PRESIDENT JUAN E. MEJIA & MEELA MEJIA - NEWS OF THE TYLER JUNIOR COLLEGE FOUNDATION DECEMBER 2019 - Tyler Junior ...
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NEWS OF THE TYLER JUNIOR COLLEGE FOUNDATION DECEMBER 2019 P RE S IDE NT J UAN E. MEJ IA & MEEL A ME J I A
What’s Inside
8
TJC Trustee Peggy Smith (right) and Meela Mejia present the new chain of
office during the inauguration of President Juan Mejia.
3 12
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MY HEART WILL GO ON
4 14
A LEGACY CELEBRATION GOLF TOURNAMENT
8 On the Cover
A NEW ERA PRESIDENT JUAN MEJIA & MEELA MEJIA
On October 25, Dr. Juan E. Mejia was inaugurated as Tyler Junior
10 College’s seventh president. Photo by Donna Cummings.
DREAM BECOMING REALITY
2 / TJC FOU N DATIO N • DECE MB E R 2 0 1 9
From the Executive Director
MITCH ANDREWS
Vice President, Institutional Advancement
Executive Director, TJC Foundation
more students benefit from a higher
education. Through the Campaign for
the TJC Promise, individuals, busi- TJC FOUNDATION
nesses and foundations are continu- BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ing to give to ensure a well-educated
David McCullough, Chair
and trained workforce that will
Billy Hibbs Jr., Vice Chair
strengthen our region and state.
Laura Hyde, Treasurer
As we concluded the 2018–2019 Verna Hall, Secretary
academic year, TJC family and friends Marilyn Abegg-Glass
gathered to celebrate the visionary Jeff Buie
leadership of retiring Chancellor and Kevin Eltife
CEO Dr. Mike Metke. In honor of Dr. Amy Faulconer*
Metke and Donna Metke, the Foun- Annette Findley
dation continues to receive contribu- Rusty Fletcher
tions to build a named endowment Lee Gibson
that will provide scholarships in LaVerne Gollob
Mitch Andrews perpetuity as part of the TJC Promise. Billie Hartley
In October, we hosted the historical Martin Heines
2019 HAS BEEN QUITE A YEAR inauguration of Dr. Juan Mejia as the Dr. Paul Latta
for TJC and the Tyler Junior College seventh President of the College. His Jim Lestor
Foundation! This past spring, we inaugural activities and events set Mel Lovelady
honored the acclaimed career of TJC the momentum for continued success Jimmy Murphy*
alumnus, Will Jennings. “My Heart under his leadership and were broadly Andy Navarro
Will Go On” was a special evening supported by the community. The fu- Joseph Z. Ornelas
that paid tribute to his achievements ture is bright as we strive for one TJC, Paul Owen
and supported the Campaign for the united in a vision for greatness! Sheryl Rogers Palmer
Performing Arts. The Campaign has Jim Perkins
benefitted from a dedicated steering Yes, 2019 has been a whirlwind, and I Sam Roosth
committee, and generous contribu- am truly grateful to our contributors. Tom Seale
tors giving toward the Rogers Palmer Your continuing support through Ted Walters*
Performing Arts Center. In June, we the Tyler Junior College Foundation Dr. Sherilyn Willis
broke ground on the new, community ensures that TJC will thrive and serve
EMERITUS DIRECTORS
facility and will celebrate the grand the growing educational needs of
Harold Beaird
opening during January of 2021. East Texas.
Dr. Sam Houston
The TJC Promise continues to build I look forward to a prosperous 2020! Nancy Lunceford
the college-going culture! With only Sincerely, Eleanor Stringer
35% of East Texans possessing a * Joined 2019
postsecondary credential, six commu-
nities have partnered to ensure that
D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • TJC FO U N DATION / 3
A Legacy Celebration
The evening was a celebratory tribute
to the successful 12-year tenure of
Dr. Metke and his wife, Donna, and
was hosted within the Rogers Nursing
L
& Health Sciences Center. 250 guests
were treated to hors d’oeuvres,
spirits and the sounds of the Dr. Larry
T-Byrd Gordon Orchestra and Show
Band. Guests also had the opportu-
nity to purchase a raffle ticket to win
the Metkes’ 1926 Ford Model-T with
all proceeds benefiting student schol-
arships at TJC.
