Panola College

December 4, 2017 Pasadena, Texas – The Panola College men’s basketball team lost to San Jacino-Central here this evening, 69-67. The loss drops the Ponies record to 6-5 and 0-2 in Region 14 play. “We had our chance to win on the road. In San Jac’s program history, not a lot of teams can say that.” Head Coach Grant McMillan stated. “Again, adversity is hitting us head on right now. But I know we have a chance to do special things this year.” He added

Panola came out slow trailing by as much as 11 in the first half, 23-12. A gradual climb to end the half saw a 41 all halftime score. A seesaw second half saw both teams lead by as much as five points. Down one with 28 seconds to go, Jeremy Roscoe missed a layup to take the lead. Forced to foul, San Jac only made one of two freethrows with 8.2 seconds remaining. Marlon Taylor got a three point shot off as the buzzer sounded but it was off the mark.

Taylor scored a game high 23 points in the loss. Juwan Williams and Alex Holcombe both scored in double figures netting 10 apiece. Panola shot 43 percent from the three point line as a team and out rebounded San Jac 40-36.

Panola host Costal Bend this upcoming Saturday, December 9th. This is their final game before the Holiday break. Tip-off is set for 4:00 PM on the campus of Panola College.

Submitted by Adam Blaylock

November 30, 2017 Carthage – The Panola College men’s basketball team dropped their conference opener to Blinn College hear this evening 73-71. The loss drops their record to 6-4 and 0-1 in Region 14 play. “This team has hit more adversity than I can ever remember a team having to face. We fought back and Blinn hit a three by a player that hasn’t taken one all year. Sometimes that’s how this game goes.” Head Coach Grant McMillan stated. “I am beyond proud of our effort and if we can continue to grow we know we can be successful.” He added.

The first half was full of runs by each team. Panola came out hot hitting three of their first four attempts from three to take a 9-3 lead. Blinn came back with a barrage of three’s of their own taking an eight point lead 26-18. Panola regained the lead on two TJ killings free throws but Blinn responded with a 12-0 run to take a 29-39 halftime lead.

Panola chipped away the entire second half and came back to tie the ball game 53 all with 8:35 remaining. The back and forth finish saw Panola take the largest lead of the half 62-58 on a Juwan Williams 4-point play. With Blinn forced to foul, TJ Killings missed the front end of a 1-1 with 8.2 seconds left. Blinn drove do the floor and made a three pointer as time expired to give them the two point victory.

Five players scored in double figures and were led by Juwan Williams 15 points. Marlon Taylor added 14, TJ Killings with 11 and Alex Holcombe and Jeremy Roscoe netted 10 each. Roscoe and Killings both recorded nine assists in the lost. As a team, Panola only committed six turnovers on the game.

Panola continues Region 14 play this upcoming Saturday, December 2nd when they head to San Jacinto College. Tip-off is set for 4:00 PM on the campus of San Jacinto-Central.

Submitted by Adam Blaylock

From left, Cancee Lester, director of Shelby College Center Operations; Teresa Brooks, Dean, Distance & Digital Learning; Troy Caserta, Vice President of Fiscal Services; Dr. David Burris, SHSU Articulation Coordinator; Dr. Christopher Maynard, SHSU Associate Vice Provost; Dr. Greg Powell, President, Panola College; Natalie Oswalt, Dean of Arts, Sciences and Technical Programs; Cristie Ferguson, Director of Library Services; Kelly Reed-Hirsch, Dean of Health Sciences; and Mike Edens, Director of Human resources.

November 28, 2017 - Panola College signed an articulation agreement with Sam Houston State University on Tuesday, Nov. 14, in the Frances B. Ross Ballroom of the Charles C. Matthews Foundation Student Center on the campus of Panola College. Dr. Christopher Maynard, Associate Vice Provost for SHSU, and PC President Dr. Gregory Powell signed the agreement that streamlines the transfer process for students from PC to SHSU.

"Panola College anticipates a growing relationship with our friends at Sam Houston,” Dr. Powell commented. “This articulation agreement provides our students with a seamless transfer pathway as they continue their education towards bachelors' degrees.”

“The heart of everything is student success, and we believe this articulation agreement provides the best opportunity for students to complete their degrees on time and at the most reasonable cost,” said Dr. Maynard.

SHSU offers more than 80 bachelor’s degree programs, more than 50 master’s degree options, and six doctoral programs. Among these offerings is a bachelor of applied arts and sciences (BAAS) degree.

“The BAAS degree at Sam Houston State University merges perfectly with our Associate of Applied Science degrees,” said Dr. Billy Adams, Panola College Vice President of Instruction. “This will benefit students across many disciplines, from the health sciences to business and computer information technology.”

