Calhoun Community College, in collaboration with the Alabama Community College System and the Department of Human Resources (DHR), is proud to announce its continued participation in the DHR Summer Youth Program, offering exciting paid summer employment opportunities for local youth. From June 1 to July 31, participants can work up to 20 hours per week and earn up to $12 per hour.

This is Calhoun’s second consecutive year participating in the program, following a successful inaugural year in 2024. Building on that momentum, the college looks forward to welcoming a new group of participants and playing a pivotal role in helping to train and inspire the future leaders of our workforce.

Part-time positions are available across Calhoun’s Huntsville and Decatur campuses and include roles in clerical and technical support, as well as event planning. Students can gain experience in a variety of departments such as Business and CIS, Health Sciences Instructional Offices, Advising, Athletics, Career Services, Financial Aid, Recruiting, Testing Center, Welcome Center, and Admissions.

“This partnership is an extension of our mission to support workforce development at every level,” said Dr. Jimmy Hodges, Calhoun President. “It provides young people with meaningful work experiences and the foundation for lifelong professional success. We’re proud to offer this opportunity again and to continue building a pipeline of driven, capable individuals ready to shape Alabama’s future workforce,” Hodges adds.

Participants in the program will work under the guidance of experienced supervisors, gaining hands-on exposure to real-world work environments while developing critical skills such as communication, responsibility, and professionalism.

Kassie Mathis, Calhoun’s Vice President of Student Services, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative. “This program helps young people discover their strengths, build confidence, and learn what it takes to be successful in today’s job market,” Mathis shared. “It’s not just about the paycheck, but it’s about preparing them for what comes next, whether that’s college, career, or both.”

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must be between the ages of 16 and 24
• The applicant’s household must either receive TANF or SNAP benefits, or meet the gross income requirements established by the Alabama Department of Human Resources for the Summer Youth Program

To learn more about this opportunity or to apply, visit 593c18ac56.nxcli.net/summerjobs.

Calhoun Community College is proud to celebrate an extraordinary performance at the 2025 SkillsUSA Alabama State Leadership and Skills Conference in Mobile, where students brought home an impressive 76 medals and multiple chapter awards.

A total of 96 students competed in 37 different events, showcasing their technical skill, leadership, and career readiness. Their efforts earned 35 Gold, 25 Silver, and 16 Bronze medals, propelling Calhoun to one of the top-performing colleges in the state.

In addition to individual medals, Calhoun was honored with the 2025 Highest College Participation Award, the 2024-2025 Highest College Membership Award, and received recognition as the largest SkillsUSA chapter in Alabama. The college’s chapter also earned the prestigious Silver Chapter of Distinction Award.

“This event is more than just a competition. It’s a launchpad for future careers,” said Kelli Morris, Director of Career Services and Cooperative Learning at Calhoun. “Our students have worked incredibly hard and proven that they’re ready to lead in their industries. Their success is a direct reflection of the support they receive from our faculty, advisors, and staff, who are deeply committed to preparing them for both workforce excellence and lifelong achievement,” adds Morris.

A standout moment during the competition came when Calhoun President Dr. Jimmy Hodges presented a special award to Fine Arts student Ves Haynes, whose artwork won a student design competition for Calhoun’s official trading pin for Nationals.

Trading pins are a beloved tradition at the National SkillsUSA Conference, with every state, and even participating businesses and industries bringing unique pins to exchange. This year, as Calhoun prepared to attend Nationals as a vendor, the college hosted an internal student competition to design a commemorative pin. Ves’ winning pin design will represent the college in Atlanta this June, proudly carried by Calhoun’s SkillsUSA team.

“Our students continue to raise the bar,” said Dr. Hodges. “From medals and chapter awards to being selected as the top college in the state for participation and membership, I couldn’t be more proud. We are excited to support our gold medalists as they advance to the National SkillsUSA Championships in Atlanta this summer.”

To learn more about Calhoun programs and how you can join the college’s SkillsUSA team, visit 593c18ac56.nxcli.net/technologies.

Calhoun Community College will recognize and honor its top ten students for the 2024-2025 academic year during the college’s 55th Annual Honors Day program, scheduled for Friday, April 25, at 10:00 a.m. The event will take place on the front lawn of the Math, Science, and Administration Building on Calhoun’s Decatur campus, 6250 Hwy 31N, Tanner, AL. Light refreshments will be served following the program.

Among the honors to be awarded will be the presentation of the College’s Athlete of the Year, James B. Allen Pin Award, Keith Wiley Sigma Kappa Delta Award, Sigma Kappa Delta National Awards, Most Outstanding Warhawk Student Ambassador, All-Alabama Academic Team Members, and the SkillsUSA State Winners. Academic awards will also be presented to students receiving Calhoun scholarships, and scholarships from four-year colleges and universities will be awarded by representatives from those institutions.