A tribute program honored Dr. Metke,
with College trustee David Hudson
announcing the future dedication of
Metke Drive on the main campus, for-
mer student Clifton Henry remarking
on Dr. Metke’s impact on countless
TJC students and incoming presi-
dent Dr. Juan Mejia recognizing the
tremendous accomplishments of the
Chancellor and CEO. Under his lead-
ership, TJC has experienced historic
growth, including record enrollment
of 12,270 students; a revitalized Pres-
idential Honors Program attracting
almost 300 academically talented stu-
dents; development of the TJC Prom-
Dr. Metke with his 1926 Model T ise, serving six East Texas commu-
nities with 3,223 students currently
participating; ambitious capital initia-
I
tives including a significant infrastruc-
n its 93-year history, TJC has benefitted from a legacy of exceptional lead-
ture project at the Main Campus and
ership that has built the community’s college, an institution dedicated to
satellite sites in Rusk, Jacksonville and
meeting and exceeding the educational needs of Tyler and East Texas. On
Lindale; major building projects such
May 31, 2019, TJC family and friends gathered to say goodbye to Chan-
as the state-of-the art Rogers Nursing
cellor and CEO, Dr. Mike Metke. As only the sixth Chancellor/President of the
& Health Sciences Center that serves
College, Dr. Metke has had an undeniable impact on TJC and higher education
a more than $3 billion local medical
within the region.
4 / TJC FOU N DATIO N • DECE MB E R 2 0 1 9
Legacy
industry, the Energy Center at TJC
West that offers training in the latest
industry standards, an expanded
student community with Crossroads
Residence Hall and the Rogers Palmer
Performing Arts Center that will sup-
port and build a thriving arts culture
in East Texas.
At the conclusion of the program,
chair of the Tyler Junior College
Foundation, David McCullough, en-
couraged all attending to participate
in a giving opportunity that will pay
tribute to Dr. Metke and Donna in Dr. Metke & Donna with special cake TJC graduate Clifton Henry shares Dr.
featuring a 1926 Model T Metke’s impact on students.
perpetuity. An anonymous contribu-
tor has agreed to match all gifts dollar
per dollar to a special endowment
that will be named for the Metkes.
This endowment will provide ongoing
scholarships to deserving students
as part of the TJC Promise program,
which is building and strengthening
the college-going culture in East
Texas. So far, contributors have made
almost $250,000 in commitments to
honor the Metke legacy.
Dr. Cheryl Rogers, Dr. Juan Mejia, Meela Mejia, Tisa Hibbs, Phyllis Weiss
To honor Dr. Metke and Donna and
their incredible service to TJC and
East Texas, please give to their legacy
endowment that will provide schol-
arships in perpetuity to deserving
students as part of the TJC Promise.
To give today, please visit TJC.edu/
giving or contact Tara Parnell at (903)
510-3146.
To enjoy more photos of the legacy
event, please visit TJC.edu/
MetkeLegacy.
Dr. Metke, Donna Metke, Annette Findley, Patricia Hampe, Dr. Clark Hampe Sr.
D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • TJC FO U N DATION / 5
A PROMISE THAT
PAYS FORWARD
Azalea Orthopedics Brookshire’s
Azalea Orthopedics has made a generous commitment to Brookshire Grocery Co. (BGC) was founded by Wood T.
serve as a Leading Partner to provide scholarships as part Brookshire, who opened the company’s first store on Sep-
of the TJC Promise Partner program. “For the past seven tember 1, 1928, in downtown Tyler. Wood believed it was
years, we have been honored to serve as the Title Spon- his calling to serve people through the grocery business
sor for the annual scholarship golf tournament hosted and built BGC on a strong foundation of core values that
by the Tyler Junior College Foundation,” stated Dr. Kim continue to guide the company today.
Foreman. “The tournament provides the opportunity to
support TJC’s efforts to educate our workforce. We are Since 1928, BGC has grown to more than 180 stores
happy to increase our commitment as a Promise Partner under the Brookshire’s, Super 1 Foods, FRESH by Brook-
and provide scholarships to successful students in the TJC shire’s and Spring Market banners. BGC also operates
Promise program.” distribution facilities and corporate offices in Tyler and
employs more than 14,000 individuals.
