The INSIDER - Spring/Summer 2024

SPR ING/SUMMER 2024 VOLUME 22

A TEXAS COLLEGE PUBLICATION

THE INSIDER

CORE VALUES To address the mission, the College incorporates the core values of: Academic Excellence - Developing 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, 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.

MISSION STATEMENT Texas College is a Historically Black College founded in 1894, by the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, now the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME). 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. (Restated October 26, 2023)

THE INSIDER VOLUME 22 | SPRING/SUMMER 2024 EDITION

CONTR I BUTORS I N TH I S I SSUE

ON THE COVER Featured on the cover of the Spring/Summer 2024 edition of The INSIDER Magazine is a photograph of the Texas College mace posted on stage at the 2024 Honors Convocation.

DR. DWIGHT J. FENNELL President JAKE MARTIN Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

ABOUT THE INSIDER 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

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: Affairs/Martin Hall 2nd 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, 2nd floor, 2404 North Grand Avenue, Tyler, Texas 75702, (903) 593-8311 ext. 2201 office, (903) 363-1828 fax. Texas College, Attn: Vice President for Academic Affairs/Compliance Officer, Office of Academic

Office of Public Relations 2404 North Grand Avenue Tyler, Texas 75702 TELEPHONE (903) 593-8311, ext. 2327 EMAIL jmartin@texascollege.edu

CONTENTS PAGE 1 THE PRES I DENT ’ S PEN PAGE 3 1 3 0 YEARS STRONG PAGE 5 TEXAS COL LEGE FUTURES CAMPA I GN PAGE 7 FOUNDERS ’ PROGRAM PAGE 9 FOUNDERS ’ PROGRAM PHOTO GAL LERY PAGE 1 1 HONORS CONVOCAT I ON PAGE 1 3 HONORS CONVOCAT I ON PHOTO GAL LERY PAGE 1 4 HONORS SCHOLARS PAGE 1 5 BACCALAUREATE SERV I CE PAGE 1 6 COMMENCEMENT EXERC I SE

PAGE 1 9 COMMENCEMENT PHOTO

GAL LERY PAGE 2 1 CLASS OF 2 0 2 4 PAGE 23 ALPHA CH I PAGE 24 FREE TEXT BOOKS & COURSE MATER I ALS PAGE 25 E - SPORTS PROGRAM LAUNCHED PAGE 27 TEACH I NG STEM CENTER PAGE 28 KEEPERS OF THE F LAME PAGE 29 2 0 2 4 RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL PAGE 32 BLACK H I STORY MONTH PAGE 37 PROFESSORS PUBL I SH NEW BOOKS

PAGE 39 ALUMN I SPOT L I GHT PAGE 40 NEXT GENERAT I ON OF STEERS PAGE 4 1

STEERS RECE I VE B I D FOR NAT I ONAL TOURNAMENT PAGE 43 STEER SOFTBAL L MAKES RRAC TOURNAMENT PAGE 44 ATHLET I C BANQUET PAGE 45 ATHLET I C BANQUET AWARDS PAGE 46 ATHLET I C RECOGN I T I ONS PAGE 47 YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE PAGE 48 BUS I NESS ADM I N I STRAT I ON ONL I NE DEGREE PAGE 46 ATHLET I C & AUX I L I ARY CAMP PAGE 47 BR I NG THE CHO I R BACK 2 0 2 4 PAGE 48 HOMECOM I NG 2 0 2 4 PAGE 49 FAL L 2 0 2 4 COL LEGE CALENDAR PAGE 49 ONL I NE STORE PAGE 50 STAY CONNECTED

THE PRESIDENT’S PEN

DR. DWIGHT J. FENNELL Dr. Dwight J. Fennel l , Sr. is the 23rd President of Texas Col lege and has served the Col lege fai thful ly in this capaci ty for over 15 years.

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Dear Alumni and Friends:

We are pleased to provide you with the Spring/Summer 2024 edition of The INSIDER Magazine. This biannual publication is designed to keep you abreast of the salient activities and planned events of the College. As you may be aware, Texas College’s theme for the 2023-2024 academic year is “Charting the Course: Moving from Good to Great.” In this regard, the College has collectively embodied this theme and Texas College continues to progress and move forward with growth, aesthetic enhancements and fiscal stability, while also continuing to embrace a brighter future. We believe that with your continued support and involvement in Texas College, this becomes more easily attainable as the delivery of the Mission and Core Values of the institution remains essential. As you peruse this publication, we ask that you give attention to the many new initiatives at the College. These programs, along with many other items, are included herein for your perusal. I pray that you will enjoy this edition of The INSIDER Magazine. You are encouraged to share this volume with others. You are also encouraged to visit the campus of Texas College when you are in the vicinity. Thank you for your continued support and best wishes!

Sincerely, Dwight Fennell, Ph.D. President

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130 YEARS STRONG January 9, 2024, signified a momentous occasion in the life of Texas College – the 130th Anniversary of the College's founding. Founded in 1894 by a group of ministers from the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, now the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church, 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 130 years. As the College embraces the 130th year, it does so with determination and commitment to continuing its mission for the next 130 years, ensuring that Texas College remains to serve the generations to come.

Since that watershed moment in 1894, Texas College has brought life into the community and served as a beacon of hope for the East Texas region and beyond . Having been in the same geographic location for more than 130 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.

