Richard Gleber – 91¸ŁŔű Roar with the Best Mon, 05 Oct 2026 18:37:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.4 /wp-content/uploads/2022/04/cropped-PRCC-favicon-32x32.png Richard Gleber – 91¸ŁŔű 32 32 Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Opens PRCC Fine Arts Series with Dynamic, Genre-Spanning Concert /mississippi-symphony-orchestra-opens-prcc-fine-arts-series-with-dynamic-genre-spanning-concert/ Fri, 02 Oct 2026 18:27:52 +0000 /?p=56346

POPLARVILLE, Miss. — 91¸ŁŔű welcomed the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra to open the 2026-27 fine arts season on Tuesday, Sept. 29, at the Ethel Holden Brownstone Center for the Arts. 

“We were honored to receive support from the Mississippi Arts Commission, the Mississippi Legislature, our season sponsors, and the National Endowment for the Arts to bring the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra to the Brownstone Center,” said Dr. Trevor Hunt, Fine Arts and Communications Chair and Brownstone Center Director. “This was an incredible opportunity for our students to experience professional orchestral music up close and for our community to enjoy world-class music right here at home. We are grateful for the support that made experiences like this possible.” 

Orchestra conductor looking towards audience

The concert showcased an eclectic mix of patriotic selections, timeless classical works, and iconic film scores. The wide-ranging repertoire meant nearly every listener found a familiar favorite or discovered a new piece that moved them. 

The evening began with the audience singing along with Music Director and Conductor Crafton Beck to the National Anthem. After setting the tone for the evening, Beck shared how much the MSO looks forward to the annual performance. 

“This is a magnificent space,” said Beck. “We look forward to playing. In fact, we designed this program just for you guys. We wanted to play in this hall.” 

The orchestra spent the first half of the concert focused on a few well-known classical selections. They began with “Friska from Franz Lizst’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2,” before launching into “On the Beautiful Blue Danube Waltz, Op. 314” by Johann Strauss Jr. This was followed by Johann Strauss’s “Champagne Polka, Op. 211.” 

Symphony member

For approximately 20 minutes, the audience was treated to Peter Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.” Written in 1880, the music commemorates the Russian army’s defeat of Napoleon’s great army, which marked a turning point in the war against Napoleon. The piece begins and ends with an Orthodox hymn of the people’s prayer rising to God to protect them and their homeland and to drive these aggressors out. Between the hymn passages is the great horn call marking the French army’s attack, along with the French national anthem played repeatedly before listeners finally hear what was then Russia’s national anthem. 

After the intermission, the program shifted to more modern selections with the theme from Peter Gunn beginning the second half. The orchestra took a bow after performing the “Symphonic Suite” from The Lord of the Rings, featuring the main themes from The Fellowship of the Ring, composed by Howard Shore and arranged by John Whitney. This was followed by â€śBach Remix” arranged by Beck, which combined “Suite for Solo Cello” and “Toccata and Fugue.” 

Symphony conductor leading the symphony

“A Tribute to the King: The Music of Elvis,” arranged by Ted Ricketts, included an oboe solo by Julie Hudik. The oboe received additional spotlight time with “Gabriel’s Oboe” from The Mission, composed by Ennio Morricone, who composed for other movies such as The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly and The Untouchables. The theme to Spider-Man (2002), as well as the main theme to Jurassic Park, rounded out the modern selections. 

The evening concluded with a rousing encore of John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever,” complete with a trio of piccolos. Before the piece concluded, the audience was on its feet and clapping in appreciation.  

Cecilia Barron of Hattiesburg came specifically to enjoy the MSO. She was present the first year they played in the Brownstone, but had not been back since.  

“We regularly attend the USM Symphony, but seeing the Mississippi Symphony tonight is a treat,” said Barron. “The acoustics are so much better here and I’ve enjoyed all of the selections they have played.” 

Seated violinists performing

Dozens of students taking music appreciation this semester observed the performance from the balcony. Landon Knight, a freshman from Lumberton, was among those attending the concert to fulfill one requirement of the music appreciation class. Students may have come in not knowing exactly what to expect from an orchestral concert, but left with a greater appreciation for the art.  

“The concert is not my usual style, but I liked it,” said Knight. “I really liked the Spider-Man song—that came straight from my childhood.” 

BROWNSTONE SCHEDULE 
Four more events are scheduled for the fall semester. 

