The INSIDER - VOLUME 18 SPRING/SUMMER 2022

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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.

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ON THE COVER: Featured on the cover of the Spring/Summer 2022 edition of The INSIDER magazine is a stained glass window that bears the Texas College seal, originally affixed to the windows in the historical Martin Hall auditorium.

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

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 for 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 for Academic Affairs/Compliance Officer, Office of Academic Affairs/Martin Hall 2 nd 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.

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The President’s Pen Celebrating 128 Years LEGACY Scholarship

SACSCOC Approval for Continued Affirmation

TEA Awards Continued Accreditation

Retool Your School

Retool Your School Volunteer Day

10 11 13 14 15 16 17 17 19 20 21 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 31 33 34 35 37 38 39 40 41 42

Social Work Moves Toward Program Accreditation

Rotary Club Recognition

SFI Provides $1 Million Cyber Security Upgrade Enhancing the Integration of STEM and Liberal Arts

Honors Program

Religious Emphasis Week Baccalaureate Service Commencement Exercise

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2022 Graduates

Business Administration Online Degree Program

Economic Impact of Texas College

Homecoming 2022

Butler Appointed to Steer Athletics in New Direction Jackson Takes the Reigns of Steer Football Long Named to Direct Marching Stampede Reyna Named to Lead Steer Softball Alumnus Named Principal of the Year

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All-Conference Awards

Online store

Athletic & Auxiliary Camp

Texas College Wants Your for Fall 2022

Your Future Starts Here Enrollment Directory

Fall 2022 Academic Calendar

TCNAA Chapters Stay Connected

Bring Back the Dance Bring Back the Choir

Giving to Commemorate 128 Years

UNCF Walk for Education

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THE PRESIDENT’S PEN

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Dr. Dwight J. Fennell

Dear Alumni and Friends: We are pleased to provide you with this edition of the INSIDER Magazine. For Texas College, the INSIDER serves as a way of providing news events that are germane to former and planned events of the College. In this regard, we remain excited about the things that have occurred during the 2021 - 2022 school year and are equally excited about what is projected before us for 2022 - 2023. For example, the College has again successfully completed the Fifth Year Interim Report with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This action purports that the institution maintains its accreditation status through 2026. Further, for 2022 the College has maintained her accreditation status with the Texas Education Agency (TEA). This purports that great opportunities exist for students enrolled in any of the eight Educational Preparation Programs (EPP), offered by the Division of Education. The College is now pursuing accreditation in the major of Social Work. To this end, approval of Bench Mark I, of a three - phase process has taken place by the accrediting body, Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). It should also be noted that with all that has occurred with COVID - 19 and the varying mutations, the administration for 2022 - 2023 is planning for face - to - face instruction. Notwithstanding, the administration will continue to monitor aspects of the pandemic and make the necessary adjustments as needed. We will keep our stakeholders updated and informed via the College’s website as well as public relations resources like “The Beacon Newsletter” and the “INSIDER.” I pray that you will enjoy this edition of the INSIDER Magazine. You are also encouraged to share it with others. Thank you for your continued support of Texas College. Sincerely, Dwight J. Fennell President

Contributions may be made online or by US mail. Additionally, you may give online from your device by clicking the gold button to the left. ONLINE: www.texascollege.edu/give US MAIL: Office of the President Texas College 2402 North Grand Avenue Tyler, Texas 75702

CLICK TO GIVE ONLINE NOW

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CELEBRATING 128 YEARS

First Building (1894)

Sunday, January 9, 2022, signified a momentous and significant occasion in the life of Texas College – the 128th Anniversary of the Historically Black College's founding. Inspired by God, a group of Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church ministers founded Texas College on Tuesday, January 9, 1894, less than a mere three decades following the Civil War, to educate a disenfranchised population, a population comprised of the descendants of slaves.

Since the College’s founding, Texas College has served as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the East Texas region and beyond. Having been in the same geographic location for more than 128 years, on the same founding physical site, Texas College has continuously provided educational opportunities since 1894, all at the location that is now 2404 North Grand Avenue in Tyler, Texas.

The historical records of the College provide an account of humble beginnings that started with an enrollment of just six students of varying ages. However, Texas College’s enrollment grew quickly within the same year to comprise more than 100 students because of an interest

in education, believed to be an equalizer of men and women across racial lines and barriers, leading to gainful employment and a better way of life.

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Graduates (1904)

Homecoming Parade (1959)

Amid Jim Crow laws and other discriminatory practices aimed toward the discouragement and intimidation of the learning and social gathering of Blacks, students still came for an education. With no modern transportation, paved roads, sidewalks, or street lamps, students would trek through treacherous terrain on foot, some over 10 miles, all to achieve an education. “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, 128 years later, we can boast that the livelihoods of untold numbers have been

Student-athletes (1967)

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!” Texas College celebrated this historical event virtually with the 128th Anniversary Celebration. To view the virtual celebration, click the gold button below. Additionally provided for review is A Brief Historical Overview of Texas College; to access this publication, click the white button.

