Pearl River County鈥檚 Economic Development Director Lindsay Ward presented at Lunch and Learn Thursday, Oct. 22, at 91福利. Before addressing community members and local leaders, Ward met with Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute students, introducing them to the topic of economic development and its impact on the county. 

PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood greeted attendees and introduced Ward. He credited her with securing almost $23 million for development projects, including more than $18.6 million from partners outside the county.  

鈥淚鈥檝e had a chance to work with Lindsay in a variety of capacities,鈥� said Breerwood. 鈥淎s she goes out to talk to potential industry partners that may be considering our area for economic development, she represents us to the highest of standards in the way that we want to be represented. Lindsay, let me just publicly say we鈥檙e grateful for the work that you do and the leadership you provide.鈥� 

Ward explained why the county is pursuing economic development and how its projects aim to attract employers and support residents. The creation of high-paying jobs in the county is the ultimate goal for economic development. She shared statistics on the livable wage and annual household income requirements for individuals, couples, or families in the area, with many existing jobs in the county not meeting the livable wage threshold. Ward also showed data indicating more than 1,000 county residents in advanced manufacturing-related occupations work outside Pearl River County. 

鈥淥ur people are already trained in these skills,鈥� said Ward. 鈥淣ot only are they trained in the skills, but they鈥檙e actually already having to travel outside of Pearl River County for them.鈥� 

Preparation of sites for future industry was addressed, with Ward sharing photographs and renderings of the projects. The Pearl River County Industrial Park in Poplarville has been expanded with an additional 211 acres, adjacent to the original 130-acre site. Work along Highway 26 was completed to improve traffic flow, and a water tower is planned for future construction following a utilities expansion plan. A speculative building has been proposed for the Poplarville site; a smaller approach has already been completed by the County with the two 10,000-square-foot buildings constructed at the Tech Park near Picayune Municipal Airport. 

An airport advancement plan was recently completed, recommending that the Poplarville-Pearl River County Airport extend its runway to 5,000 linear feet and the addition of hangars and other facilities. The new emergency operations center with a fire station near the Pearl River County fairgrounds is slated to begin construction within the year. 

Finally, Ward spoke about the benefits of economic development beyond job creation. She cited the dramatic increases in tax revenue from businesses such as Home Depot in Picayune and Love鈥檚 in Poplarville. The tax revenue from those businesses directly benefits each city and school district. 

鈥淚t truly takes all of the state, the local, and the federal delegation working together to see the benefit,鈥� said Ward. 鈥淚t truly is such a joy because I鈥檓 very passionate about moving this community forward.鈥� 

Carol Williams, Interim Director of Poplarville Main Street, and Laura O’Neill, Poplarville Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member, provided updates on recent and upcoming events. Along with reminders of holiday events, the formation of a new Pearl River County Chamber of Commerce to consolidate the existing Picayune and Poplarville Chambers was highlighted. This included mention of the officers and the transition board for the new entity, effective January 1. The sponsors for the event included Mississippi Power and Wells Insurance, LLC. 

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

Article and photography by Laura O’Neill.

Twenty-two new members of the Beta Tau Gamma chapter of Phi Theta Kappa international honor society were inducted Monday, Oct. 19, at 91福利.

The induction ceremony was held at the Forrest County Campus with family members, friends, faculty, staff, and administration filling the audience. 

Students inducted included Ella Bergman of Petal, Karla Contreras of Hattiesburg, James Conner of Oak Grove, Cristina Dickerson of Jacksonville, Fla., Bella Dubose of Hattiesburg, Ayriel Fortune of Hattiesburg, Jonathan Gwin of Oak Grove, Charles Hicks II of Prentiss, Hunter Hooper of Hattiesburg, Miya Hullum of Hattiesburg, Ihaile Johnson of Hattiesburg.

Tanya Jones of Laurel, Camron Kapinski of Hopewell, Pa., Hayden Navarro of Petal, Logan Pitts of Petal, Lucas Robbins of Petal, Brianna Terry of Hattiesburg, Angie Ventura of Petal, Jackson Walters of Hattiesburg, Tia Washington of Hattiesburg, Stella Whalum of Columbia and Rodney Young of Prentiss. 

Phi Theta Kappa is known as the foremost honor society for two-year colleges with more than 1,300 chapters worldwide. 

Students selected for membership are considered academically successful having completed at least 12 credit hours of non-remedial courses with a minimum cumulative 3.4 GPA.   

Scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship are the four hallmarks of PTK. The current officers briefly shared how those hallmarks have played out for them as members of PTK. 

Dr. Jana Causey, Vice President of the Forrest County Campus, told students that PTK membership will open many doors for their futures.

鈥淭hese students are going to achieve great things while they are here at Pearl River and moving forward,鈥� said Dr. Causey. 鈥淲hat you are going to achieve would not be possible without the help of your teachers at PRCC. You have shown the ability to have pride in what you鈥檙e doing.鈥欌��

Beta Tau Gammas advisors are Drs. David Collum, Terri Smith Ruckel, Ryan Ruckel and Doug Donohue, and Said Otwane.

Dr. Ryan Ruckel, Dean, William Lewis Honors Institute and PTK Regional Coordinator, welcomed the audience.