TEXAS COLLEGE’S FIRST BUILDING (1894)

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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 modes of 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, 130 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 commemorate the anniversary, see below for A Brief Historical Overview of Texas College

TEXAS COLLEGE’S FIRST GRADUATES (EARLY 1900S)

TEXAS COLLEGE POPULATION (1901)

BR I EF H I STOR I CAL OVERV I EW

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TEXAS COLLEGE FUTURES CAMPAIGN

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FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT

Dear Friend of Texas College:

We are now in another special season in the life of Texas College - the 130th anniversary. The date of January 9, 2024, is reflective of the College’s existence for more than a century in the same location of her founding. The date also speaks of untold numbers of individuals who have graced her campus, walked her hallowed halls, and launched careers into the next stages of their lives. But as we celebrate a storied history, has Texas College truly pushed to her potential? Or, have we chosen to settle for less than greatness? To this end, we have begun the “Texas College Futures Campaign.” The campaign observes the 130th anniversary, but will also focus on raising at least $10 million for the benefit of: Student scholarships to recruit, reward, and retain quality students 1. Sustain campus enhancement and viability - maintain buildings, facilities, and grounds 2. Expand infrastructure, technology, and deferred maintenance 3. Why a campaign and why now? As the oldest institution of higher education in the City of Tyler, now is the time to move from good to great. Texas College has accomplished much to prepare and educate students, but I am confident we can make greater strides for their future and the future of the College through the success of this campaign. I am pleased to share that the “Texas College Futures Campaign” has received the endorsement of the Texas College National Alumni and Ex-Student Association with contributions and a pledge toward $1 million of the goal, but more funds are needed. Please consider being a partner in the “Texas College Futures Campaign” as follows:

$130,000 - Diamond Partner 1. $13,000 - Gold Partner 2. $1,300 - Silver Partner 3. $130 - Bronze Partner 4.

Please note that no contribution is too small or large. Please also note that all contributions are tax deductible with an acknowledgement letter from the College. Thank you in advance for your support. To make your campaign gift online, visit www.texascollege.edu/give ; to make your gift by mail, please send to Texas College, Office of the President, 2404 N. Grand Ave., Tyler, TX 75702.

Warmest regards, Dwight Fennell, Ph.D. President

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FOUNDERS’ PROGRAM "...when people came to this property for an education, because they felt it was a safe place to pray; it provided for a safe and comfortable environment to socialize;

it was a place that inspired hope and vision; and, it offered an environment for preparing for a better and bright future with receipt of an education." Founded in 1894, the emergence of Texas College was amid an era where education was reserved for a select population and even dangerous to pursue for those restricted. Despite this climate, visionary ministers of the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, now the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME), sought differently and selflessly founded Texas College on the very grounds that it stands today.

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL MAKES REMARKS

Texas College formally commemorated the 130th Anniversary of the College's founding in 1894. With alumni, students, faculty, staff, and members of the community gathered in the Gus F. Taylor Gymnasium, the convocation rightfully paid homage to Texas College's history. "As we sit and experience today’s program, I want us for a moment to reflect about what it may have been like 130 years ago," noted President Fennell.

TEXAS COLLEGE STUDENT AND CHOIR SOLOIST JARED SHEARS PERFORMS LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING

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While the Founders' Program focused on the College's rich history, it also featured the College in the modern era. To portray the evolution and growth of Texas College, a video presentation was shown. Contrasting the historical campus against its current modernized facilities, the historical montage illustrated the colossal enhancements the College has experienced. Rev. Josef DeWaynne Sorrells, Texas College Visiting Lecturer and Greater Miles Chapel CME Church Pastor, served as the speaker for the Founders’ Program. Rev. Sorrells delivered a powerful and insightful message to commemorate the occasion. His delivery began with an anecdote, citing his selection as speaker to be a “full-circle moment,” as his beloved grandfather was a 1964 Texas College graduate. As Rev. Sorrells began to transition into the heart of his message, he removed his clerical collar, which alluded to the compelling and passionate forthcoming message. Recounting a multitude of historical events that Texas College has persevered through and experienced over the past 130 years, Rev. Sorrells emphatically asserted that “it is because of this college” that countless of alumni have been educated and empowered for a better life due to their experience at Texas College. Rev. Sorrells’ message climaxed as he referenced the College’s mantra “give the people light and they will find their way,” challenging Texas College to “not dare dim their light,” because the impact on students is too great.

REV. JOSEF SORRELLS DELIVERS THE FOUNDERS’ PROGRAM ADDRESS

This sentiment extended to the audience, imploring them to shine their light brightly and to “trust in the source of their light,” which is God. Additional remarks were provided by Trustee Gwendolyn Collins, Texas College National Alumni Association (TCNAA) President, Dr. Cynthia Marshall- Biggins, Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Jan Duncan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Miss Tashira Johnson, Student Government Association President, and Miss A’Nayzia Jefferson, Miss Texas College, as well as awe-inspiring performances by the Texas College Choir. The Founders' Program stream is provided below for review.