Students who have majored in a career and technology, vocational or technical program at Panola College and want to seek a baccalaureate degree at SHSU must have completed and received an Associate of Applied Science degree in a technical area and at least 36 hours of coursework must be in the technical area. The approved AAS degree programs include, but are not limited to, accounting, agricultural mechanization, automotive technology, biotechnology, child development and family studies, computer graphics arts technology, computer information technology, cosmetology, diagnostic medical imaging, early childhood development, emergency medical services professions, engineering technology, general business administration, geographical information systems, health information technology, human services, HVAC & R technology, interactive media, interior design technology, interpreter training technology, management, marketing, nursing, occupational therapy assistant, paralegal studies, physical therapist assistant, professional office technology, respiratory care, veterinary technology and welding technology.

Sam Houston State University, celebrating 137 years in higher education, currently serves more than 18,000 students in seven colleges. With its main campus in Huntsville, SHSU offers easy access to the vibrant economy of the greater Houston area. While embracing its legacy of exceptional teaching, SHSU meets the needs of contemporary students through traditional and online undergraduate and graduate degrees, and certificates.

“Panola College transfer students are high valued at Sam Houston State University,” said Dr. David Burris, SHSU Articulation Coordinator. “We encourage transfer students to complete the associate degree. If they come to SHSU prior to graduation, we will do everything possible to help them complete the associate degree via reverse transfer.” In reverse transfer, the credit hours taken would count toward the associate degree, allowing the students to have completion of both associate and bachelor’s degrees on their transcripts.

The agreement with SHSU also includes an opportunity to participate in a “Time Compressed Degree Plan.” Through this program, students who maximize dual credit hours at Panola can complete the high school diploma, associate degree, and baccalaureate degree in six years or less in most fields. This can save families as much as 40 percent off a traditional university degree. Generally, traditional students require four years to obtain a high school diploma, and a minimum of four additional years for college and university to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Online articulation maximizes the amount of course work that will apply to the bachelor’s degree program. Articulation information is accessible by students, parents, and counselors at http://www.shsu.edu/admissions/transfer/joint-admissions/panola/ .

“We are so pleased to be able to work with Sam Houston State University,” said Dr. Powell. “The university’s proximity to the greater Houston area offers students the opportunity to apply for internships and co-op educational options with many corporate and industrial facilities in the region.”

Graduating in December from Panola College’s Shelby College Center Licensed Vocational Nursing program are, from left, Holly Baker, Gary; Haleigh Solice, Timpson; Crystal White, Center; Crystal Mosby, San Augustine; Lakethia Christopher, Nacogdoches; Devon Washington, Belcher, La.; Jacy Youngblood Willis, Carthage; Candace Johnson, Joaquin; Kaitlyn Whiddon, Beckville; Kayla Hoyt, San Augustine; and Crystal Brown, Nacogdoches. (Photo by Sharon Peace)

November 27, 2017 - Eleven Licensed Vocational Nursing students from the Shelby College Center will receive their degrees during Panola College Commencement on December 14.

“Our program is really growing,” said Sharon Peace, RN, BSN. “We expect the number of graduates to triple by this time next year.”

Peace said the demand for nurses is growing, and the word of mouth positive reviews from current and former students has had much to do with the increase in enrollment.

“Both current and former students have been so pleased with their experience here that they have passed the word along about what a great program we have,” she said.

The Shelby College Center nursing program held a career showcase during the summer to introduce people to the career opportunities available at the Panola College SCC campus.

“We had more than 300 people to visit our campus on that day for the meet and greet, barbecue picnic and entertainment. We plan to keep this momentum going,” she said.

During the September and October application period, the Shelby College Center LVN program received 45 applications, and 36 students have already registered to begin classes in January.

“Nursing is a helping profession, and one that continues to be in great demand now and in the future. The faculty and staff at the Shelby College Center are proud of the work we are doing, and we invite anyone interested in pursuing a career in Licensed Vocational Nursing to stop by for a visit,” Peace said.

Submitted by Donna Yates

November 20, 2017 Bossier City, LA – The Panola College men’s basketball team had a successful weekend going 2-0 in the Bossier Classic help on the campus of Bossier Parish Community College. Friday night Panola took down a talented Houston Cy Fair squad and upended Louisiana Christian Saturday afternoon. The 12th ranked Ponies improve their record to 6-1. “Going 2-0 on a neutral floor is always a great way for us to springboard us into next weekend Thanksgiving Classic at Angelina.” Head Coach Grant McMillan stated.

Game One – Panola 86 – Cy Fair – 73

Panola came out sluggish and found themselves down by as many as 11 points in the first half before trailing by one at halftime, 39-40. Stellar defense in the second half helped propel the Ponies to an eventual 18 point lead before taking the victory.