Each year, Calhoun’s Student Services Department coordinates a self-nomination process that is open to students who meet the college’s top ten academic eligibility criteria. Once submitted, a multidisciplinary committee of faculty and staff thoroughly reviews each nomination packet to determine the finalists selected for this prestigious recognition.

These students not only demonstrate outstanding academic achievement but also embody servant leadership through their community service efforts. This year’s honorees are:

GABRIEL ADEOYE is a General Studies, Biology major from Madison, AL. He is a member of Phi Theta Kappa and has earned a place on the President’s List multiple times. Outside the classroom, Gabriel volunteers at his church food bank and donates items to neighboring communities in need. He plans to transfer to The University of Alabama in Huntsville to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology while continuing to serve others. His GPA is 4.0.

DYLAN ATAKOUSSOK is a General Studies, Business major from Madison, AL. He is the current President of the Student Government Association and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. Dylan’s honors include the President’s List, Dean’s List, 1st place at the State SkillsUSA competition, and 2nd place nationally in the Customer Service category. He aspires to become a successful entrepreneur and is passionate about contributing to the success of Calhoun Community College. His GPA is 3.9.

ETHAN ATAKOUSSOK is a General Education, Pre-Engineering major from Madison, AL. He is the current Vice President of the Student Government Association and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. Ethan has earned a spot on the President’s List and serves as a tutor in the STAR Institute. He plans to transfer to UAB to pursue a degree in Biology Pre-Med, with the goal of becoming a medical doctor. His GPA is 4.0.

BRADY BAYLIS is a General Education major from Hartselle, AL. He is a member of Sigma Kappa Delta and Phi Theta Kappa. Outside the classroom, Brady is a competitive swimmer and volunteers with organizations such as the Morgan County Mental Health Association and Depot Days. He plans to transfer to Samford University to pursue a Doctoral Degree in Pharmacy and a Master’s Degree in Law. His GPA is 3.9.

HANNAH DAVIS is a General Education, Mathematics major from Trinity, AL. She is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the Calhoun Women’s Basketball Team, where she serves as Team Captain. She has received a full basketball scholarship and has consistently earned spots on the President’s List. Hannah enjoys playing the piano, volunteering with her church, and supporting fundraisers for the American Cancer Society. She plans to pursue a degree in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science and hopes to work in the engineering field. Her GPA is 4.0.

MARISSA PARKES is a Business Administration, Office Management major from Madison, AL. She is a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Campus Catholic Ministry. Marissa has earned honors including placement on the President’s List and selection for the Presidential Honors Program. She enjoys giving back through shoebox drives and volunteering in musical theater. Marissa will graduate in December 2025 with an AAS in Office Management and plans to advance her career while making a positive impact in her community. Her GPA is 4.0.

JOSEPH ROMERO is a General Studies, Pre-Engineering major from Huntsville, AL. He is Vice President of Sigma Kappa Delta and a member of the Common Read Committee. Joseph has earned several academic accolades, including consistent placement on the President’s List, the Association of College English Teachers of Alabama (ACETA) McMillan Award, and 1st place in the Sigma Tau Delta Common Read Writing Contest. He volunteers at a local food bank and helps organize donations for families in need. He plans to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering and eventually a Ph.D. His GPA is 4.0.

GLYNNIS STOUT is a General Studies, Business major from Madison, AL. She is President of Sigma Kappa Delta and has received several honors including the President’s List, Dean’s List, the Keith Wiley Award, and the Dr. Don Perkins Service Scholarship. Glynnis volunteers at a local hospital and serves in her church, assisting with childcare and meal services for those in need. She plans to transfer to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. Her GPA is 3.7.

ABIGAIL TUCKER is a General Studies, Pre-Engineering major from Athens, AL. She is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the Calhoun Softball Team. Abigail has received an athletic scholarship and earned placement on the President’s List. She is helping to launch a nonprofit called Aubrey’s Love to support the elderly and those in need. Abigail plans to transfer to Troy University to pursue a degree in Astrophysics and Math and ultimately earn a Ph.D. from Oxford University to advance space research. Her GPA is 4.0.

MADISON TURNEY is a General Studies, Criminal Justice major from Huntsville, AL. She is the President of Phi Theta Kappa, Secretary of the Student Government Association, and a member of Sigma Kappa Delta. Madison has received multiple honors, including the Dean’s List, a Phi Theta Kappa scholarship, and an SGA officer scholarship. She was also nominated for Phi Theta Kappa’s Distinguished Officer Award. Madison actively participates in PTK initiatives, including the Honors in Action project supporting veterans’ mental health. She plans to transfer to the University of Alabama to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, followed by a Ph.D. in Psychology to work in the criminal justice field. Her GPA is 3.7.

Calhoun Community College is making history by launching its first-ever soccer team, and the search for top talent begins now! The college is hosting a Prospect Tryouts Camp for student-athletes eager to be part of the inaugural 2025 season.

This free tryout event is open to current eligible high school seniors and college students, giving athletes a chance to demonstrate their skills in front of Calhoun’s coaching staff.

