Tyler Junior College honored its founder, past presidents, and a distinguished alumnus at its Centennial Alumni Awards ceremony in Tyler on Sept. 18. The event, held just one day after TJC Founders Day, was a key part of the college's year-long celebration of its 100th anniversary. The ceremony highlighted the institution's history and impact, recognizing individuals who significantly shaped its development since its establishment in 1926.
George O. Clough, who helped open the doors of Tyler Junior College and welcomed its first class of 93 students in 1926, was posthumously honored with the Legacy of Leadership Award. His granddaughters accepted the award on his behalf, connecting the college's origins to its present. Miranda Sewell, director of Alumni Relations, noted that the gathering was "a powerful reflection of where we’ve been."
The Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Dr. Nirund Jivasantikarn, an alumnus residing in Thailand. While unable to attend in person, his family accepted the award for him, and Jivasantikarn joined the celebration by video from more than 8,000 miles away. Jivasantikarn began his higher education journey at TJC after leaving his native Thailand in 1968. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology from Baylor University, a master’s degree in wildlife science from Texas A&M University, and a doctorate in education, also from Baylor.
Upon returning to Thailand, Jivasantikarn dedicated his career to education, community development, and philanthropy. He founded the American Thai Foundation and the Yonok Foundation. Through his efforts, he raised approximately $7 million to help establish Yonok University in Lampang, Thailand. He served as the university’s president for nearly two decades, from 1988 to 2006, demonstrating a significant global impact rooted in his East Texas education.
In addition to Clough and Jivasantikarn, TJC’s presidents from across its century of operation were honored with the Legacy of Leadership Award. Former President Dr. Michael Metke, who led the college from 2007 to 2019, and current President and CEO Dr. Juan E. Mejia were both present to receive this recognition for their contributions. Sewell also emphasized that "Each honoree has played a part in shaping the story of TJC."
Tyler Junior College, a comprehensive public community college, serves almost 23,000 students annually across its credit and non-credit programs. This includes more than 19,000 students in credit programs and nearly 4,000 in continuing studies. Founded in 1926, the college offers a broad array of over 140 programs of study, spanning areas such as arts, sciences, health professions, business, technology, and trades. The institution caters to both traditional students and adult learners.
The college's 145-acre central campus and its multiple additional sites feature rigorous academics, fine and performing arts programs, and modern residential facilities. TJC also boasts 70 national athletic championships and a variety of organizations and clubs designed to promote student engagement and diversity. The Alumni Awards ceremony is one of several events planned as part of TJC's ongoing centennial celebration.
