Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą

Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą HSE grads challenged to be life-learners & achievers

ELLISVILLE – More than 160 High School Equivalency (HSE) diplomas were distributed to graduates who completed their HSE at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą with about 100 graduates participating in the Commencement Ceremony to celebrate their accomplishments. Brother and sister duo, Ta’Mya and Dimeco Mercer from Waynesboro were especially excited to receive their diplomas together. Dimeco’s future looks a little brighter thanks to Wayne County Center’s Out-of-School-Youth Career Coach, Reed Walters and his younger sister, Ta’Mya’s encouragement.

Dimeco and Ta’Mya Mercer

“Basically, I was a high school drop-out at 14. I got kicked out of school, got sent up the road. I was in trouble,” said the now 20-year-old, Dimeco. “But I couldn’t let my little sister beat me. Even though I did all that, I got to graduate with my sister. She kept pushing me and Mr. Reed is a great counselor, mentor and teacher. He stuck in there with me and made sure we got things done.”

His sister, 17-year-old Ta’Mya, is set on being a nurse but didn’t like going to public school. Graduating with her brother has been a special memory for both.

“This means a lot to both of us, to graduate with her because she influenced and inspired me. Now, I want to be a mechanic or a plumber,” said Dimeco. Ta’Mya added, “I’m very excited about graduating with him. I’m proud and I’ll probably cry.”

Phylis Evans receiving her HSE diploma from Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą President, Dr. Jesse Smith

Also earning her diploma after waiting for more than 20 years, is 35-year-old Phyllis Evans of Laurel. She decided now was the time partly because her 16-year-old and 10-year-old urged Evans to get her HSE and live out her dream of becoming a teacher.

“I never thought this day would come!” explained Evans. “It’s definitely an accomplishment and I’m proud of myself. It took me a long time to get the courage to go back to school. However, I discovered it’s never too late to get your education.”

Not only did Evans get her diploma, but she also earned a scholarship as the highest scoring student from Jones County. Overall, this class of graduates has been awarded nearly $65,000 in scholarships according to Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ąâ€™s Director of Adult Education, Dr. Tiffany Culpepper. Receiving the Greene County Scholarship and the $500 Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą Foundation Scholarship was Jesse Moran from Leakesville for having the overall highest score.

“This really means a lot to me. I don’t really think I deserve something like this, but I realize it’s all part of God’s plan for me,” said Moran. “I owe a lot to my friends and family. I’d say the people around me got me to where I am right now and I believe God put these people in my life to help take care of me.”

Jesse Moran, Greene County Scholarship and JC Foundation Scholarship recipient with VP of Advancement, Sabrina Young.

Clarke County’s Scholarship recipient was Sarah Beth Smith with Alayjah Yockey of Bay Springs earning the Jasper County Scholarship. Andrew Nelson of Beaumont received the Perry County Scholarship and Kristen Bates of Waynesboro earned the Wayne County Scholarship. In addition to the County Scholarships, 20 additional ACT Scholarships were awarded to qualifying students.

Receiving the Academic Achievement Scholarship for their ACT scores were Sarah Beth Smith of Quitman, Rae Grantham of Sumrall and Bayli Stokes of Laurel. Earning the Rising Excellence Scholarships were Chelsa Shaw of Moselle, Andrew Nelson of Beaumont, Tristan Dykes of Richton, Kristen Bates of Waynesboro, Jesse Moran of Leakesville, Jadin Hilbun of Laurel, Joshua Grantham of Sumrall, Sean Gingrich of Collins, Rohan Ghimire of Laurel, Brandi Boreman of Ellisville, Caitlyn Varner of Stringer, Reagen Parker of Laurel, Hanna Hendry of Bay Springs, Miley Crager of Richton, Daytona Beasley of Moselle, Camryn Aylesworth of Prentiss and Paris Rose Alexander of Richton.

Despite the academic accomplishments announced at the HSE Ceremony, Keynote Speaker and Brigadier General, Bart Bartran challenged graduates to not get lazy and be satisfied with their current honors and awards. As someone who graduated at the bottom of his High School class, Bartran explained, joining the Army taught him a lot of things he missed in High School. Thinking he was an underachiever, Bartran learned it was not a matter of intelligence but a matter of how lazy you are as to whether or not you will succeed in life.

Brigadier General Bart Bartran

“You have to strive to discipline yourself. You have to be dedicated and take everything on with will power and the determination to never quit and you’ll achieve those things that you want to achieve,” said Bartran.

He also encouraged graduates to focus on the next milestone in their life because life is not over now that they have a diploma. Challenging them to take on more degrees and training and never be satisfied, Bartran shared that after 36 years in public service through the military and nearly 10 years in law enforcement, he continues to look for opportunities to learn and to serve.

“After I retired, I always wanted to get my commercial driver’s license, so I just completed the course at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ąâ€™s Workforce Center. I challenge you to find those certifications and something you like. Wake up doing something you’re passionate about and it will never be like working a day in your life,” Bartran shared.

