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Texas City Mayor Forges New Path Through COM PTEC Program
Newly elected Texas City Mayor Dedrick Johnson could be described as a renaissance man. The College of the Mainland (COM) alum and former Texas City Independent School District educator has served in a variety of civic leadership capacities including Texas City commissioner, church minister, NAACP member, and founder of leadership and special projects consulting group, Dedrick Johnson Productions.
College of the Mainland Board Report: December 8, 2020
A regular meeting of the board of trustees of College of the Mainland was held on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. in the COM Conference Center.
Center for Risk Management at Gulf Coast Safety Institute Announces New Classes for Spring 2021
The Center for Risk Management at College of the Mainland (COM) is pleased to announce its Spring 2021 course lineup focusing on the top compliance standards that comprise the most recent Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) “Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Violations” list. Each session will identify the compliance activities causing these standards to appear on the list along with corresponding safety and management practices to prevent these safety risks.
First-Generation College Student Shares Special Connection with Son at COM
Ginger Pace has always sought to set an example for her family that hard work pays off. After receiving her GED, she enrolled at College of the Mainland (COM) in 2017, becoming the first generation in her family to attend college. Pace’s journey at COM will soon culminate this month when she graduates with an Associate of Arts in General Studies.
College of the Mainland Unveils New League City Facility
It was an epic occasion as community leaders, elected officials, and faculty, staff and students welcomed College of the Mainland’s (COM) newest educational facility to League City on November 12 during the college’s ribbon cutting ceremony. Guests in attendance included COM President Dr. Warren Nichols, League City Mayor Pat Hallisey, Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith, Senator Larry Taylor, and Representatives Greg Bonnen and Mayes Middleton.
Father-son duos to be featured during upcoming COM Jazz Ensemble virtual concert
The College of the Mainland (COM) will hold a free virtual concert on November 17 at 8 p.m. for listeners to enjoy a pre-recorded music concert featuring the award-winning COM Jazz Ensemble.
COM Board Report: October 26, 2020
An update on the Title V Grant: El Camino Claro - A Clear Pathway to Student Success Year 5 Final Evaluation was presented by Dr. Tim Culver, VP for Student Success, Ruffalo Noel Levitz. A COM Theatre program update was presented by Theatre Director, H. Russ Brown.
Air Products donates $10,000 to COM Process Technology students
College of the Mainland’s Process Technology (PTEC) program has strengthened a growing partnership with Air Products through a $10,000 scholarship donation from the industrial gas and chemical company. The donation, which was formally recognized during COM’s September 28 Board of Trustees meeting, will fund four scholarships of $2,500 each for students in the college’s PTEC program.
College of the Mainland Board Report: September 28, 2020
A regular meeting of the board of trustees of College of the Mainland was held on Monday, September 28 at 1:30 p.m. in the COM Conference Center.
COM instruction and operations to resume Wednesday, September 23
At this time, all College of the Mainland classes (both online and in-person) and college operations are scheduled to resume Wednesday, September 23 according to the college’s current modified COVID operations. While the campus will reopen to students, faculty and staff who can safely travel, individuals should monitor local road conditions and make decisions in the best interest of personal safety.
Tropical Storm Beta Weather Update - September 21, 2020
Due to the potential for heavy rainfall and dangerous road conditions, in-person classes and on-campus operations at all College of the Mainland locations are cancelled tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22. All online classes and virtual operations will continue as scheduled tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22. Employees should continue working virtually as planned according to their normal schedule.
Tropical Storm Beta Weather Update - September 20, 2020
Out of an abundance of caution, in-person classes and on-campus operations at all College of the Mainland locations are cancelled tomorrow, Monday, September 21, 2020. All online classes and virtual operations will continue as scheduled tomorrow, Monday, September 21, 2020.
COM awarded $3 million Hispanic-Serving Institutions grant
The US Department of Education has awarded College of the Mainland (COM) a $3 million Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions (DHSIs) grant to support Hispanic students on their journey to a successful higher education experience. The grant provides financial assistance to help colleges expand educational opportunities for Hispanic and low-income students to enhance their academic offerings, program quality and institutional stability.
College of the Mainland Board Report: August 24, 2020
A regular meeting of the board of trustees of College of the Mainland was held on Monday, August 24, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. in the COM Conference Center.
College of the Mainland Resumes Operations
College of the Mainland Saturday classes will resume as scheduled tomorrow, August 29. All other classes (online and in-person) and college operations will resume on Monday, August 31 according to the college’s current modified COVID operations.
College of the Mainland Closure at Noon, August 25
Due to the approaching landfall of Hurricane Laura, College of the Mainland will officially close today at noon to allow students and employees to prepare for the storm. All classes (online and in-person) and all campus operations at all COM locations are cancelled today starting at noon through this Friday, August 28.
Hurricane Laura Alert – Tuesday, August 25, 2020
College of the Mainland (COM) officials continue to closely monitor Hurricane Laura ahead of her landfall. COM leadership will meet today to consider additional measures. The next update will be provided by Tuesday at 2:00 pm.