Five players scored in double-figures and were led by Marlon Taylor with 23 points. Tj Killings, Jeremy Roscoe, Alex Holcombe, and Tylan Dean all recorded 12 points. Holcombe swatted five shots in the victory and chased down a team high eight rebounds. As a team, Panola had a season low nine turnovers.

Game two – Panola 76 – Louisiana Christian – 53

In a similar theme as game one, Panola found themselves down by as much as eight points in the first half and down at halftime, 27-30. Up tempo defense led to a 49 point second half and the 23 point victory.

Again, five players scored in double figures and were led by Taylor’s 14 points. Jeffery Boyd and Dean recorded 13 points while Holcombe recorded 10. Shandon Goldman recorded a double-double in the victory with 12 points and 11 rebounds. As a team, the Ponies shot 78 percent from the free throw line.

Panola will host DFW Prep Sports this upcoming Monday, November 20th. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM on in AJ Gym on the campus of Panola College.

Submitted by Adam Blaylock

November 20, 2017 Carthage - Due to a scheduling conflict the Panola College men's basketball game against DFW Prep Sports has been moved to February 13th. Tip-off is set for 7:30 PM at AJ Gym on the campus of Panola College.

Panola College students and faculty visited the R.L. Norton Art Gallery in Shreveport, La., on Wednesday, Nov. 15.

November 17, 2017 - A grant from the Panola College Foundation allowed 20 Panola College students and their professors to visit the R.L. Norton Art Gallery in Shreveport, La., on Wednesday, Nov. 15. Students enrolled in art, photography, Spanish and humanities classes toured the museum and gardens with professors Dr. Kathy Watlington, Amanda Clements, and Teresa Beasley.

Participating were Tarsheanna Bauer, Gabrielle Berry, Madison Buck, Destiny Buffin, Melonie Caserta, Sheli Caserta, Evelyn Coleman, Brandon Castillo, Daria Eremeeva, Ekaterina Karchevskaya, Jazmine Graves, Tyesha High, Kayleigh Isbell, Nate Morris, Paola Rangel, Tyler Ryan, Mia Sartor, Sydnee Taylor, Vanessa Tirado and Kierra Ware.

The Norton Museum, a gift to the city of Shreveport from the R.L. Norton family, showcases paintings, drawings, and sculpture from American and European artists, along with antique firearms, silver, posters from the war years, and porcelain dolls representing historic figures from Louisiana and the South.

The expansive gardens behind the museum offer an array of native plants and trees, and includes outdoor sculptures, bridges and waterfalls. Thousands of azaleas bloom in the spring, and during the autumn season, camellias and fall foliage add color to the garden. The gardens serve more than an ornamental purpose. The Norton Museum has an ongoing project to improve honeybee habitat and food sources. The gardens are also home to a flock of ducks and chickens, and goldfish swim in the decorative ponds.

“We have been fortunate to secure a grant from the Panola College Foundation for several years,” said Teresa Beasley, photography and humanities professor. “While we have traveled to Houston and Fort Worth in the past, we have especially appreciated the opportunity to visit the R.L. Norton Museum. It’s a fine museum close to home. The exhibits and grounds are spectacular.”

A survey of participants revealed that all students appreciated the opportunity to tour the museum. One response read, “Students may never be exposed to these kinds of things without trips like these. I believe it really broadens your knowledge of art just to walk around.”

ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn and PC President Gregory Powell sign an articulation agreement to enhance the existing partnership between the two institutions. During the ceremony, Dr. Blackburn presented Dr. Powell with a crystal plaque for Panola’s commitment to transform the lives of students through higher education.

November 17, 2017 - Panola College signed an articulation agreement with East Texas Baptist University on Tuesday, November 14, in the Frances B. Ross Ballroom of the Charles C. Matthews Foundation Student Center on the campus of Panola College.

East Texas Baptist University’s partnership with Panola College (PC) marks ETBU’s sixth and Panola College’s third articulation agreement with institutions and organizations in the region. ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn and PC President Gregory Powell signed the agreement that offers students at PC and ETBU access to enhanced educational opportunities.

“ETBU is honored to partner with Panola College in the education of students in East Texas. Our region has a bachelor’s degree completion rate of less than 35 percent and we want to provide greater opportunities for East Texans and Panola College students and graduates to receive an affordable Christ-centered education at ETBU,” Dr. Blackburn said. “PC President Greg Powell is a visionary educational leader for Panola County and East Texas. I am excited to work closely with Dr. Powell in exploring other strategies to widen the doors of access and affordability to higher education for our students.”