ACA Fest, featuring performances by Mississippi high schools and PRCC’s talented vocal groups, The Voices, Currents, and Rapids, will be on Nov. 12 and 13 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 each evening with open seating. 

Holiday Pops, the annual Christmas-themed concert, will take place on Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. The student concert will feature performances by The Voices, Currents, Rapids, PRCC Singers, JazzCats, Theatre, and other talented student ensembles. Tickets are $7 with assigned seating. Tickets will not be sold in person on the night of the concert. 

The annual performances of The Nutcracker will be on Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and on Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 with assigned seating. 

Tickets for each event can be purchased at prcc.edu/brownstone/upcoming-events/ or by calling 601-403-1180.   

For the latest news on 91¸ŁŔű, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (), Instagram (), and Facebook ().

Article and photography by Laura O’Neill.

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PRCC Launches “Living My Legacy” Campaign, Celebrating the Wildcat Impact Across GenerationsĚý /living-my-legacy/ Mon, 10 Aug 2026 18:26:27 +0000 /?p=55096 Text Image: Living My Legacy

A legacy is defined as something lasting that you leave behind through your actions, relationships, values, or accomplishments. At 91¸ŁŔű, Mississippi’s oldest communityĚýcollegeĚýand fastest growing institution in the state, more than a century has been spent cultivating a unique space that encourages legacies to be born, lived and left behind for generations toĚýbenefitĚýfrom. This year, the college proudly unveils its 2026-2027 annual theme, “Living My Legacy”, a celebration of the people, experiences, and purpose thatĚýdefinesĚýwhat it means to beĚýa Wildcat.Ěý

At Pearl River, legacy is more than history. It is the impact students make in the classroom, on the field, on the stage, in the community, and ultimately in the lives of others. Every class attended, every friendship formed, every challenge overcome, and every milestone achieved becomes part of a story that extends far beyond graduation.  

“Living My Legacy is more than this year’s campaign; it reflects who we are as a college and the impact we strive to make every day,” said Dr. Kari Eve Valence, Director of Marketing & Recruitment. “Every student arrives at Pearl River with unique goals, talents, and dreams. Along the way, they are encouraged by faculty, supported by staff, challenged in the classroom, and inspired through experiences that help shape their future. At Pearl River, legacy isn’t measured solely by what you leave behind; it’s measured by the lives you touch while you’re here. We are proud to celebrate the students, employees, alumni, and community partners who continue to make Pearl River’s legacy stronger with each passing year.” 

For generations, Wildcats have come to Pearl River seeking an education and discovered something even greater, a place where they belong. Alumni often reflect on the relationships they built, the mentors who believed in them, and the experiences that shaped the people they have become. Their stories continue to inspire today’s students as they begin writing chapters of their own. 

That culture of belonging and excellence continues to fuel the college’s remarkable growth. In fall 2025, Pearl River welcomed a record-setting enrollment of 6,307 students, breaking previous institutional and state records. Since 2017, enrollment has grown by an astounding 29%, while credit hours have increased by 34%. Pearl River remains the only community college in Mississippi to experience significant headcount growth during that period—a testament to the life-changing opportunities found across its campuses. 

Legacies Forged In The Classroom  

Community colleges all often tout smaller class sizes, personalized instruction and instructors that see students as more than a number on a roll call. While this is all true at Pearl River, what makes the Wildcat experience so different from other institutions is the culture that has been fostered over years by people that truly believe in its mission. Whether attending classes on campus or online, students find themselves being supported every step of the way by instructors who challenge, encourage, and inspire them to achieve more than they ever thought possible. 

From the President’s Office to every classroom, dorm hall, practice facility, and office building across campus, Pearl River embraces the Wildcat Way through its core values of Pride, Respect, Class, and Character. These principles help develop graduates who leave not only with degrees, but with confidence, leadership, and integrity to positively impact their communities. 

The college continues to invest in student success through holistic support services that promote academic, emotional, social, and occupational wellness. Programs such as TRIO provide individualized resources, including peer tutoring and academic support, ensuring students have every opportunity to succeed. 

Pearl River proudly celebrated the record-breaking number of students named to the Spring 2026 Dean’s and President’s Lists, marking the highest academic honors achievement ever recorded for a spring semester.  

A total of 1,054 students have been recognized for their outstanding academic achievements, with 362 earning a place on the President’s List and 792 on the Dean’s List.  