鈥淭ransfer scholarship opportunities are available to these students as they continue with PRCC,鈥� said Dr. Ruckel. 鈥淭hese students also qualify for membership in our Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute, as well as various research opportunities. We welcome the opportunity to encourage and work with these students as they move forward.鈥�

The program began with the induction of chapter officers by Dr. David Collum, Dean of Career and Technical Education, and Said Otwane, instructor of Computer Coding.

Chapter officers include Jonathan Gwin as President, Ella Bergman of Sumrall, Vice President of Leadership; Amaria Bowie of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Leadership; Karla Contreras of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Scholarship; Akayliah Donaldson of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Service; Charles Hicks of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Service; Alex Miller of Petal, Vice President of Chapter Engagement; Daniel Robinson of Sumrall, Vice President of Chapter Engagement.

Noah Stasny of Lumberton, Vice President of Fellowship; Marin Sumrall of Sumrall, Vice President of Fellowship; Angie Ventura of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Membership; Asia Walker of Hattiesburg, Ambassador of Dual Enrollment; Chloe White of Sumrall, Vice President of Career Readiness; Sam Whittington, Vice President serving as Regional Officer; Grace Kitchens of Oak Grove, Vice President of Officer in Training; and Emory Smith of Hattiesburg, Officer in Training. 

Dr. Greg Underwood, Academic Dean at the FCC, told inductees, 鈥淭his is a night where you can all be proud.鈥�

The induction ceremony was sponsored by the Ole Miss Admissions office. Dr. Rudy Gatlin, PRCC instructor of Psychology and Music Appreciation, provided special music for the event.

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

Article by Chuck Abadie. Photography by Cullin Rogers.

91福利 continued its proud tradition of honoring creativity, leadership and dedication to the arts during the 2026 Homecoming ceremonies. This year鈥檚 Fine Arts and Communications Hall of Fame inductees, Jason Cale of Virginia Beach, Va., and Sharon Laird of Petal, exemplify the passion and excellence that define the Wildcat spirit and demonstrate how to live out their legacies. 

鈥淲e are incredibly proud to induct Sharon and Jason into the 2026 Fine Arts Hall of Fame,鈥� said Dr. Trevor Hunt, Fine Arts and Communications Department Chair and Director of the Brownstone Center for the Arts. 鈥淭hey exemplify what it means to be a Wildcat through their character, dedication, accomplishments, and commitment to others. They represent the very best of 91福利, and we are honored to recognize the lasting impact they have made on our college and community. They are truly outstanding examples of what it means to be a Wildcat.鈥� 

About the 2026 PRCC Fine Arts Hall of Fame Inductees听

Jason Cale

Cale attended PRCC from 1994 to 1996, forging a strong foundation for his career as a professional musician defined by versatility, discipline and artistic expression. He was a member of The Spirit of the River Marching Band, Concert Band and Jazz Band under the direction of Dr. Archie Rawls, performing on the trombone and guitar. He was also a member of the choral program under Dr. Mark Malone.听

When Cale arrived at The River, he didn鈥檛 have the confidence in himself that he has now. What he received over two years was a strong foundation for believing in himself and trusting his musical ear.  

鈥淥ne of my fondest memories is the first time I really sang in front of people, with my own voice, at a band talent show,鈥� said Cale. 鈥淭hat is when I got the bug to truly explore my voice. The different choirs I was part of gave me so many opportunities to grow musically and to trust my ear. I am very grateful to Dr. Malone and Mr. Rawls.鈥� 

Cale spent more than 20 years as a professional musician with the U.S. Army and Air Force bands, performing around the world and representing his country through music before retiring after a 26-year military career. He is an accomplished performer, producer, educator and leader of the Jason Cale Band based in Virginia Beach, Va. The band considers their musical sound to be 鈥渟wampfunk,鈥� a rich blend of soulful blues-rock, gritty New Orleans funk, and jazz fusion.  

鈥淚t is humbling to remember the young man I was at Pearl River and compare him to who I am today as a man and a musician,鈥� said Cale. 鈥淚 think of the teachers and friends I made there, and the peers who are still my friends now, and I can see how much of my success started with the lessons I learned there. I had teachers I looked up to, teachers who cared, and teachers who encouraged me to explore not just the guitar, but my voice and my creativity.鈥� 

Sharon Laird

Laird came to PRCC from Sumrall High School. At The River, she performed in the Concert Choir, Jazz Band, Symphonic Band and served as trumpet section leader of the Wildcat Marching Band. She continued her education at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she was a member of the Wind Ensemble, was trumpet section leader of the Pride of Mississippi Marching Band, studied trumpet with Alan Cox and studied conducting with Dr. Thomas Fraschillo. 

Laird credits Archie Rawls’ visit to Sumrall High School with her choice to attend PRCC.   

鈥淣ot only did Archie help me learn how to be a band director and a teacher and a pretty good theory student, but he also introduced me to my life partner,鈥� said Laird. 鈥淪o that’s pretty monumental.鈥� 

Laird spent more than 30 years in public school education, including Oak Grove High School, West Jones, Taylorsville, Magee and Italy, Texas. As band director for 20 years at Oak Grove High School, she led the program to statewide recognition. She spent several years on the staff of the Mississippi Lions All-State Band as both Concert Director and Marching Director. During her tenure as Marching Director, the band won the 2019 Lions International Parade of Nations Championship in Milan, Italy. 

