance: Daniel Paul Segura, Valedictorian, Biology major and Andrea Shante Woods, Salutatorian, Criminal Justice major. The College also awarded two honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees to Dr. Carolina A. Wanga and Dr. Bonita R. Collins-Hobbs, both respectively hooded by their daughters. To view a recording of the 2021 Commencement Exercise stream, scan the QR code.

Daniel Paul Segura, 2021 Valedictorian

Andrea Shante Woods, 2021 Salutatorian

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Class of 2021

Associate of Arts

Legend Barrett Katyra Brewer

Brinae Galloway Brishe Mckinley

Tabatha Webb ZaNoah Wortham Sr.

Bachelor of Arts

Tabitha Birdow Vicki Britton

Rick Davis Penny Reed

Caron Sneed

Bachelor of Science

Karina Acevedo Tanic Agnew Sydney Ajanga

Darneisha Hall Joshua Harris Alex Hartsfield

Henry Peters IV Shadaisha Reason Jonathan Riffle Brent Robinson Carlos Romero Larose Simmons Johnathan Sims Jacolbey Smith Phillip Ryan Smith Darius Spann Tyler Sanders Daniel Segura Tyler Stephens Korrinn Taylor Alize Tezeno Chasity Thomas Gregory Thomas Michael Traylor Erion Tyler Wenga Walker McKinley Warren Jade Washington Tasia Webb Keldrick Williams Tayla Williams Andrea Woods Tiera Wright

Tyrell Alexander Barrett Anderson Jerson Andrade-Flores Mikahe Baker Angelique Barnes Emmanuel Benefo Tanecia Binion Yenny Borjas Aguilar Shari Bruno Christian Bryant Ariel Carr

Alexis Hedgepeth Ty'Neka Howard Destiny Hubbard-Oliphant Angelia Jackson Jye Jackson

Rashaun Jackson Eric Johnson Jr. Tunisia Jones Mukamba Kalala Charles Kendrick Jacquelyn Kindle Lydia Kindle Terence Ledbetter Robert Lester John Loud Donovan Mansfield Khmaree McCray Destinee McGinnis Yolonda Moore Dannie Moore Jr. Kierra Morris Patricia Morrison Finaris Palmer Virgillio Penaloza

KeAndra Castle Chase Chaisson

Sopia Cofer Jayla Cooper

LaMonica Crawford Michaelyn Crawford

Jason Curtis Daryl Davis

DaTrel Davis Joshua Davis Elvis Davis Jr. Tonzel Eckford Demetrius Fitzpatrick Ceyairra Flemons Kobe Freeman

Krystin Perry Aryon Peters

This listing is not an official source for determining completion of graduation requirements.

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Texas College Hosts Community COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic

The COVID-19 vaccine is administered to a Texas College student at the campus’ vaccination clinic on May 22.

COVID-19 vaccination numbers across East Texas are lower than the rest of the country, and within minoritized populations, the vaccination rates lag even further behind. To help combat this vaccination disparity, Texas College partnered with District 3-Northwest City Councilwoman Dr. Shirley McKellar and the Northeast Texas Public Health District (NET Health) to bring a COVID-19 vaccination clinic to the Texas College Campus. Dr. Cynthia Marshall-Biggins, Vice President for Student Affairs, coordinated efforts with Dr. McKellar and NET Health to ensure ample staff, nurses, and vaccines were in place for a successful clinic open to the community at-large, as well as students, alumni, faculty, and staff, on Saturday, May 22, in the D.R. Glass Library. “The College was very excited to partner with NET Health and Dr. McKellar to host the vaccination site and assist the community of North Tyler,” noted Dr. Marshall-Biggins. "I wanted to keep myself safe, my family safe," said Clara Madison, a Texas College student that received the COVID-19 vaccine at the clinic. “My parents are elderly, so I want to be able to be around them more. I want my family to be able to go out and enjoy ourselves without being scared." Sherona Ray of Gale Healthcare, who assisted with staffing needs for the clinic commented, “I commend Texas College for doing this, showing the African-American community of Smith county that they care about their staff, their students, and just the whole community.” Rev. Ralph Caraway, the pastor of St. Louis Baptist Church in Tyler, also commended the College’s clinic, “Their outreach efforts were a success. Their location made it possible for many people to just walk to the clinic site. Texas College is a recognized institution in the African-American community and Tyler and their participation in hosting clinic sites puts a spotlight on their service to the community as well.” Dr. Richard Hackney, a member of the NET Healthcare Task Force, also lauded the College for a successful clinic.

