Category: Press Release

ELLISVILLE – Ellisville native, Hannah V. Warren has accomplished a lot of her academic and personal goals since she graduated from Jones College in 2014, including publishing her first poetry book, “Slaughterhouse for Old Wives’ Tales.” Published by Sundress Publications in January 2024, the full-length poetry book includes memories of Jones County. She explains how her home “bleeds” through the pages.

“As a woman who grew up in Mississippi, I have a complicated relationship with the Deep South, and these poems embody my struggle with gendered expectations of women,” Warren shared. “I never quite felt like I followed the path other people wanted for me, and I held a gentle resentment for this estrangement.”

The Fulbright scholar earned her Ph.D. in literature from the University of Georgia in May 2024, and her Masters in Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Kansas in 2018. A year later, Dr. Warren won the Sundress Publications Chapbook Contest with her poetry chapbook, “[re]construction of the necromancer,” and she authored Southern Gothic Corpse Machine (Carrion Bloom) in 2022. Over the last two years, research for her new book has led her to the famous Black Forest of Germany and throughout Europe.

“I’m grateful to have spent my last two years in and out of Europe pursuing my degree and writing projects. My research took me to graveyards, museums, libraries, and forests in Germany, France, Italy, England, Scotland, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Denmark. It’s been a whirlwind, and it feels nice to settle back in the American South for a moment. Humid breath in, humid breath out,” said Warren.

While in Kansas earning her MFA degree, she taught college creative writing and wrote a lot about the Midwestern prairie, other people’s histories, and mountains. “It wasn’t until I moved back South to Georgia that I started composing my own story, my own Southern Gothic. Slaughterhouse is a testament to this shift.” However, she admits, “Regardless of where I go, or how long I spend away, the pine trees feel like home. I’ve accepted that I can live in a liminal space between belonging and non-belonging, ownership and distance.”

After graduating from South Jones High School, the young lady with big dreams and goals worked in the Belk department store while she earned her Associate Degree in English at JCJC. She managed to juggle her roles and responsibilities with ease as a 4.0 student and as the Director of Project Submission for the International Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa. Warren’s work earned her the HEADWAE honor, representing JCJC students at the legislative luncheon honoring education, educators and the top college students.

Then, her PTK peers awarded her the Order of the Golden Key at the Regional Conference for her exceptional work as Director of Project Submission and as a student. Additionally, her fellow PTK officers were recognized as a Top 30 Distinguished Chapter Officer Team and Most Distinguished Officer Team and Rho Sigma Chapter was awarded the Top 10 College Project Award. Fondly, she recalls her many conversations with PTK Advisors, Julie Atwood and Gwen Magee and credits them for being a pivotal part of her personal, educational, and professional growth.

“Jones was the first place where I felt I could take ownership of my own intellectual goals. Before, I felt like I’d been following someone else. My PTK advisors, Gwen Magee and Julie Atwood pushed me to find new opportunities for the future. My favorite memories at Jones include sitting in their offices between classes and chatting about the next PTK goal. I felt heard and seen, which meant the world to me,” shared Hannah.

Last summer, when students from Jones College’s Charles Pickering Honors Institute were visiting Strasbourg, France, Warren lived in the German Black Forest, only a brief train ride away. She had the opportunity to meet the group for dinner and enjoyed recounting warm memories from her time as a JC student.

While working on her Ph.D., she explained her writing was heavily theoretical, and this theory informs her poetry. She now reports it feels delightful to stretch outside the confines of an academic end goal post-graduation.

“I’m finishing final edits on a new poetry book that compares my experiences with the Southern Gothic to my experiences with the German Gothic while I lived in Germany. If you could take an abandoned white church in Mississippi and combine it with the Cathedral in Freiburg im Breisgau, the poetry looks something like that hybridity. Decay, monstrous figures, a few hauntings,” said Warren.