FOUNDERS ’ PROGRAM STREAM

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FOUNDERS’ PROGRAM PHOTO GALLERY

MR. DEXTER JONES AND PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL

TRUSTEE GWENDOLYN COLLINS

DR. CYNTHIA MARSHALL-BIGGINS

DR. JAN DUNCAN

FIRST LADY ANGELIA FENNELL

REV. JOSEF SORRELLS

MISS TASHIRA JOHNSON

MISS A’NAYZIA JEFFERSON

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REV. DR. EDWARD ROBINSON

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL

TRUSTEE ORENTHIA MASON MISS L’DEEJIA SHACKELFORD

MR. CLAUDE HENRY

MR. LONNIE COLLINS

MS. MELBA WILSON

MS. RT DEBOSE

MS. ALICE MOSLEY

MR. HENRY COTTON

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HONORS CONVOCATION On Wednesday, April 10, 2024, Texas College hosted the 2024 Honors Convocation. The Honors Convocation serves as an annual academic program to recognize and celebrate student academic excellence. During the convocation, three distinctions of academic excellence are recognized: Presidential Scholars Full-time students who maintain a grade point average of 3.80 - 4.00 for two (2) consecutive semesters (Spring – Fall) with no grades less than a “C” while enrolled in at least 12 semester hours Full-time students who maintain high scholastic averages with a grade point average of 3.50 to 3.79 in regular course work for two (2) consecutive semesters (Spring – Fall) with no grades less than a “C.” Honor Roll Scholars Full-time students enrolled in at least 12 semester hours of regular course work, who have achieved a semester grade point average of 3.00 or greater. The aforementioned academic honors were awarded to students who met the criteria described above; respectively accompanying each criterion is the award received by the student. The academic designations are for the Spring 2023 and Fall 2023 academic terms. of regular course work. Dean’s List Scholars

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR PLAQUE

DEAN’S LIST SCHOLAR MEDAL

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HONOR ROLL SCHOLAR PIN

Dr. Edward Robinson, Associate Professor of History and Religion, served as the Honors Convocation speaker. He delivered an inspiring address, challenging the audience to be PIMPs, his acronym for a public intellectual with moral principles. Honors Convocation also featured musical selections from the Texas College Choir, as well as presentations and remarks from the Texas College administration and faculty, as well as student leaders. Collectively, across the three designations, the College recognized 129 students as scholars for their academic achievements. The Honors Convocation stream is provided below for review.

HONORS CONVOCAT ION STREAM

DR. EDWARD ROBINSON DELIVERS THE HONORS CONVOCATION ADDRESS

MISS A’NAYZIA JEEFERSON, MISS TEXAS COLLEGE, RECEIVES HER DEAN’S LIST MEDAL

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J, FENNELL MAKES REMARKS AT HONORS CONVOCATION

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HONORS CONVOCATION PHOTO GALLERY

MR. JOHN ROBERTS AND MS. MILLICENT RICKENBACKER

DR. JAN DUNCAN

DR. HAMAD ALI

MR. MINGLE MOORE

MISS ANIYAH BICKHAM

MR. CHARLES SHAW

MR. ROOSEVELT WILLIAMS

MISS ASIA BROWN

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HONORS SCHOLARS

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS Stephen Ajibola Gloria Biolo Ariana Chapa Reece McKenzie Synceir Mullen Andre Nascimento Ja’Taveon Spears Sheena Thigpen DEAN’S LIST SCHOLARS

Tori Campos Lastronia Carpenter Fernando Cervantes Sean Chagolla Percy Chavis III ShaNairia Cleaver Don Cooks Karaline Creech Torey Crozier Qyrique Dabon Timothy Denton II Laquishia Donnell Necolas Edwards Travion Evans JaKayda Fountain Domonique French Natalie Garcia Alexa Gracia Diego Gray Sensiria Green Keith Greenwood Travis Hall Te'Aire Hambrick Quoteshia Harris James Henault Taylor Henderson Tyesha High Deiontray Hill Seyvion Hollands Jahmal Irvin Ellison James Camron Johnese Aniah Johnson Marques Jones Yoppe Kalasa Inchantra Kendrick Jeremiah Keys Danye Kight akeeyssa Cooper Ja'Coby Lewis Hyacinth Henderson-Holt Leslie Herrera-Merchan CuJuan Dail Javon Davis

Kaitlynn Lewis Cassandra Loftis Luis Lopez Timothy Mast Salise Matlock

Kaleb Matthews Victoria Mitchell Mathilde Mujawabera Eric Ndayambaje Isaiah Neguse JaKyevia Nickerson Jose Olvera Ciera Omotosho Rashad Parms Paris Patterson Alyssa Pillow Angelo Ponds KaiLyn Primus Hugo Ramirez Hillary Ramirez Canya Ray Joshua Robertson Gashyah Robinson Joanna Robles Kamera Rockwell Abryuh Sandles Samohti'ja Smith Astaria Smith Daquillan Smith Daijah Smith Da'Lontay Stevens Da'Vontay Stevens I sadore Stewart Rishon Taylor Andrea Vasquez Keyara Vialpando Jayla Wade Stephen Wilkinson Markayla Williams Caulan Williams Darian Williamson Christopher Winters Clara Taylor Jason Torres

Nyah Arredondo Gynna Becerra Malachi Burrell-Zellars Jakovi Dabbs Shatoya DelValle Davon Duffey Gavin Greenfield A’Nayzia Jefferson Mabebe Kuka Taleyia Lee Tyler Mitchell Rodney Motley Ashley Patterson Alexandria Payne-Blount