Located in Carthage, Texas, Panola College is an award-winning community college. PC was established in 1947, operating with just two temporary buildings. Now, the institution stands with 19 permanent buildings and serves over 2,600 students in the counties of Marion, Panola, Shelby, and Harrison. In its 70-year history, Panola College has grown to meet the needs of the community by providing a wide range of education and training opportunities to students of any age. PC President Gregory Powell’s vision for expansion led to the partnership between PC and ETBU.

"Panola College is delighted to sign this articulation agreement with East Texas Baptist University,” Dr. Powell commented. “This provides our students with a seamless transfer pathway as they continue their education towards bachelors' degrees.”

The agreement will ensure that eligible graduates of PC will be able to seamlessly transfer approved courses, receive priority for admission, and be granted precedence for scholarships at ETBU. The University will also offer $11,000 each year in academic support to Phi Theta Kappa students.

“As a local partner, Panola College has a great impact on the education of students in Harrison and Panola County,” ETBU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Thomas Sanders said. “In this agreement, we are providing a seamless transition for students to finish an undergraduate degree. Partnerships like this are key to us improving the workforce and economies of our region.”

November 15, 2017 - The Panola College Rodeo Team was on the road to the final Southern Region Rodeo of the fall semester November 10th-11th, hosted by SAMSU, in Conroe, TX. The team had some great results before heading to a well-deserved break.

Bareback Rider’s, Tyler Johnson and Travis Chapman, started the weekend right with a 1st and 3rd place finish. Tyler won the long round with a 78 point ride, while Travis scored 67 points good enough for 7th place finish. The top 10 are taken back to a short go where the average on two head becomes the champions. The short go proved to be very exciting. Travis scored the highest score of the weekend with an 80 point ride, while Tyler scored 77 points for 2nd place finish in the short round. The two scores where added together and the final tally was: Tyler Johnson 1st place finish, Travis Chapman 3rd place finish. The win’s these two were able to put together this semester has both cowboys in the top three positions in the Southern Region, Travis is number 2 with 518.50 points, while Tyler is 3rd with 422.33 points. The top three at the end of the season move on to the CNFR in June.

Michael Womack, a freshman from Bastrop, La., did his part for the team in the Saddle bronco riding. Michael scored a 63 point ride in the long go for a 3rd place finish. Only four cowboys had qualified rides in the long, making the short round tough with a great field of bucking stock to draw from. Michael failed to win anything in the short round, but held his position in the average of 3rd place. Womack moves to number 8 in the region, while fellow team mate Logan Cook holds on tight to the number 2 position.

C.K. Wright, sophomore from Lufkin, did a great job for the Fillies’ side of the team in the Barrel Racing. Wright had a great run in the long go with a time of 17.57 for the 4th place finish. C.K. then came back to the short round with a time of 17.58 for the 6th place finish. The average times she was able to combine landed the young cowgirl in 5th in the average for her and her team. C.K. and team mate Campbell Grover both are in the top 20 in the region with lots of rodeo time left before the season ends.

Team Ropers Logan Cook, and Colton Johnson, did an amazing job roping their first steer in 6.3 seconds and a 4th place finish in the long go. The short go proved to be very difficult for every team as only two teams were able to make smooth runs without penalties. The cowboys had a 5 second penalty in the short go, but still had a fast time of 11.40 seconds. The times on two head were added together and the team came out with a 3rd place finish. (In the team roping a team is penalized 5 seconds if only on back leg is roped)

The Panola College Rodeo men’s team is still on top of the Southern Region standings with a total of 2753.83 points, while close 2nd is Hill College has 2633.33 points. The top two teams in each region will move on to the CNFR. The spring season will kick back off in Athens, February 9-10. Coach Jeffrey Collins said “It has been a great Fall and I am very excited for this team, we have big goals and plans, right now our plan is to enjoy the break and keep pressing on towards a regional championship as well as a national title.”

Submitted by Jeff Collins

November 13, 2017 - The Panola College men’s basketball team defeated On Point Academy here Saturday night, 99-72. With the victory, Panola increases their record to 3-1. “I really liked our focus tonight.” Head Coach Grant McMillan stated. “We didn’t have much slippage, our routine was sharp, and we played with a purpose.” He added.

Despite On Point knocking down 9 three-pointers in the first half, Panola took a 52-39 halftime lead. Juwan Williams came out on fire in the second half scoring all of his 14 points in the first eight minutes of the second frame to give the Pones a 31 point lead with just 11:39 remaining in the game.

Six players scored in double-digits and were led by Marlon Taylors 15 points. Williams, TJ Killings, Jeremy Roscoe, Alex Holcombe and Jeffrey Boyd round out the double digit scores. Shandon Goldman recorded 10 rebounds in the win. Panola shot 62 percent from the field for the game.
Panola continues non-conference play this upcoming Tuesday, November 14th when they host Louisiana Christian Prep. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM in AJ Gym on the campus of Panola College.

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