BROOKHAVEN — Co-Lin Community College President Dewayne Middleton gave a report on his first year as president to the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors Monday morning. He gave a similar report and update on the college last year at the start of his new job. 

Middleton thanked the Board for their support of the community college. He added they look forward to working together and being a strong partner. Co-Lin recently took on projects to improve the college experience in Wesson. 

“We are trying to make Co-Lin better for our students and the community we serve,” Middleton said. “This past year, we received two federal grants. Upward bound grants of $1.5 million will help at risk students attend college. We got a $1.75 million grant from FEMA for a safe room. It will be the largest safe room in Mississippi.” 

Fittingly for Middleton, a former basketball player at Co-Lin, the safe room will serve a dual purpose as a new basketball arena. Additionally, the arena will be able to host graduations and the start of Co-Lin’s women’s volleyball program. 

In athletics, Co-Lin had a phenomenal year. Football won the Heart of Texas bowl. Co-Lin’s Softball finished fourth in the nation and coaches Meleah Howard and Amber Beall were named coaches of the year. 

The Co-Lin baseball team reached the playoffs to snap a drought, and tennis won nationals in the consolation bracket. Women’s and Men’s Soccer reached the playoffs as well. 

“I’ve pushed our coaches to recruit in our district,” Middleton said. “We need local kids and local families to come to Co-Lin. We are grateful for what you do. Our college depends on the funding you provide. We hope to be an effective economic development partner. We appreciate your time.”