THE INSIDER - SPRING 2025

THE INSIDER A TEXAS COLLEGE PUBLICATION

SPRING 2025 VOLUME 24

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 the areas of study using different modalities of instruction. 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 and approved by the Board of Trustees, October 24, 2024). CORE VALUES To address the mission, the College incorporates the core values of: Academic Excellence Integrity Perseverance Social Responsibility Tolerance Community Service VISION STATEMENT Texas College - a creative, culturally diverse, inclusive environment, preparing students who aspire to be purpose-driven, financially secure and marketable leaders.

THE INSIDER VOLUME 24 | SPRING 2025 EDITION

CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

ON THE COVER Featured on the cover of the Spring 2025 edition of The INSIDER Magazine is a photograph of the Texas College sign at the College’s entrance on North Grand Avenue.

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: Texas College, Attn: Vice President for Academic Affairs/Compliance Officer, Office of Academic 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) 593-4277 fax.

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

CONTENTS PAGE 6 THE PRESIDENT’S PEN PAGE 8 GIVING THE PEOPLE LIGHT FOR 131 YEARS PAGE 10 PRESIDENT FENNELL ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT DATE

PAGE 20 RELIGIOUS ROOTS REMAIN PAGE 22 TEXAS COLLEGE: AN ECONOMIC ENGINE PAGE 24 PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ALUMNI PAGE 26 STUDENTS SELECTED FOR RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN NEW YORK PAGE 28 HANK AARON CHASING THE DREAM FOUNDATION PROVIDES SCHOLARSHIPS PAGE 30 MUSIC DEPARTMENT PARTNERS WITH ETSO PAGE 31 CHOIR OF THE YEAR PAGE 32 LIBRARY INNOVATION THROUGH COOL TECHNOLOGY

PAGE 13 FUTURES CAMPAIGN PAGE 14 PAYING HOMAGE TO HISTORY PAGE 17 CSWE ACCREDITATION ACHIEVED PAGE 18 ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE PERSONIFIED

PAGE 19 HONORS SCHOLARS

PAGE 34 MISS UNCF EMBRACES AMBASSADORSHIP PAGE 36 COMMUNITY

PAGE 48 SUMMER 2025 COLLEGE CALENDAR PAGE 49 FALL 2025 COLLEGE CALENDAR PAGE 50 ONLINE STORE PAGE 51 STAY CONNECTED WITH THE COLLEGE

CLEAN UP PAGE 37

ROTARY RECOGNIZES STUDENT & FACULTY PAGE 38 FOOTBALL COACH OF

THE YEAR PAGE 39 STEER BASKETBALL RECOGNITIONS PAGE 40 2025 COMMENCEMENT ACTIVITIES PAGE 41 REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER 2025 & FALL 2025 PAGE 42 SUMMER TRANSITION ENRICHMENT PROGRAM (STEP) PAGE 43 YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE PAGE 44 YOUR COMMUNITY IS COUNTING ON YOU PAGE 45 BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ONLINE DEGRE PROGRAM PAGE 46 TEXAS COLLEGE CHOIR SEEKS SINGERS & MUSICIANS PAGE 47 BRING THE CHOIR BACK 2025

THE PRESIDENT’S PEN

DR. DWIGHT J. FENNELL Dr. Dwight J. Fennell is the 23rd President of Texas College and has served the College faithfully in this capacity for over 16 years.

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Dear Alumni and Friends:

We are pleased to provide you with the Spring 2025 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 2024-2025 academic year is, “Sustaining Faith: Working Together as We Move to the Next Level.” The theme is derived from Amos 3:3 which reads: “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” (NKJ). In this regard, the College has collectively embodied this theme that embraces a spirit of collaboration campus wide to ensure togetherness. The Texas College Family continues to progress and move forward with growth in all areas, as we embrace a brighter future. We believe that with your support and involvement in Texas College, this becomes more easily attainable as the delivery of the Mission and Core Values of the institution remain essential to her 131 years and beyond existence. I pray that you will enjoy this edition of The INSIDER Magazine. You are encouraged to share this volume with others. Thank you for your continued support and best wishes!

Sincerely, Dwight J. Fennell, Ph.D. President

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GIVING THE PEOPLE LIGHT FOR 131 YEARS

January 9, 2025, signified a momentous occasion in the life of Texas College – the 131st 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 131 years. As the College embraces the 131st year, it does so with determination and commitment to continuing its mission for the next century of service, 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 131 years, on the same founding physical site, Texas College has continuously provided educational opportunities since 1894.

TEXAS COLLEGE’S FIRST BUILDING (1894)

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.

MARTIN HALL UNDER CONTRUCTION (1924)

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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, 131 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 he College family, we are pleased to be a part of her rich history. May God continue to bless her richly!”

TEXAS COLLEGE’S FIRST GRADUATES (EARLY 1900S)

TEXAS COLLEGE POPULATION (1901)

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PRESIDENT FENNELL ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT DATE

The President of Texas College, Dr. Dwight Fennell, at the Annual Meeting of the Board of Trustees announced his date of retirement to the Board. President Fennell with a prepared statement shared that his start with the College began 2008, with his employment to the position of Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Fennell’s academic and professional preparations led his career experiences as former vice president for academic affairs, provost and subsequently president at other institutions, before his presidential assignment with Texas College. Dr. Fennell has been president of the College since August 2008. President Fennell shared that “the opportunity to serve as president has been with multifaceted emotions that have included pleasure, humility, joy and comfort, but also challenges, concerns and sometimes feelings of trepidation.” He also acknowledged “that with the help and direction of God, Texas College has made significant gains during this 17-year period.”