In fact, when Bartran retired from the Army National Guard, he found a new job at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą as the Director of the JC CORP which includes a continuation of some of his previous job duties as the Director of the Regional Counterdrug Training Academy (RCTA) through the National Guard based in Meridian. Besides offering advanced training for law enforcement, Bartran is teaching Criminal Justice courses on campus. Bartran’s vast police and military experience includes 36 years of serving as a local policeman and sheriff deputy, being deployed overseas, commanding the 112th Military Police Battalion, serving as the Director of the Counterdrug Program for the Mississippi National Guard, and Commander of the RCTA. He is credited with training more than 36,000 law enforcement professionals throughout the nation during his career. The 1988 West Jones High School graduate also earned countless medals and honors along the way, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with one Silver Oak Leaf Cluster and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Governor’s final rank advancement and Honorary Promotion to Brigadier General when he retired in April 2025. During the HSE Commencement Ceremony, Bartran reminded students he changed his direction in life to be successful. Since they have begun that journey by obtaining their HSE diploma, they too can strive towards excellence like him.

“I had some folks that invested in me many years ago and stayed with me through thick and thin and that’s why I’m here with you today. I did not like high school. I hated it. I was not a good student, but I found something I was passionate about and I changed my thinking,” said Bartran. “You’ve begun to challenge yourself with this course. I challenge you to continue but also find balance with your family and your spiritual readiness; stay focused.”

The HSE classes are free of charge at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą and most test costs can be covered by grant money. Supportive teachers and counselors at each of the Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą Centers where HSE classes are taught can help students determine the best pathway for their success for little to no expense. For more information about the Adult Education programs offered at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą click on the website: /workforce/adult-learning/

Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą High School Equivalency Graduates 2024-2025