College of the Mainland Weather Update - August 24, 2020
College of the Mainland (COM) officials continue to closely monitor two tropical systems ahead of their potential impact to our region. Currently, COM continues to operate with most courses and services available online.
Back-to-School COVID-19 Safety Update
As we gear up for the start of our fall semester this coming Monday, we want to ensure that we provide a safe and successful learning experience this year. As we continue to navigate through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, please note the following regarding College of the Mainland’s latest guidelines and procedures for campus safety.
Board approves cost-savings measures for 2020-2021 year
During a special called meeting on Monday, August 10, the College of the Mainland Board of Trustees approved several cost-savings fiscal measures for the 2020-2021 budget year. The following measures will not raise tuition costs and could save up to $4.75 million in interest over the life of the college’s bond:
Local high school students get college-ready during Upward Bound Summer Academy
Summer is in full swing, but that did not stop the learning for one group of high school students participating in the College of the Mainland Upward Bound Summer Academy. During this year’s virtual program, rising ninth through twelfth grade students from Dickinson, Texas City, La Marque, and Hitchcock high schools participated in the annual event where students were provided with academic resources and support to prepare them for the upcoming school year and future college success.
300x300 statewide initiative to help Texans get back to work
College of the Mainland is proud to join with other community colleges around the state to help 300,000 Texans get back to work in the next 300 days. In development by the Texas Association of Community Colleges (TACC) to respond to the state’s current unemployment surge resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the 300x300 initiative will be created to rapidly equip displaced and underemployed workers with the skills needed to fill critical industry needs.
College of the Mainland announces Fall 2020 plan
College of the Mainland administration continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation and take the necessary actions to ensure that we provide a safe and successful learning experience for students during this challenging time. In light of the rising number of cases in the state, the college has made the decision to move all instruction possible to an online format for the Fall 2020 semester.
Cosmetology to host virtual open house on July 20
Explore College of the Mainland’s cutting-edge cosmetology program during a virtual open house on Monday, July 20 at 6 p.m. During the Facebook Live event, participants will have the opportunity to tour The Salon at College of the Mainland and have their questions answered during the live broadcast.
Police Department educates and protects on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic
For Officer Jacob Williams, working at COM during the past few months of the COVID-19 pandemic has served as a reminder on just how important his role is with the College of the Mainland Police Department (COM PD) during critical times. As an essential worker Williams is one of only a handful of employees working on campus during the pandemic.
Collegiate High School celebrates 2020 graduates with community car parade
Campuses may be closed, but that did not stop the celebration for College of the Mainland’s Class of 2020 Collegiate High School (CHS) graduates. During a socially distant drive-thru car parade held in the college’s parking lot on June 10, families remained in their vehicles as CHS staff and spectators gathered to cheer on graduates riding in vehicles adorned with balloons and personalized messages and well-wishes.
Tuition-free scholarship program expanded to Hitchcock students
College of the Mainland is pleased to announce $40,000 in donations for Hitchcock students to participate in the college’s Opening Doors Promise Scholarship program. Generously funded by the Hitchcock Economic Development Corporation (EDC), Associated Credit Union of Texas and the Hitchcock ISD Education Foundation, these donations will allow COM to expand the scholarship program to 2020 high school graduates of Hitchcock schools.
A message on diversity and equality
It is with great heartache that I speak to you to address the senseless death of Mr. George Floyd. As a former police officer, I am deeply saddened and troubled by the incident that we witnessed last week.
Kari Starz Named Employee of the Year
Congratulations to our 2019-2020 Employee of the Year, Kari Starz! Starz, a travel and event specialist in the College of the Mainland Office of Student Life, was chosen by her peers for the honor and recognized during a virtual celebration on May 27.
COM graduates join in the fight against COVID-19
College of the Mainland’s Associate Degree Nursing Program has held a longstanding reputation for training highly skilled nurses who are prepared for the rigor of a career in the health care industry. That training is now being put to work as COM nursing graduates join with millions of health care workers around the world in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Faculty and staff tackle online instruction through collaboration and ingenuity
A few short months ago, nursing instructor Nancy Theriault was prepping students for a variety of clinical scenarios in a traditional skills lab setting. But that all changed with the increasing threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A message from Dr. Warren Nichols
I want to extend my sincerest thanks and appreciation to our students for a job well done during the past weeks of transitioning classes to a digital platform. The incredible spirit of the College of the Mainland community has truly shined during this ongoing pandemic.
Maintenance tax note election postponed to November 3
Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, the College of the Mainland Board of Trustees approved postponing its maintenance tax note election to November 3, 2020.
Online classes extended through spring and summer semesters
In accordance with Governor Greg Abbott’s recent announcement extending social distancing measures and Texas school closures, College of the Mainland will continue providing online instruction to students through the end of the Spring 2020 semester. Additionally, COM will be moving all instruction possible to an online format for the Summer 2020 semesters and expects to resume face-to-face classroom instruction in the fall.