Other projects in the works include writing about what it means to be a woman who backpacks alone in the backcountry for days or weeks at a time. “For me, the most exciting part of writing a book is feeling it turn into an object, rather than just an idea when it becomes a living document outside of yourself,” she said.

Currently, the poet, storyteller and speculative literature scholar is teaching public writing workshops for adults through different writing organizations across the country and she’s gearing up for a long book tour. She’ll be at the Mississippi Book Festival in September, reading from her book.  

Personally, Dr. Warren has been married to her high school sweetheart, Zack Warren since 2015. He was the Valedictorian, and she was the Salutatorian at South Jones. Both are thriving in their careers with Zack working at Holland & Knight, an Am Law 30 firm as the Information Governance Manager.

“We thrive in polar opposite worlds. I love that our days never look similar. When we have difficult tasks or problems at work, the other person brings an entirely fresh, outsider perspective,” she shared.

Both Warrens have enjoyed attending the same paths for their higher education with one lady who has cheered them on from her professional role at Jones College and from afar, when Hannah and Zack both attended Mississippi State University and beyond.

“I often tell Zack I won the mother-in-law lottery. Bonnie (who has worked at JC for 45 years) has been incredibly supportive of us both as we pursue our goals, wherever those may take us. I think she was the most delighted of everyone when I got the Fulbright, not least because she spoke dreamily of a multi-country European vacation. Wish granted-she herded us like sheep in Venice when Zack and I had too much limoncello and nearly drowned in the canals,” Hannah recounted laughing.

More information about Dr. Warren’s literary works can be found on her website, https://hannahvwarren.com/

ELLISVILLE – A partnership with Jones County High Schools and Jones College’s Workforce Welding program allowed three Jones County High School students to earn a Workforce Welding Certificate as part of a pilot program. For the first time this spring, high school seniors who completed their academic courses were allowed to learn welding through Jones College’s Workforce Welding’s four-month training program because of new guidelines through Accelerate MS. Josh Crosby from South Jones High School, and Northeast Jones High School students, Jena McCardle and Nick McLain took part in this new training opportunity which prepares students for entry-level welding jobs. The high school seniors learned stick, metal inert gas (MIG), and structural welding skills and now have OSHA 10, Forklift and CPR certifications along with their Workforce Welding Certification.

“I have enjoyed learning stick welding. This style of welding can be used in the pipeline industry or even outside on farming equipment,” said Crosby. He added, “This program is a great tool for someone to have under their belt because there are many opportunities available after completion.”

McCardle shared, “Learning wire welding and overhead welding techniques were fun to do. It is a skill that can be useful at work or in personal projects.”

The students in Workforce Welding use their skills to assist with various projects on the college campus. McCardle said there was one project she was especially proud to participate in.

“Building the cattle gates for the new, Jones College Livestock Show Barn was a project I won’t forget. It was really neat to see how something we made can impact an entire program,” said McCardle.

McLain said he appreciated learning skills that he’ll use on the jobsite. “I have enjoyed learning stick welding. This style of welding is used a lot in manufacturing and companies like Ingalls. It took three weeks of studying to learn the basics of stick welding and since I’m able to practice daily, I’m improving my skills.”

After completing the Workforce Welding program at Jones College, McCardle and McLain said they plan to accept job offers extended by Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula. Additionally, McLain said he also plans to purchase a personal welding truck to offer independent welding services locally.

Crosby plans to continue building upon his skills by taking the welding course at Jones College this fall.

“I will be able to take the skills I have gained through the Workforce Welding program and apply for course credit at the School of Welding at JC. After I complete that program, I am considering enrolling in nursing school with the overall goal of becoming an ICU nurse,” explained Crosby, who used his welding skills to participate in FFA competitions on South Jones High School’s team. His group placed first in the District and Federation competitions, and recently competed for the State championship.