  1. Chandler Lee Abernathy, Mize                                     Smith
  2. Ashton Cape Ainsworth, Mount Olive                       Covington
  3. Jaci Ann Ainsworth, Bay Springs                                 Jasper
  4. Aiden Maya Aldridge, Laurel                                      Jones
  5. Nevada Nicole Alexander, Richton                            Perry
  6. Paris Rose Alexander, Richton                                     Perry
  7. Zaylon Lahjuan Arrington, Laurel                              Jones
  8. Aprel Ann Ashcraft, Laurel                                          Jones
  9. Camryn McLaurin Aylesworth, Prentiss                      Jefferson Davis
  10. Joshua Anthony Back, Enterprise                                Clarke
  11. Zachary Barnes, Taylorsville                                       Jones
  12. Kristen Nova Bates, Waynesboro***                       Wayne
  13. Fisher Ray Beal, Richton                                             Greene
  14. Hunter Ray Beal, Richton                                           Greene
  15. Daytona C Beasley, Moselle*                                    Jones
  16. Inna Biriukova, Ellisville                                             Jones
  17. Kaydance Destiny Bishop, Waynesboro                      Wayne
  18. Nehemiah Joel Boone, Waynesboro                            Wayne
  19. Brandi Izabella Boreman, Ellisville*                       Jones
  20. Esilda Markelys Bouttet, Laurel                                  Jones
  21. Madison Nichole Bowman, Ellisville                          Jones
  22. Brendy Elizabeth Bradley, Leakesville                        Greene
  23. Aaleigha McKenzie Brister, Enterprise                       Clarke
  24. Adrianna Lillian Buckbee, Meridian                           Clarke
  25. Jared Bryar Burkett, Bassfield                                     Jefferson Davis
  26. Colton Jase Byrd, Richton                                          Perry
  27. Nathan Lee Byrd, Richton                                           Perry
  28. Maegan Denise Callahan, Heidelberg                          Jones
  29. Maylee Leshae Carney, Laurel                                     Jones
  30. Kaydence Terri Carr, Waynesboro                               Wayne
  31. Dalton Keith Churchwell, Leakesville                       Greene
  32. Kalee Reese Cooley, Waynesboro                               Wayne
  33. Miley Mae Crager, Richton                                          Greene
  34. Ethan C Creppel, Ovett                                                Jones
  35. Ryan Tyler Cromwell, Petal                                         Forrest
  36. Bailey Adam Davis, Ellisville                                      Jones
  37. Madison Grace Davis, Laurel                                      Jones
  38. Olivia Star Davis, Ellisville                                         Jones
  39. Starachel Marie Davis, Buckatunna                             Wayne
  40. Chloe Krysta Leeann Dennis, Enterprise                     Clarke
  41. Zailey Alana Dutton, Laurel                                         Jones
  42. Tristan Noah Dykes, Richton                                      Perry
  43. Lora Jane Edge, Laurel                                                 Jones
  44. Phyllis Evans**                                                           Jones
  45. Constance Lorraine Everett, Ellisville                         Jones
  46. Dalton Blake Files, Laurel                                          Jones
  47. Kollin Ray Finnell, Richton                                         Greene
  48. Lela Grace Foster, Laurel                                             Jones
  49. Adrianna Marie Gable, Hattiesburg                             Forrest
  50. Josey Rain Gagnon, Leakesville                                  Greene
  51. Rohan D Ghimire, Laurel                                            Jones
  52. Sujan Ghimire, Laurel                                                  Jones
  53. Mya Ellen-Marie Gillie, Richton                                 Greene
  54. Sean Anthony Gingrich, Collins*                             Covington
  55. Danielle Michelle Goforth, Magee                              Simpson
  56. Bricen David Goldman, Shubuta                               Clarke
  57. Reagan Katrina Graham, Soso                                    Jones
  58. Terry Graham, Ellisville                                              Jones
  59. Joshua Shelby Grantham, Sumrall*                       Lamar
  60. Rae Carrera Grantham, Sumrall*                           Lamar
  61. Mallory Middleton Green, Lucedale                           George
  62. Aden Douglas Haigler, Richton                                  Perry
  63. Daniel Ryan Hampton, Mt Olive                                 Smith
  64. Devin J Harrell, Forest                                                 Scott
  65. Alyssa Claire Harris, Ellisville                                   Jones
  66. Darrien Kevontae Harris, Waynesboro                        Wayne
  67. Dalton Wayne Harvey, Laurel                                    Jones
  68. Jackson Phillip Hayes, Bay Springs                             Jasper
  69. Teressa Hayes, Mount Olive                                       Covington
  70. Timothy Alexander Hendren, Waynesboro                  Wayne
  71. Hanna Claire Hendry, Bay Springs                              Jasper
  72. Aaliyah La Shay Henry, Beaumont                              Perry
  73. Gregory Brayden Hicks, Leakesville                            Greene
  74. Remington Jayce Hicks, Ovett                                     Jones
  75. Hallie Alexandria Hightower, Enterprise                     Clarke
  76. Jadin Nicole Hilbun, Laurel*                                    Jones
  77. Rhett Howard Hinton, Laurel                                       Jones
  78. Christopher Wayne Holder, Leakesville                      Greene
  79. Landon Richard Holifield, Ellisville                            Jones
  80. Weston William Holland, Ellisville                              Jones
  81. Harley Magdalene Hollinghead, Waynesboro             Wayne
  82. Shanen Parker Hudson, Waynesboro                           Wayne
  83. Jack Louis Husband, Laurel                                         Jones
  84. Andrew Blayne James, Ellisville                                 Jones
  85. Mariana Jarquin Lopez, Laurel                                    Jones
  86. Ashley Nicole Jones, Louin                                         Jasper
  87. Haley Grace Keyes, Laurel                                          Jones
  88. Ny’asia Ann Keyes, Bay Springs                                 Jasper
  89. Jackson Lane King, Stringer                                        Jasper
  90. Kaneesha L Knight, Laurel                                          Jones
  91. Michael Seth Laznovsky, Laurel                                  Jones
  92. Michael David Lemus Rosas, Laurel                           Jones
  93. Ethan Ryley Logan, Laurel                                          Jones
  94. Hannah Nicole Lowery, Seminary                               Covington
  95. Robert Irvin Lowery, Seminary                                   Covington
  96. Elexis Paige Mallett, Laurel                                         Jones
  97. Elona Piper Mallett, Laurel                                          Jones
  98. Jessica Ann Mason, Quitman                                       Clarke
  99. Matthew Grayson McGuire, Moselle                          Jones
  100. Cameron McClure, Collins                                        Covington
  101. Angel Marie McIntyre, Moselle                                 Jones
  102. Memory Elizabeth McKenzie, Waynesboro               Wayne
  103. Noah J. McLain, Richton                                            Perry
  104. Dimeco Mercer, Waynesboro                                     Wayne
  105. Ta’Mya Trichelle Mercer, Waynesboro                      Wayne
  106. Pauline Janelle Millirons, Laurel                                Jones
  107. Duncan Minter, Ellisville                                           Jones
  108. Joanna Moody, Neely                                                 Greene
  109. Jesse Elias Moran, Leakesville****                        Greene
  110. Tristan Andrew Myers, Petal                                      Forrest
  111. Andrew Chad Nelson, Beaumont***                      Perry
  112. Diamond Unique Newell, Laurel                                Jones
  113. James Hunter Nicholson, Laurel                                Jones
  114. Madelyn Jane O’Connell, Laurel                               Jones
  115. Nicholas Marshaun Odutola, Bay Springs                 Jasper
  116. Tristan Lee Palmer, Wiggins                                      Stone
  117. Ian Bryce Pardue, Taylorsville                                   Smith
  118. Annabelle Diane Parker, Laurel                                  Jones
  119. Jasper Lee Parker, Laurel                                           Jones
  120. Kayleigh Breanna Parker, Louin                                 Jasper
  121. Reagan Miles Parker, Laurel                                      Jones
  122. Kameron Hunter Pierce, Leakesville                          Greene
  123. Courtney Danielle Pitts, Stonewall                             Clarke
  124. Kaylandra Paige Powell, Laurel                                 Jones
  125. Marie Priester, Laurel                                                 Jones
  126. Dedrick Deamond Rogers, Hattiesburg                      Lamar
  127. Ramsee Jewels Rounsaville, Leakesville                   Greene
  128. Chad Anthony Ruppel, Waynesboro                           Wayne
  129. La’Quinta B Russell, Laurel                                       Jones
  130. Lindsey Rayanne Sanford, Petal                                 Forrest
  131. Jaylen Scott, Richton                                                  Perry
  132. Makenna Lynn Marie Sharpe, Leakesville                 Greene
  133. Chelsa Renea Shaw, Moselle*                                Jones
  134. Wyatt Tristin-Lee Simonson, Laurel                          Jones  
  135. Caden Lucas Sims, Bay Springs                                 Jasper
  136. Ashley Madelyn Smith, Ellisville                                Jones
  137. Sarah Beth Smith, Quitman***                              Clarke
  138. Kaydee Breann Solis, Ellisville                                  Jones
  139. Edward Eli Stabler, Richton                                       Greene
  140. Ian Stanley, Waynesboro                                            Wayne
  141. Kallie Madison Stewart, Lucedale                              George
  142. Bayli Alysse Stokes, Laurel                                        Jones
  143. Lakeiya Stokes, Waynesboro                                     Wayne
  144. Jadeah Brook Styron, Waynesboro                            Wayne
  145. Katrina Rena Thigpen, Laurel                                    Jones
  146. Joshua Mitchell Thomas, Meridian                            Lauderdale
  147. Qua’daysa Iceyonna Thomas, Laurel                          Jones
  148. James Caleb Tillman, Leakesville                              Greene
  149. Kolbe David Turner, Ellisville                                    Jones
  150. Karlie Bianca Faith Upshaw, Hattiesburg                  Lamar
  151. Matthew Carl Van Orden, Shubuta                             Clarke
  152. Megan Hope Vara, Ellisville                                       Jones
  153. Caitlyn Varner, Stringer*                                        Jasper
  154. Cassandra Grace Vinson, Bay Springs                       Jasper
  155. Christopher Calvin Walters, Ovett                              Jones
  156. Joshua Isaiah Walters, Laurel                                     Jones
  157. Savannah Leigh Walters, Waynesboro                       Wayne
  158. Clara Maurem Warren, Ellisville                                 Jones
  159. Caleb Patrick West, Waynesboro                                Wayne
  160. Rebecca Westbrook, Taylorsville                               Smith
  161. Haidyn Leigh Williams, Waynesboro                        Wayne
  162. Jordan Benjamin Williams, Waynesboro                   Wayne
  163. Lauren Lorraine Wood, Laurel                                   Jones
  164. Alayjah Herta Yockey, Bay Springs**                    Jasper