COM serves as meal distribution site for Texas City ISD families
In partnership with Texas City ISD, College of the Mainland recently served as a distribution site for food assistance last week on Monday, March 23. The effort highlights the college’s commitment to support its surrounding community during the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.
Deadline Extended for Opening Doors Promise Scholarship
In light of the current COVID-19 situation, College of the Mainland has extended the application deadline to May 15, 2020 for the ApplyTexas portion of its Opening Doors Promise Scholarship. The scholarship allows every qualifying high school student residing in Texas City or La Marque to attend COM full time, tuition free and earn an associate degree or complete a workforce training certificate program.
COM facilities to close until further notice
Effective, Tuesday, March 24 at 3 p.m., no students, employees or visitors are allowed in COM buildings or facilities, unless otherwise directed by COM officials.
A Message from COM President Dr. Warren Nichols
As we all try to navigate through this challenging time, I want to personally speak to our COM community and assure our college family that my thoughts are with each of you. With the health and well-being of our students, faculty and staff in mind, please know that the measures we have in place are being taken to keep our college community safe and prevent the broader spread of the coronavirus.
Classes resume with online instruction starting March 23
With the health and safety of students, faculty and staff in mind, College of the Mainland administration continues to monitor the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation and take the necessary actions to ensure that we provide a successful learning experience for students during this challenging time.
Anonymous donors gift La Marque High School students $40,000 for tuition-free college
College of the Mainland is pleased to announce a $40,000 anonymous donation for the college’s newly launched Opening Doors Promise Scholarship program. The gift, which marks the program’s first privately-funded donation, will work in tandem with the recently launched Texas City phase of the program and allows all Class of 2020 La Marque High School students to attend COM full time, tuition free.
College of the Mainland to extend Spring Break through March 20
As the impact of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation continues to grow, College of the Mainland will be extending its Spring Break through March 20. This measure is being taken proactively to keep students, staff and faculty safe and prevent the spread of the virus.
City of Texas City pledges $1 million for tuition-free college at College of the Mainland
While traditionally the prospect of a college education has often been financially out of reach for many students, College of the Mainland is breaking those financial barriers in a substantial way through its Opening Doors Promise Scholarship.
Center for Risk Management to hold Trench Safety and Heat Illness classes in April
The Center for Risk Management will host “Trench Safety: Why is this an OSHA Emphasis Program” on Friday, April 3, 2020 and “Heat Illness Prevention” on Friday, April 17, 2020. Sponsored by Texas Mutual Insurance Company, the classes are offered at no cost to anyone who would like to attend at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute, located at 320 Delany Road in La Marque, Texas.
College of the Mainland celebrates African American History Month
More than 200 students, employees and community members filled the College of the Mainland Conference Center for a diverse celebration of African American culture and history on February 25.
College of the Mainland awarded $100,000 Texas Mutual safety education grant
College of the Mainland (COM) was awarded a $100,000 grant from Texas Mutual Insurance Company to continue providing funding for the college’s Gulf Coast Safety Institute Center for Risk Management, which provides workplace safety courses for community employers, workers and the general public.
College of the Mainland exploring new options for child care services
For more than 30 years, College of the Mainland’s Child Development Lab School has operated as a top-quality child care option for students, employees and community members seeking an engaging learning experience for their children at an affordable price. However, due to the changing landscape of the school campus and budgetary constraints, COM administration has decided to explore new options for sustaining these services in a more cost-effective manner.
Art Gallery calls for entries in Juried High School Art Exhibition
The College of the Mainland Art Gallery will be accepting submissions of two-dimensional, three-dimensional and photography/digital works for its upcoming Juried High School Art Exhibition. Selected works will be exhibited in the COM Art Gallery from April 13-29, 2020.
College of the Mainland seeking to refinance tax notes in May 2 election
During a special called meeting on Thursday, February 13, College of the Mainland Board of Trustees approved placing the refinancing of the college’s maintenance tax notes on the upcoming May 2 voting ballot.
Graphic arts student creates winning design for 2020 Mardi Gras! Galveston
In a sea of purple, green and gold, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd. But College of the Mainland graphic arts student, Jennifer Crawford, did just that after earning top honors in the 2020 Mardi Gras! Galveston Poster Contest.
Artist Luis Corpus to hold gallery talk at COM Art Gallery on February 19
Explore the dynamic drawings of artist Luis Corpus at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery’s current exhibition Hydrogen, Oxygen, Carbon. On view now through February 19, the show features a variety of mixed media pieces that embody the spirit and dual nature of the Mexican American people illustrated through material gathered from the Rio Grande region.
COM Theatre’s “The Tin Woman” Receives Kennedy Center Honors
The College of the Mainland Theatre was recently recognized by the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) for its work in the currently-running production, “The Tin Woman.” The KCACTF is a national theater program that works to improve the quality of college theater in the United States through a network of more than 700 academic institutions throughout the country.
Texas Workforce Commission Awards Funding for Process Operator Training
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) presented the College of the Mainland Foundation with a Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant during a check presentation at its recent board meeting on January 27.
