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Mrs. Mary Boleware – “Jones Is Just Like Family” 

For some people, ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ represents a season of life. For Mrs. Mary Boleware, it means a lifetime. 

When Mary talks about ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, she does not only think of herself as a former student, or even simply as a long-serving employee. She speaks like a daughter, a teammate, a colleague, and a supporter. She tells the story of a campus that became home and a family that poured itself into the life of the College for more than five decades. 

Mary’s roots at ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ begin before she could walk. In the spring of 1971, when she was just three months old, her parents, Elmer Higginbotham and his wife Sandra, moved to Ellisville when her father was hired as an assistant football coach and head baseball coach. Within a year, both parents were working at what was known then as Jones County Junior College. Coach Higginbotham taught health and coached student-athletes, while Mrs. Higginbotham taught business technology: typing on typewriters, shorthand for secretaries, and later evolving into computer-based coursework as the field changed. 

“I really don’t know life without Jones,” Mary recalls. 

She grew up on Jordan Loop Road, the same street that all three JCJC football coaches were living at the time: Coach Cooley, Coach Tommy Parker, and the Higginbotham’s. Living just a mile away from campus, Mary was raised with the rhythms of JCJC life. She remembers when the football field sat where Jones Hall now stands. She remembers when football offices were tucked into the gymnasium, when players dressed there because there was no field house yet. She remembers Hurricane Frederick reshaping the stadium, dormitories being rebuilt, and campus landmarks slowly evolving while others remained unchanged like the campus flagpole and shaded benches. 

From left, Parker, Cooley, Higginbothan, football coaches. (1975 Lair)

Some of her memories are dramatic, like waking in the night as a child when her parents heard that a dormitory had caught fire. Others are lighter, like stealing candy from a dean’s desk, riding team buses to away games, watching coaches scramble to find enough hotel rooms for an entire football team after a hotel had not fulfilled a reservation. Together, they form a collective campus life experience that few people can claim to know so intimately. JCJC functioned like family. Faculty children rode the bus to campus after school. They wandered between offices, practices, and kitchens. When Mary’s mother was sick, other faculty wives stepped in without question. “Everybody knew everybody,” Mary says. “And everybody took care of everybody.” 

That sense of family would later shape Mary’s own decisions. 

After graduating from ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ in 1990, Mary went on to earn a B.S. in Physics from USM in 1992 and a master’s degree in physics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1994. Physics, a discipline requiring precision, patience, and perseverance, suited her well. In 2000, she returned to campus as a faculty member, beginning what would become a 25-year career teaching physics to generations of ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ students. Mary understood what structure and opportunity Jones College had given her, and she wanted to give it back. As a professor, she became known not only for her understanding of the subject, but for her steadiness and mentoring spirit. Mary made physics approachable by pairing excellence with care, clarity with encouragement. She knew when to challenge and when to reassure, and students trusted her because they knew she was invested in their success. 

Mary Higginbotham and Eddie Rogers as Mr. and Mrs. JCJC. (1990 Lair)

Beyond the classroom, Mary’s service to Jones College is remarkable. She is a Life Alumnus, a former Miss JCJC, a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and a participant in Student Government during her student years. She served as a work-study for Susan Barnett and Carlow Ray McDaniel, and she was also given the opportunity by Coach McDaniel to work in intramural sports programs. Mary notes that Mr. Larry Hess and Jean Harvey were significant in shaping her love for physics and in showing her how to inspire students toward excellence through her teaching. As an alumna and professional, she served as an Alumni Officer, a member of the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation Board, and an Endowed Donor. She was inducted into the JCJC Student Hall of Fame and remains deeply involved in alumni life.

One of Mary’s most meaningful contributions came through the establishment of the Coach Elmer & Sandra Higginbotham Memorial Scholarship through the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation. When her father passed away suddenly after a brief illness, Mary and her family began discussing how best to honor his legacy. For Mary, the answer was clear. Her father had devoted his life to student-athletes, to individuals who worked hard, showed character, and sometimes just needed a little extra help to finish strong. Having spent years teaching at Jones, Mary understood how often small financial gaps become major barriers. The scholarship fills those gaps by supporting students who might not qualify for full aid, but who embodied the values Coach Higginbotham lived and taught. In that way, his influence continues, season after season, student after student. 

