JCU Powers East Texas: Economic Impact, New Leadership, Student Achievements, Arts, Innovation, Athletics & TJC Partnership

Good day, Bulldogs! It's Monday, September 1, 2025, and welcome back to the hottest podcast on campus. Let's dive into the latest happenings at Jarvis Christian University. First up, we're thrilled to announce that Jarvis Christian University has made a significant impact on the East Texas economy. According to the 2024 Economic Impact Report released by the Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas, our university contributes a total of $39 million to the regional economy. This includes $31 million in direct spending by the institution, its employees, students, and visitors, plus an additional $8 million in indirect and induced spending through business stimulation and job creation. It's clear that JCU is not only an academic beacon but also a vital economic engine for our region. In leadership news, Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt was officially welcomed as the 13th president of Jarvis Christian University during an investiture ceremony on March 21, 2024. Dr. Lee-Pruitt, who assumed office on July 1, 2023, is the second female president in our university's history. She expressed her commitment to continuing the great work that Jarvis has done for over a century, emphasizing accessibility, approachability, and availability for our students. On the academic front, we're proud to celebrate rising senior Cedric Abney, who has been accepted as a 2025–2026 Ambassador for the Black Student Leadership Network Fellowship. Cedric's achievement reflects the dedication and excellence that our students strive for every day. In the realm of arts and culture, Communications and Media Arts faculty member Trenton McKay Judson has released his first feature-length film, "Bad B*tch," which is set for global release. The film highlights themes of strength, justice, and bold representation, showcasing the talent and creativity within our JCU community. Turning to campus facilities, the newly renovated Innovation Lounge in the Olin Library officially opened on May 2, 2025. This milestone was made possible with support from The Home Depot, providing students with a modern space to collaborate and innovate. In athletics, our women's basketball team demonstrated resilience and determination in a recent game against Louisiana Christian University. Despite trailing by five points entering the final period, the Bulldogs scored 27 of the final 40 points to secure a 70-61 victory. This comeback highlights the tenacity and spirit of our student-athletes. Lastly, in a move to strengthen educational pathways, Jarvis Christian University and Tyler Junior College signed an articulation agreement on July 25, 2023. This partnership aligns mutual programs, allowing TJC students to complete their associate degrees and seamlessly transfer to JCU without losing course credits. It's a significant step toward providing accessible and continuous education for students in East Texas. That's all for this episode, Bulldogs. Stay tuned for more updates and remember to keep striving for excellence in all that you do. Until next time, take care and keep making JCU proud!