PRESIDENT DWIGHT FENNELL CONFERS DEGREES AT THE 2024 COMMENCEMENT EXRERCISE

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Dr. Fennell went on to identify categorically a few of the areas which he believed as meaningful and cited them as:

Having established an operational direction with the use of strategic planning (four cycles of Strategic Plans have been developed since 2008);

Achieving three cycles of institutional accreditation (we are now addressing the fourth cycle);

Having achieved program accreditation of the Educational Preparation Program (EPP) through the Texas Education Agency (TEA), for eight areas of teacher preparation certification;

Having achieved program accreditation of the Social Work Program through the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE);

Having strengthened many of the academic content areas with Program Reviews that provide students a seamless entry into graduate/professional programs;

Having expanded academic honors recognition while also introducing the Alpha Chi National Honor Society on the campus;

Having operated financially in the “black” consecutively for a 17-year period; with one year being a matter of concern because of an audit issue; not recording accurately, but this did not affect the fiscal condition of the institution;

Having increased the net assets of the institution;

Having increased the physical plant net assets of the institution;

Having operated with significant “cash on hand” that now exceeds $11 million dollars;

Having grown the endowment from less than a million to more than $10 million;

Having completed capitol renovations to the campus that totaled $19 million, with no remaining debt service and loan amounts being unmet;

Having improved Wi-Fi and internet connections and virtual capacities throughout the campus and community which continues to date;

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Having sustained enrollment during volatile periods i.e. pre, during and post COVID;

Having improved health care services for students prior to, during and post-COVID;

Having improved College relations in the City of Tyler;

Having established and improved educational partnerships with various members of the educational communities;

Having established the “Texas College District” with the City of Tyler;

Having established a 30-year Master Plan for the College;

Having improved student support services and retention services/activities for students; and

Having created virtual learning processes and on-line courses and programs for students that are acceptable by the accrediting body.

Dr. Fennell stated that, “the aforementioned items were shared only to reacquaint the Board with matters that have been successfully driven with no financial obligations or debt services needed at this time.” He further referenced; the aforementioned items were offered as a matter of reflection of his working direction during his tenure for the 17-year period. He closed by sharing that, although his contractual agreement is through June 2027, he requested a modification for the agreement to be effective June 30, 2026. With many around the table of the Trustee Board expressing both commendations and expressions of gratitude for the faithful way he has administered his leadership, the chair of the Board, Bishop Lawrence Reddick, said, “Your focus and persistence have helped build this institution honorably and has helped strengthen me in my faith. What I have seen in you, over and again, is that your singular focus on what you believe, calling, professionalism, ethics and God require of you.” The Board agreed to grant Dr. Fennell’s request.

PRESIDENT DWIGHT FENNELL MAKES REMARKS AT A GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY

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In celebration of Texas College's 131st Anniversary, we invite you to support the "Futures Campaign" with a financial gift in the denomination of 131 to help shape the future of our institution. The campaign's goal is to raise $5 million to benefit:

As the oldest institution of higher education in Tyler, now is the time to unite and elevate the College to the next level. While Texas College has made great strides in preparing students for success, your gift toward this campaign will allow us to do even more to secure a brighter future for both our students and the College. We invite you to contribute to the "Texas College Futures Campaign" at the following levels: $131,000 | $13,100 | $1,300 | $131 Every contribution, large or small, makes a difference. All gifts are tax-deductible, and you will receive an official acknowledgment letter from the College. To make a gift online, please visit www.texascollege.edu/give . If you prefer to give by mail, please send your donation to: Texas College, Office of the President, 2404 N. Grand Ave., Tyler, TX 75702

Thank you for your support of the "Texas College Futures Campaign"—together, we can move to the next level!

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PAYING HOMAGE TO HISTORY

PRESIDENT DWIGHT J. FENNELL DELIVERS THE FOUNDERS’ CONVOCATION ADDRESS

Texas College formally commemorated the 131st 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 131 years ago," noted President Dwight J. Fennell. "...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."

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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. While Founders' Convocation 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. President Fennell served as the speaker for Founders’ Convocation, in which he delivered a powerful and insightful message to commemorate the occasion. President Fennell’s delivery began with a historical backdrop, which set the contextual stage to fully grasp the gravity of the College’s founding in 1894, and congruently its perseverance through 2025. Recounting a multitude of historical events that Texas College has persevered through and experienced over the past 131 years, President Fennell then transitioned into a notable excerpt of his message. With a passionate spirit, he emphatically noted that there is an undeniable and unmatched sense of pride that comes with each audience member’s association with the College.