Azalea Orthopedics provides superior services, com-
passionate care and exceptional treatment. With a team Following the founder’s example, BGC remains deeply
comprised of dedicated physicians and orthopedic sur- committed to supporting its employees, customers and
geons, Azalea is committed to providing high-quality care communities. The company’s giving program assists hun-
throughout East Texas—from Mount Pleasant to Nacogdo- dreds of nonprofit organizations each year to support its
ches. “We truly care for our patients and appreciate that primary causes of hunger relief, education, family health
TJC cares about students and the educational needs of our and wellbeing, and military heroes and first responders.
community.” Through their support as a Leading Partner, As part of their commitment to education, BGC is proudly
Azalea is providing scholarships in perpetuity as part of serving as a Leading Partner for the TJC Promise. Their
the new TJC Promise. generous support of the TJC Promise ensures the opportu-
nity for higher education for more students in East Texas.
THANK YOU NEW TJ C P RO M ISE PA RT N E R S !
To learn more about becoming a Promise Partner, please call Mitch Andrews at (903) 510-2249.
6 / TJC FOU N DATIO N • DECE MB E R 2 0 1 9
Promise
RUSK TJC CITIZENS
Rusk Promise Scholars Class of 2019
Rusk TJC Citizens Promise Program
Recognized as Star Award Finalist
The Texas Higher Education Coordi- college going culture and ensuring tion. For instance, the overall com-
nating Board’s (THECB) Star Awards that more students attain a higher pletion rate for the first 2014 cohort
honor exceptional contributions education. is more than 47% while the FTIC
toward meeting goals of 60x30TX, comparison group has a rate of 28%.
During the program’s inaugural year,
the state’s top priority for higher
the number of Rusk High School The Rusk TJC Citizens Promise was
education. By 2030, the 60x30TX
graduates pursuing an advanced the first “Promise” program in the
initiative aims to increase the number
education increased from 36% to State of Texas. It covers tuition and
of adults, between the ages of 25 and
almost 58% with an average of 54% fees for up to two years at TJC for
34, that have attained a postsecond-
of students continuing their educa- Rusk students who graduate in the
ary credential. The plan also includes
tion since the program’s inception. top half of their class with a minimum
reducing the amount of student loan
Rusk Promise students are perform- 2.5 GPA. Qualifying students must
debt.
ing better than their first time in also reside in Rusk ISD and have
The Rusk TJC Citizens Promise college (FTIC) counterparts at TJC, attended Rusk High School for grades
program was honored as a finalist as supported by a four-year study of 11 and 12. For more information on
for a 2019 Star Award at the 19th the 2014 through 2017 cohorts. Data the program, please visit TJC.edu/
Annual Star Awards Ceremony held shows that Rusk scholars complete ruskpromise.
during the Texas Higher Education more college credits, achieve higher
The program was deservedly rec-
Leadership Conference on November GPA’s and are staying in college at a
ognized through the THECB Star
22, 2019, in Austin. Launched during higher rate. When considering reten-
Awards program. It is an example of a
2014, the program has been a suc- tion from year to year, Rusk Promise
successful educational initiative that
cessful partnership between Citizens scholars have an average retention
is impacting an East Texas community
1st Bank, the Perkins Family Founda- rate of 65%, as opposed to the FTIC
due to the continued dedication and
tion, the community of Rusk, TJC and average of 50%.
support of its partners.
the Tyler Junior College Foundation.
Most importantly, more Rusk scholars
The Rusk Promise is building the
are completing their college educa-
D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • TJC FO U N DATION / 7
On October 25,
Dr. Juan E. Mejia
was inaugurated as
Tyler Junior College’s
seventh president.
INAUGURATION
Mejia Family DAY
A New Era
O
n October 25, 2019, a Colleague.” Metke highlighted his The ceremony concluded with the
TJC celebrated a historic 30 years as a mentor, colleague and College’s Chamber Singers, Apache
event, the inauguration friend of Mejia, beginning when they Band and Wind Ensemble leading
of the College’s seventh worked together to establish South guests in the Alma Mater.
president, Dr. Juan E. Mejia. Texas College in the Rio Grande
Inaugural festivities also included a
Valley.