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Fall 2021 Athletics Schedule

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New Grant Expands Research & Aims to Save Lives

Professor of Biology and Physics Alexei Iakhiaev, PhD, continues to expand research on the Texas College campus with his recent award from the National Science Foundation (NSF). Adding to his Fall 2020 $150,000 research grant, NSF recently approved Dr. Iakhiaev’s latest proposal “Excellence in Research: Molecular mechanism of Tissue Factor Encryption and Decryption,” awarding a three-year grant in the amount $448,000. Dr. Iakhiaev will serve as the principal investigator, bringing a wealth of value to the study with a multitude of publications and extensive experience as a biomedical researcher. The project will include training for three students, and further deepens collaborative efforts with The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler (UTHSCT). Partnering with UTHSCT’s Vijaya Lella (Rao), PhD, and his laboratory team, Dr. Iakhiaev and Texas College students will study the molecular mechanism of tissue factor (TF), a protein involved in blood coagulation and thrombosis, as well as an important function for cardiovascular diseases. “The human body needs to keep blood flowing; however, when a blood vessel is damaged, the body needs to stop bleeding as soon as possible. TF helps with both of these processes,” explains Dr. Iakhiaev.

Dr. Alexei Iakhiaev

“When blood should flow, TF is encrypted, or inactive, and allows the blood to flow as it should. But, when the body needs to stop bleeding, the TF is decrypted, or activated, and initiates blood clotting and the formation of a “plug” to stop the bleeding. The goal of this research is to understand the molecular mechanism of TF encryption and decryption to achieve better control of these life-threatening situations.” “The receipt of this award is great news, and I congratulate Dr. Iakhiaev on this signal honor,” commented President Dwight J. Fennell. “He continues to work toward elevating academic experiences for our students and thus the College as well. His Herculean motivation and efforts are greatly appreciated for such.” Dr. Iakhiaev’s receipt of this award also serves to increase the research capacity at Texas College across all disciplines. Dr. Iakhiaev anticipates this grant to serve as a project that will foster additional growth and development for research experiences for undergraduate students in the sciences, as well as transcend to interdisciplinary research activities. Further, this award affords prime opportunity to expand the College’s collaborations with the research-intensive components of The University of Texas System.

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Fall 2021 New Staff

The College is excited to welcome two new staff members to the Texas College Family. Joining this upcoming fall term are Noel Scarlett and Mark Thomas. Respectively, the addition of these individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise, as well as professional playing experience, sure to further enhance the Texas College campus.

N OEL S CARLETT

Defensive Coordinator (Football) │ Defensive Line Coach (Football) │ Strength & Conditioning Coach (All Sports) Noel Scarlett will join Texas College as Football’s Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach, as well as Strength and Conditioning Coach for all intercollegiate athletics. Aside from his former football coordinator and coaching roles, which include a stint with the NFL’s Miami Dolphins, as well as a selection to Under Armour’s All-American Football Game, Scarlett also brings nearly two decades of experience to the College as a private trainer and coach. Serving athletes of all levels, Scarlett has trained over 100 NFL athletes, as well as successfully helped countless high school players transition to the collegiate arena and college student-athletes transition to the NFL and CFL. In addition to his coaching expertise, Scarlett also brings professional athletic experience, playing with the Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins, and Dallas Cowboys.

M ARK T HOMAS

Head Coach (Baseball) │ Special Teams Coach (Football) │ Residence Center Manager Mark Thomas will join Texas College as Head Baseball Coach, Special Teams Football Coach, and Residence Center manager this fall. Thomas, whose experience lends itself to a lengthy career as a private coach and mentor for athletes at all levels of play both in the United States and abroad, brings an expertise in maximizing student-athlete development to reach their full potential. In addition to this, Thomas also comes with an impressive athletic background, playing professional and semi-professional baseball, as well as semi-professional football, and even almost qualified for the Olympic trials, which he only missed by one slot.

Please note that some new faculty and staff may not appear in this edition of The INSIDER due to publication deadlines.

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2021 Homecoming

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JOIN US FOR THE FALL 2021 ACADEMIC TERM FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS, CONTACT: JOHN ROBERTS, DEAN OF ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (903) 593-8311, EXT. 2221 │ ADMISSIONS1@TEXASCOLLEGE.EDU

 B IOLOGY  B USINESS A DMINISTRATION

 I NTERDISCIPLINARY S TUDIES (T EACHER E DUCATION )

 L IBERAL S TUDIES  M ATHEMATICS  M USIC  R ELIGION  S OCIAL W ORK  S OCIOLOGY

 C OMPUTER S CIENCE  C RIMINAL J USTICE  E ARLY C HILDHOOD E DUCATION *  E NGLISH  G ENERAL S TUDIES * *A SSOCIATE D EGREE O FFERINGS

