1982-1986

ECJC President Speaks at Liberty

Educational programs are becom– ing more diverse in the college districts of Mississippi because the needs are not uniform through our the state. Mention was made of some of the more notable achievers who began their college education at E.C.J.C. in Decatur. The enroll– ment indicates that more and more students are making it their choice. Ruby Jean Kennedy introduced the speaker and welcomed those present including Monroe Clark, Club Sponsor. She asked for reports and made several an– nouncements. Ruth Round brought the de– votional thought from Psalms. She said "When we need help, God is always there. He is our refuge and our strength." Before the meeting, a pot luck supper was served by Jean Grady. Ruby Jean Kennedy and Nonie Sibley received the door prizes.

A filmed tour of East Central Junior College brought many favorable comments from former students. The changes made since they attended showed the increas- : ing expansion of the campus and its educational opportunities. Dr. Eddie Smith, president of E.C.J.C . was guest speaker at the September meeting of the Liberty Community Club . In the beginning, Dr. Smith explained, Junior Colleges were extensions of high school. They are the only colleges that are uniquely American. They were established to meet the need of the local population. He said that continuous change is essential to quality education. E.C.J .C. now offers 36 programs including university parallel pro– grams. Vocational - technical - computer science all play a major role in training for local industry . Pre-employment training is custom– ~zed for special jobs .

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