Highlander Highlights
Meet MCC Supply Chain & Operations Management student, Cevin Mitchell!
Cevin Mitchell began attending MCC in the Spring of 2024 because he wanted to provide a better future for he and his wife. Cevin says he has a great relationship with his business professors Thomas Lowrance and Boyce Wilson, and says he is eager to learn more about business because of them. Cevin is pursuing a Supply Chain & Operations Management degree, with the goal of transferring to Texas Tech University to earn an Applied Leadership degree upon completing his MCC coursework. Although Cevin works and goes to school full-time, he found time this semester to captain the Cybersecurity Interdisciplinary Incident Response Competition (CIIRC). At competition, the MCC beat out a few four-year universities in Texas to win first place! Cevin is also a member of MCC's chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
“Even though I must be a fully online student because of my work schedule, the professors always make time for me when I have questions. All the professors have always responded promptly and thoroughly to any concerns I have had with my courses. I advise other students to utilize the staff and services fully on campus. The professors are here to teach and GUIDE us through our studies. It would help if you used the wisdom and advice, they have for you as you progress through your educational program.”
Meet MCC Professor of Engineering, Paulina Sidwell!
Paulina Sidwell began working at MCC in 2012 as an adjunct instructor teaching Engineering and Mathematics, and shortly after transitioned into the role as a full-time Professor of Engineering. Sidwell was inspired to pursue a career in higher education due to her upbringing in a family of engineers and educators.
Paulina moved to Waco in 2012, where a friend mentioned that MCC’s engineering department—at the time consisting of just one professor, the amazing April Andreas—was looking for another instructor. Although she didn’t know much about MCC at the time, one visit to campus was all it took for her to apply. "I immediately fell in love with MCC’s campus. Everyone was so welcoming and kind. It’s hard to describe why, but this place just felt like home to me,” Sidwell said.
Sidwell, who has spent 13 years at MCC, has taught a variety of courses and reflected on her time working with students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the unique and valuable experiences each individual contributes to the MCC community. Regarding advice for current students, Sidwell encourages them to become familiar with the resources that MCC provides.
Sidwell also spoke about how a campus community is a vital part of a college student’s journey. “Feeling like you belong here can be a huge factor in student success. I hope all students have the chance to meet others who share their interests. I also strongly encourage students to take advantage of opportunities outside the classroom—whether it’s networking, extracurricular activities, or simply broadening their horizons," Sidwell said.
Sidwell was chosen as one of five honorees selected to receive the 2023 National Institute of Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Awards.
Meet MCC Grad, MCC Foundation Board Member, & Senior Fiduciary Advisor at Disciplined Investors, Sabrina Moore!
Sabrina Moore began taking classes at MCC during her junior year at Waco High School. After leaving high school and earning her GED, Sabrina was searching for an inexpensive, accessible way to continue her education.
“Because of its affordability, scheduling flexibility, and supportive community, MCC made it possible for me to stay on track toward earning my degree, even with major challenges in my life.”
Sabrina enjoyed the small class sizes, high level academics, and the practical, hands-on opportunities MCC provided.
“One of the things that always stood out to me was the dedicated faculty who genuinely wanted to see students succeed. The support and guidance I received at MCC gave me the foundation I needed to complete my Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics.”
Today, Sabrina serves as the Senior Fiduciary Advisor at Disciplined Investors, working directly with clients to help them prepare a successful financial future and also serves on the MCC Foundation Board of Directors.