During the afternoon, the Board of special luncheon for visiting delegates
Trustees officially recognized Dr. Me- Program highlights included the pre- previous to the installation ceremony
jia as president at a formal installation sentation of a new presidential mace and concluded with an inaugural ball.
ceremony hosted at Wagstaff Gymna- crafted by East Texas artisans and
For further information concerning
sium. The event was attended by stu- a new chain of office created from
the inauguration, including a video of
dents, faculty, staff and administra- antique bronze. State Senator Bryan
the installation ceremony, please visit
tors as well as former TJC presidents, Hughes, a 1989 TJC alumnus, gave
www.tjc.edu/info/20291/presiden-
state and local dignitaries, family and the call to service, and Smith County
tial_inauguration.
friends. The program featured TJC’s Judge Nathaniel Moran adminis-
musical performance groups and tered the oath of office. President
various representatives of the broad of ETBU and 1989 TJC alumnus Dr.
THANK YOU TJC COMMUNITY AM
College community who gathered to Blair Blackburn offered the invoca-
These community members deserve special tha
pay tribute to Dr. Mejia. tion while Representative of District
Marilyn Abegg-Glass, Barbara Bass, Harold & Rose
6 in Texas, Matt Schaefer, gave the Farmer, Amy Faulconer, Annette Findley, John & J
The initial processional included
benediction. Special “greetings” were & Patricia Hampe, Billie Hartley, Mayor Martin He
delegates from other colleges and Joyce Hudnall, H. T. & Laura Hyde, Chris Leahy, Jim
presented by representatives of vari-
universities and TJC faculty. The Col- The Honorable Amy McCullough & David McCu
ous groups including TJC faculty and Perkins, Nancy Rangel, Dr. Cheryl Rogers & Mic
lege’s previous chancellor and CEO,
students and the TJC Alumni Associa- Wampler, Neita F
Dr. Mike Metke, gave “Reflections by
tion and Foundation.
8 / TJ C FOU N DATIO N • DECE MBE R 2 0 1 9
Dr. Blair Blackburn & Michelle Blackburn,
Meela Mejia & Dr. Juan Mejia
Dr. Juan Mejia addresses guests during the installation ceremony.
During ceremony, the Apache Band performed,
including an original composition by Micah Bell.
Donna Metke, LaVerne Gollob, Meela Mejia at inaugural ball
Joan Andrews and Billie Hartley
pose with the Apache Belles.
Trustee Rohn Boone presents the new TJC mace.
MBASSADORS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION
anks for their help bringing awareness to the community for this special occasion:
emary Beaird, Henry Bell, Jane Coker, Wanda Bowie Ealey, Dr. D. M. Edwards, Laura
Jennifer Gaston, Bill & Beryl George, LaVerne Gollob, Verna Hall, Dr. Clark Hampe
eines, Billy & Tisa Hibbs, Dr. Sam Houston & Dr. Edna Houston, Dr. John Hudnall &
m & Diane Lestor, Michael & Lisa Lujan, Nancy Lunceford, Karina Macedo, Bill Martin,
ullough, Terry Mebane, Sheryl Rogers Palmer, Jan Godfrey Payne, Jim & Margaret
chael Rogers, Smittee Root, Barbara Shtofman, Eleanor Stringer, John & Rebecca Dr. Mike Metke, Marilyn Abegg-Glass, Dr. Jeanette
Fran Ward, Jeff Warr, Patrick Willis, Nancy Wrenn Calhoun and Joe Woelker at delegates luncheon
D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • TJC FO U N DATION / 9
DREAM
BECOMING
REALITY
Rogers Palmer Performing Arts Center
Groundbreaking Ceremony
On the morning of June 19, 2019, more than 100 people joined together to celebrate the
official groundbreaking for the new Rogers Palmer Performing Arts Center.