Nursing Program Introduces New Layer of Convenience
College of the Mainland is committed to offering flexible learning options to meet the needs of all learners. Accordingly, the Nursing Department is pleased to announce the launch of its online pre-nursing orientation.
Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 28
In honor of the life and legacy of the historic civil rights leader, College of the Mainland will host its annual Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration on Tuesday, January 28 at 12:30 p.m. in the COM Conference Center.
COM Graduate Finds Support Through Student Life Opportunities
For many students, college is a time of discovery, not only in the classroom, but also in life. Anthony “AJ” Taylor is one such student.
College of the Mainland Board of Trustees Approve New League City Facility
During its regular meeting on Wednesday, December 11, the College of the Mainland Board of Trustees unanimously approved the leasing of a new educational facility located in League City. The approved facility will serve as a secondary site to house general education and dual credit classes for students in League City, Friendswood, Dickinson, Kemah and other north Galveston County cities.
COM Foundation Recognizes Outstanding Community Contributions
The stars were shining brightly during the College of the Mainland Foundation’s inaugural Texas Stars Donor Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, November 16, 2019. Held at the COM Conference Center, dozens of benefactors and guests gathered for a brilliant evening celebrating their philanthropic support for the Foundation.
Gulf Coast Safety Institute’s Center for Risk Management to Hold Incident Investigation Class
The Center for Risk Management at College of the Mainland will host “Incident Investigation” on Friday, December 6, 2019 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute, 320 Delany Rd. in La Marque, Texas.
Kennedy Center Recognizes COM Theatre With Top Accolades
The College of the Mainland Theatre was recently recognized by the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) for its work in the currently-running production, “Peter and the Starcatcher.”
COM Concert Band to Hold Free Concert on December 2
The College of the Mainland Concert Band will hold a free concert at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, December 2 in the Fine Arts Building Theatre on campus.
Kimbark Selected for Texas Women in Higher Education Board
College of the Mainland Dean of Students Dr. Kris Kimbark has been selected to serve on the Texas Women in Higher Education (TWHE) board of directors. The TWHE works to develop, advance and support women employed at colleges and universities across the state by providing the skills needed to reach leadership positions and to enhance the leadership skills of those already in such roles.
Veterans Day Program to Honor Those Who Served
In honor of those who served and sacrificed in the U.S. Armed Forces, College of the Mainland’s Office for Veteran Success will host its annual Veterans Day Program on Tuesday, November 12 at noon in the Conference Center on campus.
Newest Theatre Production Revives a Childhood Classic in “Peter and the Starcatcher”
Join the College of the Mainland Community Theatre for a thrilling adventure in “Peter and the Starcatcher” from November 7-24. The newest theatre production will tell the story of how an unassuming orphan comes to be the beloved Peter Pan. Filled with marauding pirates, jungle tyrants, mermaids and unlikely heroes, the lively show playfully explores the depths of greed and despair and the bonds of friendship, duty and love.
Monster Musik Guitar Concert to Showcase Student Musical Talent
Spooky sounds and frightful melodies await at College of the Mainland’s 16th annual Monster Musik Guitar Concert. The acoustic guitar concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 24 in the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall on campus.
October 2019 Employee of the Month – Jerri Glenn
While tackling compliance assurance and financial audits may seem like a daunting task for some, this work drives Jerri Glenn to excel at College of the Mainland.
Government Professor Explores American Democracy in National Polling Project
College of the Mainland government professor, Shinya Wakao, recently participated in the thought-provoking America in One Room national polling project. The project, which garnered national coverage with The New York Times and CNN, comprised a random sampling of more than 500 Americans representing diverse age, racial and political backgrounds who were brought together to discuss a range of social and political issues confronting the country in the upcoming 2020 presidential campaign.
College of the Mainland to Host Water Safety Event on Saturday, October 5
College of the Mainland invites the public to an interactive day of water and boating safety during its Kayak Demo Day from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Lake Eckert on the college campus. This free event will serve as a unique opportunity for the entire community to join together for a collaborative day of learning with presentations on CPR, proper boating and safety techniques and life jacket demonstrations.
College of the Mainland Employees Donate Supplies to Hitchcock Schools
For the seventh year, employees from College of the Mainland teamed up with local schools to ensure that area students and teachers have a successful start to the new school year.
College of the Mainland Expands Lifelong Learning Classes to Dickinson
As requested by citizens of Dickinson, College of the Mainland will soon be offering a selection of some unique, fascinating, healthful and fun Lifelong Learning classes at its new Dickinson location in the Historical Railroad Center starting October 7.
College of the Mainland and Sam Houston State University Sign Unique Joint Agreement to Share Students
In an uncommon move that will allow students enrolled in a community college to concurrently enroll in a four-year university, College of the Mainland and Sam Houston State University (SHSU) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement that enables students to have joint admission at both institutions.
College of the Mainland Adopts “No New Revenue” Tax Rate
Trustees for College of the Mainland voted unanimously to adopt a new tax rate of 0.00204254 for fiscal year 2019. The new approved tax rate reflects a 4 percent decrease from the 2018 tax rate. As a result, those in the college’s taxing districts could see a decrease in their annual property tax amount, depending on the appraised value of their property.