Workforce Welding instructor, Tracy Warden said his welding course is an excellent opportunity for individuals who want to learn a trade for employment purposes or for personal growth. Oftentimes, professionals in other fields learn how to weld for art and practical purposes for their home and farm. The Workforce Welding program is offered year-round with courses at day and night.

Next fall, Jones College’s Workforce College and the Jones County Career Coaches plan to implement more certificate programs for high school seniors in electrical technology, fiber/broadband, commercial truck driving and advanced manufacturing programs offered through Jones College at the Advanced Technology Center in Ellisville. To learn more, call 601-477-5408 or email, workforce@jcjc.edu.

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Jones County Junior College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Jones County Junior College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 3033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Statement of Non-Discrimination and ADA Statement: Jones County Junior College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability in its programs, activities, or employment practices. The (ADA/ Section 504) ADA Coordinator, Student Affairs, phone 601-477-2673, and (Title IX) Title IX Coordinator, Hutcheson Hubbard Administration Building, phone 601-477-4127, have been designated to handle inquiries and grievances regarding the non-discrimination policies. Jones County Junior College, 900 South Court Street, Ellisville, MS 39437.

ELLISVILLE – Fourteen Jones College faculty and staff members were recently honored for their workplace accomplishments over the previous academic year. The Employee Appreciation Awards began in 2004 with funds contributed by retired JCJC President, Dr. Ronald Whitehead, and the college’s Foundation, Inc.  Finalists were selected and interviewed by the Faculty and Staff Recognition Program’s Selection Committee. Prior to the employee recognition program, a luncheon was provided by the college and the JCJC Foundation Inc.

“As we gather to honor our esteemed faculty and staff at Jones College, we celebrate both individual achievements and the collective dedication that propels our institution forward,” said Executive Vice President, Sabrina Young. “Every person on this campus plays a vital role in the success and functionality of Jones College. This event is a token of our immense appreciation for the unwavering commitment and exceptional efforts put forth daily by our colleagues. Together, we build the foundation of excellence that defines Jones College. On this day, we celebrate these achievements together.”

The Leadership Award for Administrative Excellence was established seven years ago to honor a mid-level administrator whose commitment to the profession stands out amongst their peers. Comptroller, CPA and Assistant V.P. of Business Affairs, Lynn Grillo was selected as the recipient of the 2024 Leadership Award for Administrative Excellence. Jones College President, Dr. Jesse Smith praised Grillo’s accounting abilities over the three years she has served at Jones College and her co-workers appreciate her accessibility and creating a great work environment.

“She is timely and very responsive to all forms of communication,” shared Asset Manager, Kay Walker. “She cares deeply about making sure we take care of ourselves and our families first and has created a very balanced office environment conducive to having non-work-related conversation and fun, while also making sure we are all on task and complete the needed work load for the day. She is an amazing boss, and I am glad she is being recognized for it.”  

Speech instructor, Dr. Joanna Cooley was selected to receive the Barbara and Gary Sauls Award for Excellence in Teaching Humanities. The Humanities Division faculty member has been teaching at Jones since 2003. The scholarship and awards committee acknowledged how Cooley exemplifies intellectual integrity in the classroom, and has encouraged analytical thinking skills, she loves humanitarian pursuits and fosters a positive rapport with her students. This award was initiated by JCJC alumni, Mr. & Mrs. Gary W. “Buddy” and Barbara Sauls. Their daughter, Tracy was a 1990 JCJC graduate. Mr. Sauls was a former JCJC Board of Trustees member and Barbara Sauls is currently on the JCJC Foundation’s Advisory Board. Cooley was awarded a $500 cash prize and an acrylic plaque.

In the individual employee appreciation honors, 11 individuals from three categories of employees, faculty members, office staff and administrative support, and employees working in, maintenance, housekeeping, campus grounds and campus police were each awarded certificates of achievement. Faculty finalists each received a cash prize of $250 and the overall winner received an additional $750 and an acrylic plaque. Each staff employee finalist was awarded a cash prize of $125, and the overall winner received an extra $500 and an acrylic plaque.

