Coahoma Community College Tigers Football: A Legacy of Growth and Transformation

Coahoma Community College (CCC), a public historically black community college in unincorporated Coahoma County, Mississippi, has a rich history deeply intertwined with the educational and athletic development of its community. From its humble beginnings as an extension of an agricultural high school to its current status as a comprehensive community college, CCC has remained committed to providing opportunities for its students and fostering a vibrant campus environment. The college was founded in 1949 and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

From High School Extension to Community College

Coahoma Community College was founded in 1949 as an extension of Coahoma Agricultural High School (1924), Mississippi's first agricultural high school for black students. Upon the establishment of the college, the high school was renamed Coahoma Junior College and Agricultural High School. The college initially offered courses to black students under the separate but equal doctrine. Prior to 1945, the college was led by a superintendent.

Presidential Leadership: Guiding the College's Evolution

The leadership of Coahoma Community College has been instrumental in its growth and development. Several key figures have served as president, each contributing their unique vision and expertise to the institution.

Benjamin F. McLaurin (1945-1966)

Mr. Benjamin F. McLaurin (July 21, 1910 - May 2, 1988) served as the first President of the College from 1945-1966. He was married to the late Sezzie McLaurin. During his tenure, the high school grew into the college, offering its first college courses in 1949. Mr. B.F. McLaurin and Mrs. Sezzie McLaurin’s heritage can be found on the campus today. The B.F. McLaurin Vocational/Technical Center is named in his honor and a residential dorm for women is named in honor of the late Sezzie McLaurin.

James E. Miller (1966-1979)

The second President of the college was Mr. James E. Miller. He served the college from 1966-1979. Mr. Miller, a former English Instructor as the college, continued the legacy of establishing the then Coahoma Junior College as a catalyst to economic and educational growth in our community.

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McKinley C. Martin (1980-1992)

The third President of the College was Dr. Mckinley C. Martin (December 2, 1936 - January 10, 2024). He received degrees from Coahoma Junior College (AA), Jackson State University (BS), Delta State University (MS), Florida State University (PhD). Dr. Martin was president of Coahoma Junior College from 1980 - 1992. During his tenure the college continued to flourish. The plans to build the beautiful Pinnacle were began under his leadership as a building to support the community.

Vivian M. Presley (1992-2013)

Dr. Vivian M. Presley was the fourth president of Coahoma Community College. She was the first female president of any community college in the State of Mississippi. She served from 1992- 2013. During her time as president, in 1989, the Board of Trustees and State Board for Community and Junior Colleges approved renaming the junior college to Coahoma Community College. Additionally, in 1995, the Mississippi legislature granted the college its own district consisting of Bolivar, Coahoma, Quitman, Tallahatchie, and Tunica Counties. The beautiful CCC Administration Building is named in her honor.

Valmadge T. Towner (2013-Present)

Dr. Valmadge T. Towner serves as the current President of Coahoma Community College. He is the fifth President of the college and the second graduate of the college to serve as President. Dr. Towner began his tenure as president in 2013. During his time as President, the college continues to grow and flourish. There have been several building projects during this time, the campus began a tremendous beautification project and an increased focus on health with the additional of a track that is utilized by the community. Our football field/ stadium has undergone a wonderful makeover. Additionally, our academic, health science and career technical areas are continuing to develop scholastically.

Academic Programs and Student Support

Coahoma Community College offers a wide range of academic programs to meet the diverse needs of its students. A typical academic year contains two 15-week terms during the fall (August-December) and spring (January-May). Within the full terms are two accelerated eight-week terms each fall and spring, as well as a two-week winter session (December-January). The full summer term is eight weeks long (May-July) and contains two accelerated four-week terms. CCC has transfer agreements with every public four-year institution in Mississippi. CCC is a TRIO program participant through its Educational Talent Search program, which is a government-funded program that supports low-income and first-generation college students in achieving their postsecondary, career and economic goals. As of fall 2020, CCC's student body consisted of 1,612 students.

Athletics: The Coahoma Community College Tigers

CCC holds '"Mr. The CCC athletic association chairs six varsity athletic programs. The teams are collectively known as the Tigers. They belong to the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference and Region 23 of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). Men's sports include basketball, baseball and football. Women's sports include basketball and softball. CCC also chairs a co-ed track & field team.

The Coahoma Community College Tigers football program has a long and storied history, marked by periods of success, challenges, and unwavering dedication from players, coaches, and fans. While detailed historical records of the football program's performance are not readily available in the provided text, the recent stadium makeover mentioned in connection with President Towner's tenure signals a renewed commitment to athletics and providing a top-notch experience for student-athletes.

Notable Alumni

Several Coahoma Community College athletes have gone on to achieve success at higher levels, including professional sports. Three former Tigers were selected in the 2020 NFL Draft, a testament to the quality of the athletic program and the talent it attracts. Davion Taylor is one such example.

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