Mary’s retirement in 2025, marked the end of a formal chapter, but not the end of her connection to Jones. Asked what she holds most dearly, Mary does not point first to titles or accomplishments. She points to relationships. To faculty members who mentored her as a child and later treated her as a peer. To colleagues who offered wisdom and steadiness. To a campus that raised her, educated her, and welcomed her home. 

“Jones is just like family,” she says. 

For ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, Mary Boleware’s story reminds us that the true strength of Jones College is not found only in buildings or programs, but in people who choose, day after day and decade after decade, to invest their lives in something bigger than themselves. 

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A Legacy of Honor, Generosity, and Opportunity:
The Jones County Agricultural High School Class of 1955 Scholarship 

It is a great privilege to honor the Jones County Agricultural High School Class of 1955 for their dedication, vision, and generosity in opening doors for future students. By endowing the Jones County Agricultural High School Scholarship in tribute to their classmates, they have created a legacy of opportunity and service.  

For Judge Charles Pickering and his wife, Margaret Ann, the desire to give back began with a personal tribute and grew into something much greater. Reflecting on the early conversations that inspired the scholarship, Judge Pickering shared: 

“During the annual JCAHS Class of 1955 reunions, our classmate Robert Stone consistently demonstrated remarkable generosity, keeping costs low so that every classmate had the opportunity to come together. After his passing, Margaret Ann and I felt a deep and sincere desire to honor him in a meaningful way. The Class of 1955 has always held a special place in our hearts, and Jones County Junior College provided both of us with an excellent and affordable foundation during our first two years of college. With this in mind, we decided to contribute the initial seed money for a scholarship honoring the 1955 Jones County Agricultural High School Class.  

By endowing this scholarship, we hope it will remain for generations to come and continue providing students with the opportunity to attend ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ just as we once did. We invited other classmates to join us in extending this legacy by helping to name and fully endow the scholarship, and Hilton Ray Walters was especially generous in helping us bring this effort to completion.” 

This vision, rooted in gratitude, remembrance, and a belief in the power of education resonated deeply with classmate Hilton Ray Walters, who joined wholeheartedly in seeing the scholarship fully endowed. For Walters, the motivation was both personal and profound: 

“I was inspired to help establish this scholarship by a request from a respected classmate, Charles Pickering, President of the 1955 Jones County Agricultural High School Class. When the Honorable Judge Charles Pickering asked me to take part in creating a scholarship for ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, I accepted without hesitation. It is a privilege to contribute to a program that supports the next generation of students. When I think of JCAHS and ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, I think of ‘home.’ It is where lifelong friendships began and where those connections have continued to grow throughout the decades. The six years I spent on that campus were the best of my life. I remain grateful to President Smith and the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ faculty and staff for always welcoming the Class of 1955 back to campus for special events.”  

A legacy of honor, generosity, and opportunity has been created by the JCAHS Class of 1955, one that honors classmates past and present while opening doors for generations to come. The Jones County Agricultural High School Class of 1955 Scholarship stands not only as a tribute to those who shaped their lives, but as a testament to the power of community, shared values, and a desire to uplift the students of tomorrow. 

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Dr. Ronald Bishop: A Lifelong Educator Honors His Peers 

When Dr. Ronald Bishop talks about ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, his voice carries the conviction of someone speaking not about an institution, but about home. His story begins in the Rainey community of Jones County, where he grew up with a love for learning that needed little encouragement. “Education was always important to me,” Bishop reflected. “I enjoyed school, and from an early age I knew I wanted to go to college and do something meaningful.” That love of learning shaped every chapter of his life from his boyhood dreams of becoming a doctor to his years as a Jones County Junior College student, to more than three decades teaching philosophy and religion on the very campus that had prepared him for his future. Today, his legacy continues through extraordinary acts of generosity as he establishes and gives to a series of scholarships in honor of the educators who shaped him, taught beside him, and helped form generations of Jones County Junior College students. “There’s not a more important thing to the fabric of society than education,” he says. And his life bears witness to that belief. 

