Tiger Talk Podcast by Northeast Mississippi Community College

Michael H. Miller, Northeast Mississippi Community College, Liz Calvery

The official podcast of Northeast Mississippi Community College. Listen to us each week via iTunes Podcast, Spotify and GooglePlay. Northeast's Tiger Talk podcast has surpassed 300 weekly episodes by providing information about the premier community college in the nation - Northeast Mississippi Community College.

  1. 3d ago

    TigerTalk 409 07/21/2026

    Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at the Mississippi Community Colleges — all 15 of them — and their proposed Jobs Promise Performance Program (JPPP) as part of the 2027 Legislative agenda for the state. Ford breaks down what is included in the Jobs Promise Performance Program and explains how it could impact community colleges across Mississippi, while highlighting how Northeast is positioning itself to lead the way. Ford also discusses why the JPPP is critical to the state’s workforce development efforts, emphasizing the role of community colleges in training skilled workers and collaborating with industry leaders to shape relevant, career-focused curricula. Additionally, the conversation explores how the program may be tied to future funding models, with increased emphasis on tracking graduate outcomes and workforce success after completion. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

  2. Jul 15

    TigerTalk 408 07/14/2026

    In this episode, Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery take a closer look at one of the most impactful - yet often unseen - investments Northeast makes in student success: faculty development and instructional innovation. While new buildings and visible upgrades often draw attention, Dr. Ford highlights the “quiet money” spent behind the scenes on professional development, course redesign, and instructional training. From more than 600 hours of professional development completed by Math and Science faculty in the past academic year to the creation of an Employee Development Center housed in the Eula Dees Memorial Library, Northeast continues to prioritize equipping its faculty with the tools needed to adapt to an ever-changing educational landscape. These efforts have already led to measurable results, with student success rates increasing from 72 percent to 80 percent following enhanced technology integration and instructional strategies. Ford also explores why these investments often go unnoticed by students and the community - and why that is by design. Small changes in teaching methods, curriculum delivery, and faculty support ultimately create a stronger learning environment, even if students only see the outcomes. Additionally, Ford discusses the role of the Student Success Center and Northeast’s commitment to doing everything possible to position students for success, while emphasizing the shared responsibility between the institution and its students. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at Northeast. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

  3. Jul 8

    TigerTalk 407 07/07/2026

    On this episode of TigerTalk, Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at what Northeast -- and colleges across the country -- provide students that cannot be captured on a transcript. Ford shares how the college experience helps students find their voice, build confidence, and develop the courage to speak up. He discusses the importance of perseverance when challenges arise and highlights the personal growth that occurs beyond the classroom, including discipline, friendships, critical thinking, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Ford emphasizes that while these qualities may never appear on a piece of paper, they are ultimately what make a diploma truly valuable. At Northeast, those intangible traits are cultivated every day, shaping students into well-rounded individuals prepared for life beyond college. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

  4. Jul 1

    TigerTalk 406 06/30/2026

    Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at how colleges are often judged by their buildings and programs -- and how Northeast is working to go far beyond that standard. As Ford reflects on a decade of leadership, the veteran educator discusses transforming campus culture into one rooted in belonging, support, and opportunity for both students and employees. Ford highlights Northeast’s commitment to student-centered learning, professional growth for faculty and staff, and creating an environment where students feel valued, heard, and empowered to succeed. Ford also touches on the importance of extracurricular involvement, leadership development, and helping students build identity, confidence, and lifelong connections. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

  5. Jun 23

    TigerTalk 405 06/23/2026

    Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at some of the big projects that the college has going on on the Booneville campus. Ford highlights the ongoing renovations to the men’s residence hall -- White Hall - and the significant improvements taking place to enhance student living spaces. He also discusses the Career Technical Education (CTE) build-out at the former Corinthian building on MS-4, noting the multi-phase approach with the first stage set to begin in late summer or early fall of 2026 to develop new classroom spaces. By relocating a majority of the college’s CTE programs to the new facility, additional space will become available on the Booneville campus to expand healthcare programs and increase the number of graduates in high-demand medical fields. Ford also provides an update on the Seth Pounds Auditorium renovation, sharing that contractors are on schedule -- and in some cases ahead -- with completion now anticipated in spring 2027. Ford also discusses the Public Safety Training Center that will make Northeast one of the premier locations for training of public safety officials in the state. In addition, Ford touches on several other campus improvement projects, emphasizing that each carries its own timeline but will ultimately enhance the overall student experience in meaningful ways. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

  6. Jun 16

    TigerTalk 404 06/16/2026

    Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Community Relations Specialist Liz Calvery talk about the impact Northeast has on students.  Ford reflects on the lasting impact of the college experience and what truly matters when students look back on their time at Northeast. Beyond assignments, exams, and late nights of studying, he emphasizes the personal growth that defines a student’s journey—finding their voice, building confidence, and discovering strengths they may not have known they possessed. Ford shares how meaningful moments both inside and outside the classroom—from speaking up for the first time to forming friendships and connecting with faculty—shape not only academic success but personal development. He underscores that college is not just about earning a degree, but about learning how to think, adapt, persevere, and grow through challenges, even when that growth is uncomfortable. At its core, Ford explains, the value of a Northeast education lies in preparing students not just for a career, but for life—equipping them with resilience, curiosity, and the ability to keep moving forward when faced with adversity. It is about what students carry with them long after they leave campus: not only knowledge, but character. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

  7. Jun 9

    TigerTalk 403 06/09/2026

    Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at common misconceptions surrounding community colleges and set the record straight on what today’s two-year institutions truly offer. Ford addresses the long-standing myth that community colleges are a “second option” for students who cannot attend a four-year university, emphasizing instead the intentional choice many students make for affordability, accessibility, and quality. He also challenges the perception that community college faculty are less qualified, noting that many instructors hold advanced degrees and bring extensive real-world and academic experience -- often comparable to, or exceeding, their counterparts at four-year institutions. The conversation highlights how Northeast delivers the same foundational courses found at universities at a fraction of the cost, without sacrificing academic rigor. Ford explains that while community colleges are often associated with career and technical education, they also play a critical role in preparing students for seamless transfer to four-year institutions, all while helping students enter the workforce with significantly less debt. Student life is another area where misconceptions persist. Ford discusses the wide array of opportunities available at Northeast, from campus events and intramural sports to clubs and student organizations -- sometimes rivaling or even surpassing offerings at larger schools. He also underscores one of the biggest advantages of the community college experience: smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning environment, which continue to attract students seeking stronger faculty engagement and support. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

  8. Jun 4

    TigerTalk 402 06/03/2026

    Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at how the challenges facing today’s students have evolved dramatically over the past 40 years. With decades of experience in education, Ford reflects on how institutions like Northeast must now prepare students for a world that is constantly changing -- one that looks far different from the stable, predictable career paths of the past. From navigating rapid technological advancement to addressing digital misinformation and emerging social and ethical issues, today’s educational landscape requires a broader, more adaptive approach. Ford also highlights the growing importance of teaching students how to live independently and responsibly in a fast-paced, digital-first society -- something that simply was not part of the conversation decades ago. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation’s premier community colleges. 🎙️TigerTalk – where Northeast tells its story, one episode at a time.   For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. --NEMCC-- Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields. For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

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The official podcast of Northeast Mississippi Community College. Listen to us each week via iTunes Podcast, Spotify and GooglePlay. Northeast's Tiger Talk podcast has surpassed 300 weekly episodes by providing information about the premier community college in the nation - Northeast Mississippi Community College.