Leaving Mississippi, Laird served as Assistant Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Wisconsin鈥揈au Claire. While at UWEC, she assisted with the 475-member Blugold Marching Band, served as assistant conductor of the University Band and acted as an organizational liaison for the Blugold Band鈥檚 international performance tour of Australia and New Zealand. 

Laird is currently enjoying semi-retirement while serving alongside her husband, Mark, as Band Director at Loyd Star Attendance Center. During their tenure, the Loyd Star Band has earned All-Superior ratings and received the Sweepstakes Award for the first time in the Lincoln County School District’s history.  

Her professional honors include the National Band Association Citation of Excellence, recognition as a quarterfinalist for the Grammy Music Educator Award, the 2018 Mississippi Woman Band Director of the Year Award, the 2015 MHSAA Outstanding Music Educator Award and SEMBDA Outstanding Band Director of the Year awards in 1997 and 2015. She remains an active clinician and adjudicator throughout the United States. 

鈥淎s I stood on the same field that I stood on in 1984 and 1985 as a student, I realized were it not for Pearl River, I wouldn’t have the life I have now,鈥� said Laird. 鈥淚 wouldn’t have the career I have now. I wouldn’t have my husband. I wouldn’t have my son. All of it started here.  

鈥淚t hit me that, wow, this place truly changed my life. The Hall of Fame membership took on a whole new meaning when I realized what an impact the school had on me.鈥� 

Article by Laura O’Neill.

91福利鈥檚 Workforce Education program has established a new initiative for those people looking to pursue a way to improve their quality of life.

The new program is called Compass Career Pathways.

鈥淲e want to connect Adult Education learners or any learners with short-term skills training, to help them decide what pathway they want to go,鈥� said Jennifer Culpepper, PRCC鈥檚 Compass Pathways Navigator. 

鈥淲e aim to help people鈥檚 understanding of specific occupational rolls and training options along the clustered career pathways. There are seven different pathways that we are going to offer.鈥�

The seven Compass Pathways career options offered are healthcare, business and technology, advanced manufacturing, heavy equipment and transportation, utilities and broadband, construction, and welding and shipbuilding.

Compass Pathways is a 12-hour course, offered at the Lowery Woodall Advanced Technology facility in Hattiesburg, the Poplarville PRCC campus, the Hancock County PRCC campus and the Picayune WIN Job Center. 

Each class is divided into six hours of career exploration and six hours of workplace hands-on activities, with some fields featuring activities like taking blood pressure or using a thermometer.

The cost is $15 per class and that covers all supplies. There is no age requirement.

鈥淲hen learners complete the course or courses they earn a certificate showing they have had some hands-on experience and showing they have had 12-hour of direct instruction in one of these pathways,鈥� said Culpepper.

Job shadowing opportunities are available as well as internships  

Said Culpepper, who has background in counseling and workforce development: 鈥淚 love working one on one with students to help them make their next step, to help them reach where they want to be one day.鈥�  

Contact information: Jennifer Culpepper 601-554-4694 at the Woodall Center or mail:听jculpepper@prcc.edu听听

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

Article by Chuck Abadie.

Hundreds of 91福利 Wildcats past, present, and future packed the stands for Homecoming 2026 on Thursday, Oct. 8. Homecoming festivities began with the Homecoming Parade and ended with a football game against the Hinds Eagles. 

The Spirit of the River Marching Band, String of Pearls, color guard, and cheerleaders led the parade, followed by the Homecoming Court riding in style on PRCC golf carts. Along Old Stadium Drive, the boys in Maroon and Gold were cheered by fans during the Wildcat Walk as they made their way to the field to begin warm-ups. 

The Alumni Tailgate Pavilion, located in the north end zone, welcomed alumni of all ages who enjoyed a delicious spread. The Department of Fine Arts and Communication joined the celebration, honoring 2026 Hall of Fame inductees Jason Cale of Virginia Beach, VA and Sharon Laird of Petal. The south end zone hosted tailgating sponsors, while the Student Activities Board hosted food and games behind the stadium. 

Homecoming Court Presentation听

The Homecoming Court was presented to attendees prior to kickoff.听

The 2026 Homecoming Queen is Porreshia Russell, a Waynesboro resident. 

Russell is the daughter of Shanteshia and Steve Morgan. A graduate of Wayne County High School, she was on the women鈥檚 basketball team, served on the Student Council, and was an active member of the Beta Club. Russell plans to transfer to Mississippi State University to continue her path towards becoming a licensed physical therapist. 

This year鈥檚 Freshman Maids are Bella Dubose of Hattiesburg (Forrest County Campus), Ka鈥橫iah Webb of Gulfport (Poplarville Campus), Kinsley Grays of Picayune (Poplarville Campus), Caroline Allison of Kiln (Hancock County Campus), and Harleigh Coaker of Belle Chasse, LA (Hancock County Campus). 

Dubose is the daughter of Cass and Lori Dubose. A graduate in the top 10% of her class at Forrest County Agricultural High School, she was a member of the Lady Aggies volleyball and soccer teams. She was an active member of the Beta Club, the National Honor Society, Future Farmers of America, and the Baseball Diamond Girls. Dubose is a member of Phi Theta Kappa at PRCC. She plans to transfer to William Carey University with her career aspiration of becoming an orthodontist. 