Roots in Jones County 

Bishop’s story begins only a few miles from the college he would one day serve. He and his future wife, Debbie Wade, met in the first grade and moved through school side by side, except for three years when a consolidation split their elementary schools. They reunited at South Jones in Ellisville, MS, and eventually walked across the graduation stage together in 1974. The couple shared the same dream: college was their path forward. They enrolled at Jones County Junior College together in the fall of 1974. “My parents were happy that I chose to get an education,” Bishop said. “And to me, it was always a priority. I knew I wanted to get as much education as I could.” At Jones County Junior College, their days were busy and full. Debbie worked in the college library, typing Dewey Decimal cards for the catalog drawers, three copies of every card: one for title, one for author, one for subject. Bishop left campus each afternoon to work in the circulation room at The Laurel Leader-Call. He would grab a Big Mac on the way and eat it in the car before clocking in. They were hardworking students, often balancing full course loads and jobs at the same time. “We didn’t do a lot of clubs,” Bishop said with a laugh. “We were too busy working.” Even so, the couple was invited to join Phi Theta Kappa, an honor they both treasure. They also spent countless hours together in the Science Building. Bishop parking his hot rod early each morning in the corner spot by the street, where Debbie would join him before class. “We weren’t even dating yet,” he said, smiling. “Just good friends who liked being together.” Their time at JCJC formed the foundation of their academic lives and their future careers. Debbie was a focused student, majoring in medical technology. Bishop began in pre-med before switching to philosophy and religion, the fields that would define his professional life. “You can pay more, but you can’t get a better education than ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥,” Bishop said. “It shaped my life.” 

Teachers Became Colleagues 

Many of Bishop’s most influential teachers would one day sit beside him as colleagues and friends. He remembers vividly the impact of Jones County Junior College instructors like Donnis Lyon, W. H. Pope, and others in the Science Department. These were teachers who instilled in him not only academic excellence but a deep appreciation for curiosity, integrity, and compassion. Lyon, he recalls, was the kind of teacher whose kindness matched his skill. “I remember Donnis Lyon giving any of his students who wanted them young blueberry bushes,” Bishop said. “He had lots of blueberry bushes and gave them away freely.” W. H. Pope, meanwhile, brought chemistry to life. “He made it as interesting and as easy as it could possibly be,” Bishop said. “He was such a great teacher.” The humanities faculty made a similar impact. Lona Bassett, who later became Bishop’s colleague, had once captivated him as a student in her literature classes. “She taught us the Canterbury Tales,” he said, “and she could speak that Middle English fluently. It was amazing to hear her read Chaucer aloud.” Mary Beasley, known for her humor, also created memorable moments. She once gathered a group of students, including Bishop, for a field trip to Jackson to see the musical Godspell. “We had a great time,” he remembered. “I still think about that trip.” 

One memory in particular still brings a smile decades later. Bishop recalled a morning in George Carter’s math class. When Carter, calling roll, reached the name of a classmate who had not yet arrived, another student said, “He’ll be here directly.” Carter stopped, looked up over his glasses, and thundered: “DIRECTLY?” The entire room erupted in laughter. “Everybody just fell out laughing,” Bishop said. “We never forgot it.” The influence of Lyon, Pope, Bassett, Beasley, Carter, Colonel Smith, and so many others stayed with Bishop long after he left JCJC to complete degrees at Southern Miss, William Carey University, and ultimately a Ph.D. from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Their dedication shaped his academic path and the person he would become. 

