Panola College
November 7, 2025 - Kodiak Gas Services donated an upgraded Ariel compressor unit to the Panola College School of Energy on October 29. The new compressor replaced an older model and will enhance hands-on learning opportunities for students in the College’s energy programs.
“This spring semester, we will use this for a complete teardown and rebuild, giving our students valuable training for our Natural Gas Compression program,” stated Daniel Hall, School of Energy Chair.
The new compressor unit provides students with access to modern, industry-relevant equipment, strengthening the connection between classroom learning and real-world application. This upgrade further supports Panola College’s mission to prepare students for successful careers in the energy industry.
Panola College is grateful to Kodiak Gas Services and all of its industry partners for their dedication to student success and workforce development in our community.
For more information about the Panola College School of Energy and its programs, please visit www.panola.edu/energy.
November 6, 2025 - Panola College is proud to announce the launch of its new Esports program, an initiative designed to empower students through teamwork, communication, leadership, and critical thinking. As one of the regional leaders in adopting competitive gaming at the collegiate level, the College continues to expand opportunities that blend education and student engagement.
“Panola College’s new Esports program is about more than gaming; it’s about belonging, teamwork, and opportunity,” said Dr. Jessica Pace, President of Panola College. “This program gives students a place to connect, build confidence, and explore pathways to STEM and technology careers. We thank our Board of Trustees for their vision and support in bringing this opportunity to our students.”
Under the direction of Coach Wesley Kemp, a Panola College alumnus, the program will offer students a competitive platform to represent the College while developing valuable life and career skills.
“It’s my goal to grow this new program and attract both current and future students to compete with other colleges across Texas,” said Kemp. “What started as a lifelong hobby has become my dream job, and I’m excited to see the incredible talents that will represent Panola College.”
Esports – short for electronic sports – transforms casual gaming into an organized, competitive experience that mirrors traditional athletics. Teams will compete in structured tournaments governed by the National Junior College Athletic Association Esports (NJCAAE), the national governing body for two-year college Esports.
“We are excited to add Esports to our athletic offerings,” said Don Clinton, Panola College Athletic Director. “It opens doors for students who might not have otherwise participated in campus activities and gives them a way to grow as leaders while representing Panola College with pride.”
Students will have the chance to compete in popular titles such as Minecraft, Super Smash Brothers, Rocket League, Valorant, and chess, with plans to expand the lineup as the program grows. Beyond competition, participants will learn collaboration, communication, and strategic thinking – skills that translate to success both in and out of the classroom.
Coach Kemp, who helped establish Panola College’s original gaming club as a student, brings both passion and experience to this new chapter. His leadership reflects the College’s commitment to innovation, community, and student success.
The launch of the Esports program reflects a growing national movement that recognizes the educational and social value of competitive gaming. Esports fosters STEM learning, builds school spirit, and encourages teamwork and personal growth. By introducing this program, Panola College is not only keeping pace with this trend but is also one of the leaders in East Texas – creating new opportunities for students to connect, compete, and succeed both on campus and beyond.
November 3, 2025 - Your Future, Reimagined
Panola College will open registration for the Spring 2026 semester on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, for the 16-week (Spring A) and first 8-week (Spring B) terms, as well as the second 8-week (Spring C) term. Spring A and Spring B classes begin January 12, 2026, while Spring C classes begin March 9, 2026.
Panola College remains committed to providing flexible scheduling options across all programs to meet the needs of every student. Course formats include face-to-face, online, and hybrid options, along with evening classes, accelerated programs that allow students to complete their degrees faster, and more 8-week courses than ever before.
"Our goal is to make higher education accessible and adaptable for every student," said Dr.Jessica Pace, President of Panola College. "Whether you are balancing work, family, or other commitments, Panola College offers the flexibility, support, and quality education you need to reimagine your future."
Beginning this spring, Panola College will also offer five new degree programs designed to expand opportunities for students:
- Associate of Arts in Business Administration (also available as an accelerated program)
- Associate of Science in History
- Associate of Science in Political Science
- Associate of Science in Criminal Justice (also available as an accelerated program)
- Associate of Science in Health Science (Pre-Nursing Transfer)
These new programs provide additional pathways for students to pursue their academic and career goals while preparing for transfer to four-year universities or entry into the workforce.
Advisors are available to meet with students at any time to help create an academic plan that fits their goals and schedules. To learn more about applying or the admissions process, visit www.panola.edu/admissions.
Panola College encourages both new and returning students to register early to secure their classes for Spring 2026.
Panola College: Your Future, Reimagined.
October 24, 2025 - Panola College theatre and choir are proud to present a collaborative production of Little Shop of Horrors on November 1 and 2, 2025 in the Q.M. Martin Auditorium. The horror comedy musical promises thrills, laughs, and toe-tapping tunes in this student-driven production.
Showtimes on Saturday, November 1, will be at 2pm and 8pm, with a final performance on Sunday, November 2, at 2pm.
Little Shop of Horrors tells the story of Seymour, a flower shop worker who discovers a mysterious plant with a sinister appetite – for human blood. As the plant grows, so does Seymour’s dilemma, setting the stage for a wildly entertaining musical experience.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring this show to life on the Panola College stage,” said Kim Funderburk, Director of Theatre at Panola College. “Our theatre and choir students have poured their hearts into this production, and everyone is working extremely hard to make this an unforgettable show.”
Tickets are $15 and will be available for purchase at the door prior to each performance.
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
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