CLICK TO VIEW THE 128TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

CLICK TO VIEW A BRIEF HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

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Football Team (1918)

CLICK TO GIVE ONLINE NOW

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SACSCOC APPROVAL FOR CONTINUED AFFIRMATION

With the successful completion of the Fifth Year Interim Report, Texas College is pleased to announce that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has granted approval for continued affirmation. This action signifies that the Texas College maintains its accreditation status through the year 2026. ACCREDITATION STATUS: Texas College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. Questions about the accreditation of Texas College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033 - 4097, by calling (404) 679 4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

TEA AWARDS CONTINUED ACCREDITATION

Prior to the opening of the Spring 2022 semester, the Texas College Educator Preparation Program (EPP) within the Division of Education received official notification of continued accreditation from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). TEA serves as the state agency that oversees both primary and secondary public education within the state of Texas, as well as Educator Preparation Programs at colleges and universities. The status of “accredited” was granted following a rigorous program review of Texas College’s Division of Education. The Division met several standards, including program impact, candidate quality, proficiency in content and pedagogical knowledge, recruitment, and selectivity. The accreditation remains in effect until the next five - year review.

This achievement provides Texas College faculty members with the specialized framework that accelerates educator preparation programs to continually self - assess and conduct evidence - based analysis of their programs and their efficacy. Reaching this evidence - based capstone, rooted in continuous improvement, will ensure that Texas College will produce successful educators.

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On March 28, the 2022 Home Depot Retool Your School grant competition concluded. Over the course of the 28 - day competition, Texas College organically amassed 702,810 votes, which successfully positioned the College in second place to earn a campus improvement grant of $50,000. This year’s success marks the fourth Home Depot Retool Your School grant awarded to Texas College; the College earned a $30,000 grant in 2021 from Home Depot, which was used to renovate the President’s Living Room patio in the Willie Lee Glass Building as an outdoor recreational gathering space for alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the College. To achieve victory in this year’s competition, Texas College and the Texas College National Alumni Association (TCNAA) collaboratively and strategically employed a multitude of efforts to engage and urge stakeholders to vote. Through varied daily initiatives and accountability measures, Texas College effectively and significantly increased individual participation in the 2022 campaign. With this expansion of engaged voters, the College appreciably amplified the securement of votes. The growth in votes for the College is colossal, as evidenced on Day 19 of the competition when 2022’s vote total reached 383,000 votes, surpassing the entire 2021 vote total of 382,999 votes. This milestone is undoubtedly significant and further illustrates the strategic commitment to a successful Retool Your School campaign for 2022. To demonstrate Texas College’s dedication this year, it should be noted that the 2022 competition did not offer bonus challenge votes as it did in 2021’s competition, in which 185,000 bonus votes were offered through the completion of weekly challenges; of the 185,000 bonus challenge votes offered, Texas College accumulated 175,000 votes. Thus, given 2022’s challenge absence of bonus challenge votes, the organic accumulation and sizable increase in votes is indicative of the College’s and TCNAA’s employment of successful strategies. This Herculean feat is expounded upon when consideration is given to institutional size, which the competition accounts for through the use of “clusters” to separate institutions by their enrollment size. RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL Jake Martin, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, is presented the grant award at the 2022 Home Depot Retool Your School Winners' Announcement Ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia, on Tuesday, April 26, 2022.

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Although assigned to Cluster 3, (1,200 student enrollment or less), Texas College overtook Cluster 1 (4,000 or more student enrollment) on Day 15 and continued to lead the entire competition across all three clusters significantly for nearly the remainder of the competition. Respectively, Texas College approximately outvoted Cluster 1’s top rank by 275,000 votes and Cluster 2’s top rank by 295,000 votes. Though strategically effective, the campaign’s success was undoubtedly derivative of the tireless spirit, hard work, persistence, and unwavering commitment to this initiative by our stakeholders, specifically our alumni, stu dents, faculty, and staff. Their collective efforts shattered Texas College’s previously set record in 2021, falling just 64,000 votes short of doubling the former record. The 2022 Retool Your School competition culminated with the Winners' Announcement Ceremony on April 26. Hosted by actor Laz Alonso, with an appearance by actor Terrence J and beats provided by international DJ, DJ Stormy, the ceremony took place in Atlanta, Georgia, with representatives from each winning institution present. Representing Texas College was Jake Martin, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer and 2013 alumnus, who successfully provided oversight to both the 2021 and 2022 Home Depot Retool Your School campaigns and projects. Notably, the 2022 campaign efforts caught the attention of Home Depot. In addition to awarding grants to the HBCUs based upon voting rank, the ceremony also served to announce the top three finalists and winner for the Campaign of the Year award, a grant of an additional $40,000 based upon the effectiveness, innovation, and engagement of the institution’s campaign strategies. Texas College emerged as one of the three finalists for this award, but, regrettably, did not ultimately win. Now that the awarding of the campus improvement grants has officially finalized, Texas College is eager to begin the campus project. The 2022 Retool Your School project will be the renovation of locker rooms for four different intercollegiate athletic teams.