Emmanuel Rafiki Brianna Robinson Khalya Simmons Shelisa Todd

Jessica Wallace Charnae Warren HONOR ROLL SCHOLARS Christie Allen

Richard Anderson Arrey Ayukokata Rowry Bailey Nnamdi Banks-Eke Rodolfo Benavides Dylan Bohuslavicky Chadaja Boykins Knitique Branch

Sharon Brooks Jazzmyn Brown Timothy Brown Kenneth Brown

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BACCALAUREATE SERVICE

To begin the 2024 Commencement Activities, Texas College hosted the 2024 Baccalaureate Service on Friday, May 3. The baccalaureate service, a centuries-old tradition in higher education, affords graduates one final opportunity for spiritual development and fellowship before graduation. Rev. Dr. Willie C. Champion served as the Baccalaureate Speaker. As former Texas College Acting President, former CME Church Presiding Elder, former Neylandville, Texas, Mayor, and current Neylandville City Councilman, Rev. Dr. Champion delivered a powerful and uplifting message to the Class of 2024. To comprehensively celebrate the occasion, additional remarks were provided from President Dwight J. Fennell, Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Trustee Terrance Washington, the Honorable Dr. Shirley McKellar, City of Tyler Councilmember, Dr. Jan Duncan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Cynthia Marshall- Biggins, Vice President for Student Affairs, and Rev. Josef Sorrells, Campus Minister and Visiting Lecturer, as well as performances by the Texas College Choir. The soon-to-be graduates were also provided gifts from the College and the Texas College National Alumni Association during the ceremony.

REV. DR. WILLIE C. CHAMPION DELIVERS THE BACCALAUREATE ADDRESS

To view the 2024 Baccalaureate Service stream, click the purple button below.

V I EW BACCALAUREATE SERV I CE STREAM

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL MAKES REMARKS

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COMMENCEMENT EXERCISE

STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND STAFF INTENTLY LISTEN TO DR. JOSEPH H. SILVER, SR. DELIVER HIS ADDRESS AT THE 2024 COMMENCEMENT EXERCISE HOSTED ON THE TEXAS COLLEGE CAMPUS.

For the second year in a row, the annual Commencement Exercise was held on the Texas College campus. Nestled behind Gilmore-Hartley Hall, the scene was beautifully set for the 2024 Commencement Exercise with over 1,000 seats that looked onto a large stage stunningly adorned with the Texas College seal. Respectively positioned on each side of the stage was a massive LED video wall and another stage for the Texas College Choir. With this picturesque backdrop set, the 2024 Commencement Exercise began at the stroke of 10:00 A.M. with a distinctive fanfare that led into the “War March of the Priests,” the classical musical arrangement traditionally associated with graduation. This shift in ambience to sacred academic formality was evident as the line of procession began, led by faculty, followed by the Class of 2024, the Golden Anniversary Class of 1974, and lastly the Commencement Exercise’s platform. Dr. Hamad Ali, Division Chair for Business and Social Sciences, posted the College’s mace, which signified the official start of Commencement. PAGE 1 6 | THE I NS I DE R

For the 2024 Commencement Address, the College enlisted Dr. Joseph H. Silver, Sr., President and CEO of Silver and Associates, a higher education consulting firm in Atlanta, Georgia. As a renowned higher education leader, with notable roles that include tenured professorships, university president, university system vice chancellor, and vice president of a higher education accreditor, Dr. Silver delivered an inspiring and powerful message to the Class of 2024. Providing his invaluable insight and experiences as a leader, Dr. Silver honed in on the fact that their education from an HBCU, specifically from Texas College, is unmatched and has undoubtedly prepared them for their next step in life. Following Dr. Silver’s impartation of wisdom, the graduating students officially crossed over into alumni status as their degree was conferred by President Dwight J. Fennell, signifying the official culmination of their successful academic endeavors. Following the transition of their tassels from the right to left side, the graduates excitedly crossed the stage to greet the President and take a photograph to commemorate the momentous achievement.

DR. HAMAD ALI CARRIES THE TEXAS COLLEGE MACE AS HE LEADS THE COMMENCEMENT PLATFORM DURING THE PROCESSIONAL

DR. JOSEPH H. SILVER, SR. DELIVERS THE 2024 COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL CONFERS THE 2024 DEGREES

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Two scholars were additionally recognized for their stellar academic performance: Mr. Isadore Stewart, Valedictorian; and Ms. Ashley Patterson, Salutatorian. In addition to the associate and baccalaureate degrees conferred, the College respectively awarded two honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees to Dr. Joseph H. Silver, Sr. and Dr. Shannon Faulk. Texas College also celebrated the Golden Anniversary Class of 1974 in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of their graduation from Texas College. Further, President Fennell also presented an appreciation award to the Honorable Dr. Shirley McKellar, City of Tyler Councilwoman. While the 2024 Commencement Exercise was hosted in-person, the ceremony was also live streamed for individuals unable to physically attend. To view the Commencement Exercise stream, click the button purple below.