The Calling to Teach 

Though Bishop considered several career paths, the desire to teach followed him quietly through high school, college, and graduate school. It surfaced fully one day when he visited Dr. Terrell Tisdale, then-president of ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥. “I had heard they were offering Bible classes,” Bishop said. “I told him, ‘I’d be happy to teach one. I’ll do it for free if you’ll just let me.’ He laughed and said, ‘Oh, we’ll get you to do one one day, and we’ll even pay you.’” That single class became two, then a part-time position, and eventually a full-time faculty appointment. President Tisdale hired him part-time; President Ronald Whitehead hired him full-time; and President Jesse Smith later appointed him Division Chair of Social Science and Dean of the Honors College. For 31 years, Dr. Bishop taught across the humanities: world religion, philosophy, logic, and ethics. He also supervised faculty, developed curriculum, and helped shape the academic experience for thousands of students. “I saw firsthand the dedication of my colleagues,” Bishop said. “They got here early. They stayed late. Their classes filled up because the word got out. These were the teachers you wanted to take.” Among the many he admired were Stacy Ruth, Stephanie Johnson, Missie Meeks, Cheryl Windham, and Lona Bassett, who had once been his own instructor. “These were the kinds of teachers whose students loved them and who loved their students,” he said. 

Scholarships Named for Teachers Who Meant the World to Him 

As retirement approached, Bishop began thinking about ways to honor the people who helped shape his life. “I had a few opportunities. People helped me when I was coming along. I want to pass that on.” He also thought about his colleagues, the ones whose devotion to ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ students deserved to be remembered. “I thought it would be nice not only to help students, but to honor those teachers who spent their lives investing in others.” So, through the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation, Dr. Bishop has established a series of scholarships named for the teachers he admired most. Each scholarship honors a legacy of excellence and compassion, ensuring their impact will continue for decades to come. The response from students has moved him deeply. “They write me the most heartfelt notes,” he said. “They’re grateful, even for a little bit of funding, that helps them continue their education. And that means everything to me.” 

Honoring Debbie Wade Bishop 

In addition to honoring his colleagues, Dr. Bishop plans to create a scholarship in honor of his wife, Debbie. Her story, he says, deserves to be remembered. After completing her med-tech courses at Jones and Southern Miss, Debbie spent more than 30 years as the lab director at Covington County Hospital. She approached her work with skill, compassion, and a sincere desire to help people. “She would come home some days and say, ‘I saw this in a patient’s results today, and I told the doctor he needed to look at it quickly,’” Bishop said. “She said sometimes that very well may have saved a life.” Her career was an extension of her heart for others, and Bishop wants future students to draw inspiration from her dedication. 

A Family Tradition at Jones 

The Bishop family’s connection to ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ spans generations. Both of the Bishops’ children attended Jones, and now their grandson hopes to follow the same path. Dr. Bishop even returned last semester to teach a few classes again, drawn back, as he put it, by the place that gave him his start and the students who continue to inspire him. “The whole fabric of our society depends on an educated populace,” Bishop said. “Education makes us better people. It helps the economy. It helps our communities. There’s no greater investment you can make.” His scholarships reflect that belief. Each one will help ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ students for generations, and they stand as tributes to the teachers whose impact shaped his life, his career, and his heart. “I just want their dedication to students to be remembered,” he said. “That’s important to me.” 

From a young boy in the Rainey community, to a respected professor and a generous supporter of future ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ students, Dr. Ronald Bishop exemplifies the mission of ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥. His story is filled with teachers who inspire, students who work hard, families who sacrifice, and alumni who never forget where all their roads met. This is Dr. Bishop’s legacy, and it will continue to shape ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ for generations to come. 

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When David Lyons, Jr. reflects on the life of his father, Judge David Lyons, Sr., the words that come to mind are integrity, dedication, and legacy. That legacy now lives on through a generous gift to the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation: the Judge David Lyons, Sr. Memorial Scholarship, endowed by David Jr. to support students pursuing degrees in forensic science.

Judge David Lyons, Sr. was the embodiment of what it means to serve one’s community. A first-generation college student, he graduated from Laurel High School in 1961 and earned a football scholarship to Jones County Junior College where he played on the team in 1961 and 1962. His time at JCJC left a lifelong impression, not just as a student-athlete, but as a man whose commitment to justice and public service would define his career. Judge Lyons always saw Jones County Junior College as core to his identity; David Jr. says that “Go, Bobcats!” was his “Hail State!” One of the stories David Jr. fondly recalls is his father’s claim to have played tight end “at the Sugar Bowl.” Only years later did he discover the truth: in the 1960s, ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ freshmen would travel to New Orleans to play Tulane’s freshmen at the old Sugar Bowl stadium. Lyons not only played in but caught a touchdown pass in the “Sugar Bowl.” This memory captures the spirit of a man who never missed a ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Homecoming game.