ACT Scholarship*

County HSE Scholarship**

ACT and County HSE Scholarship***

Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą Foundation Scholarship****

Susan Chakiris Busby’s colorful artwork on display at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą

ELLISVILLE –The colorful and uniquely created artwork of Susan Chakiris Busby will be on display at the Eula Bass Lewis Art Gallery on the Ellisville campus of Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą until September 18, 2025. Her paintings “pop” off the wall with color because of a unique style of painting and materials used to create a dimensional image.

“I have painted in watercolors and acrylic for many years and recently began exploring the medium of cold wax and oil, both on birch panel and yupo paper in a semi realistic and impressionist style.” said Busby. “This medium allows for the layering of colors and texture whether painting in the style of impressionism or abstraction. The cold wax and oil paint method is not defined by subject matter but by experimentation, texture and layers of paint. Cold wax medium is a mixture of natural beeswax, Gamsol and Danmar resin mixed with oil paint to achieve a buttery quality usually applied with a soft silicone bowl scraper or silicon brushes.”

The former Jones County art instructor and adjunct professor at the University of Southern Mississippi is a native of Pennsylvania and lived in Tempe, Arizona for several years before meeting her husband and moving to rural Mississippi. While in Arizona, the former photographer taught dark room photography at Phoenix Arts and Crafts Center, freelanced as a photographer for modeling agencies in Phoenix and worked as an assistant to a commercial photographer. She attended art classes at Arizona State University and completed her Bachelors and Master’s degrees in Art in the late 1980’s at the University of Southern Mississippi with degrees in Fine Art and Art Education. 

Susan Chakaris Busby

“My vision for my paintings comes from 45 years of living a rural life in the woods which has entailed growing food, herbs and flowers and raising children and farm animals. I have also spent many years exploring the marshes and waterways of South Mississippi along the beautiful Gulf Coast and sailing to our beautiful barrier islands. My art originates from paying attention to the natural world of light, reflections, shadows, textures and colors that surround us in nature. I translate what I see in the three-dimensional world onto a two-dimensional surface focusing on a more impressionistic style,” said Busby.

Her life’s journey has earned her several awards and accomplishments with the latest being accepted as a member of the Mississippi Art Colony and being awarded the Becky Feder Award for Artistic Achievement. Busby has also been accepted as a member in the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington D.C. and she was accepted as a participant in the Meridian Museum of Art Annual Juried Competition for the past two years. Her work has been in the Lucile Parker Gallery and is currently a part of the Mississippi Art Colony Traveling Show. She is a board member of the Hattiesburg Arts Council and a member of the Lauren Rogers Art Museum, the Ohr O’Keefe Museum and the Mississippi Museum of Art.

For more information about upcoming JC art shows or to arrange a visit to the gallery call, 601-477-8401. The Eula Bass Lewis Art Gallery is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m., and by appointment only on Fridays. The gallery is closed during the holidays. To learn more about the Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą Art Department, /programs/finearts/ or the JC Art Department’s social media: Facebook page, and on Instagram .

Summer Semester Honor Roll at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą Announced

ELLISVILLE – Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą has announced the 2025 Summer Semester honor roll scholars. Full-time students with 15 hours or more and who maintain the following grade-point averages will make the honor roll: President’s List–4.0; Dean’s List–3.99-3.5: Faculty List–3.49-3.0.

President’s Honor Roll

Covington Collins: Jonathan Kennedy Portillo.

Forrest Hattiesburg: Ashley Helena Hobson.

Greene Leakesville: Michael Chase Brewer and Brayden Anthony Miller.

Greene McLain: Mitchell Terrell Brown.

Hinds Jackson: Shantal Shavelle McLaughlin.