MR. ISADORE STEWART, VALEDICTORIAN

V I EW COMMENCEMENT STREAM

MS. ASHLEY PATTERSON, SALUTATORIAN

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL PRESENTS COUNCILWOMAN DR. SHIRLEY MCKELLAR AN APPRECIATION AWARD

DR. SHANNON FAULK MAKES REMARKS AFTER RECEIVING THE DOCTOR OF HUMANE LETTERS

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COMMENCEMENT PHOTO GALLERY

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL

MISS SHANAIRIA CLEAVER

MS. DAISY JONES LEMONS

DR. SHIRLEY MCKELLAR

BISHOP LAWRENCE REDDICK III

MR. JAMES W. CAREY

MISS TANESHA JACKSON

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL AND MISS A’NAYZIA JEFFERSON

DR. CINDY JOHNSON

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TRUSTEE TERRANCE L. WASHINGTON

MISS KALIYIA BOYD

MR. JAKE MARTIN

DR. CYNTHIA MARSHALL-BIGGINS

MR. ISADORE STEWART

MR. FERNANDO CERVANTES

REV. JOSEF SORRELLS

DR. JAN DUNCAN

TRUSTEE PATRICIA MCKENZIE

TEXAS COLLEGE MACE

MISS NYAH ARREDONDO

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TEXAS COLLEGE CLASS OF 2024

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2024 HONOR GRADUATES

VALEDICTORIAN Isadore Stewart

SALUTATORIAN A shley Patterson

SUMMA CUM LAUDE Sensiria B. Green

MAGNA CUM LAUDE Nyah Arredondo Allison Hampton-Campbell Marques Jones, Jr. Jessica Denise Wallace

CUM LAUDE Christie A. Allen Fernando Zamarripa Cervantes A’Nayzia Jefferson Yoppe Kalasa Shanyah Williams

KeEra Johnson Isadore Stewart Ashley Patterson

2024 GRADUATES

Tre'Vion Brown Tyler I-van Butler

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS Justin Eaden Nilesvan Flowers, Jr. Taleyia Lee Jasmine Lewis Carday Marshall, Jr. Cody Mundie Reece McKenzie Jose A. Olvera Cualan Lemone Williams BACHELOR OF ARTS & BACHELOR OF SCIENCES Christie Allen Nyah Arredondo Fabian Arreola Nnamdi Banks-Eke Rodolfo Benavides, Jr. Steven Benton, Sr. KaLiyia Boyd

KeEra Johnson Marques Jones, Jr.

Dashannon Natalia Untay Carter Fernando Zamarripa Cervantes ShaNairia Cleaver Don L. Cooks, Jr. Karoline Creech Derrick Cuington-Cooper Willie Culpepper III Aundray Demond Dukes, Jr. Rashaad Dumas Leslie Garcia LaShabroah Govan-Thomas Sensiria B. Green Te'Aire Taneal Hambrick Allison Hampton-Campbell Levann Jackson Precious S. Jackson Nykessia James

Yoppe Kalasa Mabebe Kuka Kenmeon Lamontrell Lamb Bryman Khadir-Lavell Muhammad

Ashley Patterson Emmanuel Rafiki

Njami Officier Ramadhani Stacey Lamone Reynolds II Joshua D. Robertson Joshual Sheridan Da'Quillan Smith Mariah Talia Smith Da'Lontay Stevens Herbert Stevenson, Jr. Isadore Stewart Daithan Waiters Jessica Denise Wallace Shanyah Williams

A'Nayzia Jefferson Geneva Jennings

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY CLASS OF 1974 Mr. James W. Carey Ms. Daisy Jones Lemons Mr. Leroy Smith

Notice: The above listing is not an official source document for determining the status of all graduates. Some names may not appear because of print deadlines and/or obligations to the College.

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ALPHA CHI Texas College has recently been accepted by the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, one of the top national honor societies in the country. The College’s acceptance yields the chartering of the Texas Beta Beta Chapter of Alpha Chi, Chapter 409 in Region II, Texas College’s chapter. The Alpha Chi National College Honor Society recognizes exceptional student scholars and unites them around one goal—channeling creativity and curiosity into scholarship that serves the greater good. Alpha Chi's mission, in part, is to broaden members' collegiate experience by: Encouraging student creativity and research; Fostering excellence and service in action; Promoting personal growth through diversity; Equipping compassionate listeners and leaders Providing a path for academic and professional mentoring; and Exemplifying how to make scholarship effective for good. Texas College is excited and eager to offer this opportunity to students. The Texas Beta Beta Chapter of Alpha Chi will afford scholars an enhanced landscape on campus to thrive and collaborate. The College’s Alpha Chi chapter will further fuel and invigorate a robust intellectual life both inside and outside of the classroom, providing students opportunities to engage with a community of peers on campus and across the country, as well as leadership and service opportunities to build students’ résumés. PAGE 2 3 | THE I NS I DE R

Alpha Chi also offers students a rich source for scholarships and financial awards, with many grants, scholarships, fellowships, awards, and travel stipends to support undergraduate scholarship. Dr. Mamta Gupta, Division Chair for Natural and Computational Sciences, and Dr. Jan Duncan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, will serve as the faculty advisors for the College’s Alpha Chi chapter. Texas College will officially celebrate the chartering of the Texas Beta Beta Chapter of Alpha Chi during the Fall 2024 semester with an inauguration and induction ceremony to open the 2024-2025 academic year.