Academic excellence also thrives through Phi Theta Kappa. The Beta Tau Gamma Chapter on the Forrest County Campus and the Iota Mu Chapter serving the Hancock County and Poplarville campuses continue to distinguish themselves among the nation’s top honor societies. Since 2014, ten Pearl River students have earned the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship, including Diego Sosa Vazquez, whose remarkable achievement reflects the exceptional opportunities available to Wildcats. 

Champion Legacies Outside the Classroom 

Athletics, Fine Arts, student organizations, leadership opportunities, and campus traditions empower students to discover new passions, develop lifelong friendships, and become leaders on campus and beyond. 

Annual events such as Welcome Week, Homecoming, the Fall Campfire, Wildcat Wonderland, TurnUp Tuesdays, and the Spring BBQ create opportunities for students to connect, celebrate, and build a vibrant campus community. 

Pearl River Athletics continues to establish a championship legacy. During the 2025-2026 academic year, Wildcat teams earned 189 victories while capturing three MACCC Championships in Women’s Basketball, Women’s Soccer, and Baseball, along with three National Championships in Baseball, Softball, and Cheer. Excellence extended into the classroom as 160 student-athletes were named to the President’s and Dean’s Lists during the fall semester, 142 earned those honors in the spring, 75 received NJCAA All-Academic recognition, and 12 athletic teams finished with cumulative GPAs above 3.05. 

Fine Arts students continue building a legacy of creativity and excellence. The Spirit of the River Marching Band welcomes one of its largest ensembles in recent history, with many students continuing their musical journey through Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Pep Band. 

Vocal ensembles, including Currents, PRCC Singers, Rapids, and Voices, represent Pearl River through performances, competitions, and community service, while the PRCC Players inspire audiences of all ages through annual productions that entertain and educate both campus and local school communities. 

Student organizations also play a vital role in shaping the Wildcat experience. Groups such as the Ally Club, Gaming Club, History & Humanities Club, and the Student Government Association provide opportunities for students to lead, serve, advocate, and build meaningful relationships that all help craft a bright future for Pearl River graduates. 

Be Part of the Living My Legacy 

Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the very first time, preparing to graduate, or returning years later as a proud alumnus, every Wildcat has an opportunity to make a lasting impact. 

Throughout the year, Living My Legacy will highlight the stories of students discovering their purpose, faculty and staff changing lives through education and service, alumni making a difference in their communities, and supporters who continue strengthening the future of 91¸ŁŔű. 

The college invites students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members to share the people, experiences, and opportunities that have shaped their journey by using #LivingMyLegacy on social media. 

Staying Up to Date on All Things PRCC  

Between social media, an easy-to-navigate website, and weekly radio shows, many avenues are available for staying up to date.  

Wildcat Family and community members are encouraged to follow the college on social media. The college can be found on Facebook (), Instagram (),  , Twitter (), and TikTok ().  

The weekly Wildcat Radio Show hosted by Chuck Abadie is broadcast on Tuesday mornings at 9 a.m. on SuperTalk Mississippi 97.3 FM Hattiesburg. Recent episodes can be found on the .  

How To Enroll  

Enrolling at 91¸ŁŔű requires a few simple steps:  

1. Apply for Admissions online and have your transcript(s) sent from high school and any past colleges you have attended.  

2. Apply for Financial Aid, including doing your FASFA. Submit your ACT score for academic scholarships.  

3. Apply for Housing if needed  

Visit  to become a Wildcat today.  

For the latest news on 91¸ŁŔű, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter (), Instagram (), Facebook (),and TikTok ().

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Spring 2026 Housing Application /spring-2026-housing-application/ Mon, 15 Sep 2025 19:05:54 +0000 /?p=46765

The Spring 2026 Housing Application is now OPEN! If you plan on keeping your room assignment in the spring, you must complete the Spring 2026 application.

New applicants: never completed a previous PRCC Housing Application should select “No” when prompted to choose Prior Housing Ind.

Returning resident students, if you plan on living on campus in Spring 2026, you will be prompted to select Prior Housing Ind. Please select “Yes” to avoid paying the $50 deposit again. If you choose “No”, you will have to pay the $50 application deposit again.

If you have paid the deposit in the past but did not have a room assignment, click “Yes” to Prior Housing Ind to avoid paying the deposit a second time.

Returning students will have the same room assignment as Fall 2025.