Jasper Louin: Quinteshia Zykeria Jones.

Jones Ellisville: Ashley Cheyenne Breazeale, Joshua Lee Crosby and Jonathan Ryan Hayes.

Jones Hattiesburg: Mckenzie Grace Walker.

Jones Laurel: Bryce Ann Burrell, Makayla R McCreary, Kandalyn Molloy and Brittany Danielle Perry.

Jones Moselle: Robin Delk McGinnis.

Jones Ovett: Ramsus Emmanuel Sauls.

Jones Soso: Diontre Te Smith.

Lamar Hattiesburg: Eric Benjamin Dean.

Lamar Purvis: Amy Marie Waters.

Madison Canton: Dannah A Knighton.

Perry Beaumont: Braden C Talley and Jeremiah Omarion Turner.

Scott Morton: Lillie Faith Bradshaw.

Smith Louin: Matthew Tyler McNeil.

Smith Magee: Criston Abbagail Little.

Smith Raleigh: Crystal Lynn McNeil.

Sunflower Indianola: Carien Rena Anderson.

Tallahatchie Charleston: Jayla Symone Bullock.

Wayne Waynesboro: Bethany Danielle Beard and Braden Gage Millican.

Dean’s List Honor Roll

Alcorn Corinth: Spence Maddox Coffman.                        

Covington Seminary: William Garrett Adcox, Autumn Grace Bullock, Triston Nicole Lowery and Isaac Riley McQueen.

Forrest Hattiesburg: Michael Dwight Brown and David M Smith.                       

Greene Leakesville: Ian Mackenzie Stowers.                                                         

Greene Neely: Keaton Trais Byrd and Kemper Grant Williams.                                                    

Greene Richton: Addison Tate McLain.                                          

Greene State Line: Layla Grace McIlwain.                                    

Hancock Kiln: Naomi Renae Nelson.                                                          

Harrison Gulfport: Ashton Casey Przepierski.                                          

Jones Ellisville: Jimmy Lee Brownlee, Charity Davis Busby, Alexandria Sanville Ruth, Shaquille Markee Shelwood and Hope Caroline Smith.                                                

Jones Laurel: Rogel Moran Avendano, Jaylen Malik Evans, Sujan Ghimire, Case Dempse McMullen and Kynlee Elizabeth Smith.                                           

Jones Seminary: Gaden Lakoda Butler.                                                      

Jones Soso: Charles Williams.

Lamar Hattiesburg: Valeria Espinoza and Mario Rashan Henderson.                                      

Lamar Sumrall: Gregory Thomas Bounds Landon James Robertson.                              

Lowndes Columbus: Clarice Lashay Richardson.                                      

Neshoba Philadelphia: Ahmarion Dashaun Ragsdale.                                           

Perry Richton: Ella Grace Smith.                                                   

Smith Louin: Kristopher Doyle Moss.                                                         

Smith Mount Olive: Javan R Hand.                                    

Wayne Waynesboro: Ethan Michael Clark and Luke McRae Hudson.                  

Faculty List Honor Roll

Clarke Shubuta: Zyon McKenzie.

Clay Laurel: Juan Fredrick Nelson.

Covington Collins: Vinkodious Lovetagious Hilton.

Covington Mount Olive: LaKenneth Dywan Fairley.

Covington Seminary: Devan Scott Blancett and Leah Michelle Englett.

DeSoto Olive Branch: Keynasia G Porter.

Forrest Hattiesburg: Ahmya Kianna Bacot, Zack Dalton Horner, Karlmecia Lakyla Jones, Kristopher A Lee, Jamia Monae McCord and Jeakayla Tineria Wright.

Forrest Petal: Sarah Emily Ball, Kaylie S Derrick, Kadien Cierra Guy, Morgan Alisa Newsome, Grayson Cole Sanford, Allyson Paige Strahan, Jennifer Rene Waltere and Xandria Alexis Weatherton.

Greene Lucedale: Brody Osten Bradley.

Greene Richton: Kevin Bryce Walley.

Greene State Line: Brennan Carson Beard and Jerneshia Moneshe Turner.           

Harrison Gulfport: Brooklyn Nichole Holton and Brittney Latrease Zeigler.

Hinds Jackson: Jermiah A Cross.

Jasper Bay Springs: Madalynn Grace Owens.

Jasper Heidelberg: Kamya J Graves and Mark Danielle Terrell.

Jasper Louin: Maylazia S Hardy and Kelli B Thornton.

Jasper Vossburg: Karli Chandler Whisenhant.

Jefferson Davis Prentiss: Kivionna M Johnson.

Jones Ellisville: Lekenya Nyasia Arrington, Tonancy Carranza, Bryson Jay Ford, Heather Marie Howell, Kayla Rae Patterson and Karli Arin Youngberg.

Jones Laurel: Brian Michael Blackledge, Sydney M Burchfield, Jakendis Atarius Jones, Reagen Miles Parker, Addison Marie Ray, Anjelena  Takedra Lashell Sanson, Ashley Dungan Walters, Ethan Paul Walters, Jamie Elizabeth Watkins and John Gabriel Wheeler.

Jones Moselle: Jaquan Marquell Bean and Diego Alonso Rangel Martinez.

Jones Sandersville: Zoe Victoria Clingon.

Jones Soso: David Lane Landrum, Lanie J Shows and David James Tisdale.

