Panola College
October 8, 2025 - Panola College was proud to relaunch its popular Lunch Box Lecture series with an engaging presentation by former Texas State Historian Bill O’Neal. The event, held in the M.P. Baker Library on October 7, drew a packed audience, with every seat filled and guests standing to hear O’Neal’s dynamic account of the life and legacy of Sam Houston.
A special highlight of the event was the attendance of the 4th grade class from Beckville I.S.D. The students not only participated in the lecture but also explored the Sam Houston exhibition currently on display in the Fay Allison Gallery of the M.P. Baker Library.
The Sam Houston exhibit will remain on display through October 31 and is free and open to the public during the Library’s regular hours. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and experience this educational showcase.
“Your enthusiasm and support help make these events such a success and remind us how strong the Panola community truly is,” said Penni Ratley, Director of Library Services. “It was heartwarming to see so many familiar faces, new guests, and especially the young students from Beckville I.S.D. engaging with history in such a meaningful way. Stay tuned, because there is more to come.”
September 26, 2025 - The M.P. Baker Library at Panola College will host a Lunch Box Lecture featuring Bill O’Neal, former Texas State Historian, on October 7 at 11:45am. O’Neal will share the riveting story of Sam Houston, who remains a larger-than-life figure in both Texas and American history.
O’Neal will present a dynamic account of Houston’s life, including his role in the Texas Revolution, the Republic of Texas, statehood, and secession from the Union in 1861. Known for his engaging speaking style and deep historical insight, O’Neal taught history for more than 30 years at Panola College and received the prestigious Piper Professorship in 2000.
O’Neal is a past president and Fellow of the East Texas Historical Association, a recipient of the Ralph W. Steen and Best of East Texas awards, and a member of the Western Writers of America. His media appearances include documentaries on The History Channel, The Discovery Channel, TBS, A&E, and TNN.
A complimentary lunch will be available for the first 40 guests beginning at 11:30am. The lecture is free, open to the public, and is set to conclude at 1pm.
The Lunch Box Lecture complements the exhibition Sam Houston: Texas Icon, on display in the Fay Allison Gallery inside the M.P. Baker Library from October 1 to 31. Produced by Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the exhibition explores Houston’s journey from his youth in Virginia and Tennessee to his later years in Huntsville, Texas.
The exhibition is made possible in part by funding from the Summerlee Foundation and the Panola College Foundation, which supported the project through a grant written by Amanda Clements, Professor of Fine Arts.
Humanities Texas develops and supports diverse programs across Texas, including lectures, oral history projects, teacher institutes, museum exhibitions, and documentary films. For more information, visit humanitiestexas.org or call 512-440-1991.
For more information about the Lunch Box Lecture, exhibit viewing hours, or to schedule group visits, contact Penni Ratley, Director of Library Services, at penni.ratley@panola.edu.
September 19, 2025 - Panola College has once again been recognized as one of the best colleges in the nation to work for, according to the Great Colleges to Work For program. This year marks the College’s fourteenth consecutive appearance on the program’s Honor Roll, highlighting its continued excellence as a top workplace in higher education.
The results, released September 19 in a special insert of The Chronicle of Higher Education, are based on a survey of 199 colleges and universities. In all, 76 of those institutions achieved “Great College to Work For” recognition for specific best practices and policies. Results are reported for small, medium, and large institutions, with Panola College included among the small colleges with 500 to 2,999 students.
Panola College won honors in nine categories this year: Job Satisfaction & Support; Compensation & Benefits; Professional Development; Mission & Pride; Supervisor/Department Chair Effectiveness; Confidence in Senior Leadership; Faculty & Staff Well-being; Shared Governance; and Faculty Experience.
Panola College also was named to the Great Colleges Honor Roll, a status granted to only 42 colleges each year who are highlighted most across the recognition categories.
“Being named one of the best colleges to work for is a true testament to the culture of excellence we’ve built at Panola College,” said Dr. Jessica Pace, President of Panola College. “This achievement reflects the unwavering support of our Board of Trustees and the incredible dedication of our employees, who consistently go above and beyond to serve our students.”
The survey results are based on a two-part assessment process: an institution questionnaire that captures employment data and workplace policies from each institution, and a survey administered to faculty, administrators, and professional support staff. The primary factor in deciding whether an institution received recognition was the employee feedback.
The Great Colleges to Work For program is one of the largest and most respected workplace-recognition programs in the country. For more information and to view all current and previously recognized institutions, visit the Great Colleges program website at GreatCollegesProgram.com and GreatCollegesList.com.
