TJC Talks 1926

In this episode of TJC Talks 1926, we sit down with Dr. Raymond Hawkins, who served as president of Tyler Junior College from 1981 to 1994. Dr. Hawkins reflects on a pivotal era in the College’s history—one marked by growth, vision, and bold transformation. From overseeing a major campus master plan to guiding TJC through times of change, his leadership helped lay the foundation for the vibrant campus we know today. Tune in as we explore the milestones, challenges, and lasting legacy of Dr. Hawkins’ 13-year presidency. 

In this episode of TJC Talks: 1926, we’re kicking off the Past Presidents Series by honoring the legacy of the College’s first three presidents—visionary leaders whose influence still shapes TJC today. Joined by Dr. Jeff Owens, we take a closer look at the lives and leadership of the first two presidents, exploring how their dedication laid the foundation for generations of Apaches to come.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, the 13th President of East Texas Baptist University. From his TJC days as an Apache Cheerleader to his current leadership in transforming ETBU, Dr. Blackburn shares his unique perspective on his TJC experience, the evolving landscape of higher education, and his vision for cultivating vibrant campus communities. 

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Mathews and Carol Beggs for an insightful conversation about the legacy, growth, and future of the TJC Alumni Association. Join us as they share their unique perspectives on how the TJC Alumni Association has evolved, the impact it has on both alumni and current students, and the exciting initiatives on the horizon. Whether you're a proud graduate or interested in connecting with the TJC community, this episode offers an inspiring look at the role of the Alumni Association in fostering lifelong connections and opportunities. 

In this inspiring episode of TJC Talks 1926, we sit down with Admiral Bobby R. Inman, a proud Tyler Junior College alum whose extraordinary career spans military intelligence, national security, technology innovation, and public policy. From leading the National Security Agency and serving as Deputy Director of Central Intelligence, to shaping future leaders at the LBJ School of Public Affairs, Admiral Inman shares insights from a lifetime of service and leadership. 

In this episode of TJC Talks 1926, we delve into the deep-rooted history of TJC through the eyes of alumnus Dr. D. M. Edwards. A fourth-generation Tyler native, Dr. Edwards shares his family's enduring legacy at TJC, tracing back to the early days of the institution. We'll explore how his time as a cum laude graduate of TJC paved the way for his success at Baylor University and beyond. Furthermore, we'll shine a light on the pivotal role his mother played in establishing the very foundation of the esteemed TJC nursing program.

In this episode, we sit down with Lexie Stanley, a standout cheerleader from Rusk, Texas, and recent graduate of Tyler Junior College. Lexie shares her journey from cheering on the sidelines at Rusk High School to competing on the national stage with TJC’s championship-winning cheer team. 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tim Drain, Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs at Tyler Junior College. With over two decades of leadership in higher education and athletics, Dr. Drain shares insights from his remarkable career—from coaching tennis at Texas A&M to guiding TJC to over 30 national championships as athletic director. We explore his dedication to student success, the evolution of campus life, and the legacy he continues to build at TJC and beyond. 

In this episode of TJC Talks 1926, we sit down with Beverly Dillon, the official Apache Belle historian, to dive deep into the early history of the Apache Belles, one of the most iconic and celebrated drill teams in the world. Beverly, with her wealth of knowledge and passion for preserving the legacy of the Belles, takes us on a journey through the early years of the team. From its humble beginnings to the formation of a tradition that would go on to influence generations of dancers, Beverly shares fascinating stories, challenges faced, and the evolution of the Apache Belles into the icons they are today. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with a pivotal figure in Tyler Junior College's rich musical history, Dr. Cheryl Rogers. With a career spanning over four decades at TJC, our guest has witnessed and actively shaped the growth of our esteemed music program.  

In this special episode, we're joined by Jeremy Strickland, Director of Bands at TJC, to explore the early history of the legendary Apache Marching Band. Now in his tenth year leading the 215-member ensemble, Jeremy brings a deep passion and extensive experience to the conversation. Under his leadership, the Apache Band has continued to grow in excellence and reputation. Tune in as Jeremy shares stories from the band’s beginnings, reflects on its growth over the decades, and honors the legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians. 