After his time at Jones, David Sr. earned a degree in criminal justice from the University of Southern Mississippi. He then served the city of Laurel for over 25 years—12 of them as Chief of Police—and continued his public service as a city judge in both Ellisville and Sandersville. Judge Lyons also served 32 years as Jones County Justice Court Judge. Over six decades, he dedicated his life to upholding the law and protecting his community. Not only did he protect his community, but David Sr. also joined his fellow teammates of the 1961 JCJC Football team in establishing a team scholarship through the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation.

Following in his father’s footsteps, David Lyons, Jr. also attended ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, graduating in the fall of 1994. He went on to study criminal justice at USM and completed advanced training in the Tulane University Homeland Security Online School of Professional Advancement Program. With 27 years of law enforcement experience of his own, David Jr. has witnessed firsthand the critical role that criminal justice professionals play in the life of a community.

“Dad believed deeply in the importance of criminal justice,” David Jr. shared. “He would be honored to know that students at ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥—students just like he once was—will have the chance to pursue that calling with the help of this scholarship.”

The Judge David Lyons, Sr. Memorial Scholarship is a continuation of a legacy of service, leadership, and education. Through this endowment, Judge Lyons’s passion for justice and his unwavering love for ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ will inspire and support the next generation of public servants for years to come. 

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The ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Healthcare Professionals Alumni Network

The ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Alumni Association is proud to establish the Healthcare Professionals Alumni Network in response to the growing healthcare workforce crisis.

Located in the heart of South Mississippi, this dynamic network will unite ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ alumni across a broad spectrum of healthcare fields—including nursing, allied health, administration, and more. With a mission to foster community, support career development, and strengthen healthcare throughout Mississippi, the network serves as a vital resource for healthcare professionals—past, present, and future.

Dr. Benji Sessums, ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ EMS Program Director

Mississippi supports over 187,000 jobs in healthcare and social assistance and maintains 31 critical access and 50 rural hospitals, along with 208 Federally Qualified Health Centers and 186 Rural Health Clinics. That complex system depends on a connected, invested workforce.

Thirty six ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ students graduated from the Associate Degree Nursing program in the Spring of 2025.

How the Network Plans to Make a Difference in 2025-2028

Mentorship & Career Growth

Events & Learning Opportunities

Digital Hub & Resource Sharing

Sabrina Young, Vice President for External Funding and Executive Director of the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation details the importance of legacy building networks: “These connections go beyond social interaction—they unite people around a shared mission of mutual support and lasting impact. They form part of a legacy that benefits not only those we serve today, but also future generations. It’s about helping others: individuals we know, those we have yet to meet, and those who may one day care for us or our loved ones during a healthcare emergency. Every time an alumnus mentors a recent graduate or someone gives back to their community, we contribute to building a stronger, healthier Mississippi for the future.”

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned healthcare veteran, or a supporter of healthcare advancement—your voice matters. Join the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Healthcare Professionals Alumni Network today!

Join our LinkedIn group to connect with peers, access resources, and stay informed:

Let’s build the future of Mississippi healthcare—together.

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When Jessie Chaney enrolled at ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, she had no idea how profoundly her time there would shape her future—not just academically, but personally and professionally. It was in a ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ biology class that she met her husband, a moment that became a cornerstone in both of their lives. But beyond that, ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ provided Jessie with the freedom and support to explore her interests and ultimately find her calling.

Initially drawn to healthcare because of her natural passion for helping people, Jessie spent her early time at Jones exploring various health science programs. She believed that a career in healthcare would allow her to live out her desire to care for others. After graduating in May 2020, however, the pandemic drastically changed the educational landscape. With most nursing programs shifting online, Jessie realized that the path she had envisioned might no longer be the right fit.