Additional Pedestrian Access Closures Starting Thursday, September 19
Due to ongoing campus construction, pedestrian access from Parking Lot F to the Math/Science Building and Learning Resources Center will be closed starting Thursday, September 19.
Theater Director Receives Houston Press Theatre Award
H. Russ Brown, Head of Theatre/Artistic Director at College of the Mainland was recently honored as Best Fight Director in the 2019 Houston Press Theatre Awards for his fight choreography on the Alley Theatre’s recent hit production of The Three Musketeers.
Piano Professor Performs at Smithsonian
Dr. Paul Boyd, a piano professor at College of the Mainland, performed in concert a song cycle, “Who Am I?”, at the Smithsonian recently. The sold-out performance was received with a standing ovation.
Be Part of a Sound Adventure at College of the Mainland
A sound adventure is happening at College of the Mainland’s Instrumental Music Department. The end of summer will bring back the performing ensembles at COM and area musicians are invited to become part of that sound adventure. The ensembles include the Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, Guitar Orchestra and Saxophone Ensemble. Each group is looking for musicians who are interested in being involved in group performance.
Benefits Fair for COM Employees Set
College of the Mainland employees are encouraged to attend a Benefits Fair hosted by the Human Resources Department on Wednesday, June 5.
More Than 900 Graduate from College of the Mainland
More than 900 College of the Mainland students earned associate degrees and certificates during commencement ceremonies held Saturday, May 18.
Robles Named COM Scholar
Rosecel Robles will graduate from College of the Mainland on Saturday as only the second student in school history to be designated a COM Scholar.
New App Aimed to Assist Students Now Available
An app for a new management system aimed at giving College of the Mainland students to stay on the right pathway and provide guidance from registration to graduation is now available to download on students’ mobile phones.
COM Job Fair Attracts More Than 30 Employers
More than 30 businesses and organizations took part in a spring Job Fair for College of the Mainland students to secure employment.
Three Elected to COM Board of Trustees
Voters in the College of the Mainland Taxing District elected three new members to the COM Board of Trustees.
COM Participates in Cinco de Mayo Parade
College of the Mainland was well represented during the Cinco de Mayo parade in Texas City.
2019 COM Commencement Ceremonies Set for May 18
Commence ceremonies for College of the Mainland are scheduled for Saturday, May 18 at Abundant Life Center in La Marque.
Collegiate High School Recognizes Graduates
More than 100 area high school students were honored during the 15th annual Collegiate High School Recognition Banquet on May 2.
Community Offers Support for COM Scholarships
Seeing a need for financial support, some area organizations and individuals have contributed toward scholarships for well-deserving College of the Mainland students.
COM Hosts Annual Veterans Fair
The College of the Mainland Office for Veteran Success hosted its annual Veterans Health, Resource & Employment Fair on April 25.
Three COM Trustees Attend Their Last Board Meeting
Three College of the Mainland Board of Trustee members said their good-byes at the April 29 meeting. The three – Rachel Delgado, Rosalie Kettler and Bennie Matthews – all chose not to seek re-election.
COM Cosmetology Students Take Part in Operation Cinderella
College of the Mainland cosmetology students provided their services free of charge on Saturday, April 27 to high school students about to attend their prom during their annual Operation Cinderella project.
COM Celebrates Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month
Asian fashion and food highlighted this year’s Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month held on April 30 in the COM Conference Center.
COM Students Recognized at Academic Symposium
College of the Mainland hosted the seventh annual Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Academic Symposium on April 26 and four COM students walked away with top honors.
COM PTEC Team Takes Third at National Competition
A Process Technology team from College of the Mainland placed third among teams from across the country in the North American Process Technology Alliance Troubleshooting Skills Competition held over the weekend.
Grand Opening Held for Renovated Student Center; Dedication of Bennie Matthews Commons
College of the Mainland held a grand opening for its renovated Student Center on Monday, April 29 and also dedicated the first floor of the building in honor of longtime Trustee Bennie Matthews.
COM Among Industrial Trade Show Participants
College of the Mainland was well represented at this year’s Industrial Trade Show held at the Doyle Convention Center.
Collegiate High School Highlights Rotary Meeting
College of the Mainland programs were recently highlighted during presentations to the Rotary Club of Texas City.
COM Trustee Bennie Matthews Recognized
The Galveston County Commissioner’s Court on Monday, April 22 approved a resolution honoring longtime College of the Mainland Trustee Bennie Matthews.
Early Voting Begins for COM Trustee Election
Today is the start of early voting for various municipal elections, including the College of the Mainland trustee election. Voters within Galveston County can cast a ballot at any of the early voting locations throughout the county, including the COM Conference Center and the north county learning center in League City.
Easter Bunny Pays a Visit to COM Lab School
The Easter Bunny made a surprise visit to the children at the College of the Mainland Child Development Lab School.