TEXAS COLLEGE STUDENT AND CHOIR SOLOIST MISS ANGEL CUMMINGS PERFORMS THE STAR-SPANGLED BANNER

MISS ASIA BROWN, MISS TEXAS COLLEGE, BRINGS GREETINGS ON BEHALF OF THE STUDENT BODY

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“Students, you should pride yourself on the fact that you are enrolled here,” said President Fennell. “Alumni, you should be proud that you graduated from Texas College. Faculty and staff, you should be proud to be employed by Texas College.” As President Fennell concluded his remarks, he noted that the current students, alumni, faculty, and staff all stand on the shoulders of giants. “We are now all stewards to this institutions. We hold the responsibility of ensuring that Texas College continues to endure for the next 131 years and that we continue to give the people light,” paraphrasing the Texas College motto. Additional remarks were provided by Dr. Shirley McKellar, City of Tyler District 3 Northwest Councilmember, Ms. Gwendolyn Collins, Texas College Alumni Association Immediate Past President, Ms. Millicent Rickenbacker, Vice President for Business and Finance, Dr. Cynthia Marshall-Biggins, Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Jan Duncan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Miss Asia Brown, Miss Texas College, and others, as well as multiple outstanding performances by the Texas College Choir.

DR. SHIRLEY MCKELLAR, CITY OF TYLER DISTRICT 3-NORTHWEST COUNCILMEMBER BRINGS GREETINGS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY

MS. GWENDOLYN COLLINS, TEXAS COLLEGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTBROWN, BRINGS GREETINGS ON BEHALF OF ALUMNI

MS. MILLICENT RICKENBACKER, VICE PRESIDENT FOR BUSINESS AND FINANCE INTRODUCES PRESIDENT FENNELL TO DELIVER THE CONVOCATION ADDRESS

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CSWE ACCREDITATION ACHIEVED

Texas College is pleased to announce that the College's Social Work baccalaureate program, housed within the Division of Business and Social Sciences, has been granted Initial Accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education's (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA). The Social Work program's accreditation extends through 2033. accreditation positions graduates to be more marketable within the field of Social Work, thus allowing them to earn higher salaries and wages. Graduates of the program will complete the degree with a Bachelor of Social Work and will have a more seamless opportunity to enter graduate programs of study for Social Work as a result of accreditation and licensure recognition. With Texas College's successful completion of the accreditation process, program completers will be acknowledged at the 2025 Commencement as having graduated from an accredited program. The program's

PHASE 1

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

ACCREDITED

Persons interested in Texas College’s Social Work program should contact Ms. Charlotte R. Sanders, MSW, LBS, Social Work Program Director and Assistant Professor, at: csanders@texascollege.edu | (903) 593-8311, ext. 2218

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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE PERSONIFIED

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Texas College hosted the 2025 Honors Convocation. The Honors Convocation serves as an annual academic program to recognize and celebrate student academic excellence. During Honors 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 - 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; the academic designations are for the Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 academic terms. In total, Texas College recognized over 250 scholars for their academic achievements. of regular course work. Dean’s List Scholars

DR. JAN DUNCAN, VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, MAKES REMARKS

MISS ARIANA CHAPA, PRESIDENTIAL, DEAN’S LIST AND HONOR ROLL SCHOLAR, RECEIVES HER AWARDS FROM MR. CHRISPIN CHIFWEPA, INSTRUCTOR OF BUSINESS

MR. CUJUAN DAIL, PRESIDENTIAL, DEAN’S LIST AND HONOR ROLL SCHOLAR, RECEIVES HIS AWARDS FROM MS. SUNNY SHEPHEARD, INSTRUCTOR OF SOCIOLOGY

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HONORS SCHOLARS

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS Ariana Chapa Martel Jones Shelisa Todd Elizabeth Clemente Sheena Thigpen Tyler DeVolder CuJuan Dail DEAN’S LIST SCHOLARS LaTravion Adams Gynna Becerra Jazzmyn Brown JohQuan Caldwell Anthony Green Quoteshia Harris Charnae Warren HONOR ROLL SCHOLARS Frederick Adams Stephen Ajibola Fatima-Ezzahra Akif Aaron Alfaro Saleha Ali Christie Allen Ariel Allen Selvin Anderson Nyah Arredondo Arrey Ayukokata Leila Barco Cruz Trevion Batiste Tanya Bell Tyriq Bell Rodolfo Benavides Walid Benchekroune Leonard Bermudez LaToria Blackshire Traiveon Bookman Daiveon Bookman Tyler Mitchell Njabulo Nkosi Alexandria Payne-Blount Emiliano Ramirez Charles Shaw

Fernando Cervantes Victor Chatman Abigail Chavez Percy Chavis III Destiny Chilton Matthew Cisnero Wyatt Clark ShaNairia Cleaver Lauren Cotton Stefan Cotton Warlanden Craig Antanasia Crockett Torey Crozier Montia Cuba Derrick Cuington- Cooper Angel Cummings Jakovi Dabbs Isaiah Daniels Ethan Davis Wesley Deleon Gregory Donaldson Kenya Doss Dylan DuBois Rashaad Dumas Athena Dunham Jakhia Dunn Artis Edwards Nada EL Bouhali Anass EL Moubarki Tyler Evans Younes Ezzaim Gibrant Feliciano Nilesvan Flowers Terrill Franklin Johnzay Fulbright Bryan Funez Garrett Galyean Jaylen Garrett Aisha Gathright Kyla Gerhardt Christopher Gibson Tacorey Gilliam Jovan Glisic Lashabroah Govan- Thomas Abdennour Gorini Alexa Gracia Rummie Gray Cydney Green Keith Greenwood Jennifer Gress Melissa Gress Di'Muantrez Haggerty Aaliyah Hale Karlnelious Hall Noah Codina Kahera Cook Zane Cory