The locker room renovation project will include Football, Volleyball, Men’s Basketball, and Women’s Basketball, as well as the visitor's locker room in the Gus F. Taylor Gymnasium. This renovation project includes the installation of new lockers, mirrors, seating, flooring, and dry erase boards. The updated locker facility will not only provide a renovated space for use throughout their respective seasons, but will also serve as facets of recruitment and retention for current and future student - athletes, as well as a morale booster that carries over to the benefit of alumni, faculty, staff, and the College community. The project will take place this summer; to bring this locker room renovation to fruition, Texas College invites alumni, students, faculty, and staff to volunteer to help complete the project. The Volunteer Day is scheduled for Saturday, July 23, 2022, from 9:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. For additional information, email jmartin@texascollege.edu.

To every single individual who voted this year to ensure a successful campaign, Texas College extends a sincere and grateful “thank you” for your valiant and tireless efforts in the 2022 Home Depot Retool Your School grant competition. Your commitment to this initiative, and congruently Texas College, is undoubtedly evident and genuinely appreciated. Again, thank you!

CLICK TO VIEW THE WINNERS’ ANNOUNCEMENT CEREMONY

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RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL VOLUNTEER DAY SATURDAY, JULY 23, 2022 9:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. CALLING ALL ALUMNI: TEXAS COLLEGE NEEDS YOUR HELP FOR THE 2022 RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL LOCKER ROOM RENOVATION! GIVE BACK TO YOUR ALMA MATER ON SATURDAY, JULY 23, BY VOLUNTEERING YOUR TIME TO HELP COMPLETE THE PROJECT.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND TO VOLUNTEER, CONTACT: JAKE MARTIN, CHIEF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER (903) 593-8311, EXT. 2327 │JMARTIN@TEXASCOLLEGE.EDU

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The Texas College Social Work program, within the Division of Business and Social Sciences, has made strides in meeting accreditation requirements for the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), which the is the national association representing social work education in the United States. In June, Texas College SOCIAL WORK MOVES TOWARD PROGRAM ACCREDITATION

received approval and acceptance of Benchmark I in the three - part accreditation process. Texas College has progressed to Benchmark II, which will be followed by a visit from the CSWE Commissioner this fall. Providing leadership for this effort are two new faculty members, Charlotte Sanders and LaKeshia Harris. Sanders, who serves as the Program Director and Assistant Professor, brings 30 years of real - world social work experience to the program. Most recently serving at Rusk State Hospital in Rusk, Texas, Sanders has also served in a multitude of capacities within the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. In addition to her service within the field of social work, Sanders also carries over a decade of teaching experience, serving as a professor at both Stephen F. Austin State University and Jarvis Christian College, now Jarvis Christian University. Harris, who serves as the Field Director and Assistant Professor, additionally brings over a decade of real - world experience to the Social Work program. Most recently, Harris served as the Director of Alinea Family Hospice in Longview, Texas. Moreover, Harris also carries over a decade of teaching experience, serving as a field instructor at Stephen F. Austin State University. In addition to the aforementioned, Harris also has extensive scholarship experience with multiple conference presentations and the facilitation of other educational trainings. The Council of Social Work Education has over 750 accredited baccalaureate and master’s degree social work programs, as well as individual social work educators, practitioners, and agencies which are dedicated to advancing quality social work education in this country. Through its many initiatives, activities, and centers, CSWE is currently supporting Texas College in attaining accreditation to continue the College’s quality social work education. Furthermore, the CSWE agency has provided opportunities for leadership and professional development, whereby our faculty members serve a central role in achieving the profession’s goals of social and economic justice. CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation as the sole accrediting agency for social work education in the United States and its territories.

CHARLOTTE SANDERS SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM DIRECTOR & ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

LAKESHIA HARRIS SOCIAL WORK FIELD DIRECTOR & ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

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ROTARY CLUB RECOGNITION

Dr. Alexei Iakhiaev, Professor of Biology and Physics, and Dr. Jan Duncan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, pose for a photograph with students Darian Williamson and Celia Polsky at the 2022 Annual Young Citizens Awards Banquet in Tyler on Thursday, April 7, 2022.