Webb is the daughter of Kim and Antoyia Webb. A graduate of Gulfport High School, Webb was in Beta Club, National Honor Society, Student Council, and Youth Legislature. She was also a member of the Gulfport Singers, the Gulfport High School Band, and the Lady Admirals basketball team. At PRCC, she is a River Navigator, plays trumpet for the Spirit of the River Marching Band, and serves as a resident assistant. Webb is pursuing a degree in nursing. 

Grays is the daughter of Kelsey Bolar and T鈥橠arryl Grays. She graduated from Picayune High School, where she served as Student Council President and Student Body President.  Additionally, she was captain of the Varsity Cheerleading team, on the varsity softball team, the Beta Club, and the National Honor Society. Honors received included being elected Miss Picayune Memorial High School and Homecoming Queen, induction into the Picayune High School Hall of Fame, and being voted most likely to succeed and best all-around by her peers. At The River, Grays is a member of the PRCC Cheerleading team, the River Navigators, and works as a peer tutor for the Trio program. After PRCC, she plans to attend Mississippi State University to study management with a goal of becoming a collegiate or professional sports event coordinator. 

Allison is the daughter of Wendy and Kevin Allison. Allison is a Middle College student at PRCC while concurrently enrolled at Hancock High School. She will earn both her Associate of Arts degree and her high school diploma concurrently. At Hancock High School, she is a member of the theatre club, the newspaper, the Interact club, and her high school soccer team. Allison plans to pursue an occupational therapy degree at Ole Miss. 

Coaker is the daughter of Carissa and Joshua Coaker. She is a Middle College Student also attending Hancock High School, where she is an active member of Pride of Hancock鈥檚 marching band, jazz band, and symphonic band. She will earn both her Associate of Arts degree and High School diploma. She is planning to attend the University of Southern Mississippi before pursuing a medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine in Texas to become a cardiologist. 

Sophomore Maids for 2026 are A鈥橩ira Robinson of Hattiesburg (Forrest County Campus), Bailee Gamble of Brookhaven (Poplarville Campus), and Makelsie Koeneen of Diamondhead (Poplarville Campus). 

Gamble is the daughter of Denetrica Gamble and Michael Husband. A graduate of Brookhaven High School, Gamble was a member of the basketball and volleyball teams, making all-district in three of the four years. She was continually on the honor roll. After PRCC, Gamble plans to attend Alcorn State University for nursing. 

Robinson is the daughter of La’Quenza Robinson and the late Cernell Abram. She graduated from West Marion High School, where she was an active member of the Beta Club, the National Honor Society, the National Technical Honor Society, and HOSA. Robinson graduated with a 4.2 GPA and was awarded the Mississippi Scholars and Tech Masters. At PRCC, Robinson is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Humanities & History Club. After PRCC, she plans to attend Mississippi Christian University to major in biology before pursuing a medical degree with the goal of becoming an OB-GYN.  

Koeneen is the daughter of Kodie Koenenn and Jaimimae Aguliar. A graduate of Hancock High School, she was a cheerleader, was on the cross-country and track teams, served as junior and senior Class Presidents, and was a member of Beta Club, National Honor Society, National Technical Honors Society, National Society of High School Scholars, and Health Occupations Students of America. Accolades from high school include induction into the Hall of Fame, being on the Principal鈥檚 and President鈥檚 Honor Roll, and graduating in the top 5% of her class. At The River, Koeneen is a member of National Championship PRCC Cheer team and is active in Phi Theta Kappa and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. After PRCC, she plans to attend Louisiana State University with aspirations to become an exotic veterinarian. 

Football Game Recap听

The team’s entrance onto the field, accompanied by a pyrotechnic display, kicked off the Homecoming football game in spectacular fashion.听听

Dr. Charles Pigott served as honorary captain, participating in the coin toss. Pigott is a PRCC alumnus from Picayune, a member of the 1976 Conference Championship football team, serving as team captain and earning All-State honors. He is an inductee for the PRCC Athletics Hall of Fame and received the Lifetime Achievement Award. 

The halftime show opened with Fine Arts and Communications Chair and Brownstone Center Director Dr. Trevor Hunt presenting the 2026 Fine Arts Hall of Fame awards to recipients, Cale and Laird, honoring their contributions before a crowd of alumni and fans.

The Spirit of the River Marching Band, String of Pearls, and color guard then presented a program of early 2000s music to attendees. Cale joined the band on his electric guitar for the last song. Finally, fans were introduced to members of the 1976 and 2006 Conference Championship football teams.听

Article by Laura O’Neill. Photography by Patrick Peerboom.

91福利鈥檚 Massage Therapy Technology program and the University of Southern Mississippi Football program have partnered to create unique internship and scholarship opportunities for PRCC massage therapy students and graduates.

The partnership began during the fall 2026 semester with five graduates of PRCC鈥檚 Massage Therapy Technology program serving as interns with the Southern Miss football program. As part of their internships, the massage therapists work alongside USM athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and other members of the sports medicine team to support the prevention, recovery, and performance of Division I student-athletes.

In addition to gaining valuable hands-on experience in a collegiate athletic environment, the interns are receiving compensation for their work, providing an opportunity to build professional skills while gaining experience that can help advance their careers.

Beginning in the spring 2027 semester, the partnership will expand to include current PRCC Massage Therapy Technology students. Selected students will receive $1,000 scholarships per semester through the PRCC Development Foundation while participating in the internship experience with Southern Miss Football.