Lamar Hattiesburg: Brandon Burkley Averett, Dylan A Johnson and Rashad R Prince.

Lamar Purvis: Meagan Rachel Lumpkin.

Lamar Sumrall: James Brody Courtney.

Pike McComb: Yasmine Aiyana Lee.

Rankin Brandon: Emma K King and Hannah M Martin.

Rankin Florence: Deamberleye E Rankin.

Scott Morton: Ghenessy Lopez Vicente.

Simpson Magee: Keanna Janay Walker.

Smith Mize: John Amory Darden.

Wayne Buckatunna: Phillip Chadwick McLaughlin.

Wayne Shubuta: Quaneshia LaShae Cooley.

Wayne State Line: Devin Jamal Miller.

Wayne Sumrall: Hanna Brazell.

Wayne Waynesboro: Jacob W Colling, Lashaun Tyrion Evans, Chrisquisa Monkhia Matthews and Knija E Russell.

Wilkinson Woodville: Shatyre Mona Hunter.

Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą students return to campus

ELLISVILLE – Returning to the Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą campus in Ellisville this fall has been super exciting for many students. Sophomores, Emily Davis of Laurel, and Caroline Whittington of Sumrall are especially thrilled about the opportunity to have a class together for the first time.

“We’re suitemates, living on campus and we’re really excited about going to Comp 1 this morning,” said Davis who is majoring in Elementary Education. Whittington, a communications major, explained. “This is the first class we have together and we’re super happy about it.”

Caroline Whittington of Sumrall and Emily Davis of Laurel in Comp 1 Class

Also returning to campus was Maloree Walters of Seminary, however this is the first time the sophomore is able to walk to classes instead of driving from her home. Never-the-less, the nineteen-year-old Walters knew arranging the traditional first day of class photo tradition may be more challenging.

“When my mom reminded me to take a selfie for my first day of school picture before I go to class, I asked her, â€Can you come give me a hug and take the picture?’ My mom is my best friend and it means a lot to her, well both of us.”

Maloree and Danielle Walters

After taking a few pictures with Maloree posed in front of Anderson Hall before heading off to class, Mrs. Walters wiped some tears, hugged her daughter and sent her off to begin her sophomore year of college.

“She’s my baby, and only daughter,” explained Danielle Walters, who is a 1997 JC graduate and owns The Haven hair salon in Ellisville. “I have always taken pictures of my kids on their first day of school. My 23-year-old son is taking Electromechanical Technology classes on campus and graduates this year, and I have a 26-year-old son too. They are all near and dear to my heart.”

Not wasting any time to make new friends in a new environment, 20-year-old Jacarrio “Rio” Anderson of Macon became friends with a classmate he just met, JC freshmen, Zay Owen and his girlfriend Kemya Wesley of Waynesboro. As they escorted Wesley to her nursing class, Anderson said he wanted to get more experience in the Commercial Construction Technology program at JC even though he just earned his Associate’s degree at another college close to home.

“My cousin and I own a construction company, Bankhead and Sons, and I do some side work on my own. I want to fine tune my skills here because I’ll learn a little of everything. One day, I hope to build houses on site,” said Anderson.

Zay Owen-Waynesboro, Kemya Wesley-Waynesboro and Jacarrio “Rio” Anderson-Macon

There are a few new courses for anyone still wanting to enroll, like the new, face-to-face course, Drugs and Society which is part of the Criminal Justice program and the Farm and Ranch Management program. Registration continues for traditional classes through Friday, August 22. Online courses begin on Monday, August 25, with registration continuing through August 29. For more information about Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą, click on the website, /.

Kayla Hankins teaching her Psychology class

Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ąâ€™s Typhoon Marching Band features Earth Wind and Fire

ELLISVILLE – The 101-member Typhoon Marching Band at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą has spent the last two weeks of Band Camp preparing their halftime show titled, “Elements of Groove: A Typhoon Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire.” The Typhoon will present its traditional pre-game show consisting of the JC Fight Song Fanfares, the National Anthem and a musical presentation by The Touch of Gold dancers The band ends the show with the fan favorite, JC Jam cheer and Hey Song.

“As Director of Bands, I am excited to continue the legacy of the Typhoon Marching Band as we enter a new school year at Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą,” said Tamiko Bridges who took the reins in May. She has been a music educator for 25 years in the private, elementary, middle, high school and collegiate sectors. Most recently, she has been the Director of Bands/Fine Arts & Electives Department Chair at Laurel School District from 2002-2010, and 2018 until May, 2025. She added, “Our 2025 Field Show celebrates the music of an era that deeply resonates with our alumni and community.”

Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ąâ€™s Typhoon Marching Band is led by (pictured left to right) Touch of Gold Choreographer, Lora Davis, Assistant Director of Bands, Jared Potter, Director of Bands, Tamiko Bridges, Assistant Director of Bands, Kyle Matthees and Colorguard Director, Lindsey Langley.

Some classic tunes the band will be performing include, In the Stone, Let’s Groove Tonight, Boogie Wonderland, After the Love is Gone, and September. Bridges said this heartfelt homage to the past is also inspiring to a new generation.

“Our mission is simple. Be the best band, produce the best sound and inspire the best students to continue the legacy at the best institution, Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą!” Bridges declared.