Instead of feeling defeated, Jessie pivoted—leaning into her strengths in accuracy, organization, and professionalism. She chose to pursue a degree in accounting, a field where she could still serve others, though in a different way: by helping individuals and businesses with precision and integrity.

Jessie’s educational journey would not have been possible without the generous support of scholarships. She received both an ACT scholarship and a ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation scholarship through an endowment started by the Asbury Foundation. These awards were more than just financial assistance—they were life-changing encouragements. Meeting a representative from the Asbury Foundation had a profound impact on her. Their kindness and belief in her abilities filled Jessie with confidence and reminded her that her goals were within reach.

Thanks to that support, Jessie earned her associate’s degree at ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥. After taking two years off from school to focus on life and work, she completed her accounting degree online through Mississippi State University. She now uses her skills to serve others through excellence and professionalism in the accounting field.

Grateful for the scholarships that shaped her journey, Jessie felt compelled to give back. She recently established an annual scholarship through the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation, wanting to be a source of hope and support for students like herself.

Jessie Chaney’s story is an incredible example of the impact that student scholarships have at ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥. She came to ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ uncertain of her future, but left with a clear sense of purpose—and now, she’s helping others do the same. Through her scholarship, Jessie continues to impact lives and carry forward the generosity that once transformed her own

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For the Ellisville High School Class of 1964, the bonds of friendship have stood the test of time, growing even stronger long after their walk across the graduation stage. As graduates of the Ellisville High School campus— now ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥— these classmates have maintained a deep and lasting connection, celebrating cherished memories and life’s milestones together throughout the decades.

In October 2024, they gathered once again, this time back on the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ campus, for their 60th class reunion. The occasion was not just a celebration of the past, but an opportunity to make an impact on the future. It was at this reunion that the Class of 1964 made a meaningful decision: to give back to the next generation of students by establishing an endowed scholarship fund through the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation.

Their commitment was evident during the 2024 Day of Giving, when this dedicated group visited the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation office and came together to rally support for the Ellisville High School Class of 1964 Scholarship. Their generosity and passion for education fueled their fundraising efforts, bringing them closer to their goal of providing lasting financial aid for students in need.

By February 2025, their vision had become a reality; the Ellisville High School Class of 1964 Scholarship reached its full endowment status. With $10,000.00 secured in the fund, future scholarships will now be awarded based on the invested returns from the fund’s performance, ensuring that their legacy of generosity will live on for generations to come.

The ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation is honored to celebrate the incredible dedication of the Class of 1964. Their commitment to giving back exemplifies the power of community and the enduring impact of investing in education.

If you or your graduating class would like to leave a lasting mark on ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥, consider establishing an endowed scholarship. Your generosity can help shape the future for students who dream of achieving their academic and career goals. Visit our Legacy Giving Campaign website to learn more about how you can make a difference.

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ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program has received a significant boost thanks to a generous donation from AAA Ambulance Service. On Monday, February 17, 2025, AAA leaders visited the Ellisville campus to officially deliver a fully equipped ambulance to the college’s EMT program, reinforcing the strong partnership between the college and one of Mississippi’s most established EMS providers.

AAA Ambulance Service has been a loyal and committed partner of the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ EMS program since its inception, covering multiple counties across the Pine Belt region. The service provides students with critical hands-on experience through field rotations and employment opportunities, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce. As one of the oldest ambulance services in the state, AAA has led the industry for decades, and its ongoing support exemplifies the collaborative efforts between EMS providers and educational institutions in developing the next generation of emergency medical professionals.

Dr. Benji Sessums, Program Director of the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ EMT program, emphasized the importance of this donation in preparing students for real-world scenarios:

“You can train students in a classroom or even in a simulated ambulance, but nothing replaces the experience of working in a real, functional ambulance. Driving students around campus and allowing them to practice patient care in the same environment they’ll encounter in the field builds confidence and ensures they are truly ready for the demands of the job. Partnerships with local ambulance services like AAA are essential in producing a strong EMS workforce that is ready to work on day one after graduation. Without the support of local EMS agencies and hospitals like AAA, we wouldn’t be able to provide the level of education and training that prepares our students to serve their communities effectively.”

