Darren Garrison is the new chairman of the Three Rivers College board of trustees. The board reoganized before reviewing recent accomplishments and approving employee benefits.
Outgoing chairman Eric Schalk passed the gavel to Garrison at the start of Thursday’s meeting. The remaining positions are as follows: Dr. Tim Hager, vice-chairman; Dr. Amber Richardson, secretary; Gary Featherston, treasurer, Chris Williams, member; and Schalk, member.
“We had a very pleasant, pleasant year,” said Schalk. “We accomplished a lot, a lot more to go. Thank you all for your cooperation and hard work, and let’s keep up the good fight.”
President Dr. Wesley Payne gave a rundown of TRC’s eclipse festivities and scientific contributions. The April 8 eclipse was preceded by lectures from astronaut and Poplar Bluff native Tom Akers, PhD candidate in astrophysics Isaac Laseter, and TRC physics instructor Dr. Paul Larson. Guests watched the eclipse totality from the campus.
“We also had an honors class around the eclipse that Prof. Michelle Fisher put on, and it was eclipse soundscapes, so they collected scientific-quality data during the eclipse as part of their research on how solar eclipses affect natural soundscapes and the behavior of plants and animals,” Payne explained. “The students used multi-sensory observation methods in the field, including using audiophone devices to collect soundscape data. So we played an important role in the educational aspect of the eclipse event. And 20 years from now, we’ll do it again.”
Faculty also summarized events from the past month, including the 2024 Music Festival held March 21-22. Professors of music Buddy White and Cindy White said this year’s competition drew a total of 1,684 students from regional high schools to compete in solos, small ensembles, choirs and bands.
The Music Festival, which Buddy White nicknamed “March Music Madness,” is a state competition.
“It’s as far as those groups can go, everyone is trying to get that top rating,” he said. “But I think everyone did a great job. Everyone still recovering from COVID, but we have a strong recovery going on.”
In other news, the Lady Raiders finished in the NJCAA Elite 8 during the Division I championship in Casper, Wyoming. The season ended March 29. Coach Alex Wiggs praised players and thanked the board for its support.
“We know it’s not cheap, sending 25 people plus the cheerleaders (to the championship), but we really appreciate everything. Hopefully, they made everybody proud by their accomplishments.”
Da’Kariya “Lia” Jackson was named Second Team All-American and First Team. Also on the First Team were KT Thompson and Lexi Weaver. The Second Team honorees were Laylah Reese and Jas Davis.
Williams said 12 players will return for next year’s team.
Upcoming events were discussed, including the Distinguished Alumni Reception for Dr. Sonya DiCiro on May 6, followed by the May 17 RN Pinning Ceremony and Spring Commencement.
“We have over 700 degree certificates confirmed and nearly 300 participants at this time,” Payne said.
After its executive session, the board voted to renew employee benefits for Fiscal Year 2025 with the Missouri Health Education Group, at a 5.5% increase over last year. The increase was just under $89,000, including retirement paid on benefits.
United Healthcare remains the carrier for medical, dental, and vision coverage, at a 5.5% increase for vision and dental group plans.
Board members also approved the employment of Tony Clyburn as a temporary instructor with the CDL program.