FREE TEXTBOOKS & COURSE MATERIALS

A TEXAS COLLEGE STUDENT UTILIZES HIS LAPTOP TO ACCESS COURSE MATERIALS DURING CLASS

Texas College has implemented new technology in an effort to foster student success by providing innovative and high-quality course materials to all students, free of charge. In this regard, textbook and supplemental course material access has exponentially expanded through an agreement with RedShelf, an electronic textbook provider experienced in the swift and effortless transition from traditional print to more affordable, efficient, and engaging digital course materials. The new platform provides e-textbooks, or eBooks, seamlessly on the JICS Portal at no cost to students for the 2023-2024 academic year. This platform provides equity to students through the following features: Highlight, take notes, and share with classmates; Define unfamiliar words; Create Flashcards; Build study guides for individual review and test preparation; Generate citations in APA, MLA, and Chicago for research writing; Have text read aloud; Provide a select section of pages to be printed; and Availability on any device. Collectively, the aforementioned features provide students the ability to access their textbooks and high-quality innovative course materials anywhere for free throughout this academic year. This new digital landscape affords flexible mobility to meet students, no matter where they are, to help them succeed. PAGE 2 4 | THE I NS I DE R

E-SPORTS PROGRAM LAUNCHED

Texas College has signed an agreement with Blaze Fire Games to launch its new Texas College E- Sports competitive program. The College is now an official Blaze Fire Games E-Sports League member. This new initiative concentrated on video gaming and esports is a creative and innovative way to help recruit, reclaim, and retain students. "I am ecstatic about this partnership between Texas College and Blaze Fire Games,” commented President Dwight Fennell. “It offers another extraordinary opportunity for the college to be on the cutting edge and uniquely connect with our students. The partnership will also allow students to build their future career brand in the marketplace with potential employers." The multi-billion e-sports industry is one of the world's fastest-growing sports. According to industry experts, 216 million Americans play video games weekly in the U.S. Additionally, 62% of Adults 18+ routinely play video, and the number rises to 76% for students under 18.

STUDENTS GAMING INSIDETHE BLAZE FIRE GAMES E-SPORTS BUS ON THE TEXAS COLLEGE CAMPUS

The new Texas College E-Sports Club will emphasize competition in student team play as an official student organization through the Office of Student Affairs. "We at Texas College are excited about our new Texas College E-Sports program,” said Dr. Cynthia Marshall- Biggins. “This is a real game-changer for our students because, with this initiative, the college's leadership team is meeting the students where they are and not where we think they are." Biggins continues to say that it is essential to provide a variety of student-centric program offerings that will allow any

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Students participating in the courses benefit from exposure to the professional preparation of e-sports or competitive gaming. The surge of this career pathway is quickly gaining popularity in the U.S. and creating an impressive presence on college campuses and K-12 schools alike. E-sports share many benefits of traditional athletics, such as sportsmanship, leadership, communication, and teamwork. “This partnership with Texas College is significant for our company because it directly aligns with our corporate mission and values,” noted Dr. Isiah Reese, CEO and co-founder of Blaze Fire Games. “This agreement allows our company to continue creating student opportunities in the multi-billion dollar gaming and e-sports technology category. They will learn and physically practice what they are learning in current business case scenarios. This career readiness skill in critical thinking and innovation is required to survive today's digital global workforce economy." With the program’s official launch, Texas College hosted the Blaze Fire Games E-Sports Bus on campus. Equipped with the latest gaming technology and consoles, as well as high-performance PCs, students, immersed themselves in a virtual world of their favorite games. PAGE 2 6 | THE I NS I DE R

STUDENTS GAMING OUTSIDE THE E-SPORTS BUS ON THE TEXAS COLLEGE CAMPUS

student the opportunity to be authentic, creative, and innovative in or out of the classroom and are incredibly excited to partner with Dr. Isiah Reese and his team at Blaze Fire Games." The academic career pathway has already proven successful for 200 undergraduate students at Texas College in the 2023 and 2024 academic spring semesters. The Texas College Office of Student Affairs, Blaze Fire Games, and the Office of Academic Affairs have collaborated and successfully launched a dedicated educational interdisciplinary series of e-sports micro-credentialing customized content offered by the Blaze Fire Games Education Department; 100 students have already received certification.

TEACHING STEM CENTER

Texas College has been awarded funding through a Special Projects Minority Science and Engineering Improvement Program (MSEIP) grant through the U.S. Department of Education in order to establish the Teaching STEM Center, an online MSEIP Training Center, e-Journal and Resource Center for improving methods of teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to underserved students. In this regard, Texas College will collect, review, extract from, train, monitor, and mentor STEM professors, Teacher Education professors, and Teacher Education students, on successful instructional strategies for serving underserved students. In addition, the Center will train faculty from other open admission institutions, as well as minority and female-serving institutions of higher education to increase STEM enrollment, achievement, and post-graduation outcomes. The Center will be beneficial as all of Texas College’s STEM and non-STEM faculty, as well as faculty from other institutions of higher education who will be able to access the Center. The program has the commitment of at least 20 Texas College and/or other open admission institution's faculty to participate in the Center as a result of Texas College's outreach efforts. Participating faculty will be trained, coached, and provided technical assistance through the Center. The funding will provide an enhancement to populate and operationalize an e-training and testing center on the Teaching STEM website.

