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By ALLEN BASWELL
Staff Writer
Sixteen teachers from Grenada and the surrounding area joined family, members of the Ole Miss School of Education faculty and others for a graduation celebration last night at the HCC-Grenada Center’s Corey Forum.
The event focused on the first graduates of the Grenada Cohort I education program offered by the University of Mississippi’s School of Education Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
Members of the Grenada Cohort I graduating class are: Lisa Bane, Winona; Lacey Phelps, Winona; Anne Serio, Winona; Martha Britt, Winona; Phyllis Chism, Grenada; Kimberly Rice, Grenada; Pam M. Burns, Winona; Angela King, Vaiden; Ericka Goad, Charleston; Ricki Hardin, Grenada; Cherri Hooks, Winona; Martha Liberto, Grenada; Leigh Ann Melton, Grenada, Mary Phillips, Coila; Abigail F. Poe, Duck Hill; Lisa Woods, Winona.
The program was offered through a partnership established between Ole Miss and Holmes Community College.
UM-Grenada Center Director Dr. S. Ryan Niemeyer said the cohort program was for teachers seeking a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Elementary Education.
“This program started in Grenada in January 2008. This cohort program allows students the chance to start classes together and stay in those classes through the duration,” he said.
In his opening remarks, Niemeyer told the graduates that completing this program is a milestone in their careers.
“We appreciate your professionalism. There were lots of bumps along the way, but you took it all in stride, and you have made it,” he said.
Niemeyer acknowledged HCC Vice President Jack Holmes, Assistant Director Martha Cofer, Education Advisors Cindy Dugan and Jeannie Pegg for their efforts.
“We are grateful to have this outstanding partnership with Holmes Community College, and for the support Mr. Holmes and his staff have shown,” he said.
Phyllis Chism, a K1 multigrade instructor at Grenada Elementary, said she was glad Ole Miss offered this program in Grenada.
“I do not think I would have had the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree if this program was not offered here in Grenada,” she said.
Pam Burns, a math teacher at Winona Elementary, and one of the graduates, said this is something she has prepared for a long time.
“This is a 25-year dream for me to get my master’s degree. I give God all the glory. This group faced many adversities and unexpected changes. We learned a lot from each other and about each other,” she said.
Dr. Tom Burnham, dean of the School of Education at Ole Miss, said this first group of graduates from the Grenada program is going to be a meaningful one.
“This has been a journey for you. You have accomplished quality work. I also want to thank your families. Their support has helped you through this process,” he said.
He thanked members of the Ole Miss faculty who taught courses here, and thanked Holmes CC for their work.
“We are proud to have this partnership,” he said.
Niemeyer said the graduates from Grenada can participate in Saturday’s regular commencement exercise at Ole Miss if they wish.
“There are some who said they plan to participate in graduation exercises,” he said.
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