Finalists for the faculty awards included biology instructor, Dr. Melinda Miller-Butler, commercial and residential maintenance instructor, Josh Ishee, welding instructor, Ethan Wimberly and emergency technology-paramedic program director and Healthcare Simulation Center Director, Dr. Benji Sessums. Selected as the Teacher of the Year was Dr. Sessums for his dedication to Jones and going above and beyond in his various roles.

“His efforts in organizing the Healthcare Simulation Center during the Covid-19 pandemic were instrumental in ensuring the continuity and excellence of our healthcare programs. Notably, his leadership in orchestrating the relocation of the SIM center to facilitate ongoing hands-on learning until the completion of the new facility underscores his dedication to maintaining high standards despite adversity,” said Dean of Health Care Services, Teresa McDonald. “Moreover, Benji’s instrumental role in securing grants for healthcare SIM equipment showcases his proactive approach to enhancing educational resources and opportunities for students. His passion for the EMS/Paramedic program is evident in his tireless advocacy and leadership within the college and statewide in Mississippi.”

Ironically, Dr. Sessums had to miss the Employee Recognition Luncheon because of his pastoral duties. A member of his congregation passed away and he was assisting the family with a funeral. He acknowledged the honor in a statement.

“”I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to receive the Faculty of the Year award at Jones College. This recognition reflects the vibrant spirit and commitment of our entire academic community, not just me alone. I am privileged to work alongside dedicated colleagues and to engage with our inspiring students, who continuously push the boundaries of excellence. Together, we create a learning environment that not only educates but also empowers, and I am truly thankful for this opportunity to make a difference,” said Dr. Sessums.

Nominated for the Office Staff and Administrative Support Employee of the Year award included Ty Walters from Information Technology, Laurel Musgrove from the Business Office, LaTrece Evans from External Marketing and Rachel Jefcoat from Enrollment Management. Evans was selected as the Employee of the Year for the Office Staff and Administrative Support division.

Her nominator explained, “LaTrece is a bundle of energy and very helpful and caring to all the students. She attends many campus and sporting events to support Jones and the students. The students come to her for help in various ways from information to studying. LaTrece is always smiling and a positive start to each morning.”

In the maintenance, housekeeping, campus grounds and campus police departments division, Environmental Safety/Housekeeper, Theresa Woodward was nominated along with Special Projects employee, Josh Messemore and Landscape Services employee, Chris Archer. Taking the top spot as Employee of the Year was Chris Archer for working tirelessly along with other people to make the athletic fields, as well as our campus beautiful. His nominator said, “Chris takes pride in the job he does and goes above and beyond to help us create a great athletic environment for our student athletes.”       

As an honorary employee of the college, Sodexo cafeteria employee, Nicole Varnado was honored for her work. She received a $500 cash award for her efforts on behalf of the college.

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Jones County Junior College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Jones County Junior College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 3033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Statement of Non-Discrimination and ADA Statement: Jones County Junior College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability in its programs, activities, or employment practices. The (ADA/ Section 504) ADA Coordinator, Student Affairs, phone 601-477-2673, and (Title IX) Title IX Coordinator, Hutcheson Hubbard Administration Building, phone 601-477-4127, have been designated to handle inquiries and grievances regarding the non-discrimination policies. Jones County Junior College, 900 South Court Street, Ellisville, MS 39437.

ELLISVILLE – Two Jones College students earned individual honors through the International Honor Society for two-year colleges, Phi Theta Kappa. Sophomore psychology major, Aliyah Watts of Sandy Hook was selected to Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s All-Mississippi Academic First Team. Accounting and Finance major from Waynesboro, Pablo Lopez was selected for Second Team honors.