DR. BASSEY AKPAN, PROFESSOR OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

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KEEPERS OF THE FLAME

Texas College has recently been awarded funding from the HBCU Alliance & the Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR) for a project titled “The Keepers of the Flame: Building a Safeguard for a Unique Archival Collection at the D. R. Glass Library.” The project aims to build and digitize the Texas College archive collection and establish archival safeguards to ensure the College’s history remains preserved for future generations. A large component of the project is to collect (through donations) primary archival materials such as Texas College documents, correspondence, photographs, yearbooks, and paraphernalia from alumni, faculty, staff, students, and community members. Once collected, the pieces will be digitized (as applicable) to create a unique digital collection for scholarly and stakeholder use. The Keepers of the Flame project will be overseen by Ms. Linda Simmons-Henry, Director of Library Services.

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2024 RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL

LONNIE COLLINS, GWENDOLYN COLLINS, RT DEBOSE, JAKE MARTIN, GAIL HUNTER, PEGGY SULLIVAN, AND WILLIAM PARKER, JR. POSE WITH THE GRANT AWARD AT THE HOME DEPOT 2024 RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL AWARDS CELEBRATION AT MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA

Texas College won their fourth consecutive Campus Improvement Grant from The Home Depot Retool Your School program. Amassing over 200,000 votes throughout the month-long competition, the College secured a third place ranking to earn a Campus Improvement Grant of $80,000. The official awarding of the grant took place at The Home Depot 2024 Retool Your School Awards Celebration on Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with representatives from each winning institution present. Representing Texas College was Jake Martin, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer (CMCO) and 2013 Alumnus, who oversees the Retool Your School campaigns and projects. Alongside Martin were Texas College Alumni Gwendolyn Collins, Lonnie Collins, RT DeBose, William Parker, Jr., Gail Hunter, and Peggy Sullivan, who were all instrumental in the 2024 voting campaign. The 2024 grant of $80,000 is the largest award received from The Home Depot Retool Your School program to date. While this is the College’s fourth consecutive win, the grant marks Texas College’s sixth Campus Improvement Grant throughout the 15-year existence of the PAGE 2 9 | THE I NS I DE R

years, who have utilized the power of the Retool Your School program to make sustainable improvements to campus and student life. Martin undoubtedly fits the aforementioned bill, having been involved in all six of the Campus Improvement Grants. The first two, in 2012 and 2013, Martin led student voting campaigns as the Steer Football Team Captain and Student Government Association President. When Martin returned to the College as CMCO, he successfully provided oversight to the 2021, 2022, 2023, and now 2024 voting campaigns, galvanizing stakeholder votes and strategically collaborating with the Texas College National Alumni Association (TCNAA). Congruently, he also oversees and coordinates the projects and their implementations, which have encompassed the President’s Living Room Patio renovation, renovation of the basketball, volleyball, and football locker rooms, as well as the renovation and commercialization of the President’s Living Room Kitchen. “While I am honored to be named a Legacy Honoree, this recognition does not rest solely with me,” noted Martin. “This award is as much mine as it is everyone who has devoutly voted for the College throughout the Retool Your School campaigns. It’s our award.” Martin continued this sentiment, expressing gratitude to President Dwight Fennell for his strategic leadership and entrusting him with the initiative, as well as expressed appreciation to both the Texas College and TCNAA Retool Your School PAGE 3 0 | THE I NS I DE R

A TEXAS COLLEGE STUDENT VOTES IN THE 2024 HOME DEPOT RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL VOTING COMPETITION ON CAMPUS

JAKE MARTIN, CMCO, ACCEPTS THE LEGACY HONOREE AWARD AT THE HOME DEPOT 2024 RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL AWARDS CELEBRATION AT MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA program, having won in 2012, 2013, 2021, 2022, 2023, and now 2024. In addition to the $80,000 grant, Martin was also honored as a Home Depot Retool Your School Legacy Honoree, a new award that the program launched last year. Per Retool Your School, Legacy Honorees are institutional staff who have worked with Retool Your School for multiple years and have successfully used grants to improve their campuses. The honorees are selected by a panel of judges based on the impact, community building, and legacy of their work with the program over multiple

Committees, especially Anthony Parker, Director of Physical Plant, Gwendolyn Collins, TCNAA National President, as well as Richard Kemp and RT DeBose, TCNAA Retool Your School Committee co-chairs, and the late Jim DeBose, alumnus and champion of Retool Your School since the program’s inception. The 2024 Campus Improvement Project will encompass three projects, which includes renovation of the outdoor basketball courts, enhancement of the Glass Auditorium, and renovation of MSBC Room 202, a science laboratory.

JAKE MARTIN, CMCO, APPEARS ON A VIDEO BOARD AS A LEGACY HONOREE AT THE HOME DEPOT 2024 RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL AWARDS CELEBRATION AT MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA

THANK YOU! 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 2024 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!