Spring Housing Application Open Date: September 15, 2025
Spring Housing Application Priority Deadline: November 3, 2025
Spring Housing Application Closes: February 15, 2026

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Coastal Pathways Scholarship Opens New Doors for PRCC Graduates at USM /coastal-pathways-scholarship-opens-new-doors-for-prcc-graduates-at-usm/ Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:50:33 +0000 /?p=45197

91¸ŁŔű (PRCC) students can now receive financial assistance when they transfer into specific pathways at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM). The Coastal Pathways Scholarship was announced at a joint press conference today on USM’s Gulf Park campus. The scholarship is part of an initiative by USM to support both educational access and workforce development along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. 

Two men standing in front of backdrop

Pearl River has served as an affordable start for a student’s college career with the benefit of an intimate setting many consider to be their home away from home. The Coastal Pathways Scholarship provides a clear and affordable route for PRCC graduates to continue their journey and complete a bachelor’s degree at USM. 

“We are incredibly grateful to The University of Southern Mississippi for their generous scholarship opportunities extended to our 91¸ŁŔű students,” said PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood. “These pathways not only open doors for individual students but also have a significant economic impact on our coastal communities. By investing in education, we are cultivating a skilled workforce that can contribute to local businesses and stimulate growth in various sectors.  

“As we work together to enhance educational opportunities, we are building a stronger, more resilient economy for the entire Gulf Coast region, ensuring that our communities thrive for generations to come.” 

PRCC and USM dignitaries standing in front of a backdrop.

Qualified transfer students can receive the annual $5,000 scholarship with an option to renew with continued eligibility. Eligible programs include biological sciences, business administration (general business), elementary education, marine biology, marine science (hydrography), ocean engineering, organizational leadership, psychology, and secondary education. Students must maintain a 2.5 grade-point average and enroll for at least 15 credit hours each semester with at least nine credit hours of in-person instruction at the Gulf Park campus. 

Dr. Breerwood being interviewed by local media.

“This scholarship pathway represents more than just financial support—it’s about creating opportunities for student success,” said Southern Miss President Dr. Joe Paul. “By partnering with 91¸ŁŔű, we’re building a direct and affordable route for students to continue their education and make meaningful contributions to our coastal communities.” 

Dr. Joe Paul speaking in front of crowd.

For more information on eligibility and the application process, visit the . 

About 91¸ŁŔűĚý
91¸ŁŔű, established in 1909 as Mississippi’s first public two-year institution, is committed to providing high-quality, affordable education that meets the evolving needs of our students and communities. With campuses in Poplarville, Hattiesburg (Forrest County), and Hancock County, PRCC offers a wide range of academic, career-technical, allied health, and workforce training programs. Whether students are preparing to transfer to a four-year university or enter the workforce, PRCC fosters personal growth and academic success. Rooted in tradition and driven by innovation, the college embraces The Wildcat Way—Pride, Respect, Class, and Character.ĚýĚý

About The University of Southern MississippiĚý
Founded in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi is a leading public research university with a mission to prepare students for meaningful careers and lifelong impact. USM is recognized for its contributions to science, technology, health, education, and the arts. The university’s reach spans across Mississippi and into global communities through its innovative research centers and online learning opportunities. With a student-centered approach and a strong culture of passion and persistence, USM continues to shape future leaders while advancing discovery and progress.Ěý

For the latest news on 91¸ŁŔű, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (), Instagram (), and Facebook (). 

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WEATHER ALERT /weather-alert/ Sun, 19 Jan 2025 16:08:08 +0000 /?p=38933 ALERT 3: January 22, 2025 12:20 p.m.

**Important Announcement: Campus Closure Due to Severe Winter Weather**

Winter Weather Alert 3

Attention Wildcats! Due to temperatures across our area remaining near freezing and the continued threat of hazardous road conditions, all 91¸ŁŔű campuses will remain closed on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

The safety of our faculty, staff, and students remains our top priority.

Online classes will continue as scheduled.

Dormitory students are advised to monitor their email for updates regarding the cafeteria schedule.

Additionally, students with clinical assignments should reach out to their instructors for further information and guidance on their specific situations.

All PRCC campuses will resume normal operations on Friday, January 24, 2025.

Please stay tuned for further updates, and continue to monitor your email and the College’s social media accounts for any additional information.


ALERT 2: January 20, 2025 5:08 p.m.

Weather Update 1-20-25

Attention Wildcats! Due to the possibility of icy weather conditions, all PRCC campuses will be CLOSED TUESDAY, JANUARY 21st & WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22nd.