September 9, 2025 - The Charles C. Matthews Foundation has generously donated $300,000 to the Panola College Promise Program, ensuring the continuation of a transformative initiative that provides free college opportunities to eligible high school graduates in Panola County.
This significant gift sustains the program for years to come and reaffirms the Matthews Foundation’s deep commitment to education and community development in Panola County.
The Panola College Promise Program covers tuition and fees for up to three consecutive years following high school graduation for all qualifying students. In addition to being residents of Panola County, participating students must complete 25 hours of volunteer service each year of high school and maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher.
“The continued support of the Charles C. Matthews Foundation is not only generous, it is deeply impactful,” said Dr. Jessica Pace, President of Panola College. “Thanks to their ongoing investment, we can help ensure that every student in Panola County has a pathway to a brighter future – whether through a certificate, associate degree, or transfer to a four-year university.”
The Matthews Foundation has long been a dedicated partner of the College, and its support of the Promise Program continues to build a legacy of opportunity for local students. The gift will directly enhance the College’s ability to reduce financial barriers and serve more students.
High school sophomores residing in Panola and Shelby Counties are now eligible to enroll in the Promise Program. Students can secure their spot by signing the Promise Pledge by the November 30 deadline. For more information, visit www.panola.edu/promise.
August 26, 2025 - Panola College is pleased to announce the appointment of Jerry Driskill as the new Dean of Career and Technical Programs, bringing with him over two decades of experience in higher education leadership.
Driskill has held key roles such as campus president, dean, and director, and has a distinguished track record of aligning academic programs with workforce needs to drive institutional growth and student success. Most recently, he served as President at Remington College in Dallas and Remington College Online. His past leadership roles also include positions at Southern Careers Institute, Vista College, and The Art Institute of Phoenix.
“I am honored to join Panola College as Dean of Career and Technical Programs,” said Driskill. “I look forward to working with our faculty, staff, and community partners to expand innovative, industry-aligned programs that prepare students with the skills and confidence to thrive in today’s workforce. Together, we will create meaningful pathways that encourage student achievement, strengthen our communities, and meet the growing workforce needs of East Texas.”
Throughout his career, Driskill has led institutions through transformative growth by aligning academic strategies with regional labor market demands. He has played a critical role in increasing student enrollment by 15 to 50% through workforce alignment, dual credit and online program expansion, community engagement, and cross-sector partnerships that have improved both enrollment and job placement outcomes. He also brings extensive knowledge of accreditation and institutional effectiveness, including experience with SACSCOC.
In his new role at the College, Driskill will provide organizational leadership and support to the instructional programs within the Career and Technical division. He will coordinate data collection and reporting for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, lead the identification and development of new technical and workforce programs, and oversee planning, administration, and evaluation of educational initiatives across the division.
Driskill holds a Master of Business Administration from Lindenwood College and a Bachelor of Arts from William Jewell College.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jerry Driskill to Panola College,” said Natalie Oswalt, Vice President of Instruction. “We are confident that his leadership and vision will play a key role in further enhancing the College’s commitment to student success.”
August 21, 2025 - The Panola College Foundation awarded 36 faculty and staff grants, totaling $92,281 to support a variety of programs and areas at Panola College this year.
The grants allow employees at Panola College to pursue high-quality, imaginative, and innovative improvement of student success, professional development opportunities, and minor program enhancements such as equipment and supply purchases.
Alease Copelin, the chair of the Panola College Foundation, announced the recipients of the grants at a faculty and staff meeting on August 13 at the College.
“Each project we’re recognizing today reflects a commitment to student success,” said Copelin. “Whether it’s a creative classroom innovation, a breakthrough student support strategy, or a bold new way to inspire learning, these grants honor the efforts to make a real difference in students’ lives.”