Juan Lopez Julian Lopez Delicia Lott Markeesha Lumpkin Nizar Mandali Lavonna Mapps Roderick Mapps Undrae Martin Shelby Martin Madalyne Martinez Miguel Martinez Timothy Mast Salise Matlock Kaleb Matthews Alexis McDaniels Jeremy McGee Nylin McGowan Reece McKenzie Marcus McMillan Antone McNair Taryanna McNary Collin Michael Taj Moore Josiah Moore Kenneth Montgomery Latanya Morris Rodney Motley Malebo Mthembu Mathilde Mujawabera Andre Nascimento Eric Ndayambaje Isaiah Neguse DeNadria Nelson- Prescott Eugene Newsome Gregory Nobles Elochukwu Nwodo Wisdom Owens Quentin-Bernard Packson-Enajerho Daneesha Parker Ashley Patterson Franklin Peña Matthew Pennywell Leila Polite Jordan Price Jose Pulido Tyler Pyburn Canya Ray Taha Redouane Lucas Reyes Castillo Joshua Robertson Brianna Robinson Peggy Odom Donnie Oliney Jose Olvera Alicia Orange Keala Ousley- Burdette

Ntibanyiha Rodrige Ne’khyria Rogers Jonathan Romero Jaaliyah Ruff Honore Jared Runnels Katherine Salas Marcos Salazar Jorge San Miguel Marlyn Sanchez Asia Sanders Yazmin Saucedo Philip Scott Joshual Sheridan Khalya Simmons Nicholas Smith Elijah Smith Dominy Taylor Rishon Taylor Tre'vion Talley Mia Teran Gabrielle Thomas-Brice Deja Thompson Ivan Torres Chiemela Uzoigwe Samuel Vargas Pelaez Andrea Vasquez Aboubacar Wague Semaj Walker-Blaylock Jayla Warren Quinteria Warren Mariah Smith Neani Stewart Kamren Stiggers Dominic Stokes

Allison Hampton- Campbell Yasser Hamrerras Kyla Harris Destiny Hart Julio Hernandez Tyesha High Takeuchi Hiroya Bao Hoang Kristopher Hodges Anthony Holden Torrey Holly Rochanda Holman Terrell Hookfin Braylon Howard Kenidi Howard Cam'Ron Hoyte D E Morris Hunter Markayla Hurd Ja'Mia Hutton Christopher Isidore Jalen Jackson Keiera Jackson Levann Jackson Diangela James Anayzia Jefferson Tommy Jennings Briana Johnson Brandi Johnson Chelsea Johnson Godfrey Johnson Charnel Jones Christine Jones Genesis Jones Marques Jones Dejanay Jones Zerrick Jones Kennetria Jones Paul Karimu Brandon Kanyiki Keaundra Kelly Kaleya Kerr-Ervin Jacob Keys Noah Kimbrough Kazdin King Mabebe Kuka Kourtney Lawson Kendrick Lee

Stephani White Jordan Williams Bryce Williams Markayla Williams Roosevelt Williams

Tyler Williams Lyriic Williams Ladeshia Willis Blayke Yeager Ja'Taivia Yorks Kentrell Young Edwin Zuniga

Amaria Boyd KaLiyia Boyd Antonio Bradley Asia Brown Jeremiah Brown Jacques Brown

Taleyia Lee Tamia Lee Stephen Lee

Andrea Lemons Madalynn Lewis Ja'Coby Lewis DaVontaye Lewis

Skylor Brown Trevion Brown Malachi Burrell-Zellars Boy Busby Abisai Cantu Dashannon Carter Leandro Casanovas

Xavier Lewis Tyre Lindsey Davis Lockett Zion Long

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RELIGIOUS ROOTS REMAIN

propels individuals forward in Texas College’s mission and core values.

“Texas College, founded by Christian ministers, has long recognized the transformative power of education,” noted Rev. Josef Sorrells, Campus Minister. “These early pioneers saw the ability to educate formerly enslaved Africans how to read and write as a pathway to liberation. Their vision was not just about academic learning, but about equipping individuals to find spiritual freedom through salvation and intellectual freedom through education.” “A well-known saying of our former member of the College’s Board of Trustees, Bishop Henry M. Williamson, ‘Salvation, Education, Liberation’ speaks life and meaning to our commitment at the College.” said Rev. Sorrells. REW kicked off on Sunday with a call to worship at Greater Miles Chapel CME Church as they celebrated HBCU and Greek Day. The week would progress with a gospel prayer brunch and then “Steer Sessions” with Rev. Dr. Valencia Edner, Pastor of Carter Metropolitan CME Church in