For 92 years, the Rotary Club of Tyler has celebrated students across Smith County with their Annual Young Citizens Awards Banquet. A tradition that began in 1930, a committee comprised of regional teachers and counselors annually select a young man and young woman from schools throughout Smith County to be recognized at the banquet. Student selections are based upon the principles of citizenship, courtesy, loyalty, honesty, service, dependability, sportsmanship, and leadership. Texas College's 2022 student honorees were Celia Polsky and Darian Williamson. With their selection, students earned membership to the Rotary Young Citizens Club, as well as received a certificate in commemoration of the honor. In addition to the aforementioned, students also received the Rotary Club's “Little White Book,” an affectionate longstanding tradition for over the past nine decades. Within this book, every Rotary Young Citizens Club member since the inaugural banquet in 1930 is listed respectively by their school. Throughout the occasion's 92-year history, this meaningful and enduring project has expanded to local Rotary Clubs across the globe. In addition to the Rotary Club's recognition of students, the organization likewise honors exemplary educators from each institution, awarding the "Teacher of the Year" accolade. Texas College's 2022 Teacher of the Year was Alexei Iakhiaev, PhD.

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CELIA POLSKY Celia Polsky is a 2022 alumna of Texas College and plans to attend dental school as the next step in her educational journey. Ultimately, she aspires to become an oral surgeon. During her tenure as a student, Polsky was a center back and defensive midfielder for the Texas College Steer Women's Soccer Team. Additionally, she served as Texas College's 2021 - 2022 Miss UNCF.

DARIAN WILLIAMSON Darian Williamson is a junior at Texas College with career aspirations to become a football coach at the collegiate level. Additionally, Williamson is also a linebacker for the Texas College Steer Football Team.

DR. ALEXEI IAKHIAEV Dr. Iakhiaev is a longstanding faculty member at Texas College, currently serving as Professor of Biology and Physics. Notably within the past year, Dr. Iakhiaev was awarded two research grants from the National Science Foundation. With a multitude of publications and extensive experience as a biomedical researcher, he undoubtedly brings a wealth of scholarly value to the campus. With the receipt of his recent grants, Dr. Iakhiaev aims to increase the research capacity at Texas College across all disciplines to enhance research experiences for undergraduate students.

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SFI PROVIDES $1 MILLION CYBER SECURITY UPGRADE

Amid the emerging prevalence of cyber attacks and seven - figure ransoms for hacked data waged against institutions of higher education, Texas College understands the need to ensure the privacy of individuals, and, thus, remains committed to safeguarding confidential information entrusted to the College. To address this developing concern, in March of 2022, Texas College partnered with the Student Freedom Initiative (SFI) to upgrade the College’s cyber security and modernize the information technology (IT) infrastructure. Through the Targeted Capacity - Building Component, a facet of SFI, the program will assist Texas College with efforts to comply with the recently approved Department of Education cyber security requirements, defined within the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Including the expansion of broadband and a multitude of other technological supports, this modernization of IT infrastructure and security is explicitly designed to combat cyber attacks and ensure the security of the College within the cyber realm. To achieve the aforementioned, SFI successfully facilitated a nearly $1 million donation of equipment and services from Cisco to enhance cyber security measures on the Texas College campus. ABOUT CISCO: Cisco, noted as one of SFI’s “anchor donors,” is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Cisco's networking solutions connect people, computing devices and computer networks, allowing people to access or transfer information without regard to differences in time, place or type of computer system. Cisco’s mission is to power an inclusive future for all.

CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CISCO

ABOUT SFI: SFI is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides a catalyst for freedom in professional and life choices for students attending a Minority Serving Institution (MSI) by increasing their social and economic mobility. In close collaboration with participating schools and other strategic partners. The initiative focuses on addressing the wealth gap through the lens of affordable access to a college education, opportunity for hands on professional and life training, integrated student services, and technology enhancement. The program provides support to students that enable their future personal and professional success in a global marketplace and targeted support to participating institutions that increase their resiliency and competitiveness as anchors within their respective communities.

CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SFI

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ENHANCING THE INTEGRATION OF STEM AND LIBERAL ARTS

Division of Natural and Computational Sciences Assistant Professor Sohel Quazi, PhD, aims to enhance and maximize the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) throughout the Texas College campus, as well as across disciplines. To do so, Dr. Quazi will employ his recently awarded grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). With the approval of his proposal “Re - constructing the Campus Cyberinfrastructure of a Small, Liberal Arts HBCU in Order to Maximize STEM Innovation and Integration,” NSF has awarded Dr. Quazi a one - year grant in the amount $100,000, for which he will serve as the principal investigator. The main focus of the project will prove beneficial to the subject areas of computer information science and engineering. As institutions of higher learning return to normality, a paradigmatic shift that has occurred, thus little attention has been paid to the alterations and

modifications that may be needed in the Campus Cyberinfrastructure (CC) of a small, private liberal arts college in order to maximize outcomes in the preparation of students for entry into, and excellence in performance, in STEM graduate and professional programs. Texas College will utilize the planning grant to complete an assessment of its current infrastructure in order to identify the elements needed to reconstruct the system to better accommodate the delivery of STEM and liberal arts subject matter, which allows for research in such a way that Texas College students can excel in STEM graduate programs. The broader impact of the grant will generate not merely information, but actual knowledge that can advance STEM achievement among the country’s 5,228 liberal arts colleges within the United States, including the ten liberal arts HBCUs. Accordingly, the planning grant will serve as a pathway for the greater preparation of liberal arts students at HBCUs and other liberal arts colleges beyond Texas College.

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HONORS PROGRAM On Wednesday, March 23, 2022, Texas College virtually hosted the Honors annual academic event to recognize and celebrate student academic excellence. There are three distinctions of academic excellence recognized during the Honors Program: · Presidential Scholars · Dean’s List Scholars · Honor Roll Scholars Program. The Honors Program serves as an awarded to students who meet the criteria described to the right; respectively accompanying each criterion is the award received by the student. The academic designations are for the Spring 2021 and Fall 2021 academic terms. The aforementioned academic honors are

CLICK TO VIEW THE HONORS PROGRAM

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RELIGIOUS EMPHASIS WEEK

As a faith - based institution, founded by ministers of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Religious Emphasis Week is an annual event in which the College pauses to collectively honor God and to join together for spiritual refreshment. With a multitude of engaging virtual activities throughout the week, the campus celebrated the significant occasion from February 21 - 23. Coordinated by Rev. Dr. Jamie L. Capers, Campus Minister, the 2022 Religious Emphasis Week included: · Opening Worship Service led by Dr. Edward Robinson · Lecture series Part I led by Rev. Dr. Matt Boulter · Midday Devotion led by Ms. Ruby Smith

CLICK TO VIEW THE RELIGIOUS EMPHASIS WEEK ACTIVITES

· Lecture Series Part II led by Rev. Brian Lightner · Closing Worship Service led by Rev. Dr. Kai Horn Listed below is a photograph and an abbreviated biography of each speaker.

Dr. Edward Robinson serves as the minister of the North Tenneha Church of Christ in Tyler. In addition to his ministerial duties, Dr. Robinson is also a faculty member at Texas College, serving as a History Professor.

Rev. Dr. Matt Boulter serves as the Associate Rector of the Christ Church in Tyler, Texas.

Rev. Dr. Jamie L. Capers serves as the proud pastor of the Miles Chapel CME Church in Tyler, Texas. In addition to his service to Miles Chapel, Dr. Capers is also the Campus Minister, as well as Instructor of Religion, at Texas College.

Ms. Ruby Smith is a member of the Greater New Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas. She is also a staff member at Texas College, serving as the Business Office Cashier.

Rev. Brian Lightner serves as the Senior Pastor of St. James CME Church in Tyler, Texas.

Rev. Dr. Kai Horn serves as the pastor of Hopewell Temple CME Church in Texarkana, Texas.

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To begin the 2022 Commencement Activities, Texas College hosted the 2022 Baccalaureate Service virtually on Friday, May 6. The baccalaureate service, a centuries - old tradition in higher education, affords graduates one final opportunity for spiritual development and fellowship before graduation. Rev. Dr. Clarence Kelby Heath, Pastor of the Carter Metropolitan Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, Texas, served as the occasion’s speaker. To view the 2022 Baccalaureate Service, click the purple button to the right. BACCALAUREATE SERVICE

CLICK TO VIEW THE BACCALAUREATE SERVICE

COMMENCEMENT EXERCISE

Though in a virtual landscape, the 2022 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 Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, City of Tyler Mayor Don Warren, City Councilmember Dr. Shirley McKellar, County Commissioner and Alumna JoAnn Hampton, as well as Texas College Trustees Dr. Patricia McKenzie, Gwendolyn Collins, and Sarah Wilborn. Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr., the Presiding Prelate of the Second Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, delivered the commencement address. Following Bishop Thomas’ inspirational speech, the graduating 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: Irvin Yanez, Valedictorian; and Celia Polsky, Salutatorian. The College also awarded two honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees to Dr. Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr. and Dr. Russell O. Fuller, Sr. To view a the 2022 Commencement Exercise, click the gold button below. Additionally provided for review is the listing of the 2022 graduates.