The 2025-2026 grants include funding for the following:
- Amanda Clements: Two Traveling Art Exhibits and Gallery Updates, Art Appreciation Field Trip, and Studio Kiln Replacement
- Angela Lucas: Manipulatives for Psychology Students
- Angie Musgrove: The Summit for Dual Credit Programs and Staff
- Antiquene Nichols: Immunohematology Blood Cell Washer Centrifuge
- Bobbie Smith: Student Field Trip to Armstrong McCall Beauty Event
- Brian Naples: Student Field Trip to The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza and Holocaust Museum
- Christine Dobbs: iPads and Video Recording Equipment for Education Program
- Cory Roberts: Professional Development
- Daron McDaniel: MetaQuest VR Headset
- Dwaine Hubbard: Booth at Texas Music Educators Association
- Dwayne Ferguson: Microsoft Office Certification Vouchers
- Erik Choron: CompTIA IT Fundamental Exam Vouchers
- Jacky Andreatta: Athletic Training Equipment
- Jody Harris: Transcript Software
- Katie Ferris: Student Support Materials
- Kay Hawthorne: Geriatric Skin Conditions Kit
- Kevin Rutherford: Concept Room Tutoring Aids and Student Engagement Equipment for Offsite Locations
- Kimberly Funderburk: Updated Lighting for Q.M. Martin Auditorium and Prop Building Workshop
- Kori Belrose: Mobile Storage Stations for Shelby College Center
- Laura Wood: Task Chairs for Marshall College Center
- Lisa Miller: Fundus Skills Trainer
- Lori Ballard: Equipment for the Panola Promise Program
- Miranda Hagans: NREMT Exam Prep and Geriatric Manikin Overlay
- Molly Skeen: Student Support Materials
- Nicole McCray: Rebounders for Volleyball
- Rebecca Pittman: Equipment and Technology for the College Store
- Stacey Martin: Mental Health Coaching for Rodeo
- Texas Reardon: Equipment for Digital Learning
- Wendy Green: Two Hydraulic Patient Lifts for CNA Program and Two Phlebotomy Workstations
- Whitney McBee: X-ray Dental Manikin and EKG Simulator
August 14, 2025 - Panola College is proud to welcome 19 talented new hires to its team for the 2025-2026 academic year, marking an exciting chapter of growth and excellence.
Elaine Acker – Professor, English
Marcus Armstrong – Professor, Government
Axel Ayala – Maintenance Technician
Lori Ballard – Promise Program Coordinator
Ashley Castleberry – College Store Clerk
Landry Davidson – Maintenance Technician
David Fitts – Police Chief
Carlton Jordan – Professor, Government/History
Sayed Khan – Professor, Chemistry/Physics
Denetra McDaniel – Pathway for Credit for Prior Learning Design Coordinator
Clarissa McNair – Recruiter/Student Activities Coordinator
Jessica Montagna – Workforce and Continuing Education Coordinator
Vanessa Pacheco – Professor, Associate Degree Nursing
Rachael Payne – Vice President of Fiscal Services
Penni Ratley – Director of Library Services
Jaime Reed – Director of Admissions
Robert Rollinson – Head Coach, Men’s Basketball
Kyle Smith – Residence Life Coordinator
Arnold VerMeer – Police Officer
Pictured from top to bottom, left to right: Sayed Khan, Denetra McDaniel, Marcus Armstrong, Vanessa Pacheco, Carlton Jordan, Ashley Castleberry, Kyle Smith, Lori Ballard, David Fitts, Rob Rollinson, Penni Ratley, Clarissa McNair, Jamie Reed, Elaine Acker, Landry Davidson, Axel Ayala. Not pictured: Rachael Payne, Jessica Montagna, Arnold VerMeer.
July 23, 2025 - Panola College is proud to announce Robert Rollinson as the new head coach of the men’s basketball team. Rollinson served as assistant coach during the Ponies’ historic 2024-25 season, which saw the team capture the Region XIV Athletic Conference Championship and make a Final Four appearance at the NJCAA National Tournament.
“I’m incredibly honored to lead the Ponies,” said Rollinson. “This is a special program, and I’m excited for the opportunity to build on the strong foundation Coach Kuligoski put in place. My focus will be on creating a culture of togetherness, player development, and championship-level basketball.”
Rollinson takes over for former Head Coach Joe Kuligoski, who has joined the coaching staff at Sam Houston State University. During his tenure at the College, Kuligoski led the team to back-to-back appearances in the NJCAA National Tournament (2024 and 2025) and a Region XIV title.
“Robert has been a key part of our recent success, and we’re thrilled to have him take the reins,” said Don Clinton, Vice President of Student Services and Athletic Director at Panola College. “He was instrumental in recruiting last year’s team, which won a school-record 29 games. His leadership and experience will be vital in continuing the winning tradition we’ve established.”
Rollinson joined the College’s staff in July 2024. In his role as assistant coach, he helped recruit standout players such as Travis Torain and CJ Worsham – both of whom played key roles in last season’s success. Rollinson also contributed significantly on the practice floor, focusing on player development, designing practice plans, creating game strategies, and authoring detailed scouting reports.