“Pablo and Aliyah are such fitting recipients for these honors,” said PTK Advisor, Eric Shows. “There are many things that set these two genuinely, wonderful students and leaders apart besides their academic performance. Their work ethic, their commitment to service, their ability to unite and connect with others is unwavering and authentic. They are the epitome of what it means to be servant leaders.”

At Jones College, Watts was actively involved as a member of the Charles Pickering Honors Institute, Concert Choir, Chorale, Jones OnStage, Gospel Choir, and she served as the Student Government Association Vice President and the Vice President of Fellowship for Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Watts also performed in the spring musical productions, “STARCROSSED” and “Grease” and was selected for Hall of Fame and is one of only five sophomores to be a Tullos Scholar.

“This feels surreal to me to be nominated for this program because sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough when it comes to my academic career. I work hard, but I am also really busy with classes, performing arts and organizations on campus. Moments like this reassure me that my work is important. It’s so motivating for me to lean on academic accomplishments, especially when I feel overwhelmed and exhausted. I am thankful to the PTK Advisors and team for this opportunity,” said Watts.

 In addition to earning her bachelor’s degree and doctorate degrees from either the University of Southern Mississippi or William Carey University, Watts plans to become a forensic psychologist in hopes of helping youth.

“I want to be a voice for teenagers and young adults who are struggling with mental health issues. I personally struggled in middle school with panic attacks and depression when my parents divorced. Learning to cope on my own, left unresolved trauma as a college student but I’ve since learned how important it is to take care of my mind. Hopefully, I will not only be able to help teenagers and young adults navigate the things they encounter daily, but to also be the person I wish I had telling them it’s okay to not be okay,” explained Watts.

Her volunteer work involves student ministry at Venture Church in Laurel and performing at Salem Heights Baptist Church’s Ark Event. Tamara Pittman and Chris Watts are her parents.

Pablo Lopez served as the Vice President of Leadership for PTK and was a member of the Charles Pickering Honors Institute and he was a member of the Intramural Soccer Team. He was also selected as a member of the academic Hall of Fame, and is one of only five sophomores to be a Tullos Scholar. Additionally, Lopez serves as a Deacon, and he is on the Board of Directors of his church in Waynesboro, while also volunteering for Tim Tebow’s “A Night to Shine” and the “Giving Back Project” where he gathered gifts for foster children during the Christmas season.

“This honor is a tangible representation of what hard work and dedication are and it has great significance to me. It reminds me of the economic principle, ‘If the benefits of doing something are greater than the costs, then do it.’ I am pleased to say, that all those costs are nearly nothing compared to the benefits. All of what I do is never only for me, but it is for my parents as well. This honor represents their hard work in the past, today, and their hard work tomorrow, all to have me here,” shared Lopez.

After earning his bachelor’s degree at Mississippi State University, Lopez’s goal is to get a job with a corporation and eventually start his own business.

“My parents, Pablo and Marlen Lopez, have been the foundation of my life and the ignition to my drive to succeed. Without them, things would have played out very differently for me. At home, my parents raised me with the highest values and ensured that all I did was done at its best. They are my biggest supporters and inspiration and I hope to be only half of who they are. Papi y Mami los amo mucho. Gracias por su apoyo. Ustedes son mi mas grande orgullo,” said Lopez.

The two JC students competed with more than 1,800 nominations from each of the 15-community colleges in Mississippi. As part of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society’s annual academic and workforce competition, each student submitted an essay, answered discussion questions, and described their leadership roles and activities while in college.

The highest scoring nominees from each of the 15 two-year colleges earned First Team All-Mississippi honors and $500 scholarships provided by the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges. All team members received special medallions, certificates, and printed resolutions from the Mississippi Legislature.

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Jones County Junior College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Jones County Junior College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 3033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Statement of Non-Discrimination and ADA Statement: Jones County Junior College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability in its programs, activities, or employment practices. The (ADA/ Section 504) ADA Coordinator, Student Affairs, phone 601-477-2673, and (Title IX) Title IX Coordinator, Hutcheson Hubbard Administration Building, phone 601-477-4127, have been designated to handle inquiries and grievances regarding the non-discrimination policies. Jones County Junior College, 900 South Court Street, Ellisville, MS 39437.