COM Lifelong Learning Center Students Earn Art Show Awards
Students from College of the Mainland’s Lifelong Learning Center walked away with awards for their remarkable art work during the 20th Annual Texas City Art Festival.
Fliger Named VP of Instruction, Awaits Board Approval
Following a nation-wide search, College of the Mainland has extended an offer to Dr. Jerry Fliger to serve as Vice President of Instruction.
Phi Theta Kappa Installs New Members
Forty-five students at College of the Mainland were welcomed into the Sigma Delta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa honor society this year. An induction ceremony was held on April 12 at the COM Conference Center.
COM Students Take Part in Trash Bash
More than a dozen College of the Mainland students and employees helped pick up litter along Dickinson Bayou as part of this year’s River, Lakes, Bay ‘N Bayous Trash Bash on March 30.
COM Registration Opens In Renovated Student Center
The signs said it all. Registration for the 2019 Summer and Fall classes was moved from the Enrollment Center to the Student Center on the first day of registration – April 9.
Nichols Gives State of Education Address
College of the Mainland President Dr. Warren Nichols was one of three guest speakers at the annual State of Education breakfast hosted by the League City Regional Chamber of Commerce on April 4.
Employees Recognized at Dinner
College of the Mainland employees were treated to an Employee Recognition Dinner complete with a casino night.
Tinsley Named Employee of the Year
Johnny Tinsley, a maintenance worker at College of the Mainland, was selected as the 2018-2019 Employee of the Year at the college.
PTK Says Thanks to Maintenance and Facilities Staff
Members of Phi Theta Kappa honor society paid it forward on March 1 when they hosted a “Serving Those Who Serve Us” luncheon to recognize the maintenance and facilities staff at College of the Mainland.
Donors, Students Gather for Appreciation Luncheon
More than 200 gathered for the annual Student & Donor Appreciation Luncheon on May 8 to thank those who generously contributed toward scholarship for College of the Mainland students.
Abduction Survivor Shares Her Story
Motivational speaker and child abduction survivor Jennifer Schuett told her incredible story during Women’s History Month celebration at College of the Mainland.
Employees Relocating to Student Center
The Administration Building/Enrollment Center will close at noon on Friday, April 5, as employees who work in the building relocate to the newly renovated Student Center.
Dedication of Student Center Commons Planned
Students, faculty and staff are invited to the grand opening of the renovated Student Center and dedication of the Bennie Matthews Commons on Monday, April 29.
COM Representatives Attend Galveston County Day at the Capitol
More than 200 Galveston County representatives, including some from College of the Mainland, attended the 2019 Galveston County Day at the Capitol on March 6.
Early voting for COM Board of Trustees Begins April 22
Early voting for the College of the Mainland trustee election begins April 22. Election Day is set for Saturday, May 4.
New Management System Aimed at Helping Students Succeed
As College of the Mainland works to achieve its goal of Student Success, a new student success management system is being implemented.
COM's Marketing and Public Affairs Team Recognized at Conference
The College of the Mainland Marketing & Public Affairs Department was recognized with two silver awards at the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District IV Annual Conference held in Grapevine, Texas.
COM Board of Trustees Approves New Contract for College President
The College of the Mainland Board of Trustees on Monday unanimously approved a new contract of college President Dr. Warren Nichols.
March Madness Comes to COM
Get in on the March Madness fun on Wednesday, March 6 in the COM Gym.
COM Students Competing for Theater Awards
Theater students from College of the Mainland received Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival awards and will compete with students from a five-state region later this month in Abilene.
Candidates File for Positions on COM Board of Trustees
Four candidates have filed for a position on the College of the Mainland Board of Trustees, including a current student. The election is set for Saturday, May 4.
COMPeers Host Valentine's Day Pizza Party
More than 20 volunteers from College of the Mainland hosted a Valentine’s Day-themed evening for residents at Ronald McDonald House Galveston on Friday, Feb. 8.
COM Students Attend Day at the Capitol
About 35 College of the Mainland students traveled to Austin to attend Community College Day at the Texas Capitol last month.
COM Named a Military Friendly School
College of the Mainland has been listed as one of the nation’s top Military Friendly Schools for providing veterans and their spouses with the best opportunities for post-secondary education.
COM Staff and Faculty Gather for Spring Convocation
The new COM Conference Center served as the hub for Spring Convocation on Jan. 14 as staff and faculty members gathered to hear an update on the college from President Dr. Warren Nichols.
College of the Mainland Assist Local Authorities
College of the Mainland lent its support to local authorities when various law enforcement agencies and volunteers joined forces to search for a missing 7-year-old boy.
COM Employees Helping Federal Workers
College of the Mainland employees are joining forces with others within Galveston County to aid federal workers impacted by the government shutdown.
Climate Survey Extended to COM Employees
College of the Mainland employees are being asked for their views on the college’s learning environment.
COM Employees Surpass United Way Goal
College of the Mainland employees raised $13,000 during this year’s United Way campaign. The mark surpassed the goal of $12,000.