鈥淭his partnership gives our students an incredible opportunity to take what they are learning in the classroom and apply it in a Division I athletic setting,鈥� said Shannon Scharwath-Busby, Director of the Massage Therapy Technology Program at 91福利. 鈥淥ur students are able to learn from and work alongside athletic trainers and strength and conditioning professionals while developing the skills necessary to become successful massage therapists. We are extremely grateful to the University of Southern Mississippi for investing in our students and providing them with this experience.鈥�

The partnership strengthens the longstanding relationship between 91福利 and the University of Southern Mississippi while creating a meaningful educational pathway for students interested in sports massage and careers within athletics.

Through their work with the Golden Eagle football program, PRCC students are exposed to the demands of Division I athletics and gain experience working in a multidisciplinary environment. They assist in supporting athletes鈥� recovery and performance while developing communication, professionalism, teamwork, and other workforce skills that extend beyond the classroom.

By combining scholarship assistance, hands-on learning, and industry experience, PRCC and Southern Miss are helping prepare the next generation of massage therapy professionals while strengthening the regional workforce and creating new opportunities for PRCC graduates.

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

Photography by Cullin Rogers.

For 29 91福利 students, dedication to their studies earned a new distinction: membership in the Iota Mu Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. The students were formally inducted on Monday, Oct. 5, at the Brownstone Center for the Arts.  

With nearly 1,250 chapters worldwide, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is known as the foremost honor society for two-year colleges. The Iota Mu Chapter covers both the Hancock and Poplarville campuses and is celebrating its 70th anniversary.   

Students selected for membership are considered academically successful, having completed at least 12 credit hours of non-remedial courses with a minimum cumulative 3.4 GPA. Fall inductees were a blend of freshmen, who earned the credits through dual enrollment, and sophomores.   

Scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship are the four hallmarks of PTK. Iota Mu Hallmark Officers are Camdyn Powell (President), Jessica Powell (Vice President of Scholarship), Daniel Martin (Vice President of Service), Alexis Williams (Vice President of Leadership and MS/LA Regional Officer), Sophie Bilbo (Vice President of Fellowship), Erick Jimenez (Vice President of Philanthropy), Arpita Malhotra (Vice President of Research), Jamayiah Anderson (Vice President of Communication), and Mollie Byrd (Vice President of Outreach). The officers participated in an induction of office led by PTK Advisor Helene Goldstein, receiving a white rose and medallion after signing the chapter’s record book.  

PTK advisor Kira Arthurs shared highlights of the chapter鈥檚 recent awards, along with this year鈥檚 plans for their College and Honors in Action projects. Bilbo, Martin, and Williams briefly shared how the four hallmarks have played out for them as PTK members before Camdyn Powell introduced the guest speakers.听

Vice President of Student Experiences Dr. Kady Pietz greeted the students and their guests, offering her congratulations for their induction into PTK. 

鈥淭onight is a celebration in recognition of what you have already accomplished, but it is also an invitation to imagine what comes next,鈥� said Pietz. 鈥淵our academic achievement has earned you a place in the PTK, and you should be very proud of this accomplishment. We certainly are.鈥� 

Pietz challenged the inductees to look beyond the honor of being a PTK member to see it as an opportunity and responsibility.  

鈥淩emember that success is not only measured by what you accomplish for yourself,鈥� said Pietz. 鈥淚t is also measured by the people you encourage, the communities you strengthen, and the doors you help open for those who come after you. So, to our newest PTK members, congratulations. We are proud of you, we believe in you, and we cannot wait to see what you do with these opportunities ahead.鈥� 

Annie Watts, Assistant Director of Admissions at the University of Mississippi, addressed the new inductees on the value of being a PTK transfer student. She shared more information about Ole Miss, including it being home to over twenty-seven thousand total students hailing from every Mississippi county, all fifty states, and over ninety-plus countries in the world.  

鈥淔or the past six years, we have been named to Phi Theta Kappa’s transfer honor roll, and our Phi Theta Kappa scholarship is one of the most generous in the state, offering up to eight thousand per year for Mississippi residents,鈥� said Watts. 鈥淲e also have the only active PTK alumni chapter in the state of Mississippi, so you can continue and begin your legacy here at PRCC and then finish your legacy at The University of Mississippi.鈥� 

Symbols of the organization were shared with attendees before each inductee was announced to walk the stage, sign the chapter record book, and receive a white rose. 

PRCC students inducted into Phi Theta Kappa Iota Mu Chapter for the fall 2026 semester are: 
 
Alexandra Brown, Wiggins 
Blaize Christian, Hattiesburg 
Abby Collier, Picayune 
Ben Declement, Foxworth 
Miley Dunaway, Foxworth 
Angelicia Eichelberger, Louisville 
Nora Etzkin, Picayune 
Arriana Franklin, Poplarville 
Everhett Graham, Tylertown 
Alex Hajnal, Hattiesburg 
LeRon Harris, Gulfport 
Ciara Henry, Poplarville 
Landon Holman, Foxworth 
Lyric Howard, Columbia 
James Lee III, Sandy Hook 
Alex Ortiz, Sumrall 
Baylee Parrett, Foxworth 
Elana Robertson, Hattiesburg 
Shae Self, Picayune 
Elizabeth Silvio, Picayune 
Catherine Sins, Kiln 
Antonio Street, Hattiesburg 
Kynnedy Tolbert Hall, Pascagoula 
Anyssia Torres, New Orleans, LA 
Gabrielle Vanslyke, Poplarville 
Kimberly Vincent, Bay St. Louis 
Keltey Whaley, Foxworth 
Arronne Whitehead, Poplarville 
Jyla Wilson, Hattiesburg, MS 

Four men who had a substantial impact on 91福利 over decades will be recognized with buildings dedicated in their names. Honorees include former Board of Trustees members M.L. 鈥淪onny鈥� Knight, Herbert Ray Nobles, and Charles Speed, along with former administrator and faculty member Dr. John Grant. 