REV. JOSEF SORRELLS, CAMPUS MINISTER, MAKES REMARKS AT REW’S CLOSING WORSHIP

Texas College continues to remain rooted in its religious-based founding and emphasize the importance of spirituality. This is evidenced by the College’s annual hosting of Religious Emphasis Week (REW). The 2025 REW took place in February and carried the theme of Freedomville: Salvation, Education, and Liberation, inspired by Galatians 5:1: "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free." The passage underscored the College’s commitment to fostering a community where freedom in faith

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Fort Worth, Texas. The sessions focused on salvation, education, and liberation through music, mental health, and mediation. aforementioned activities, the College also provided virtual “Praise Breaks,” a take on National Public Radio’s (NPR) “Tiny Desk.” During these presentations, brief musical acoustic selections were performed by Mr. Elijah Smith, Freshman Computer Science and Music Major, while faculty and staff provided uplifting spiritual messages. The “Praise Breaks” included messages from Dr. Cindy Johnson, Division Chair for General Studies and Humanities, Ms. Sharon Dixon, Campus Nurse, and Ms. Ruby Smith, Business and Finance Cashier. Alongside the

REV. DR. VAN CARL WILLIAMS, PASTOR OF CEDAR CREST CATHEDRAL CME CHURCH, DELIVERS HIS SERMON AT REW’S CLOSING WORSHIP

a powerful closing worship service for the week. The service hosted a variety of impactful remarks from students, faculty, and staff, as well as President Dwight Fennell. Rev. Dr. Van Carl Williams, Pastor of Cedar Crest Cathedral CME Church in Dallas, Texas, delivered a dynamic sermon filled with energy and invaluable spiritual insights. Collectively, 2025 REW activities emphasized the importance of spirituality and reaffirmed the College’s dedication to the principles that have guided it since its inception.

DR. CINDY JOHNSON, DIVISION CHAIR FOR GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES, AND MR. ELIJAH SMITH, FRESHMAN COMPUTER SCIENCE AND MUSIC MAJOR, PRESENT A “PRAISE BREAK” FOR 2025 REW Religious Emphasis Week 2025 culminated with “Freedomville: A Worship Experience,” which served as

STUDENTS JOIN HANDS IN PRAYER AT REW’S CLOSING SERVICE

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TEXAS COLLEGE: AN ECONOMIC ENGINE

In a study commissioned by the United Negro College Fund, the significant economic contributions of Texas College have been undoubtedly reaffirmed. Through the production and consumption of various goods and services by Texas College’s faculty, staff, and students, the College serves as a catalyst for economic growth locally and regionally. This dynamic creates a ripple effect, leading to increased employment opportunities, heightened economic expansion and a flourishing community environment. As an economic engine, Texas College breathes significant fiscal life into the local and regional community. To illustrate the College’s monumental economic contributions at a macro level, three economic elements are provided: 1) Total economic impact; 2) Total employment impact; and 3) Total lifetime earnings of graduates (2021).

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$24.9 MILLION TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT

Texas College generates $24.9 Million in total economic impact for its local and regional economies. This estimate includes direct spending by the college on faculty, employees, academic programs and operations, and by students, as well as the follow-on effects of that spending. Every dollar spent by Texas College and its students produces positive economic benefits, generating $1.22 in total spending for its local and regional economies. Communities and regions hoping to foster a more robust and diversified economic climate find HBCU-connected spending a critical component of that effort. 1 Texas College generates 232 jobs for its local and regional economies. Of this total, 74 are on-campus jobs and 158 are off-campus jobs. For each job created on campus, another 2.1 public- and private-sector jobs are created off campus because of Texas College related spending. Looked at in a different way: Each $1 million initially spent by Texas College and its students creates 11 jobs. 1 232 JOBS TOTAL EMPLOYMENTIMPACT

$266.2 MILLION TOTAL LIFETIME EARNINGS OF 2021 GRADS

Texas College plays a major role in the economic success of its graduates by enhancing their education, training and leadership skills. A college degree opens the door to economic prosperity through greater employment and earnings potential. In fact, the 96 graduates in 2021 can expect total earnings of $266.2 million—that’s 77% more than they could expect to earn without their college credentials. 1 Or viewed on an individual basis, a Texas College graduate working full-time throughout his or her working life can expect to earn $1,204,904 in additional income due to a college credential. 1 The aforementioned information, data, and statistics presented derive from UNCF’s 2024 HBCU Economic Impact Report, Transforming Futures: The Economic Engine of HBCUs , commissioned by UNCF’s Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute in collaboration with the Selig Center for Economic Growth, Terry College of Business, at the University of Georgia. McClendon, N., Kouaho, JE., Njoku, N., Murray, L.V. & Humphreys, J. (2024). Transforming Futures: The Economic Engine of HBCUs. Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute, UNCF 1

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PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ALUMNI

MEMBERS OF THE TEXAS COLLEGE PRE-ALUMNI COUNCIL POSE FOR A PHOTOGRAPH WITH ALUMNI AT THE 2025 UNCF PAC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE IN MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

The Texas College Pre-Alumni Council represented the College proudly at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) National Pre-Alumni Council (PAC) Leadership Conference, held at the end of February in Memphis, Tennessee. This annual event brought together over 500 students, faculty, leaders in the HBCU community, funding experts, sponsors, alumni, and member institutions of the UNCF, which is the largest organization dedicated to African American education in the United States. The dynamic three-day conference featured a variety of interactive workshops and keynote speakers, which focused on best practices relevant to students, alumni, and HBCUs. Attendees were afforded the unique opportunity to engage with key decision-makers, fostering important connections that could benefit their academic and professional futures. The Texas College delegation included prominent student leaders from a variety of student organizations. “I am beyond proud of our students,” said Ms. Marie Payne, Texas College Pre-Alumni Council Advisor and Alumna. “Our student leaders represented Texas College well on a national stage amongst their peers. They personified the College’s Core Values of Community Service and Social Responsibility.”

