Jarvis Christian University News: Student Triumphs, Historic Leadership, Economic Impact & Campus Innovations

Good day, Bulldogs! It's Monday, August 25, 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 celebrate one of our own. Senior business accounting major, Vladimir Avramov, has been making waves both academically and professionally. Not only has he been elected president of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), but he's also the proud recipient of the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TXCPA) scholarship. Vladimir's dedication and leadership continue to inspire us all. In other news, Jarvis Christian University is extending a helping hand to students affected by the recent pause in national Job Corps programs. Our Hawkins campus is welcoming these students, ensuring they can continue their educational and career pursuits without interruption. It's a testament to our commitment to education and community support. Breaking new ground, the Board of Trustees has elected Mrs. Leketia Lenett Blair as the first woman chair. This historic appointment marks a significant milestone in our university's journey towards inclusivity and leadership diversity. Congratulations, Mrs. Blair! On the economic front, Jarvis Christian University is making a substantial impact. According to the 2024 Economic Impact Report, our institution has contributed a whopping $39 million to the regional economy. This underscores our role not just as an educational hub but also as a vital economic engine in East Texas. Our students continue to shine on national platforms. Rising senior Cedric Abney has been named an Ambassador for the 2025–2026 Black Student Leadership Network Fellowship. Cedric's achievement highlights the caliber of leaders we're nurturing here at Jarvis. In the realm of arts and media, Communications and Media Arts faculty member, Trenton McKay Judson, has released his first feature-length film, "Bad B*tch." Set for global release, the film emphasizes strength, justice, and bold representation. Kudos to Dr. Judson for this remarkable accomplishment. Lastly, our campus has seen some exciting developments. Thanks to a generous grant from The Home Depot, we've unveiled the newly renovated Innovation Lounge in the Olin Library. This space is set to be a hub for creativity, collaboration, and innovation for all students. That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and stories from our vibrant Jarvis Christian University community. Until next time, keep striving for excellence, Bulldogs!