PRCC鈥檚 Board of Trustees approved the recognition at its September meeting.  

鈥淭he Pearl River we know today was built by people who were willing to invest their time, their leadership and, in many cases, decades of their lives in this institution,鈥� said PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood. 鈥淭hese four men represent the very best of that commitment. Their influence extends far beyond the positions they held or the years they served. Their work changed lives and helped build the foundation for the opportunities our students have today. It is fitting that their names will forever be part of the campuses and college they served so faithfully.鈥� 

Ceremony details will be announced at a later date. 

Knight鈥檚 name will be placed on the Poplarville Campus Wellness Center. Knight served on the Board for 28 years from November 1995 to May 2024. During that time, he served in numerous positions, including Board Chairman, Chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee, and Secretary of the Board. In February 2022, Knight was presented with the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges (MACC) 25 Years of Service Award. 

Building 2 on PRCC鈥檚 Forrest County Campus will bear Nobles鈥� name. Nobles attended Pearl River and was on the football team for the 1949 and 1950 seasons. After college, he spent his career in education, first teaching and coaching. Ultimately, he became the first Superintendent of the Petal School District in 1976, a role he held until his retirement in 1987. He served as a Forrest County representative to the PRCC Board of Trustees from 1994 to 2018. 

Speed鈥檚 name will be placed on FCC鈥檚 Student Services Building. He was appointed to the PRCC Board of Trustees by the Jefferson Davis County Board of Supervisors in January 1964 and served until 2007. During his 43 years on the Board, he worked with four PRCC presidents and was Chairman of the Board twice. Additionally, Speed served as President of the MACC Trustees Association.  

Dr. Grant began his journey at The River as a student in the 1960s, returning in 1979 as an instructor of physics, mathematics, and engineering mechanics. He became Chairman of the Department of Mathematical Sciences in 1990 and then became Dean of Academic Affairs in 2000. His final role at PRCC was that of Vice President for Instruction from 2003 until his retirement in 2011. Dr. Grant can still be seen on campus throughout the year supporting Wildcats, including the occasional astronomy viewing night for students. His name will grace the Poplarville campus鈥檚 Science and Mathematics Building, where he guided students for decades. 

Board of Trustees Chairman Tony Waits is grateful for each honoree’s service to Pearl River, as their dedication laid the groundwork for Pearl River鈥檚 current success. 

鈥淭he 91福利 Board of Trustees is proud to honor Charles Speed, Herbert Ray Nobles, Dr. John Grant, and M.L. ‘Sonny’ Knight through the dedication of these campus facilities in their names,鈥� said Waits. 鈥淭heir leadership, service, and commitment to 91福利 helped shape the institution and expand opportunities for countless students. It is fitting that their legacies will continue to inspire future generations, and we are grateful for the lasting impact each has made on our college and the communities we serve.” 

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

Article by Laura O’Neill.

New 2026-27 officers of the Beta Tau Gamma chapter of Phi Theta Kappa international honor society look forward to working with the college administration and fellow students to make a positive impact on the Forrest County Campus of 91福利.

The new officers were recently announced on the first day of classes in the Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute.

鈥淚t feels great. I look forward to working with the officers and advisors to accomplish wonderful things this year,鈥� said Jonathan Gwin, 21, incoming president and a freshman business major from Oak Grove. 鈥淚 am also excited to see what we are going to be able to do as a chapter.鈥�

Sam Whittington, 20, sophomore from Hattiesburg planning to attend nursing school, finds his position as PTK regional officer of social media, an exciting challenge.

鈥淭his position gives me the opportunity to work with my peers to become better leaders and thinkers,鈥� he said. 

Other new officers are Ella Bergman of Sumrall, Vice President of Leadership; Amaria Bowie of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Leadership; Karla Contreras of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Scholarship; Akayliah Donaldson of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Service; Charles Hicks of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Service; Alex Miller of Peal, Vice President of Chapter Engagement; Daniel Robinson of Sumrall, Vice President of Chapter Engagement.

Noah Stasny of Lumberton, Vice President of Fellowship; Marin Sumrall of Sumrall, Vice President of Fellowship; Angie Ventura of Hattiesburg, Vice President of Membership; Asia Walker of Hattiesburg, Ambassador of Dual Enrollment; Chloe White of Sumrall, Vice President of Career Readiness; Grace Kitchens of Oak Grove, Vice President of Officer in Training; and Emory Smith of Hattiesburg, Officer in Training. 

Beta Tau Gammas advisors are Drs. David Collum, Terri Smith Ruckel, Ryan Ruckel and Doug Donohue, and Said Otwane. Phi Theta Kappa is known as the foremost honor society for two-year colleges with over 1,300 chapters worldwide. 