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MEMBERS OF THE TEXAS COLLEGE PRE-ALUMNI COUNCIL POSE FOR A PHOTOGRAPH WITH ALUMNI AT THE 2025 UNCF PAC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE’S MISS UNCF CORONATION IN MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

Among the highlights, Miss Tyesha High, the reigning Miss UNCF for 2024-2025, secured the title of third runner-up in the prestigious Miss National UNCF Coronation. Additionally, the Texas College Pre-Alumni Council earned recognition for their dedication to community service, winning first place for the Miss National UNCF Service Project Award by collecting over 1,000 toiletries for those in need. “This conference underscores our commitment to education and leadership,” remarked Mr. Jalen Russell, PAC President. “The connections we've made here will help elevate our initiatives and support our peers at Texas College.” The UNCF Leadership Conference not only promotes academic excellence, but also empowers the next generation of leaders within the HBCU community to ensure that they are well-prepared to make impactful contributions to society.

MISS TYESHA HIGH, MISS UNCF

MR. JALEN RUSSELL, PAC PRESIDENT

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STUDENTS SELECTED FOR RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN NEW YORK

AFRL-MSEIP INTERNS (LEFT TO RIGHT): LEILA POLITE, KEALA BURDETTE OUSLEY, MONTIA CUBA, AND EMILIANO RAMIREZ

Texas College’s Division of Natural and Computational Science is excited to announce that four students have been selected for the Air Force Research Laboratories 2025 Internship Program in Rome, New York. The program is a collaborative effort between the Air Force Research Laboratories – Information Directorate (AFRL), which is the Air Force and nation's premier research organization for command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, and cyber technologies, and the Minority Science and Engineering

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Improvement Program (MSEIP), a premier federal initiative that aims to increase the number of minorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers by providing funds to minority institutions across the nation. The AFRL-MSEIP partnership leverages their resources to create pathways to federal research laboratories for students and faculty, enhancing the research capacity of minority institutions within STEM disciplines. As a MSEIP grant recipient, Texas College will support the four students throughout their summer internships, funding their travel, housing, per diem, stipends, and other accommodations. The students will begin their 10-week paid internship on May 27. Throughout the course of the program, the students will gain invaluable practical hands-on work experience as interns, inclusive of providing weekly briefs to their MSEIP Project Director/Mentor, writing scientific abstracts, and presenting their findings at the MSEIP Capacity Competitiveness Enhancement Model (CCEM) Student Research Conference. “This is a highly competitive and distinguished internship program and demonstrates the hard work and dedication of our students for continued growth and success,” noted Dr. Mamta Gupta, Division Chair for Natural and Computational Sciences.

DR. MAMTA GUPTA, DIVISION CHAIR FOR NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCIENCES

Dr. Gupta continued, “Internships provide a great platform to learn and grow. It is a fantastic opportunity for our students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting and open further opportunities and pathways. This opportunity with the AFRL MSEIP Internship will significantly elevate our students’ career prospects and lead to their professional growth."

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HANK AARON CHASING THE DREAM FOUNDATION PROVIDES SCHOLARSHIPS

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS (BEGINNING WITH TOP ROW , LEFT TO RIGHT): NYLIN MCGOWAN, GAVIN GREENFIELD, BRYCE WILLIAMS, QUINTERIA WARREN, LATRAVION ADAMS, ZAVEON WILLIAMS, KALEYA KERR ERVIN, ANGEL CUMMINGS; NOT PICTURED: MARLYN SANCHEZ, D’OMINY TAYLOR, JAYLA WADE

The Hank Aaron Chasing the Dream Foundation has provided deserving Texas College students with financial assistance in the form of scholarships since 2010. Founded by

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SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Latravion Adams Junior Angel Cummings Freshman Gavin Greenfield Junior Kaleya Kerr-Ervin Freshman Nylin McGowan Sophomore Marlyn Sanchez Freshman D’ominy Taylor Freshman Jayla Wade Junior Quinteria Warren Freshman Bryce Williams Freshman Zaveon Williams Senior

Dr. Billye Suber Aaron, Texas College Alumna and television host, and her husband, baseball legend Mr. Hank Aaron, the two utilized their notoriety and platform to establish themselves as philanthropists and civic leaders devoted to education, especially at Texas College. The Foundation has funded a multitude of students’ educational pursuits for over a decade. The scholarship reflects the desire of Dr. Suber Aaron to encourage and reward academic achievement. What began with just one scholarship in 2010, the program has expanded to provide 11 students with scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year. The recipients expressed sincere gratitude, crediting the scholarship for helping them continue their educational pursuits. “Receiving the scholarship is both an honor and a blessing,” said Miss Angel Cummings. “It has lightened my financial burden and brought me one step closer to achieving my dream. I am truly grateful for the support as I continue my journey through higher education.” Miss Kaleya Kerr-Ervin shared a similar sentiment, “I am extremely grateful to be one of the recipients. Through this scholarship, I will be able to excel throughout my music degree program." Given the endowed aspect of the scholarship, the scholarship will remain in perpetuity to continue to help fund the education of deserving students at Texas College.