Joining Bridges is Assistant Director of Bands and brass instructor, Kyle Matthees and Dr. Jared Potter who is also the percussion instructor. As a trumpet player, Matthees’ experience includes symphonic, chamber, and commercial music, with performances at the International Trumpet Guild Conference, the National Trumpet Competition, and with ensembles such as the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Potter, a native of Kosciusko, Mississippi, holds both a Doctor of Musical Arts and a Master of Music in Percussion Performance from the University of Florida. While at UF, he served as the instructor of records for the Percussion Skills course, assisted with the UF Percussion Ensemble and Steel Band, and directed the Florida Drumline. He earned his Bachelor of Music Education from Mississippi State University, where he studied with Jason Baker.

Another new addition to the band staff is Glade Elementary School music teacher and JC adjunct music instructor and Colorguard Director, Lindsey Langley. With 15 years of experience in public education, Langley has taught music to students from pre-kindergarten through high school seniors, inspiring a love for the arts across all age groups. She has served as a band director and colorguard instructor, leading multiple Colorguard and Winterguard teams to state championships.

“I am excited to foster creativity and skill in our students. At Jones I will be bringing my passion for performance, teamwork, and excellence to the collegiate level,” said Langley. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Mississippi, a Master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, and a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from William Carey University.

The Touch of Gold dance team is led by Lora Davis who begins her 36th year as choreographer of the group of talented ladies.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of continuing and building the tradition of the Touch of Gold dance team. This year, I have a small but energetic team, bringing lots of enthusiasm and hard work,” said Davis. “They are also excited to be a part of the Typhoon, sharing in the tradition that several of their mothers and sisters shared as alumni.”

Leading the students on the field are returning Drum Majors, Chaz Welborn of Ellisville and Elisa Cook of Meridian who are both excited to begin the marching band season.

JC Drum Majors, Chaz Welborn, Elisa Cook and Laney Ingram

“I think what the audience will love most about this show is the extravagant sound coming from our players’ horns,” said Cook. “The combination of Mrs. Bridges discipline, quality, and leadership with Dr. Potter’s encouragement and Mr. Matthees organization, and all of their experience makes for an amazing and enjoyable opportunity to share our talents with the public.”

New to the JC team of drum majors is freshman, Laney Ingram of Raleigh who has loads of experience and enthusiasm. The band’s first appearance on the field will be on Thursday, September 11, for the first home football game and Hall of Fame Night. The Bobcat football team will play against the Mississippi Gulf Coast Bulldogs in Bobcat Stadium/Sim Cooley Field at 7 p.m.

For more information about the Maroon Typhoon contact Tamiko Bridges by email at tamiko.bridges@jcjc.edu or the Art, Music and Performance website, /programs/finearts/ For more information about JC athletics and the home football schedule featuring the Maroon Typhoon’s performances click on the JC Athletics website at

Âé¶ąÖ±˛Ą Typhoon Marching Band Roster 2025

Name                  City                             High School                    County           Instrument

James Davis     Enterprise             Enterprise HS      Clarke             Alto Sax

Braxton Magee  Collins          Collins HS     Covington       Alto Sax

Joanna Fernandez-Pavon        Moselle   South Jones HS   Jones  Alto Sax

Stacy Villaseca       Laurel   Northeast Jones          Jones               Alto Sax

Tristan Allen          Louin     Raleigh HS              Smith              Alto Sax

Linsey Ingram    Morton Raleigh HS     Smith              Alto Sax

Edwin James          Bay Springs    Raleigh HS        Smith             Alto Sax

Aaron Mealey      State Line    Wayne County HS      Wayne       Alto Sax

Abigail Graham        Beaumont       Perry Central HS       Perry   Bari Sax

Mykala Goodman      Byram      Terry HS           Hinds       Baritone

Sidney Patterson       Seminary South Jones HS          Jones   Baritone

Halle Craven         Ellisville      South Jones HS           Jones     Baritone

Leia Espey      Enterprise             Enterprise HS           Clarke     Clarinet

Maria Gomez     Collins         Collins HS                Covington       Clarinet