All online classes will resume as scheduled.

Dormitory students are advised to check their email for further details.

Please monitor PRCC.EDU, social media sites and email for new information as it becomes available. We will resume normal campus hours THURSDAY, JANUARY 23rd at 8am.

Stay warm, Wildcats!


Weather Alert Campus Closed January 21.

Attention Wildcats! Due to the possibility of icy weather conditions, all PRCC campuses will be CLOSED TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2025.

All online classes will continue as scheduled. Dormitory students are advised to monitor their email for further details.

Please monitor , social media sites and email for new information as it becomes available.

Stay warm, Wildcats!

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Poplarville’s Hometown Girls of Chapel Hart Performing Free Concert at PRCC /poplarvilles-hometown-girls-of-chapel-hart-performing-free-concert-at-prcc/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:36:33 +0000 /?p=29973
Chapel Hart to perform at PRCC flyer.
Click photo to enlarge.

PRCC’s Dobie Holden Football Stadium will soon resonate with the dynamic sounds of Chapel Hart as sisters Danica and Devynn Hart, along with their cousin Trea Swindle return to their hometown. The free community concert will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 22.ĚýĚý

Chapel Hart, eager to give back to their hometown, reached out to Pearl River County to make it happen. The County has teamed up with the 91¸ŁŔű Foundation to coordinate this special hometown event.Ěý

Chapel Hart became the first act to earn a unanimous Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent. The “Girls Are Back in Town” singers finished in the top five of AGT’s season 17 and have since experienced a meteoric rise, with shoutouts from Dolly Parton, jam sessions with Darius Rucker, performances at the Grand Ole Opry, and multiple studio album releases.ĚýĚý

They have been touring nationwide, with upcoming stops in South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia before their eagerly awaited return to Mississippi.ĚýĚý

Events and opportunities like these do not happen without the support of community partners and sponsors. This concert is brought to you by Highland Community Hospital, Pearl River County Hospital, and Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District.ĚýFor a full list of sponsors or if you would like to support this event please visit prcc.edu/chapel-hart-concert.

Gates will open at 6:00 pm and stadium seating will be first come, first serve. Additional seating is available for those that would like to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on the football field. We look forward to celebrating our hometown girls of Chapel Hart.ĚýĚýĚý

For the latest news on 91¸ŁŔű, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (), Instagram (), and Facebook ().Ěý

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The Wildcat Way Show featuring Sydni Crain /the-wildcat-way-show-featuring-sydni-crain/ Tue, 07 May 2024 18:11:32 +0000 /?p=28083 This edition of The Wildcat Way Show features Sydni Crain, our instructor of the new Hydrography Technology program.

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Wildcat Way Show featuring Latashia Owens with AMPACT /wildcat-way-show-featuring-latashia-owens-with-ampact/ Tue, 07 May 2024 18:09:01 +0000 /?p=28080 In this episode of the Wildcat Way Show, our host, McKinsy Hickman, had the opportunity to sit down with Latashia Owens, program manager of Americorps’ AMPACT programs in Hattiesburg, MS. Latashia is a PRCC alumnus who has used her skills she developed while attending PRCC to conquer this new role. She has a passion to serve, and is seeking other volunteers with similar passions and drive. To learn more about Ampact and how YOU can benefit from being a volunteer, please reach out to Latashia at 601-348-7508 or latashia.owens@ampact.us.

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Pearl River celebrates historic spring enrollment and a decade of outpacing the state average in growth /pearl-river-celebrates-historic-spring-enrollment-and-a-decade-of-outpacing-the-state-average-in-growth/ Mon, 05 Feb 2024 20:24:43 +0000 /?p=24919

POPLARVILLE, Miss. — New all-time highs for enrollment and credit hours have 91¸ŁŔű celebrating its continued progress toward making higher education affordable, accessible, and efficient. 

The 10th Day Enrollment Report published by the Mississippi Community College Board arrived with news of the record-setting enrollment of 5,061 students for the spring semester. This marks the first time in the institution’s history that spring enrollment topped 5,000 students. There has been a 17.75% growth in enrollment from 2018 to 2024 while the state average saw a drop of 12.3%. Pearl River is the only community college in the state to experience a headcount gain in that period.  