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MUSIC DEPARTMENT PARTNERS WITH ETSO

THE TEXAS COLLEGE BAND AND CHOIR PERFORM ALONGSIDE THE EAST TEXAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA FOR THE SPIRIT OF AMERICA CONCERT

Texas College’s Music Department, comprised of the Texas College Band and the Texas College Choir, partnered with the East Texas Symphony Orchestra (ETSO) to present The Spirit of America Concert in February. Congressman Nathaniel Moran and Mr. Aaron Dworkin, composer, served as the concert’s narrators as the unique spirit of America was celebrated through music provided by the Texas College Band, the Texas College Choir, and ETSO. The concert surrounded the life, speeches, and writings of President George Washington and President Abraham Lincoln through the works The American Rhapsody and A Lincoln Portrait , as well as other diverse spirited selections that featured vocal and instrumental ensembles from ETSO, the Texas College Band, and the Texas College Choir. Collectively, the concert served as an avenue for the Choir and Band to proudly collaborate alongside the East Texas Symphony Orchestra for an evening of American history storytelling through phenomenal music.

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CHOIR OF THE YEAR

The Awards, presented by The Mims Group, is an annual prestigious and highly anticipated event that honors the best and brightest in the music and entertainment industries, celebrating excellence in creativity and artistry across the region, which included nominees from Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama, New Mexico, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. College Choir successfully advanced through three rounds of voting and secured their spot as one of only five final nominees for University Choir of the Year. Other final five nominees included choirs from: the University of Mississippi; Prairie View A&M University; Tennessee State University; and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Sound What began with 15 nominees, the Texas

2025 UNIVERSITY CHOIR OF THE YEAR AWARD

The Texas College Choir has been named The Sound Awards' University Choir of the Year. The Choir was presented this prestigious award on Friday, February 28, at The Sound Awards 2025 hosted in Dallas, Texas. "First and foremost, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to God for continually blessing the Texas College Choir," noted Mr. Charles Shaw, Texas College Choir Director. "We are deeply humbled and honored by the overwhelming support we have received. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your love, support, and encouraging words. The Texas College Choir is more than just a choir; it is a family. We are thrilled to share this victory with all of you who have and continue to support us. This achievement will be forever etched into the history of Texas College."

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LIBRARY INNOVATION THROUGH COOL TECHNOLOGY

DIRECTOR OF LIBRARY SERVICES MS. LINDA SIMMONS-HENRY (LEFT) POSES FOR A PHOTOGRAPH ALONGSIDE OTHER PANELISTS AT THE 2025 TEXAS LIBRARY ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN DALLAS, TEXAS

This April, Ms. Linda Simmons-Henry, Director of Library Services, traveled to Dallas, Texas, for the 2025 Texas Library Association (TLA) Annual Conference. With over 4,000 attendees, including librarians, exhibitors, and authors, the four-day event serves as the premiere professional development conference for Texas librarians. The 2025 conference theme was "Library Renaissance, Our Quest for Renewal," which focused on embracing the current library renaissance for growth, renewal, and innovation. With innovation as a main focal point of the conference, the TLA called on Ms. Simmons Henry to serve as a presenter and panelist for one of the leading sessions titled “Innovation Inspiration: Cool Technology from Texas Libraries.” The presentation served as a platform for academic, public, and school experts within the realm of innovative and cool technology to discuss their respective entity’s forward thinking implementations and new services to inspire librarians throughout the state to innovate. As one of seven expert panelists, Ms. Simmons-Henry discussed Texas College’s D.R. Glass Library and the technological innovations that the library continues to implement and explore to support student academic success. Of the various strategies she discussed, Ms. Simmons-Henry highlighted the library’s esports initiative, of which the lab is physically housed within the library, as well as other innovative integrations.

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DIRECTOR OF LIBRARY SERVICES MS. LINDA SIMMONS-HENRY AT THE 2025 TEXAS LIBRARY ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN DALLAS, TEXAS

“My invitation to participate and serve on the panel for ‘Innovation Inspiration: Cool Technology from Texas Libraries’ with other academic librarians was a wholehearted pleasure,” said Ms. Simmons-Henry. “To be able to share with and learn alongside library colleagues, to engage in meaningful dialogue, to exchange strategies, it was a true delight.” Ms. Simmons-Henry continued her sentiment, noting that the future of libraries is undoubtedly one that is digital. In this regard, she emphasized the need for libraries to embrace innovation, as well as continue to explore and recognize the dynamic roles that they serve in the ever-evolving digital landscape. To do so, Ms. Simmons-Henry asserted that expanding partnerships, implementing the latest technological initiatives, increasing access to digital collections, and staying current with the latest academic trends are essential to maintaining a library’s functionality in the modern era and futuristically. “This is all imperative to fostering academic excellence, professional development, enhanced digital resources, and collaboration across the state,” noted Ms. Simmons-Henry. “The future of libraries are far beyond traditional knowledge curation. Libraries now serve as vibrant spaces for community engagement, digital literacy, and social inclusion. This conference was of great benefit and instrumental to empowering our library staff, enhancing our resources, creating new initiatives, and ultimately supporting the academic success of our Texas College students. The networking and knowledge exchanged at this conference served as a significant milestone that I am confident will continue to further strengthen the capacities of the D.R. Glass Library at Texas College and reinforce our collective commitment to excellence now, as well as in the future.”