The result was a record-setting season for the Ponies, highlighted by their first-ever Region XIV championship and a Final Four finish at the NJCAA National Tournament in Hutchinson, Kan. Panola boasted six All-Region players, and for the first time in school history had two players named NJCAA All-Americans: Khoi Thurmon (1st Team) and CJ Worsham (3rd Team).
Rollinson began his career at South Mountain Community College in 2018, followed by assistant roles at the University of St. Francis, Park University, and Lewis University. In 2022-23, he joined NCAA Division II UT Tyler, where the Patriots achieved their highest national ranking in school history at No. 19. The following season, Rollinson was an assistant coach at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL), another Division II program.
“We’ve accomplished a lot, but we’re just getting started,” Rollinson said. “This program is full of potential, and I’m excited to guide our players through another great season.”
June 24, 2025 - Panola College is pleased to announce the appointment of Natalie Oswalt as the new Vice President of Instruction. Oswalt, a dedicated and experienced educator, has been with the College for over 20 years, most recently serving as Dean of Career and Technical Programs.
In her new position, Oswalt will lead the planning, implementation, and assessment of instructional programs, with a strong focus on student achievement, faculty excellence, and institutional success. Her responsibilities will include strategic leadership in academic affairs, curriculum development, faculty hiring and professional growth, accreditation oversight, and enrollment management.
Throughout her tenure at Panola College, Oswalt has held a variety of leadership roles, including Dean of Arts, Sciences, and Technology; Dean of Professional and Technical Programs; and Director of Shelby County Operations.
Nearly a decade ago, Oswalt developed our 8th Grade Pathways event, bringing every 8th grader from our partner school districts to Panola College to explore career and academic opportunities early in their journey. Many of those students have now graduated from the College and entered our local workforce, a testament to her long-term vision of student success. Oswalt was also instrumental in bringing 24/7 online tutoring to the College, ensuring students have around-the-clock access to academic support regardless of location or schedule.
In addition, she has worked extensively to strengthen transfer opportunities for our students, building or expanding six new university transfer pathways within just the last academic year. She also led the growth of our Occupational Skills Award (OSA) offerings, expanding from one OSA with seven graduates in 2022 to 16 OSAs with 149 completers in 2023-2024, each directly aligned with local industry to ensure these credentials help students secure living-wage employment.
Oswalt has also secured millions in external grant funding, including multiple awards from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and Workforce Commission, allowing Panola to expand programs, upgrade facilities, and create new credentialing opportunities aligned with workforce needs.
“Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working closely with faculty, staff, and administrators to drive key initiatives aimed at enhancing student success, improving academic programs, and fostering a collaborative environment,” said Oswalt. “I am excited to step into this new role and help guide the College toward achieving its long-term vision.”
Oswalt holds both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. She will begin her new role on July 1.
Dr. Jessica Pace, President of Panola College, expressed her confidence in Oswalt’s leadership: “Vice President Oswalt brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a deep commitment to student success. Her strategic vision and collaborative spirit make her the ideal choice to lead our instructional programs into the future.”
June 12, 2025 - The Panola College men’s rodeo team is set to compete at the 2025 College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) in Casper, Wyoming from June 15 to 21. Celebrating more than two decades as the host of this prestigious event, Casper once again welcomes the top collegiate rodeo athletes from across the country for a week of elite competition and tradition.
Led by Head Coach Jeff Collins, now in his tenth year at the helm, the rodeo program has become a dominant force. Since taking over, Collins has guided the team to national prominence, with Panola athletes qualifying for the CNFR every year – except 2020 when the event was canceled. Under his leadership, the program won the national championship in 2019 and continues to build on its strong legacy.
A ProRodeo legend in his own right, Collins is the 2000 PRCA Bareback Riding World Champion, a six-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier, and a 2025 inductee into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.
This year, Panola will be represented by six outstanding student-athletes at the CNFR:
- Jayden Broussard – Southern Region Champion Tie Down Roper
- Mac Street – Tie Down Roper
- Mason Yancy – Bareback Rider
- Isaac Ingram – Bareback Rider
- Hayden James – Bareback Rider
- Tyler Wall – Saddle Bronc Rider
“These young men have worked incredibly hard all season, and I’m proud of their commitment to excellence,” said Collins. “The CNFR is the ultimate stage for college rodeo, and we’re ready to represent Panola with everything we’ve got.”
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