IRVIN YANEZ 2022 VALEDICTORIAN

CLICK TO VIEW THE COMMENCEMENT EXERCISE

CELIA POLSKY 2022 SALUTATORIAN

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2022 GRADUATES

Muhammed Yassir Amin Markeithius Baker Zachary Andrew Barker

Tyesha Denise Hardemon Dana Alleen Henderson Jazmyne Ma'Kylea Ke'Areian Hicks # Dajuan Michael Hill JB Hines

Jaylon Redwin Justice Rochell Christian Edward Rodriquez + Makayla Simone Sanders Jared Denntae Shears Emorson Shelvin Semaj Queon Short Ashley Janay Simon + Brittany Vanae Simon Kourtnie M. Smith Dejah Monay Stewart Dontavia Vaughn Kethern Darnay Vaughn, Jr. Brittany Washington Bianca Nicole Watts Jasmine Calise Weatherall Murriel Henton Webb # Daminicio Christopher White # Kiahna Lashaye Williams Kiara Sade Williams Olympia Charmaine Williams Rashalon Antionette Williams Marques Williams - Bey Chantia Nicolette Womack # Jamison Richard Wooden Dyamond D'Chaun Woods Irvin Yanez V* Jerron Khristopher Young Harold Christopher Young III

Montel Lee Barree Mollie L. Blakely Devin Jemal Bradford Carl Leroy Bradley Lynzie Brigham # Delvonte Deyman Quez Timon Brown John Len Brown, Jr. Ladarriuss Jarvelle Brown Nekia Lynette Natoya Chappell

Levann Lorenzo Jackson Yvonne Shawn James * Katriarna Tashee Johnson Thalia Giselle Johnson # Ronald Keith Johnson II Dezsek Kindles Gayla Monique King Viola Rena King Lauren Lafitte Dayza Me'Ann Lane * Jeremy Charles Lavergne I'Yanna Daizione Leaks Breana Aundrea LeBlanc

LaJavia Jean Collins * Hernando Colorado Desere Nichole Cooper * Eriann Raqul Cooper * Taylor Nichole Crabtree # Trevon Devante Donnell Myoshi A. Dudley Janvier Emmanuel Laura Eliza Floyd * Michael Torrence Garcia, Jr. Amoiya Gentry Ariel Lafaye Gill Shelley Alexandra Goldson Shania WF Gosa Devin Grant Chasmyn Dametria Green Lareese Hanks

Kentauri O. Lee Travian K. Lewis Kenneth J. Lewis, Jr.

Jeffrey Lynn Mackey, Jr. Quinton Jaqon Mason + Brishe Ashunti Mone McKinley Briauna L. Mergerson Jacorian Deon Miller Alexia Nicole Nance - Thompson Celia Polsky S* Medric Lamonte Poole Rontrel Randall

V Valedictorian # Cum Laude Note that this listing is not an official source for determining completion of graduation requirements. S Salutatorian * Summa Cum Laude + Magna Cum Laude

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BUTLER APPOINTED TO STEER ATHLETICS IN NEW DIRECTION

Texas College is pleased to announce that Randy Butler has been appointed as Athletic Director for the Steers. Butler, a proud alumnus of Texas College, eagerly looks forward to serving his alma mater as he steers the College's intercollegiate athletic programs in a new direction. Aside from his tenure as a student, Butler is no stranger to Texas College, nor this role, having previously served as Athletic Director from 2012 - 2013. In addition, Butler has served in a multitude of administrative roles for the College within the Office of Admission and the Office of Financial Aid, and even coached running backs for the Steers. Now, heading into the 2022 - 2023 seasons, he aims to pick up where left off.

Butler is an East Texas native and alumnus of Chapel Hill High School. He holds the Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Texas College and the Associate of Arts degree in General Studies from Tyler Junior College. Butler is also a proud Veteran of the United States Navy; he served in the Gulf War in Iraq, as well as Operation Sharp Edge in Liberia Africa, and received an honorable discharge and medal for exemplary service.