Under a TJC tent shaded from the Texas heat, the program began in front of the existing Wise Auditorium facility, with
the backdrop of the iconic Geese in Flight fountain. The ceremony took place to honor the legacy and history of Wise
Auditorium, but also to celebrate a new beginning, a significant initiative to build a new comprehensive performing arts
center that will serve TJC’s exceptional arts programs and the East Texas community.
Mitch Andrews, vice president of Institutional Advancement,
acted as emcee and opened the program by explaining that “for
more than 60 years, Wise Auditorium has served the campus
well and has been one of the ‘front doors’ of the College, but
currently lacks the resources to meet the ever-growing needs of
the College’s burgeoning arts programs.”
Then-Chancellor and CEO Dr. Metke took to the podium, thank-
ing and acknowledging members of the internal steering com-
mittee, whose expertise helped to shape the original vision for
the project, including Dr. David Crawford, Dr. Linda Gary, Jeanie
Oxler, Lara Smith, Derrick White, Bryce McWilliams, Philana Oli- Dr. Juan Mejia, Barbara Copeland, Sheryl Rogers Palmer,
Margaret Perkins, Amy Faulconer, Dr. Mike Metke
phant Pace, Jasilyn Schaefer, Jeremy Strickland and Lauren Tyler.
10 / TJ C FO U N DATI O N • DECE MBE R 2 0 1 9Campaign for the Performing Arts Steering Committee
He recognized the extraordinary generosity of the Rogers architect Shirley Simons and ensuring that the new center
Foundation, which made the project possible. The Rogers grows in its service to TJC and the community. Mr. An-
family legacy will live on in the new facility, as it does in drews also thanked Barbara Greenbauer, TJC’s director of
other TJC buildings, including the Robert M. Rogers Nurs- major gifts and special initiatives, for her dedication to the
ing & Health Sciences Center. Dr. Metke introduced and project.
thanked Sheryl Rogers Palmer, Robyn Rogers (who could
After official “hard hats and shovels” photos, guests were
not be present) and Barbara Copeland, a member of the
invited inside for brunch on the stage. As guests enjoyed
Rogers Foundation Board.
brunch, Mr. Andrews remarked “it was truly exciting to be
Mr. Andrews shared with the crowd the history behind together one last time on this stage.” He explained that the
the project, which has been in the formal planning phase next step in the Campaign for the Performing Arts is called
for two years. He explained that the initiative had begun the public phase, which is an opportunity for a broader
years earlier through a dedicated community leader, Mar- group of contributors to support the project.
garet Perkins, who was concerned for performer safety,
Mr. Andrews introduced Dr. Juan E. Mejia, the incoming
and the vision spread to encompass the formation of “a
president of Tyler Junior College, to say a few words. Dr.
very tenacious and passionate steering committee.” They
Mejia took the opportunity to thank everyone for their
“helped educate the community about a ‘hidden gem,’ the
ongoing support of TJC and said, “It is such a special day
performing arts at TJC, and launched the Campaign for the
when so many who care so much are able to celebrate to-
Performing Arts that is successfully claiming a $7.5 million
gether.” The event concluded with a touching final perfor-
fundraising goal.” Guests clapped and cheered for the
mance on the Wise stage, a rendition of “Happy Birthday”
committee members: Sheryl Palmer and Margaret Perkins,
to Sheryl Palmer, presented by a special singing group
co-chairs; Teresa Butcher, Beryl Cobb, Dr. D. M. Edwards,
comprised of TJC artists, including Kim Hodges, from the
Amy Faulconer, Annette Findley, LaVerne Gollob, Tisa
Advancement office and her husband John, Lizzy Tucker, a
Hibbs, Joyce Hudnall, Laura Hyde, Allison Kay Jarvis, Pam
dual-credit student from Robert E. Lee High School, Collin
Lisner, Holly Mazzaré, John McMillan, Dr. Laura O’Hallo-
Skelton, an incoming freshman and Presidential Honors
ran, Amy McCullough, Jan Payne, LeAnne Priest, George
scholar, and Jaylon Crump, a returning sophomore and
Ann Reed, Anne Rhodus, Dr. Cheryl Rogers and Mike
member of the Chamber Singers.
Rogers.