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Office of Academic Affairs For information and inquiries regarding the College's academic offerings, please contact the Office of Academic Affairs. Dr. Jan Duncan, Vice President for Academic Affairs (903) 593-8311, ext. 2251 │ advisingsupport@texascollege.edu Office of Admission For information regarding admission to the College, as well as admission status, please contact the Office of Admission. Mr. John Roberts, Dean of Enrollment Management and Registrar (903) 593-8311, ext. 2221 │ admissions1@texascollege.edu Office of Business and Finance For information and inquiries regarding tuition and fees, payments, as well as student accounts, please contact the Office of Business and Finance. Ms. M. Rickenbacker, Vice President for Business and Finance (903) 593-8311, ext. 2200 │ businessoffice@texascollege.edu Office of Financial Aid For information and inquiries regarding financial aid, scholarship opportunities, as well as FAFSA, please contact the Office of Financial Aid. Mrs. D. Mingo, Director of Financial Aid (903) 593-8311, ext. 2299 │ financialaid@texascollege.edu Office of the Registrar For information and inquiries regarding registration for the academic term, please contact the Office of the Registrar. Mr. John Roberts, Dean of Enrollment Management and Registrar (903) 593-8311, ext. 2251 │ registrar2@texascollege.edu Office of Residence Life For information regarding residence life and on-campus housing at Texas College, please contact the Office of Residence Life. Dean Isaac Williams, Dean of Students (903) 593-8311, ext. 4027 │ iwilliams@texascollege.edu Office of Student Affairs For information and inquiries regarding student activities, residence life, security, as well as campus life, please contact the Office of Student Affairs.

Dr. Cynthia Marshall-Biggins, Vice President for Student Affairs (903) 593-8311, ext. 2710 │ studentaffairs1@texascollege.edu 20 The INSIDER │ Volume 16

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The Texas College National Alumni Association (TCNAA) cordially invites all alumni to become active members of their TCNAA local chapters, as well as at the national level. For additional information about becoming an active alumni and member of TCNAA, please contact one of the chapters listed below.

Chicago Chapter (IL) Belvia Strickland, Contact 40 East 102nd Street Chicago, IL 60628 773.821.0536 belviats@yahoo.com Southern New Jersey Chapter (NJ) Rev. Ruby Dorough, President P.O. Box 606 Brown Mill, NJ 08015 609.839.8924

Jasper Chapter (TX) Bertha Thompson, President 11 East Derrick Street Jasper, Texas 75951 409.384.6179

TCNAA - National Gwendolyn Collins, National President 12771 Enchanted Path Houston, TX 77044 713.478.0134 ladyg316@aol.com Los Angeles Chapter (CA) Howard E. Thomas, President 8627 Haas Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90047 323.971.0976 howardthomas4@aol.com Capitol City-DC Chapter (DC)

Longview-Gregg County Chapter (TX) Ruby Perry Brown, President P.O. Box 7214 Longview, Texas 75607 903.753.2592

rubyjbrown@netzero.net Lubbock Chapter (TX) Charles E. Henry, President

Dallas Metro Chapter (TX) Dennis Rice, President 1411 Greenwich Drive Allen, TX 75013

Telesta Riggs, President 7839 Belleflower Drive Springfield, VA 22152 703.644.2846 earlsriggs@verizon.net

9715 Miami Avenue Lubbock, TX 79423 806.794.0741

972.390.0909 d4rice@att.net

South Florida Chapter (FL) Athena S. Jackson, President South Florida Chapter

Fort Worth Chapter (TX) Gwendolyn White, President 2349 Cass Street Fort Worth, TX 76112 817.457.2327 GwenRose@charter.net Houston Chapter (TX) JoAnn Liggins, President 23763 Summount Pines Dr. Houston, TX 77083 713.459.4221 jasl0524@yahoo.com Jacksonville Chapter (TX) Charles Stine, President P.O. Box 1827 Jacksonville, TX 75766 903.586.2996

Suburbia - Dallas Chapter (TX) Tredis Griffin, President

1416 County Ridge DeSoto, TX 75115 972.223.6922

15771 S.W. 53 rd Ct. Miramar, FL 33027 954.815.8506 Avenus55@yahoo.com Florida Broward Chapter (FL) Wanda Walker, President 6441 NW 54 th Ct. Lauderdale, FL 33319 954.647.5839 Wandawalker8189@yahoo.com Georgia-Alabama Chapter (GA & AL) William Parker, Jr., President 251 Laveview Pl Stockbridge, GA 30281 678.289.1795 wparker1906@me.com

Texarkana Chapter (TX & AR) Babe Ruth Stokes Holloway, President P.O. Box 172 Redwater, TX 79761 903.671.2159 Tyler Chapter (TX) Rev. Dr. Orenthia Mason, President 903.279.3544 odmason1@yahoo.com

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WWW.TEXASCOLLEGE.EDU

TEXAS COLLEGE STEERS

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TEXASCOLLEGETV

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Texas College 2404 North Grand Avenue Tyler, Texas 75702

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