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MISS UNCF EMBRACES AMBASSADORSHIP

Miss High, a native of Jacksonville, Texas, is a Social Work major with aspirations of becoming a social worker, as well as plans to found her own non-profit organization for young girls. In addition to her service as Miss UNCF, she also serves as the Texas College Choir Alto Section Leader, as well as the Social Work Student Association President. Miss High is also a member of the Alpha Tau Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Her value as an ambassador for the College is evidenced by her recent feature in the December 2024 edition of HBCU Her Voice Magazine, a publication dedicated to celebrating the powerful stories and achievements of women within the HBCU community. Within each issue, the publication highlights and brings a voice to the diverse experiences, challenges, and successes of women who are HBCU students, faculty, alumni, and supporters, showcasing their impact across various fields. Moreover, HBCU Her Voice Magazine serves as a platform for empowerment, education, and celebration by connecting readers to the strength, wisdom, and legacy of women from the HBCU community to inspire the next generation of leaders and changemakers. Miss High was selected to be featured in the magazine's section titled "Celebrating the Now of HBCUs," which spotlights current

MISS TYESHA HIGH, MISS UNCF

Miss Tyesha High, 2024-2025 Miss UNCF, has continuously proven herself as a leader not only on campus, but also beyond the gates of 2404 North Grand. With her embodiment of the College’s core values, Miss High has embraced her role as Miss UNCF and, congruently, as an ambassador of Texas College. In just the past few months, Miss High has monumentally illustrated the preparation, development, and empowerment that Texas College provides its students.

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HBCU students, their respective institutions, and their experiences, as well as other personal insights. Miss High's four-page feature in the publication, the largest spread of the students, detailed a multitude of items such as a brief biography, her career aspirations, her experience at Texas College, her challenges and triumphs that have led to her academic success, the importance of HBCUs and representation, and her faith in God, as well as her motivation and role model—her grandmother. "I am extremely honored to be featured in HBCU Her Voice and to have the opportunity to represent Texas College," commented Miss High. "I absolutely adore Texas College. Genuinely, I love everything that Texas College stands for and everything that the College has given me. I am truly thankful for this opportunity to serve." As Texas College’s Miss UNCF, Miss High attended the UNCF National Pre-Alumni Council (PAC) Leadership Conference in Memphis, Tennessee, at the end of February. As part of the conference, each institution’s queen philanthropically compete against one another in the annual Miss National UNCF Service Project; this year’s project supported Memphis women and families in need with self-care necessities (e.g., over-the-counter medicines, first aid kits, personal and feminine hygiene products, books). Through concerted efforts with the PAC, Miss High galvanized Texas College students, faculty, staff, and alumni to support this endeavor. And, as a result of Miss High’s leadership, Texas College collected over 1,000 items to support those in need, which positioned her and the PAC as first place winners for the service project.

MISS TYESHA HIGH, MISS UNCF, AT HOMECOMING CORONATION

In addition to her successful service project, Miss High also secured the title of third runner-up in the prestigious Miss National UNCF Coronation. And, as Texas College’s Miss UNCF, Miss High was also selected to present an award at the Tyler Metro Chamber of Commerce’s Community Image Awards in April. The gala serves a platform to recognize and celebrate individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made significant contributions to the community and their respective industries. As she has proven time after time, her stellar service as an ambassador for the College is invaluable and exemplifies the transformative experience and empowerment that Texas College affords.

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COMMUNITY CLEAN UP

MR. JARED SHEARS, TEXAS COLLEGE STUDENT, PICKS UP TRASH ON PALACE AVENUE AS PART OF A COMMUNITY CLEAN UP INITIATIVE

Texas College students are taking pride not only of the campus grounds, but also in the surrounding community. Embodying the Texas College core value of community service, two community clean up initiatives recently occurred in areas adjacent to and nearby the College. The first endeavor in February, spearheaded by the Men of Valor and Excellence (M.O.V.E), alongside other student volunteers, cleaned up the Grand Avenue block directly in front of campus, which extended down 26th Street, around to Palace Avenue, and up 25th Street. Then in March, members of the Steer Football team, with help from Alumnus Christian Gooden, helped to clean up resident’s yards by raking leaves, removing limbs and branches, as well as other yard maintenance tasks.

STEER FOOTBALL STUDENT-ATHLETES CLEAN UP RESIDENT’S YARDS AS PART OF A COMMUNITY CLEAN UP INITIATIVE

The clean up efforts illustrate that Texas College students personify the core value of community service and are empowered to engage in life-long leadership and service to their community.

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