Mr. Andrews closed the program by asking guests to “keep
From Fitzpatrick Architects, Steve Fitzpatrick, Brandy
your eyes on progress over the next 18 months as we
Ziegler and Serge Zotov were acknowledged for design-
build the new Rogers Palmer Performing Arts Center.” The
ing a facility that honors the original work of legendary
grand opening is scheduled for January 2021.
D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • TJC FO U N DATION / 1 1MY HEART WILL GO ON
Honoring a Legend: Will Jennings
O
N APRIL 5, 2019, TJC who is also a graduate of TJC. Repre- Singers, which featured the talents of
hosted more than 250 sentative Matt Schaefer and his wife, students. Jason Guest, from the Texas
guests at an event in Jasilyn, presented a State of Texas Heritage Songwriters Association,
honor of legendary song- flag and certificate, and State Senator introduced Texas singer/songwriter,
writer and alumnus, Will Jennings. Bryan Hughes, himself a TJC alumnus, Mignon Grabois, who serenaded Will
presented Jennings with Texas Senate with a touching rendition of “My
The evening event, part of the
Resolution No. 542, which was read Heart Will Go On.”
ongoing Legends of TJC series, was
on the Senate floor earlier in the
held on the third floor of the Rogers Another colleague of Will’s, Nashville
week in Jennings’s honor.
Nursing and Health Sciences Center, songwriter and longtime friend, Gary
celebrating the extraordinary career Mitch Andrews, VP of Institutional Nicholson, was also on hand to lend
of the prolific songwriter. The eve- Advancement at TJC, announced his congratulations. A moving video
ning began with a cocktail reception that through a generous gift from tribute of Will’s incredible musical
in the LaVerne & Michael Gollob the Jennings, Hudnall and Townsend history, including special messages
Event Room, which showcased Will’s families, the lobby in the new Rogers from artists and collaborators Rodney
personal memorabilia, including Palmer Performing Arts Center will Crowell and Steve Winwood, brought
Grammy and Oscar awards. The dé- be named the Will & Carole Jennings Will to his feet.
cor in the main room reflected Will’s Lobby and will feature a permanent
TJC Chancellor and CEO Dr. Mike
major hit from the movie Titanic, “My exhibit of Will’s memorabilia.
Metke concluded the evening by say-
Heart Will Go On.”
The program continued with TJC per- ing, “Will, you are truly an inspiration,
Numerous accolades and special pre- formance groups, including the trom- and we thank you for an incredible
sentations made the night extremely bone choir (Will’s instrument in the career that continues to be a gift to
special for Will and his wife, Carole, TJC band), jazz band and Chamber all through your music.”
12 / TJ C FO U N DATI O N • DECE MBE R 2 0 1 9Campaign for the Performing Arts
PUBLIC PHASE
As construction continues on the new Rogers Palmer Performing Arts Center at
TJC, the public phase of the Campaign for the Performing Arts is well under-
way! Fundraising efforts include focused outreach to performing arts alumni as
well as the entire community as we work to reach our goal of $7.5 million.
You can be a part of it! Public phase donors
at these levels
These fundraising efforts include online giving through a crowdfunding plat-
form. TJC alumni, friends and supporters have the chance to make a donation will be recognized
toward a specific naming opportunity or to the campaign in general. These in the new Rogers
crowdfunding initiatives allow donors to easily share giving opportunities with Palmer Performing
friends and family using social media, email or text. To view these opportuni-
ties, visit TJC.edu/artscampaign and click “Support the Campaign.”
Arts Center within
a special donor
display.
• $50
• $100
• $250
• $500
• $1,000
• $1,500
• $2,500
Donors giving
$500 or more
Giving opportunities include: will receive a
commemorative
Varina & J. W. Johnson
Orchestra Pit framed piece
of the original
Wise Auditorium
stage!
D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • TJC FO U N DATION / 1 32019 AZALEA ORTHOPEDICS GOLF TOURNAMENT
BENEFITING TYLER JUNIOR COLLEGE FOUNDATION STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS
Seventy-nine scholarship recipients were recognized at the 2019 Azalea Orthopedics
Scholarship Golf Tournament, held Thursday, September 5 at Hollytree Country Club.