The River Continues to Rise

Credit hours are also up for the spring semester, with 67,073 credit hours registered. The new record for the school places it as the only Mississippi community college with a credit hour gain from 2018 to 2024 at a whopping 23.75% increase, while the state average saw a drop of 14.5%. 

These exciting enrollment developments follow news of the record-setting enrollment of 5,646 students for PRCC’s Fall 2023 semester.  

“We are humbled by the record number of students who have entrusted us with their higher education goals and aspirations,” said Dr. Adam Breerwood, President of 91¸ŁŔű. “We have embraced a proactive approach to recruitment and expansion of our programs and class offerings. Our job is to create clearly defined pathways for our students and assist them in alleviating any obstacles that would impede their success. Our focus has been on remaining affordable, accessible and efficient. Our unprecedented growth is a testament to the diligence and efforts of our entire faculty and staff.” 

STAYING ACCESSIBLE 

Whether it is daytime, nighttime, or anytime online, PRCC is building out a robust schedule that allows students to obtain the courses and training they need. Courses are offered on the traditional 15-week semester schedule in fall and spring and in condensed formats for completion in 4 to 8 weeks with start dates throughout the year.Ěý

Meeting students where they are through asynchronous courses delivered through eLearning options is a continued priority for PRCC. Online classes are popular with non-traditional students, including those who continue to work while furthering their education.     

Online enrollment has more than doubled since 2017. The number of students taking an online course saw a 93.21% increase while credit hours increased by 151.78%. Approximately 72.57% of students have at least one online class with 34.04% of students exclusively online. 

Students pursuing certificates or degrees in all Business Pathway Career Technical Programs (Accounting Technology, Business & Marketing Management Technology, Business Management Technology, and Medical Billing & Coding) can do so completely online. Several general education courses can be taken through eLearning as can many for the new Cybersecurity Technology program. 

PREPARING FOR THE WORKFORCE 

For students attending The River, success can be measured by what comes after they complete a certificate or earn their associate degree.ĚýĚý

Allied Health, Career-Technical Education, and Workforce Development programs assist students to acquire the skills they need to secure positions that launch careers. Leadership in those areas works with local employers to create partnerships and unique opportunities for PRCC students. They also evaluate the needs of local communities to determine if new programs should be added.  

PRCC currently offers 46 different CTE pathways across its locations and continues to find new pathways and programs to offer that will work towards preparing students to enter the workforce well educated, well trained, and ready to provide top-notch services to our communities. The current list of options can be found at prcc.edu/academics/career-technical-education/ with links to each individual program’s information page.  

Pearl River is also proud to continuously support students when their path takes them on to university. Former PRCC students earning degrees from IHL institutions has increased by 14.5% since 2018, while the state average has increased less than 1% in that same timeframe.  

The academic outcome is also seen in improved grade point averages. In 2023, the average GPA of PRCC transfer students that graduated from one of Mississippi IHLs was 3.24, up from 3.03 in 2018.  

PUTTING STUDENTS FIRST 

PRCC has listened to feedback from current and prospective students regarding hours for key operational offices. Plans are in motion to create opportunities to benefit our students during peak times of the semester. This allows students to take care of business during times that are convenient for them. Ěý

“Across the college we listen to feedback from students on how we can be more accessible. Through the use of focus groups, our students have expressed a desire for flexible hours in various offices,” said Candace Harper, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Business Services. â€śOur Business Office, Financial Aid, and Admissions departments are working towards providing more flexible hours for our students during peak times. The Wildcat Den Bookstore has created extended hours on nights and weekends at our Poplarville location and extended the hours until 5:00 pm on our Forrest County Campus. We believe these small tokens create big opportunities.” 

PRCC Students Walking

An integral part of the student experience is learning in and out of the classroom. PRCC constantly aims to provide the best possible classroom experience for all students, led by hundreds of high-caliber instructors. PRCC’s faculty and staff often go above and beyond the daily requirements and expectations to ensure each student is cared for. 

Both students and alumni share how they found their path and people at The River. They become part of the Wildcat Family, with lifelong connections being made. 

“I love that I have been able to find my family here within the Wildcat Family,” said Sophomore student and the Office of Recruitment’s Lead River Navigator Karsen Vick. “By joining clubs, attending events and activities, and getting involved in campus life, I’ve made lifelong friends and created memories I know will last forever. I’m especially thankful for all of my instructors who have gone above and beyond to make my classes engaging and relevant to what I want to do in my future.” 