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Randy Butler

JACKSON TAKES THE REIGNS OF STEER FOOTBALL

Texas College is pleased to announce that Jarrail Jackson has been named Head Football Coach for the Steers. Jackson, a former University of Oklahoma receiver and returner standout, brings a wealth of energy and experience to the College, both as a coach and player. Most recently serving as Tyler Junior College’s Offensive Coordinator, his 17 - year professional career has spanned a multitude of roles with various teams at the professional, collegiate, and secondary level. Notably inclusive of the aforementioned are the XFL’s Dallas Renegades, the Arizona Cardinals, the Miami Dolphins, Dartmouth College, Washington State, and Mississippi State, just to name a few. Now, Coach Jackson has been handed the reigns to the Steer Football program in preparation of the 2022 season. As no stranger to Tyler and East Texas, Coach Jackson’s well - established rapport within the region and beyond positions Texas College for an exciting future. Well - known and respected for his ability to recruit, accompanied with his breadth of professional experiences, of which has situated him alongside coaching legends such as Bob Stoops and Hal Mumme, the father of the “air raid” offense, the naming of Coach Jackson as the Steers’ Head Football Coach will undoubtedly serve as a benefit to the campus both on and off the field.

Jarrail Jackson

In addition to his notable professional tenure, Coach Jackson’s career as a player is likewise impressive. Originally a Houston native, Coach Jackson played football at Houston Yates High School and continued his student - athlete career as an Oklahoma Sooner, where he earned First Team All - Big 12 honors as a receiver and kick returner. Memorably, Jackson is noted for returning a punt for a touchdown in the 1996 Texas - OU game, which sparked the Sooners to a 30 - 27 overtime victory over the Longhorns. As a senior in Bob Stoops’ first year at Oklahoma, in which Mike Leach as offensive coordinator, Jackson caught 44 passes for a team - leading 572 yards and a team - high six touchdowns. Following his collegiate career, Jackson spent two years with the Buffalo Bills and also played several arena football league seasons. Coach Jackson holds the Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma.

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LONG NAMED TO DIRECT MARCHING STAMPEDE

Texas College is pleased to announce that Samuel W. Long, Jr. has been named Director of Bands. Long brings a wealth of experience to the Texas College Band, with a tenure of service as a band director that spans nearly two decades. Most recently, Long served as Director of Bands and Fine Arts Director for Royal High School in Brookshire, Texas. Under his tutelage, the Royal High School Band amassed a multitude of awards and accolades, many of which tout first place recognition. Throughout his 18 - year tenure, Long has consistently proven himself as a leader committed not only to growing and enhancing his program, but congruently committed to the success of each student - musician. Imparting his knowledge and skills as a musician, Long aims to provide all students with positive classroom experiences that will help develop them into influential musicians. Through consistent hard work, rehearsal, and practice, students will be prepared for any and all performances. Chiefly, Long emphasizes his preparation tactics as those of the highest level to allow students to continue their musical journey beyond graduation in a multitude of avenues. In addition to Long’s impressive résumé as a band director, he also carries significant performance experience. As part of

Prairie View A&M’s Marching Storm, Long ascended through the ranks to ultimately earn the position of Head Drum Major. He also served as the Baritone Section Leader, and participated in the Marching Band, Jazz Band, Brass Ensemble, and the Symphonic Band while at Prairie View A&M University. Notably, Long marched in President George W. Bush’s first term Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washington, D.C. Long is a native of Waco, Texas, and holds the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas, as well as the Master of Arts Degree in Music Scoring and Composition from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California.

Samuel W. Long, Jr.

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REYNA NAMED TO LEAD STEER SOFTBALL

Texas College is pleased to announce that Selena Reyna has been named Head Softball Coach for the Steers. With experience in both coaching and playing the game, Reyna’s level of expertise and energy is exactly what is needed to steer Texas College Softball in a new direction. Most recently, Reyna served as the Head Coach of Impact Gold, an elite nationally - recognized softball

organization in Pasadena, Texas. In addition to her head coaching duties, she also served as a private hitting and fielding instructor at D - Bat in Webster, Texas, a premier baseball and softball training facility. Prior to these roles, Reyna served as an assistant softball coach for San Jacinto Community College in Webster, where her team earned accolades such as Co - Conference Region XIV Champions and Region XVI Tournament Champions. Aside from Reyna’s coaching experience, her tenure as a player is notable itself. As a high school student - athlete at South Houston High School, she lettered all four years in softball; three of those years were accompanied by all - district recognitions. Serving as the team captain at South Houston High School, Reyna earned an athletic scholarship to play softball at Ball State University, an NCAA Division I softball program.

As a collegiate student - athlete, Reyna’s skill, dedication, and hard work continued to pay off. Throughout her tenure at Ball State, she was a four - year starter for the softball team and earned individual honors from the Mid - American Conference (MAC) that include the All - MAC Freshman Team and MAC West Player of the Week. During her time as a player, Ball State claimed the title of MAC Tournament Champions, MAC Regular Season Champions, and advanced to the NCAA Softball Regionals. Reyna is a native of Houston, Texas. She holds the Bachelor of General Studies Degree with minors is Sports Studies and Coaching from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.