Seven students were awarded with Corporate Scholar- Special thanks to the 2019 Tournament Advisory
ships this year, the highest number in the history of the Committee. From left to right: Charles Hill, Darin
tournament! These students receive a $5,000 two-year Newhouse, Tom Seale, Lee Browning, Jason Sobel, Kelly
scholarship. Thanks to our Corporate Scholar Sponsors! Sanders, Brian McCabe, Gary Ables, Dr. Paul Latta, Claude
Henry, Walter Wilhelmi. Not pictured: Matthew Mahfood,
Criss Sudduth.
THANK YOU SPONSORS!
As a result of this year’s tournament, TJC will award more than
$100,000 in scholarships for the 2020–2021 school year—a
record! Thank you to all sponsors and players. Your generosity
is ensuring that more East Texas students achieve a college
education.
14 / TJ C FO U N DATI O N • DECE MBE R 2 0 1 9Scholarship Recognition
Newly established endowed scholarships
James R. and Patricia A. Cavender Dr. Glen Dyer Faculty Excellence
Scholarship Endowment Endowment for Dental Hygiene
James and Patricia In 1992, Dr. Glen Dyer brought his
“Pat” Cavender expertise to dental hygiene at TJC.
founded Cavender’s For two decades, Dr. Dyer success-
Boot City, a major fully taught aspiring dental profes-
Texas-based west- sionals as an adjunct professor and
ern wear retail chain eventually supervising dentist. He
that grew to more was considered a role model for
than 80 stores in 11 students and faculty alike and well
states. Mr. Caven- respected for his compassionate
der was a pioneer, Patricia & James Cavender and ethical treatment of patients Dr. Glen Dyer
businessman, hus- served by the College’s dental clinic.
band, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He
After 40 years of providing high quality dentistry in East Texas,
was never one for the spotlight and was known for his
Dr. Dyer retired during 2012. Colleagues and former students
incredible, deep-rooted relationships and his loyalty.
honored his exceptional service by establishing an endowment
Pat was a loving and hard-working wife, mother and
benefiting students who have excelled in TJC’s dental hygiene
grandmother who always put others first. She was
program. Each year, the Dr. Glen Dyer Dental Hygiene Excel-
an award-winning and accomplished artist, and was
lence Award Endowment benefits a deserving graduate who is
known for her giving nature, her art, her design and
recognized during the annual Awards of Excellence luncheon
decorating ability, the delicious feasts she served, as
hosted by the College.
well as her quick wit and wry sense of humor.
During fall of 2018, Dr. Dyer contributed property to the Tyler
James and Pat were married for 63 years. They had
Junior College Foundation to further build his current endow-
four children—Joe Mark Cavender, Mike Alan Caven-
ment and to establish an additional endowment to recognize
der, Traci Ann Cavender and Clay Courtney Caven-
outstanding teaching within the dental hygiene program. The
der—who are carrying on his legacy through the family
new Dr. Glen Dyer Faculty Excellence Endowment for Dental
business.
Hygiene provides an annual award to a professor who demon-
The James R. and Patricia Cavender Scholarship En- strates a high level of patient care and offers a professional
dowment was established in 2019 through a generous and skillful role model for students. During last spring’s pinning
gift from the Hibbs Family Foundation. Due to the ceremony for the program, the inaugural faculty award was
generosity of the Hibbs family, the new endowment deservingly given to Carrie Hobbs, longtime professor and
will honor the lives of James and Patricia and provide department chair for Dental Studies at TJC.
scholarships in perpetuity to Cavender’s Boot City
Faculty Excellence Endowments reward teaching excellence,
employees and their family members.
and Dr. Dyer’s generosity will continue to recognize exception-
al professors in the College’s dental hygiene program.
D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • TJC FO U N DATION / 1 5PO Box 9020, Tyler, TX 75711-9020
(903) 510-2249 | foundation@tjc.edu
tjc.edu/foundation
“A gift from TJC NOW is
allowing me to pursue my
bachelor’s and master’s
degrees, which would not
have been possible without
scholarships and assistance
from TJC completely paying
for my associate degree and
expenses.”
—Caleigh Reese
A gift to TJC NOW provides immediate help for students, faculty and staff when
no other resources are available. Make an end-of-year gift at TJC.edu/giving.You can also read