COM Hosts Elected Officials
College of the Mainland hosted a Legislative Breakfast on Monday, Nov. 19 to share its goals and successes with local elected officials.
COMPeers Collecting Toys for Blue Santa
New and unwrapped toys are being collected by COMPeers in support of the Texas City Police Department’s Blue Santa program.
COM Math Instruction Received Recognition
A College of the Mainland math program aimed at helping underprepared students which has seen great success received distinguished recognition at a recent statewide conference.
College of the Mainland Offers College Application and Financial Aid Assistance
Applying for college and financial aid can be confusing so College of the Mainland employees hosted a Generation Texas Challenge application event to help students and their parents with the process.
Voters Say "Yes" to COM Bond
Voters within the College of the Mainland Taxing District overwhelmingly approved a $162.5 million bond referendum on Tuesday, Nov. 6, paving the way for the construction of three new academic buildings on the Texas City campus.
Voters Deciding on COM Referendum
Voters will decide the outcome of the College of the Mainland’s $162.5 million bond referendum tomorrow - Tuesday, Nov. 6 – as well as other mid-term election positions in federal, state and local elections.
Ching Recognized as November Employee of the Month
Lorrin Ching, according to a co-worker, has a willingness to help others. That description was spot on when Ching helped save a man’s life in September despite risking his own life.
COM Kicks Off United Way Campaign
Helping others is something College of the Mainland employees are known for doing. Whether in the aftermath of a natural disaster like Hurricane Harvey or aiding someone suffering from an illness, the COM family is there.
New GPS Logo Selected
The vote is in for a logo to represent the Guided Pathways at College of the Mainland.
COM Conference Center Opens
The new College of the Mainland Conference Center opened with great fanfare the afternoon of Monday, Oct. 22 with more than 350 community members and COM employees in attendance.
Community Events on Tap
As a community college, College of the Mainland students, staff and faculty are known for giving back to the community. This will be evident in the coming weeks as COM participates in the Bay Area Heart Walk and the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Southeast Texas fun run.
COMPeers Continue to Support Community
COMPeers, a College of the Mainland employee volunteer group, is partnering with the Texas City Police Department for this year’s Blue Santa program as the continues to support community groups and initiatives throughout Galveston County.
Abandoned Duck Eggs and Nests Being Removed
Ducks on the College of the Mainland campus are prevalent. So are duck eggs.
Six Honored with COM Distinguished Service Award
Two College of the Mainland employees and four student nurses were honored Tuesday, Oct. 16 with the college’s first ever Distinguished Service Award for their efforts in resuscitating and saving a man’s life on campus.
COM Student Nurses Help Resuscitate and Revive Electrician on Campus
Four nursing students at College of the Mainland, who were on break from a medical management of defibrillation cardiac resuscitation (CPR) class, jumped into action Sept. 19 when an electrician was electrocuted.
COM Staff and Students Offered Free Tickets to COM Theater Productions
All College of the Mainland students, faculty and staff can attend the 2018-2019 performances at COM Theater for free with proof of a COM identification card. Senior students enrolled at COM are eligible to attend performance previews free of charge.
Kerry Kloesel Named October Employee of the Month
If you were to look up multi-tasking, chances are you would find Kerry Kloesel’s picture. Kloesel serves as the administrative assistant for 15 full-time faculty members, 30 adjuncts and about 140 course sections per semester. Her dedication to her job and positive demeanor has earned her the Employee of the Month for October.
Admin Building Floods During Downpour
An overnight downpour on Sept. 11 created street flooding causing classes at College of the Mainland to be canceled but also created major damage to the Administration Building.
COM Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
During Hispanic Heritage Month, the College of the Mainland celebrated Puerto Rico. Authentic Puerto Rican food and music was on tap on Tuesday, Oct. 2.
COMPeers Hosting Annual Chili Cook Off
The fall season is upon us (so says the calendar) which means it’s time for a chili cook off.
Register to Vote in November Election
Residents within the College of the Mainland taxing district have until Tuesday, Oct. 9 to register to vote in order to decide on a $162.5 million bond referendum.
COM Sees Record Enrollment
Student enrollment for College of the Mainland this fall is the largest in school history with 5,918 students registered for credit courses and continuing education.
College of the Mainland to Dedicate Student Center for Trustee Bennie Matthews
The College of the Mainland Board of Trustees plans to dedicate the first floor of the renovated Student Center on campus after long-time trustee Bennie Matthews.
COM Pharmacy Tech Program No. 1 in Texas
The Pharmacy Technician program at College of the Mainland has been ranked No. 1 in Texas by the Pharmacy Technician Guide.
COM Board of Trustees Approves Budget
Board of Trustees for College of the Mainland approved a $35.9 million operating budget for the 2018-2019 academic school year which starts on Sept. 1.
COMPeers Donate School Supplies to Santa Fe Schools
Employees from College of the Mainland delivered a large assortment of school supplies to students in the Santa Fe school district on Aug. 28.
COM Welcomes Largest Class in School History
Classes for the Fall 2018 semester began at College of the Mainland on Monday with the largest number of credit students enrolled in school history – 4,708 students.