This donation aligns with the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation’s Health Science Program Strategic Initiative, which focuses on expanding resources for students pursuing careers in healthcare. Over the last 20 years, multiple EMS services have contributed to the program’s success by donating equipment, supplies, and occasionally ambulances. These contributions ensure that students receive practical, realistic training that mirrors the conditions they will encounter in the field.

The newly donated ambulance will be integrated into the program’s daily training exercises, offering students a unique opportunity to develop their skills in an authentic EMS setting. Having a real ambulance on campus enhances credibility and reinforces the program’s commitment to preparing highly skilled, workforce-ready EMTs and paramedics.

With continued support from industry leaders like AAA Ambulance Service, ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ remains dedicated to providing high-quality EMS education that benefits not just the local community but the entire state of Mississippi.

To learn more about becoming a supporter of ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Health Science Programs, visit the Legacy Giving Campaign Homepage.

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The impact of a dedicated educator lasts far beyond the walls of a classroom. For Faye Posey, a lifelong teacher who spent over 25 years shaping young minds and passed away in May of 2024, her influence now extends into the future through the Faye and Carey Posey Educational Foundation. Established by the Posey Trust to provide full-tuition scholarships to Magee High School graduates attending ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ with a GPA of 3.0 or greater, this foundation is a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of education.

Since its inception in the Spring of 2025, the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation Posey Scholarship has already made a profound impact, granting nine students the opportunity to further their education at ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥. These students, each with unique ambitions and aspirations, embody the spirit of resilience and excellence that Ms. Posey championed throughout her career.

Aniyah Owens, a dedicated student in the Pre-LPN program, attended Magee from the sixth grade through her high school graduation, finishing 10th in her class. She expresses deep gratitude for Ms. Posey’s generosity, knowing that this scholarship alleviates some of her financial burdens, allowing her to focus on her studies and future career in nursing.

William Hofler, an aspiring engineer, speaks to the sense of community fostered by the Posey Scholarship. Hailing from the close-knit town of Magee, he sees this opportunity as a chance to branch out, expand his horizons, and discover new purpose, all while staying connected to his roots.

Layla Bridges, set to graduate in August with a degree in Cosmetology, has her sights set on an even bigger goal—starting her own salon. Thanks to the Posey Scholarship, she can complete her initial program and continue her education by enrolling in ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥’s Entrepreneurship program, equipping her with the skills to turn her dream into reality.

For A’Kyah Drake, majoring in Social Work, the scholarship represents a blessing that not everyone receives. With a passion for helping others, she is determined to use this opportunity to make a difference in her community, following in Ms. Posey’s footsteps by dedicating her career to service.

Emily Wicker, a lifelong resident of Magee and a Pre-Occupational Therapy major, understands firsthand how financial challenges can affect a family. With her retired parents raising a young child at home, the Posey Scholarship enables her to pursue her education without adding financial strain, bringing her one step closer to her professional goals.

Kaylee McWilliams, a Pre-Radiology major, acknowledges the often-overlooked costs of higher education. She sees this scholarship as her golden opportunity to achieve her college goals, proving that hard work and dedication, combined with the generosity of others, can pave the way for success.

Faye Posey’s legacy is not simply one of past accomplishments but of future triumphs—of students who, thanks to her vision and generosity, are now equipped to change their own lives and the lives of others. Her story challenges us all to consider the impact we can have on the next generation. As these students move forward, carrying her legacy with them, we invite you to follow in Ms. Posey’s footsteps by investing in education and the success of ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ students. Through scholarships like this, we can continue to uplift and empower young minds, ensuring that the transformative power of learning endures for generations to come.

ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥

James Cook Read, known to many as Jim, was born on November 19, 1944, into a family devoted to education. His parents, Arleigh A. Read and Lois L. Read, were both public school teachers from Jasper County, Mississippi. Their careers took them across the state, instilling in Jim a deep appreciation for learning and the transformative power of education. He grew up in various communities, attending schools in places like Blackjack, Mount Pleasant, and graduating from Slayden High School in 1962. 