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

As a Historically Black College, Texas College honors and recognizes the contributions of Black individuals for their preceding and continuous monumental work and achievements that have paved the way for current and future generations. This circadian reverence for the aforementioned remains engrained into the campus of Texas College, standing on the shoulders of giants that have made Texas College what it is today. With the annual opportunity to celebrate the month-long acknowledgement that is Black History Month, Texas College asserts that the observance remains meaningful and important, as it provides monumental context of the contributions of a people who were once considered disenfranchised. It further showcases, both historically and factually, how Blacks and other ethnicities were interwoven into the foundation of America’s beginnings and continuity. And, although there were historical moments of struggle that were both challenging and concerning, such struggles are now accountable to the formation of a resilient nation with successes that make up the fabric of a powerful national society. One should be reminded that many historical incidents that have occurred cannot be changed, but one should also be admonished to remembering that such events have led to contemporary strengths and weaknesses and they should not be relived. In celebration of Black History Month, the College hosted a multitude of activities throughout the month, as well as shared various informational digital presentations relating to Black History. The following is a brief recapitulation of Black History Month at Texas College provided for your review. The informational digital presentations can be accessed by clicking the respective buttons below.

REMARKS FROM PRES I DENT FENNELL

TEXAS COLLEGE TRA I LBLAZERS

ACKNOWLEDGING THE S IGNI F I CANCE OF HBCUS

V I DEO V IGNETTES

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONTINUED

TEXAS COLLEGE STUDENTS POSE FOR A PHOTO IN FRONT OF THE WHATABURGER FOOD TRUCK ON CAMPUS

KICKING OFF BLACK HISTORY MONTH To kick off Black History Month, Texas College collaborated with UNCF and Whataburger to provide all students, faculty, and staff free Whataburger meals on February 6. With the Whataburger food truck on the Steer Walk providing free lunch, the celebratory atmosphere was further enhanced with a variety of other activities and booths for the Texas College Family to engage in, as the College began Black History Month festivities.

DR. EDWARD ROBINSON, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY AND RELIGION, DISCUSSES NEWLY PUBLISHED BOOK "TO PAVE THE WAY FOR HIS PEOPLE" AT THE COLLEGE'S BLACK HISTORY MONTH BOOK PRESENTATION

“TO PAVE THE WAY FOR HIS PEOPLE" BOOK PRESENTATION Dr. Edward Robinson, Associate Professor of History and Religion, in conjunction with Student Support Services, hosted a book presentation for Black History Month on Wednesday, February 14. The activity surrounded Dr. Robinson's newly published book, "To Pave the Way for His People." The book is a biography of Preston Taylor, one of the most powerful and prominent African Americans during the Progressive Era.

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VOTINGWORKSHOP In celebration of Black History Month, Dr. Robert Butts, Assistant Professor of History, in conjunction with Student Support Services, hosted a voting workshop for students, as well as faculty and staff, on Monday, February 12. The Voting Workshop not only included voter registration opportunities, but congruently provided invaluable information and insight into voting. Dr. Butts' comprehensive presentation engagingly afforded important historical and political contexts necessary to understand the significance of voting, especially for previously disenfranchised populations.

DR. ROBERT BUTTS, ASSIST PROFESSOR OF HISTORY, DISCUSSES THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT OF 1965 AT THE VOTING WORKSHOP

STEERS CLUB ACTIVITIES The Steers Club hosted multiple

activities in celebration of Black History Month. As an early start to festivities, they merged the celebration of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday with Black History Month to host a viewing and roundtable discussion of Rev. Dr. King's iconic "I Have a Dream" speech on January 31. The activity included a viewing of the speech, which then transitioned into an engaging roundtable filled with intellectual dialogue about the speech’s cultural relevance, social and historical context, as well as universal appeal. The Steers Club also presented a Black History Month Poetry Slam to provide a creative and artistic outlet and space for students, with works centered around Black history contexts. The Steers Club also hosted a viewing of the movie "The Color Purple," which afforded an exciting discussion after the film.

STUDENTS INVOLVED IN THE STEERS CLUB DISCUSS REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.'S "I HAVE A DREAM" SPEECH TO BEGIN THEIR BLACK HISTORY MONTH FESTIVITIES

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TEXAS COLLEGE CHOIR PERFORMANCES

Following their stunning performance as special guests at UNCF's 34th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Virtual Celebration in January, the Texas College Choir continued their prominent presence in the community in celebration of Black History Month. Astoundingly, the Texas College Choir publicly performed over 10 times throughout the month of February with a variety of performances throughout Tyler and beyond. As always, the Choir did not disappoint, harmoniously gracing the audience's ears with their myriad of voices. Notably, The Texas College Choir served as featured musical guests at Antioch Fellowship Church's Black History program in Dallas, Texas, alongside recording artists Janice Craig and Karen Clark-Sheard for a live recording feature. The Choir also joined recording artist Chester D.T. Baldwin at Liberty Baptist Church's “Let’s Go Back to the Old Time Way Black History Event” in Tyler.

THE TEXAS COLLEGE CHOIR PERFORMS AT ANTIOCH FELLOWSHIP CHURCH'S BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM IN DALLAS, TEXAS

THE TEXAS COLLEGE CHOIR PERFORMS AT ANTIOCH FELLOWSHIP CHURCH'S BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM IN DALLAS, TEXAS

The Choir also performed for multiple

Black History Month programs throughout the Tyler Independent School District, including Bonner Elementary, T.J. Austin Elementary, and Tyler Legacy High School, as well as performances at the Tyler Senior Center' and Black History Knowledge Bowl. In addition to their community performances, the Choir was also featured on CBS 19, KETK 56, and FOX 51 for their special presentations on Black History Month. For each feature, Texas College Choir Soloist Jared Shears proudly performed his rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing."

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