A Year of Growth, Gratitude, and Promise at Paris Junior College By Dr. Stephen Benson, President, Paris Junior College
As the fall semester draws to a close and we prepare to gather for commencement ceremonies, I find myself reflecting on what has been an extraordinary year for Paris Junior College. In a season naturally devoted to gratitude, we have much to be thankful for – both in what we have accomplished and in the direction we are heading together.
This year, PJC experienced renewed momentum across all our locations. We saw strong enrollment growth, a clear sign that students and families continue to place their trust in PJC. Our faculty and staff responded with dedication, innovation, and a deep commitment to student success. Throughout the year, the people of PJC consistently demonstrated what it means to live our core values: acting with Integrity, being Mission-Driven, building and sustaining strong Partnerships, striving for high Achievement, embracing Creativity, and fostering Trust.
We also strengthened our partnerships with local schools, employers, and community leaders. These collaborations ensure that PJC remains a place where opportunity is created and lives are changed. From dual credit programs to workforce training initiatives, PJC continues to play a vital role in supporting the region’s economic and educational future.
But beyond the milestones and data points, this year has been defined by countless individual stories: the first-generation student who discovered newfound confidence, the adult learner who returned to finish what they started, the high school graduate who found their footing through the support of a caring instructor. These personal victories – quiet, determined, and often unseen – are at the heart of what makes PJC special.
Now, as we prepare to watch hundreds of graduates walk across the stage, we are reminded of the ultimate purpose of our work. Commencement is more than a ceremony; it is a celebration of perseverance, hope, and possibility. Each student who receives a degree or certificate carries not only their own dreams, but also the collective encouragement of the PJC community.
As president, I am profoundly grateful – for our faculty and staff and their unwavering dedication, for our students and their resilience, and for the communities we serve and their continued support. Paris Junior College exists to uplift lives, expand opportunities, and strengthen Northeast Texas, and this year we have done exactly that.
As we close out a successful year and look forward to the next, I am even more optimistic about the future of PJC. Together, we will continue to foster an incredible culture – ensuring that opportunity thrives here for generations to come.