Tanesha Magee     Collins       Collins HS          Covington       Clarinet

Jennifer Portillo   Collins    Collins HS           Covington       Clarinet

Zahmiya Estes      Lucedale      George County HS      George        Clarinet

Anivea Thigpen      Bay Springs      Bay Springs HS    Jasper         Clarinet

Seth Barlow        Ellisville     South Jones HS    Jones   Clarinet

Mary Christian Ellzey    Seminary    South Jones HS          Jones Clarinet

Taylor Kitchens   Seminary South Jones HS         Jones       Clarinet

Kamiyah May          Laurel Northeast Jones HS        Jones Clarinet

Zipporah McCurdy  Heidelberg     Northeast Jones HS   Jones   Clarinet

John David Myers      Ellisville    South Jones HS      Jones Clarinet

Edna Perez Ambrocio     Morton        Morton HS    Scott Clarinet

Lariza Hernandez       Harrisville      Mendenhall HS   Simpson   Clarinet

Elizabeth Thomas   Moselle South Jones HS   Jones  Clarinet/Bass

Johnna Jones   Mt. Olive     Simpson Academy    Covington       Dance

Cambrey Hill   Laurel     West Jones     Jones     Dance 

Allee Green Laurel        West Jones HS          Jones      Dance 

Ellie Claire Napier   Ellisville     Ocean Springs HS          Jones       Dance 

Allie Robinson        Ellisville    South Jones HS      Jones     Dance 

Jena Lowery   Mize      Mize HS         Smith    Dance 

Mallory Matthews     Raleigh           Raleigh HS      Smith       Dance 

Heidi Ainsworth    Waynesboro    Wayne County HS Wayne Dance 

Chaz Welborn    Ellisville    Northeast Jones       Jones   Drum Major

Elisa Cook     Meridian    Clarkdale HS    Lauderdale    Drum Major

Laney Ingram        Morton    Raleigh HS      Smith      Drum Major

Jennifer Pineda     Collins        Collins     Covington       Flute   

Kyndall Gunderson       Petal      Petal HS      Forrest    Flute   

A’Miracle Blackwell Prentiss   Jeff Davis County HS Jeff Davis Flute

Janette Hernandez Laurel    Northeast Jones HS    Jones   Flute   

Angela Martinez    Ellisville     South Jones HS Jones     Flute   

Karen Mendoza Alba      Ellisville    South Jones HS     Jones Flute   

Elizabet Ramirez Pham Laurel   Northeast Jones HS Jones Flute   

Adria Stephenson    Soso West Jones HS Jones   Flute   

Maggie Bennett     Sumral   Sumrall HS     Lamar    Flute   

Emily Ponce      Morton       Morton HS      Scott    Flute   

Hannah Smith        Newton, Texas                       Flute   

Lillian Johnson   Petal       Petal HS    Forrest   Guard

Jazmyne Bryant     Laurel Northeast Jones HS  Jones   Guard 

Martha Hernandez   Ellisville      Northeast Jones HS Jones    Guard

Lucy Channell       Pearl    Pearl HS  Rankin        Guard 

Leah Devenport   Florence Florence HS    Rankin     Guard 

Madison Knighten     Florence       Florence HS        Rankin Guard

Lynathia Spann      Florence     Florence HS       Rankin       Guard 

Sadee Wallace      Harrisville    Mendenhall HS   Simpson     Guard

Jarlyn Jordan     Waynesboro   Wayne County HS Wayne       Guard

La’Keiya Stokes   Waynesboro      HSE    Wayne     Guard

Danielle Williams Waynesboro    Wayne County HS   Wayne Guard

Gracie Speed     Collins     Collins HS   Covington Manager

Marquise Winters   Hattiesburg     Hattiesburg HS   Forrest Manager

Rhe’Onna Bridges    Ellisville      Homeschool     Jones   Manager

Alex Mixon    Moselle   South Jones HS Jones Manager

Kira Alexander    Monticello   Lawrence County HS Lawrence Manager

Gracelyn Knight    Monticello    Lawrence County HS Lawrence Manager

Ghenessy Lopez Morton Morton HS        Scott  Manager

Meghan Torrano Morton      Morton HS      Scott  Manager

Laura Jane Moss  Grenada    Grenada HS       Grenada   Mellophone

Dawson Ellard   Ellisville    Northeast Jones HS   Jones   Mellophone

Cayden Pope     Columbia      Columbia HS    Marion   Mellophone

Aidan Chisolm   Mize     Mize HS Smith     Mellophone

Zachary Hand    Petal Mize HS Smith     Mellophone

Dani Patricia Mitchell Seminary   Seminary HS Covington  Mellophone

Conner  Perkin s Petal   Petal HS Forrest    Percus/Bass Guitar

Hayden Michael   Enterprise Enterprise HS    Clarke   Percussion

Rhyder Mckee   Collins   Collins HS Covington     Percussion

De’Angelo McLaurin   Collins    Collins HS    Covington    Percussion

Samuel Hall     Petal   Petal HS Forrest     Percussion

Dallas Peacock  Laurel    Stringer HS Jasper Percussion

Granville Arrington Sandersville  Northeast Jones HS     Jones     Percussion

Tristan Patterson    Ovett  South Jones HS     Jones Percussion

Kayden Dozier Laurel Northeast Jones HS    Jones   Percussion

Demarion McCullum   Ellisville South Jones HS Jones Percussion

Nancy Tucker Laurel   Northeast Jones HS   Jones   Percussion

Mariah Smith  Richton  Richton HS  Perry Percussion

Logan Cockrell    Harrisville  Mendenhall HS Simpson Percussion

Victor Payton Waynesboro    Wayne County HS Wayne Perc/Drum Set

David Parish    Ellisville   South Jones HS    Jones Tenor Sax

Ethan Patterson    Moselle  South Jones HS  Jones  Trombone

Sydnee Tisdale Ellisville South Jones  Jones Trombone

Christian Dobbs  Laurel   West Jones HS    Jones Trombone

Mark Dukes Trussville, AL Hewitt Trussville HS    Trombone

Jesse Smith Quitman     Enterprise HS  Clarke   Trumpet

Anarria Mangrum    Mt. Olive Collins HS    Covington Trumpet

Sara Thompson   Petal   Petal HS Forrest Trumpet

Landen Upton Hattiesburg   Petal HS    Forrest    Trumpet

Calli Parker Raleigh     Raleigh HS Smith   Trumpet

Patrick Soetaert State Line   Wayne County HS    Wayne  Trumpet

James Blackmon   Quitman    Quitman HS    Clarke Tuba   

Jaylon Williams Prentiss   Jeff Davis County HS     Jeff Davis  Tuba   

Jacey Posey Ellisville    South Jones HS     Jones  Tuba