Selena Reyna 26

ALUMNUS NAMED PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR Dallas Independent School District celebrates teaching excellence by recognizing outstanding educators who are make a difference in the lives of students every single day. Meet 2021 - 2022 Principal of the Year Michael Jackson.

Michael Jackson has served as the founding principal of Sudie L. Williams Talented and Gifted Academy for the last four years. A native of Dallas and proud Dallas ISD graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, he is especially proud to serve as an educator in his home community. He is an honors graduate (summa cum laude) of Texas College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in History, a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington, where he earned a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education at the University of Texas at Austin, as a fellow in the Cooperative Superintendency Program. Inspired by his own teachers, he is a 22 - year veteran educator, having served as a teacher, teacher mentor, basketball coach, grade - level chair, campus instructional coach, AVID coordinator, assistant principal, and principal (elementary and secondary) – all in Dallas ISD.

On his journey, he has been recognized as a Campus Teacher of the Year, Magnet School Principal of the Year, and earned Master Principal designation. He has also served on the Chief of Schools’ Focus Group, the Superintendent’s Principals Group, and has presented on various aspects of leadership in the district and surrounding communities through Region 10. When he was assistant principal, his school won the National Blue Ribbon Award for achievement from the U.S. Department of Education, and most recently, Sudie L. Williams TAG Academy has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as the #6 ranked elementary school in the state of Texas. His motive has always been to “pay it forward, as the students deserve it” and his two favorite mottos are: “Give the people light, and they will find their way” and “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.”

Michael Jackson is one of three 2021 - 2022 Choice Principal of the Year recipients. Winners were announced at the inaugural 2021 - 2022 Dallas ISD Educator of the Year Awards, in partnership with the Dallas Education Foundation, presented by Reliant at the Statler Hotel on May 10, 2022.

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Michael Jackson

ALL-CONFERENCE AWARDS

FOOTBALL HONORABLE MENTION Montel Barree Elijah Jones MEN’S SOCCER CHAMPION OF CHARACTER Ofentse Diale WOMEN’S SOCCER CHAMPION OF CHARACTER Hillary Ramirez VOLLEYBALL CHAMPION OF CHARACTER Akaiya Fisher MEN’S BASKETBALL HONORABLE MENTION Kevon Freeman CHAMPION OF CHARACTER Kevon Freeman WOMEN’S BASKETBALL FIRST TEAM Mystique Womack SECOND TEAM Taylor Crabtree CHAMPION OF CHARACTER Lauren Lafitte BASEBALL CHAMPION OF CHARACTER Enoch Jenkins SOFTBALL SECOND TEAM Karaline Creech CHAMPION OF CHARACTER Andrea Vasquez

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JOIN US FOR THE FALL 2022 ACADEMIC TERM FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS, CONTACT: JOHN ROBERTS, DEAN OF ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (903) 593-8311, EXT. 2221 │ ADMISSIONS1@TEXASCOLLEGE.EDU

· I NTERDISCIPLINARY S TUDIES (T EACHER E DUCATION )

· B IOLOGY · B USINESS A DMINISTRATION

· 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 & Office of the Registrar For information and inquiries regarding admission to the College, as well as admission status, please contact the Office of Admission. 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 Office of Admission: (903) 593-8311, ext. 2221 │ admissions1@texascollege.edu Office of the Registrar: (903) 593-8311, ext. 2251 │ registrar2@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 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

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36 Dates and activities may be subject to change. Check the College's website for updates at: www.texascollege.edu

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.

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) Telesta Riggs, President 7839 Belleflower Drive Springfield, VA 22152 703.644.2846 earlsriggs@verizon.net South Florida Chapter (FL) Athena S. Jackson, President South Florida Chapter

Chicago Chapter (IL) Belvia Strickland, Contact 40 East 102nd Street Chicago, IL 60628 773.821.0536 belviats@yahoo.com

Jasper Chapter (TX) Bertha Thompson, President

11 East Derrick Street Jasper, Texas 75951 409.384.6179

Southern New Jersey Chapter (NJ) Rev. Ruby Dorough, President P.O. Box 606 Brown Mill, NJ 08015 609.839.8924

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

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

Lubbock Chapter (TX) Charles E. Henry, President

9715 Miami Avenue Lubbock, TX 79423 806.794.0741

972.390.0909 d4rice@att.net

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

Texarkana Chapter (TX & AR) Babe Ruth Stokes Holloway, President P.O. Box 172 Redwater, TX 79761 903.671.2159

Georgia-Alabama Chapter (GA & AL) William Parker, Jr., President 251 Laveview Pl Stockbridge, GA 30281 678.289.1795 wparker1906@me.com

Tyler Chapter (TX) Rev. Dr. Orenthia Mason, President 903.279.3544 odmason1@yahoo.com

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