The tryouts will take place at the Jack Allen Soccer Complex, located at 2616 Modaus Rd SW, Decatur, AL 35603, on the following dates and times:

Saturday, April 5 – Grass Field

• Women: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
• Men: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Sunday, April 6 – Turf Field

• Women: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
• Men: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Athletes should come prepared with cleats for both turf and grass fields and bring an up-to-date physical (valid for one year from the doctor’s signature date). Both days are not required to be considered for the team.

“We are very excited to offer opportunities for prospective student athletes to showcase their skills in front of our new soccer coaches,” said A.J. Daugherty, Calhoun’s Director of Athletics. “Coach Obilo and Coach McCartney are eager to build top-tier programs, and these opportunities are the beginning of that process.”

For more details, contact Coach Felix Oblio at obilosoccer@gmail.com for the Men’s Soccer team, or contact Coach Andrew McCartney at andrew.mccartney@593c18ac56.nxcli.net for the Women’s Soccer team.

Get ready to experience the electrifying rhythms and soul-stirring sounds of New Orleans jazz as Calhoun Community College proudly presents the Back to the Roots Jazz Festival featuring internationally acclaimed trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra. This free event will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, beginning at 11 a.m., with an unforgettable finale concert at 7 p.m.

The Marsalis family is legendary in the jazz world, and Delfeayo continues to uphold their rich musical legacy. A celebrated trombonist, composer, producer, and educator, Delfeayo has performed alongside jazz greats such as Ray Charles, Art Blakey, and Elvin Jones. As the leader of the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, he blends original compositions with classic jazz, honoring traditions like riff playing and spontaneous arrangements—all while delivering the vibrant energy of New Orleans.

This year’s festival is more than just a concert; it’s a full-day celebration of jazz. Music enthusiasts can participate in special jazz clinics led by top musicians, including Roland Barber, La’Roy Bodiford, Delfeayo Marsalis, and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra. The day will culminate with a high-energy performance featuring Marsalis and his orchestra alongside the Calhoun Showband, bringing the heart and soul of jazz to Decatur.

Whether you’re a lifelong jazz fan or just discovering its magic, this is a musical experience you don’t want to miss! Join us for an exciting day of world-class performances and an unforgettable Mardi Gras-style celebration.

For more information about this event, visit www.593c18ac56.nxcli.net/acajazzfestival.

In a powerful commitment to workforce development, Daikin America, Inc. has donated $20,000 to fully fund four scholarships for individuals who wish to pursue careers as Process Industrial Controls Technicians through Calhoun Community College’s EPIC (Excellence in Process Industrial Controls) program. These full-ride scholarships will provide selected individuals with a tuition-free path to earning an Associate of Applied Science degree in Process Technology while also gaining two years of paid, hands-on co-op experience with Daikin.

Daikin VP of Manufacturing Allan Britnell said that “this is the start of Daikin’s long-term commitment to local workforce development and we’re looking to grow the program by providing even more EPIC scholarships at Calhoun in the near future.”

Britnell added “these scholarships will provide individuals with access to high-quality process controls training and a lucrative career pathway, while also allowing recipients to work alongside some of the best Chemical Plant operators in North Alabama at Daikin. Scholarship recipients will receive much the same training as we provide our full-time employees and they’ll be prepared to pursue full-time manufacturing careers when they graduate.”

As a global leader in chemical manufacturing and air conditioning technology, Daikin remains a strong advocate for educating and training the future workforce. This scholarship initiative is designed to equip students with the technical expertise and real-world experience needed to thrive in high-demand industrial careers.

“Daikin’s generous donation to fund these scholarships is a game-changer for those looking to enter into the field of process technology,” said Nathan Steele, Coordinator of Collaborative Advanced Manufacturing Programs at Calhoun. “Through our EPIC program, students don’t just learn in the classroom to earn their degree; they also gain the experience recruiters look for on resumes when hiring process controls technicians. We can’t stress enough how in-demand these jobs are, or how they come with a highly competitive salary for a two-year degree program. That’s why we are strongly encouraging people to apply before the application deadline,” Steele added.

Alabama ranks second in the nation for the highest concentration of chemical plant and system operators and ninth in the nation in pay, with an average salary of $67,450. Top earners make over $90,000 annually, not including overtime or benefits. The EPIC program at Calhoun directly addresses this industry demand by providing students with the skills, education, and work experience required to step into these high-paying, in-demand roles.

To qualify for the Daikin EPIC Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Meet the admission requirements for Calhoun Community College
• Be eligible to enroll in MTH 100 (Intermediate College Algebra) and ENG 101 (English Composition I)
• Be at least 18 years old by June 1, 2025
• Demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career as a Process Industrial Controls Technician

The deadline to apply for the EPIC program, including the Daikin-sponsored scholarships, is 11:59 p.m. on April 15, 2025.

For more information on the EPIC program and scholarship opportunities, visit www.593c18ac56.nxcli.net/epic or contact Nathan Steele at nathan.steele@593c18ac56.nxcli.net.