Dr. Read’s early years were shaped by the values of hard work, perseverance, and service. These principles, modeled by his parents, would guide him through a distinguished career in academia and to a reputation of faithful generosity. 

Dr. Read’s pursuit of higher education began at Northwest Mississippi Junior College, where he earned his Associate of Arts degree in 1964. He then continued his studies at the University of Mississippi, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education in 1966, a Master of Arts in Secondary Education in 1967, and later a Master of Social Science in 1973. His academic path, however, was briefly interrupted when his “rich uncle named Sam,” had other plans for him. 

From 1969 to 1972, Dr. Read served in the United States Army, rising to the rank of sergeant in the 92nd Engineer Battalion. He spent 20 months in Vietnam, an experience that strengthened his resilience and deepened his understanding of leadership and sacrifice. Upon returning, he utilized the G.I. Bill to further his education, earning his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education from the University of Mississippi in 1978. 

Dr. Read’s career in education spanned over four decades, beginning with teaching positions at Clarksdale High School (1967-69), College Hill Academy (1974-75), and Lafayette County High School (1975-76). However, his passion for higher education led him to Clarke College in Newton, Mississippi, where he served as a history instructor from 1980 to 1986. His leadership qualities soon propelled him into administration, and from 1986 to 1992, he served as Dean of the College. His time at Clarke College was marked by a commitment to academic excellence and student success, fostering a culture that emphasized both intellectual and moral development. 

In 1992, Dr. Read’s journey took him to Jones Junior College (now ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥) in Ellisville, Mississippi. For two decades, from 1992 to 2011, he served as a history instructor, teaching both Western and American history. Beyond the classroom, he played a vital role in shaping the institution, serving as an Academic Scholarship Committee member, a Phi Theta Kappa advisor, and providing guidance as a faculty advisor.

Dr. Read reflects on the close-knit community at Jones, recalling how faculty, staff, and students supported one another like a family. His presence on campus was more than just that of a professor—he was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to countless students who walked through Jones’ halls. 

Dr. Read’s influence extends beyond the classroom. His deep faith and commitment to service led him to take on leadership roles within his church communities. At First Baptist Church of Newton and later First Baptist Church of Ellisville, he has faithfully taught adult Sunday school classes for over two decades, served as a deacon, and participated in various committees. He views his role in the church as an extension of his calling as an educator—guiding others toward wisdom, truth, and spiritual growth. 

A Legacy of Consistent Giving 

One of Dr. Read’s most enduring contributions to ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ is his unwavering support for the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation. Over two decades, Dr. Read has given consistently, ensuring that students have access to scholarships and resources to further their education. His philosophy of giving is simple yet profound: institutions operate best when they have reliable, ongoing financial support. 

He encourages fellow alumni and community members to see their contributions as an investment. He understands that while a one-time gift is valuable, the true strength of an institution comes from consistent, sustained support. Dr. Read’s belief in the mission of ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ is not just evident in his financial contributions but in the life that he has led— dedicated to the betterment of students, faculty, and the institution. 

Continuing the Legacy 

Dr. Read’s story is a testament to the power of education, service, and generosity. His work continues to leave an indelible mark on ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ and the countless students he taught and mentored. His legacy challenges us to consider how we, too, can play a role in shaping the future of ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥. 

The ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation Legacy Giving Campaign is an opportunity for alumni, faculty, and supporters to follow in Dr. Read’s footsteps. Consistent giving ensures that ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ can continue to provide exceptional education, scholarships, and opportunities for future generations. Whether you are a recent graduate, a longtime supporter, or someone who values the impact of education, your contribution—no matter the size—makes a difference. 

As Dr. Read wisely advised, “Look at your budget, figure out what you can do, and give consistently.” Just as he has done for decades, we have the chance to support ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ in a way that provides lasting benefits for students and the community. 

Join us by making a commitment to the ÌÇÐÄÖ±²¥ Foundation. Together, we can ensure the support of our students as they pursue excellence in leaving a legacy of their own.