TigerTalk 380 12/31/2025

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at a few of Dr. Ford’s favorite projects from the past year — and why it’s impossible for him to pick just one. Ford highlights major initiatives that show the college’s commitment to innovation, student success, and community engagement. From conducting new Student and Employee Mental Health Surveys to presenting at the SACSCOC Conference on the college’s orientation model and Student Success Center, Ford emphasizes how each project contributes to the larger mission of supporting students and employees alike. He also discusses exciting physical and programmatic improvements across campus — including Tiger Stadium renovations, the launch of the Aerospace Training Program in partnership with Northrop Grumman, and updates to the college’s Career and Technical Education program applications. Ford celebrates upgrades like the new video board and scoring tables inside Bonner Arnold Coliseum, all funded through private contributions, and notes the addition of enhanced accessibility training across courses. Beyond campus, Ford reflects on events that bring the community together, such as “Fossil Fridays” for area elementary students, the FFA Livestock Judging Clinic, and the annual band competition that draws nearly 20,000 visitors to Booneville, the “City of Hospitality.” He also shares insights on topics like crisis management presentations, prison education initiatives tied to new Pell Grant opportunities, and the “IMPACT” series that celebrates individuals making a difference in others’ lives. Rounding out the conversation, Ford touches on new technology projects improving everyday operations — like Mobile ID with online photo submission, WebEx Calling allowing staff to take their office phones on the go, SmartStart courses in Canvas, and a new recruiting photo booth funded through the Northeast Foundation. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time. For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com.--NEMCC--Information about Northeast Mississippi Community CollegeNortheast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields.For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.