The Beta Tau Gamma chapter covers the Forrest County Campus.

Students elected for membership are considered academically successful having completed at least 12 credit hours of non-remedial courses with a minimum cumulative 3.4 GPA.  

Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship are the four hallmarks of PTK. 

鈥淥ne of Phi Theta Kappa鈥檚 hallmarks is leadership,鈥� said Dr. Terri Ruckel, who also serves as MS/LA Associate Regional Coordinator for PTK.

鈥淭hese chapter officers take on extra work of managing projects, serving the campus and the community, and growing the chapter so that they might grow personally and professionally, build essential connections, and deepen their understanding of leadership.鈥� 

Most officers are members of the Honors Institute, as well as other clubs and organizations.

Added Whittington, 鈥淚 really enjoy the community aspect of PRCC. Being able to work with like-minded peers is a positive.鈥�

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

Article by Chuck Abadie.

When Grisela Somerville first came to 91福利, she was simply trying to find her way.

She had moved to the United States from Guatemala City as an adult and was learning how to navigate a new country, a new community and an educational system completely different from the one she had known before.

She did not have family nearby other than her husband. She had a self-proclaimed 鈥渟trong accent.鈥� She had questions. 

What she found at Pearl River were people willing to help her find the answers.

More than a decade later, Somerville is still at The River. Only now, she is many times the person on the other side of the desk helping someone else figure out where to go next.

鈥淚 came here looking for an education, but along the way I found a community, people who believed in me, and eventually a career that I truly love,鈥� Somerville said.

Her story is a fitting example of what it means to be Living My Legacy at Pearl River, not simply building a life for yourself, but using what you have learned and received to help someone coming after you.

Finding Her Place at The River

Somerville earned her GED in 2011 and enrolled at PRCC in 2012 as a nontraditional student.

Before her first fall semester even began, she participated in the TRIO Student Support Services Summer Bridge program. For someone learning an unfamiliar college system, the experience proved invaluable. The Summer Bridge gave her the opportunity to take classes, become familiar with campus, learn college processes and, maybe most importantly, learn where to turn when she needed help.

鈥淏ecause there were fewer students on campus during the summer, everything felt less intimidating,鈥� Somerville said. 鈥淏y the time fall started, I didn鈥檛 feel completely lost.鈥�

That feeling mattered.

Students arrive at Pearl River from every imaginable background. Some are the first in their families to attend college. Some are returning to the classroom after years away. Some are balancing jobs, children and responsibilities their classmates may never see.

For Somerville, there seemed to be someone waiting at nearly every turn willing to lend a hand and make her feel like taking on this endeavor was something she could not just do but find success in. 

She remembers Tonia Moody in Admissions being patient and welcoming as she navigated the enrollment process. TRIO Student Support Services became a foundation throughout her college experience, and she also leaned heavily on services available through the PRCC Library.

鈥淲hat I discovered was that the kindness I experienced was not limited to a single department or person,鈥� Somerville said. 鈥淭hroughout my years at Pearl River, as both a student and later an employee, I have met so many people who were willing to guide me, teach me, or simply say, 鈥楲et me help you figure this out.鈥欌��

Building Confidence One Milestone at a Time

With each semester, Somerville鈥檚 confidence grew.

She loved learning and found that every class she finished became proof that she could succeed in a system that once felt confusing. She became involved in Phi Theta Kappa and honor societies, and the recognition she received for her accomplishments held special meaning. As a nontraditional student who had come to the United States from another country, each milestone helped replace uncertainty with confidence.

One of her favorite memories will always be graduation.

In 2014, Somerville walked across the field and received her first associate degree from Pearl River.

鈥淚 did it!鈥� she remembers thinking.

鈥淚t wasn鈥檛 just about receiving a degree,鈥� Somerville said. 鈥淔or me, it represented everything it took to get there. Pearl River gave me the resources to succeed, but the people also made me feel that my success mattered to them. That is something I have never forgotten.鈥�

There had been difficult nights along the way. When asked what helped her make it through studying and tests, Somerville had an immediate answer.

鈥淐offee! Definitely coffee!鈥� she said with a laugh.

But beneath her laughter and jokes was something that meant more than all the Macchiatos in the world could ever measure up to. 

Somerville had built a career in Guatemala, and when she came to the United States, she wanted to prove to herself that she could build something here too. She also thought about her children and the example she wanted to set for them.

鈥淪o on those difficult nights, I was not just studying for the next test,鈥� Somerville said. 鈥淚 was working toward the life and career I wanted. And now, when I look back, I can say all those late nights, and all that coffee, were worth it.鈥�

From Student to Employee

Somerville鈥檚 graduation would not mark the end of her Pearl River story. In many ways, it was only the beginning. After earning her degree, then-TRIO Director Dr. Robert Escudero gave Somerville an opportunity to work in the department as a work-study student.

鈥淪omebody was giving me a chance,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 think that is where my professional journey at Pearl River really began.鈥�

Other opportunities followed.

Dr. Tara Rouse helped connect Somerville with an opportunity to become a Zumba instructor through the Wellness Center. Later, Dr. Candace Harper recognized Somerville鈥檚 strengths with reports and data and helped her develop confidence in abilities Somerville had not always recognized in herself. In 2018, Harper hired Somerville as a full-time Pearl River employee in the campus bookstore.