ELLISVILLE – Fifty-six Jones College faculty and staff members were recently honored for their years of service to the college during a special Employee Appreciation program. Administrators and the JC Foundation treated the Jones College faculty and staff to a spring luncheon and awards ceremony. JC administrators honored employees for their service at five-year increments, beginning with those who have served at least five years. 

Topping the number of service years was Bonnie Warren with 45-years being employed in various roles at Jones College. After Warren graduated from JCJC, she began working in I.T., then the Registrar’s Office and Student Affairs. She is currently serving as the Director of Enrollment Operations.

Social Science instructor, Stacy Ruth and Jones College President, Dr. Jesse Smith (right) were honored for working 30-years at the college during the Employee Appreciation Luncheon.

Four employees accumulated 25 years of experience working at the college, including guitar instructor, Dr. Michael Boyd; Dr. Corey Jones, Dean of the School of Business, Mathematics, and Technology and math instructor; Mike Cummings, Associate Degree Nursing Director and Pam Brownlee, Twin District Workforce Coordinator.

Honored for completing 20 service years in 2023, were eight employees: Shannon Odom-Testing Center; Lauren Bell-A.D. Nursing instructor; Kathryn Davis-Psychology instructor; Joel Cain-E.V.P. of Student Affairs; Anna Brashier-Burns-Family & consumer science instructor; Dr. Jessica Bunch-Math instructor; Dr. Joanna Cooley-Speech instructor and Missie Meeks-English instructor.

The group completing 15 service years consisted of eight employees: Dr. Caleb Smith-Geology/Social Science instructor; Crystal Nail-Alumni Affairs; Amy Myers-Practical Nursing Director; Jennifer Wood-Enrollment Management; Fawn Shoemake-CTE Dean Administrative Assistant; Sabrina Smith-Enrollment Management; Cynthia May-A.D. Nursing instructor and Rickey Gaddy-Maintenance.

Twelve employees began serving the college 10 years ago. Ashley Adams-AC/Refrigeration instructor; Jimmie Freeman-Maintenance; Greg Griffith-Electrical Technology instructor; Christina Nixon-Childcare instructor; Ryan Hearn-Civil Engineering instructor; Mark Walters-Biology instructor; Tim Morris-English instructor; Tommy Freeman-Welding instructor; Susie Polk-Environmental Safety; Bobby Dykes-Campus operations; Teresa McDonald- Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Chantra Parker-Health Care Assistant instructor.

More than five years ago, 21 people joined the Jones College family. The honorees included Dr. Brittany Barron the Title IX Coordinator and radiology instructor, and LaTrece Evans, who works in external marketing. Also honored were Reed Walters who works at the Wayne County Center as the Out of School Youth instructor and Adult Education instructor, and Cindy James, the Technical Assistant for the Out of School Youth program in Greene County. From Enrollment Management, Taryn Tyree, Rachel Jefcoat, Aubrey Phillps and Hanna Burnette were celebrated. Football employees, Kwesi Drake, Brian Hudson, David Queck and Steven Hall, along with Head Softball Coach, Tori Dew were all honored. In Information Technology, John Robertson and Daniela Deviney were recognized, in addition to Greg Smith in maintenance, Melissa Garretson in Career Pathways, Alexis Rambo in the library, and Darel Parker in Environmental Safety. Welding instructor, Mason Cook and A.D. Nursing instructor, Sara Purvis, were also honored for completing five years of service at Jones College.

Each honored employee was given a special item designed for each level of achievement: 5 years-small plaque; 10 years-large plaque; 15 years-clock; 20 years-small acrylic trophy; 25 and 30 years-medium acrylic trophy and 45 years-large plaque.