October 22, 2025
The Mississippi Community College Board (MCCB) hosted its annual CTE Leadership Academy at Pearl River Community College’s Forrest County Campus in Hattiesburg. This year’s cohort includes 19 emerging leaders from community colleges across the state who are committed to strengthening higher education in Mississippi.
The academy featured a series of presentations by PRCC staff and administrators, each offering practical insights into student support and institutional leadership. Director of Financial Aid Jaime Messimer led a session on financial aid, while Data and Internal Auditing Coordinator Hannah Pugh’s session focused on streamlined enrollment services. Dr. David Collum, Dean of Career and Technical Instruction, delivered a leadership session focused on decision-making, team development, and strategic planning in CTE environments.
Participants also toured the Forrest County Campus and engaged in real-world scenarios designed to enhance their leadership and problem-solving skills.
“MCCB is proud to support the next generation of leaders in Mississippi’s community college system,” said Dr. LaToya Sterling, MCCB’s assistant director for training and professional development. “This program allows community college CTE administrators and instructors the opportunity to be exposed to issues important to their field and to network with colleagues from across the state. We are grateful to Pearl River Community College for hosting the group.”
PRCC participants in this year’s cohort included Department Chair/Instructor of Business and Marketing Management Technology Katie Ball and Career and Technical Student Services Coordinator Cassie Jackson.
“We are honored to host a session for MCCB’s CTE Leadership Academy,” said Collum. “This program not only cultivates leadership within our state’s community college system but also fosters meaningful connections among professionals dedicated to advancing student success.”
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Article by Laura O’Neill. Photography by Patrick Peerboom.