鈥淭hat was a dream come true for me and a major turning point in my career,鈥� Somerville said.

Somerville had once sat in classrooms hoping she could build a career in her new home. Now she was building that career at the very institution that had helped her believe she could.

Coming Full Circle With TRIO

Eventually, Somerville鈥檚 professional journey brought her back to where much of her Pearl River story had begun. When longtime TRIO Administrative Assistant Cindy Tanguis left PRCC for another opportunity, she encouraged Somerville to consider the position. With encouragement from colleagues including Haley Amacker and Carlette Bonnette, Somerville pursued the opportunity.

In 2023, Somerville was hired back into TRIO Student Support Services.

Today, Somerville serves as the program鈥檚 Administrative Assistant under Director Jennifer Cottrell. Her work includes the records, reports, paperwork and processes that help keep the federally funded student support program operating successfully. But some of her favorite responsibilities are much simpler. A student walks through the door and does not know who their advisor is. Someone cannot find an office. Another student has no idea which department can answer a question. Sometimes, Somerville jokes, they just need to know where the bathroom is.

鈥淚f I can make someone feel a little less lost and point them in the right direction, I鈥檓 happy to do it because I remember being that student myself,鈥� she said.

There is something beautifully full circle about that.

PRCC’s mission is accomplished in classrooms and laboratories, through degrees earned, certificates completed and graduates placed into careers. But sometimes the mission looks like a person behind a desk recognizing the uncertainty on a student’s face because she once wore the same expression herself. Somerville knows firsthand what can happen when a student is surrounded by people who refuse to let confusion, fear or unfamiliarity become the end of the story. Now she gets to be one of those people for the students coming through the doors of her building. 

鈥淲hat I love most about being an employee at Pearl River is having the opportunity to give back some of what was given to me,鈥� she said. 鈥淎s a student, I found that people here did not just answer my questions. They taught me, guided me, and helped me become more confident and independent. Now I try my best to give that same kind of support to someone else.鈥�

The People Who Helped Shape Her Journey

Somerville is quick to point out throughout her interview that she did not reach this point alone. At different stages of her journey, mentors helped her recognize what was possible and build confidence in herself along the way.

Dr. Robert Escudero gave her the first opportunity to work within TRIO, while Dr. Candace Harper became one of her most important professional mentors, recognizing Somerville鈥檚 strengths and encouraging her professional growth. Somerville still carries one piece of Harper鈥檚 advice with her today: 鈥淭here is nothing that can鈥檛 be fixed.鈥�

Now, working alongside TRIO Director Jennifer Cottrell, Somerville continues to learn and grow while doing the same for the students the program serves. And while she can name countless other colleagues, teachers and friends who have touched her life at Pearl River, narrowing the list is nearly impossible.

鈥淭here are honestly so many people that I am afraid to start naming them because I know I will accidentally leave someone out,鈥� Somerville said.

It could be that that says something important about her Pearl River experience in itself. Her success was never tied to only one office, one department or one person. It was built through a community that PRCC hopes all students experience as they make their way through Wildcat Country.

No matter what campus a student chooses to take their classes on or what circumstances have led them to pursuing their education at The River, the community that has been fostered in the Wildcat Family is here and ready to lend a hand if they are willing to take it.

A Legacy That Became Generational

Somerville鈥檚 Pearl River legacy did not stop with her own education or career.

Both her son and daughter attended PRCC before moving on to successful careers of their own. What began with one woman arriving at Pearl River unsure of how to navigate college became something generational. And that is one of the most powerful things about a community college education. Success rarely stops with the person whose name is printed on the diploma. One person’s opportunity becomes another person’s encouragement, and the impact continues moving outward.

For Somerville, that ripple has stretched from Guatemala to Mississippi, from student to employee and from one generation of her family to another.

Living Her Legacy

Today, Somerville can sit at a Pearl River Professional Development event and look around the room not as the new student trying to understand where she belongs, but as a longtime member of the Wildcat family. She watches employees receive recognition for 10, 15, 20 or even 35 years of service and looks forward to the day her own milestone is called. She listens to PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood speak and remembers meeting him years ago when he was serving as Vice President and she was still beginning her journey.

Those moments remind her how far she has come.

鈥淚 remember how kind and approachable Dr. Breerwood was,鈥� Somerville said. 鈥淣ow I sit at Professional Development as an employee listening to his message, and that full-circle feeling makes me very proud to say, 鈥業 work for 91福利.鈥欌��

For the nontraditional student wondering whether it is too late to begin, Somerville has a message. Begin anyway.

鈥淒o not let your age, fear, or the fact that you have been away from school stop you,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t is okay if you do not yet know how everything works. I certainly did!鈥�

Ask questions. Use the resources available. Allow people to help. Take the journey one class, one assignment and one semester at a time.

鈥淵ou may come to Pearl River looking for a degree and discover confidence, opportunities, friendships, and a future you did not expect,鈥� Somerville said. 鈥淚 know I did.鈥�

Somewhere along her journey, Pearl River became family.

People helped her feel that she mattered. They opened doors. They recognized abilities in her before she always recognized them in herself. They gave her opportunities to learn, work and grow.

Now, when the next student walks through the door feeling a little overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin, Somerville is there. She helps them find their way.

That is the legacy that she has built for herself. 

And every day at The River, she is living it.

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

Article by Alexx Kennedy.