In this episode, we sit down with local celebrity, Doc Deason, a TJC Alumni Association Board member, meteorologist, and thriving East Texas realtor. Doc shares how his journey took him from TJC to the newsrooms of Denison, Tyler, and Abilene.

In this episode of TJC Talks 1926, we sit down with Raffe Andrewartha, a proud young Apache and former Belle Guard who helped bring new life to one of TJC’s most cherished traditions: the Victory Bell. He shares the story behind the bell’s return to student life, what it symbolizes for him, and how his great uncle’s legacy at TJC inspired his own involvement. From his time as a student leader to his deep appreciation for tradition and school pride, this conversation is a celebration of what it means to leave your mark and honor the ones who came before you. 

In this episode of TJC Talks 1926, we sit down with Janis Johns, a proud third-generation Tyler Junior College Apache. Janis’s grandmother was in TJC’s very first graduating class and famously helped name the athletic teams the “Apaches.” Her father, Dick Johns, was a beloved artist known for his iconic stipple artwork featured in TJC yearbooks and the Sports Circle of Honor. Janis herself is a former Apache Belle and now serves as a leader on the Apache Belle Gold Council, passionately supporting the legacy and growth of Apache Belle Gold. Join us as Janis shares heartfelt stories about her family’s enduring connection to TJC, the evolution of the Apache Belle Gold tradition, and what the College means to her today.

In this episode, we sit down with Coach Trenia Tillis-Hoard, the longtime leader of the Tyler Junior College Women’s Basketball Team, to talk about her incredible journey from guiding the Apaches to a national championship to joining the USA Basketball Women’s Junior National Team coaching staff.

In this episode, we sit down with a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and accomplished historian specializing in Native American studies, Dr. Dan Marshall Purvis III. From his beginnings at Tyler Junior College to earning a Ph.D. and publishing Tribes of Tejas, his journey is rooted in a deep commitment to preserving and sharing Indigenous histories. 

In this episode, we sit down with a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and accomplished historian specializing in Native American studies, Dr. Dan Marshall Purvis III. From his beginnings at Tyler Junior College to earning a Ph.D. and publishing Tribes of Tejas, his journey is rooted in a deep commitment to preserving and sharing Indigenous histories. 

In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Mayor Don Warren to explore how education, community, and thoughtful growth are shaping the future of East Texas. A third-term mayor and longtime oil and gas professional, Mayor Warren shares his perspective on the power of partnerships—especially with institutions like Tyler Junior College—to fuel economic development, workforce readiness, and a strong sense of place. As a TJC Foundation Board member, he offers a unique look into how the College aligns with Tyler’s 2030 vision and why investing in students today creates lasting impact for generations to come. 

In this episode of TJC Talks 1926, we dive into the rich history of Las Mascaras, the oldest continuous academic organization at TJC. Our special guest is a TJC alumnus from the Class of 1971, Dr. David "Doc" Crawford, who was not only an active member of Las Mas but also went on to become a theatre professor at TJC in the late '70s. With an incredible 49-year career at the college, he has written original plays and inspired countless students. Join us as he shares firsthand insights into the early days of Las Mascaras, its impact on TJC’s theatre community, and how his experiences as a student and educator have shaped his remarkable journey.

In this kickoff episode of TJC Talks 1926, we’re taking you back to where it all began. Join us as we explore the founding history of Tyler Junior College—how it all started, the vision behind its creation, and the key moments that helped shape the institution we know today. From humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of education in East Texas, this episode celebrates the rich legacy of TJC and the people who made it all possible. Tune in and discover the story of how TJC became the vibrant community it is now. 

Welcome to TJC Talks 1926, the official podcast of Tyler Junior College, where we celebrate the people, stories, and spirit that make TJC more than just a college.In each episode, we dive into conversations with alumni, faculty/staff, students, and community leaders who’ve helped shape the legacy of TJC since its founding in 1926. From inspiring alumni stories to faculty legends and East Texas community changemakers, this podcast brings you closer to the people, moments, and traditions that make our college truly special.Launching January 8, 2026 - subscribe now and join us as we celebrate nearly a century of excellence, connection, and Apache pride.