WALKING WITH OUR WILDCATS  

Pearl River has focused on customer service at the college, particularly on how students are helped throughout the process.Ěý

Assistance begins during a student’s matriculation into the college with informative orientation sessions coordinated by First-Year Experience (FYE) in the Center for Academic Engagement. The orientation process includes access to online ROAR Resources, an advisement session to set their first schedule, and attendance at a Wildcat Welcome session for their chosen campus.  

“Enrolling in college can be overwhelming, especially for students who are the first in their families to attend college,” said Director of First Year Experience Dr. Lisa Wall. “The orientation process is designed to guide and support students through every step between completing the admissions application and starting the first day of class.    

“The First-Year Experience department strives to provide a variety of resources and opportunities for students to get their questions answered and get engaged with PRCC before Day 1. We’re genuinely Happy to Help!”  

Support for students continues beyond the first day of classes. First-Year Seminar is a credit-bearing Learning & Life Skills (LLS) course designed to support students throughout their first semester at PRCC and is a requirement for graduation. Additional LLS courses include College Life for academically at-risk students, College Study Skills, and Job Search Skills. FYE also hosts workshops for all students on topics such as time management and study skills. 

Paying for college is a topic many incoming students struggle to understand fully. PRCC launched a new initiative for financial aid counseling to empower incoming freshmen to navigate their financial aid options confidently. The Office of Financial Aid offers the appointments, ensuring students have a comprehensive understanding of the financial aid process and available payment options. 

FUTURE GROWTH AT PRCC 

The goal of the college is to prepare each student for the best possible life ahead, one where they are self-sufficient and upstanding members of their communities. PRCC is committed to providing the facilities and faculty for programs leading to career opportunities in the area.ĚýĚýĚý

Pearl River is growing its footprint in Hancock County by opening the Aviation and Aerospace Workforce Academy Hangar with direct runway access at Stennis International Airport. The facility opened for Unmanned Systems Technology classes last fall and Aviation Maintenance Technology classes began in January. Construction is underway for the main Academy building, anticipated for completion by summer 2024. The current Hancock Campus in Waveland will relocate to the new 53,000-square-foot facility.    

In 2023, the Mississippi State Legislature recognized the College’s enrollment growth in Allied Health and Nursing students. As a result, funding was provided for the construction of a new Allied Health and Nursing building to accommodate the growth. The College has secured grant funds, from Accelerate MS, to renovate existing spaces in preparation of a new EMT/Paramedic program.    

“The Forrest County Campus is working diligently to provide programs that benefit our community,” said Dr. Jana Causey, Vice President for Forrest County Campus, Allied Health, and Nursing Programs. “Healthcare is a huge sector of employment in Hattiesburg and we are doing everything possible to expand our programs to meet those needs and offer our students great opportunities.    

 â€śAs a result of this effort and partnerships with our local government, universities and healthcare providers, our enrollment continues to grow which in turn improves the skills of our local workforce and contributes to the great quality of life right here in the Pine Belt.” 

On the Poplarville Campus, a new long-term plan for expansion has been drafted. Ground has already broken for a new Utility Lineman program facility and the construction of new residence halls will begin later this fall.  

All these components work together to make Pearl River a place that welcomes all to start a new journey and gives them the necessary tools to be successful along the way. 

For the latest news on 91¸ŁŔű, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (), Instagram (), and Facebook (). 

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Severe Weather Update /severe-weather-update/ Mon, 15 Jan 2024 21:36:46 +0000 /?p=23871 Update January 16, 2024, 6:00 p.m.
All PRCC campuses will resume regular operations on Wednesday, January 17, 2024.


Update January 15, 2024, 3:40 p.m.
Due to the potential for severe winter weather, all PRCC campuses will be closed tomorrow, January 16.

  • All online classes will continue as scheduled.
  • Residence halls will remain open.
  • All regularly scheduled college operations will resume on Wednesday, January 17 at 8 am.

Students, please continue to check your PRCC email, website, social media, and our emergency Lynx system for updates. If you have not signed up for Lynx notifications, click the Lynx tile in to start receiving updates.



Update January 15, 2024, 12:30 p.m.

Severe Weather Update:
The PRCC Administration is monitoring the incoming winter weather system.
Students, sign up with the PRCC Lynx notification system in RiverGuide and PRCC social media for campus updates.


Lynx
Pearl River Campus Notification System

Students, sign up for Lynx, the Pearl River Campus Notification System in .

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