COM Foundation Honoring Three
The College of the Mainland Foundation is honoring three alumni as this year’s Distinguished Alumni recipients. The three - Tanya Elise Baker, William McGarvey and Michael Navarro - are being recognized for outstanding contributions to COM and the community through their professional and personal excellence. The trio will be recognized at the foundation’s gala on Sept. 27.
Campus Renovations and Proposed Expansion Highlight 2018 Fall Convocation
The 2018 fall semester at College of the Mainland began with the traditional Convocation lead by college President Dr. Warren Nichols on Monday, Aug. 20. Nichols gave a presentation on the upcoming $162.5 million bond referendum on Nov. 6 to employees during a morning meeting in LRC-131 and an overflow crowd in TVB 1101. The informational report detailed how the bond package mirrors the college’s Academic Master Plan.
COM Conference Center Set to Open Oct. 22
All College of the Mainland employees and students are invited to the grand opening of the COM Conference Center on Monday, Oct. 22. Community members from throughout Galveston County also are being invited to the grand opening and to tour facility improvements on campus.
COM Among Voting Locations Announced for Nov. 6 Election
College of the Mainland will be one of many early voting and election day polling locations for the upcoming Nov. 6 election, the Galveston County Elections Division announced. The COM Learning Center in League City also is a designated voting location.
Three COM Employees Named to "40 Under 40" List
Three College of the Mainland employees were named to the inaugural Galveston Daily News 40 Under 40 list. The three “movers and shakers” include Sheena Abernathy, Matthew Busby and Sean Skipworth.
Lab School Kitchen Gets Gold Ribbon Again
For the tenth year in a row, the kitchen at the College of the Mainland Lab School earned a Gold Ribbon Award from the Galveston County Health District.
2018 Almanac on Texas Higher Education Available Online
Each year the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) publishes a Texas Public Higher Education Almanac which profiles every institution’s performance characteristics. The almanac for this year was recently released and available online.
COM and Texas Tech University Sign Articulation Agreement
College of the Mainland and Texas Tech University have entered into an articulation agreement paving the way for COM students to seamlessly transfer to Texas Tech after completing an associate degree.
Massage Therapy Program Offered at COM
College of the Mainland is offering a new program in Massage Therapy starting this fall.
Skipworths Establish IMPACT Scholarship
When water rose into the Dickinson home of Sean and Melissa Skipworth during Hurricane Harvey, the couple experienced an outpouring of support from the community, including former College of the Mainland students of COM professor Sean Skipworth. The couple’s gratitude gave them the idea to pay it forward. The couple has endowed the Sean & Melissa Skipworth IMPACT Scholarship. Sean Skipworth has been a Social and Behavioral Sciences faculty member at COM since 2012 and Melissa Skipworth is serving her first term on the COM Board of Trustees.
Finish Faster Initiative After One Year
A College of the Mainland initiative aimed at helping underprepared students complete required English and math classes is proving successful after a year of implementation.
COMPeers Volunteer at Ronald McDonald House
COMPeers, a College of the Mainland employee volunteer group, paid a visit to the Ronald McDonald House and its residents in Galveston on Saturday, June 30.
Eggs Relocated from Student Center Construction Area
COM employees who office in the Student Center recently had to relocate while the Student Center undergoes renovations. They weren’t the only ones who moved.
"Go-To" Massey Named July Employee of the Month
Her job title is administrative assistant but to those that work with her, she is best described as the “go-to” person. If anyone in the Cosmetology Department at College of the Mainland has a question, the first person they ask is Monica Massey. Massey’s attention to detail and at-ease personality are some of the reasons she was nominated and named July Employee of the Month.
COM Testing Center Open to Community
The testing center at the College of the Mainland is available to community members to take proctored exams from Texas Commission on Fire Protection to Microsoft proficiency.
College of the Mainland Trustees Call for $162.5 Million Bond Election
With students and their success as the focus, the College of the Mainland Board of Trustees on Monday, June 25 unanimously approved calling for a $162.5 million November bond election to expand the aging Texas City campus with plans for three new buildings.
High School Students Getting Summer College Experience at COM
About 70 students from area high schools are getting the experience of attending college by participating in a six-week Upward Bound Summer Academy at College of the Mainland – the 11th year the college has hosted students as part of a U.S. Department of Education grant.
Industry Representatives Visit Campus
Representatives from various Texas City industrial plants toured the Process Technology Department on June 11 and shared suggestions with College of the Mainland administrators on improving and expanding the college’s industrial careers.
Construction Projects Continue on Campus
Work continues around the College of the Mainland campus as construction crews prepare to refurbish the Student Center and upgrade the chemistry lab.
COM Plans Juneteenth Celebration
College of the Mainland will commemorate Juneteenth with speakers, music and poetry readings on Tuesday, June 19 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the LRC breezeway.
COM Offers Support to Santa Fe ISD
A week after tragedy struck Santa Fe High School, volunteers at College of the Mainland gathered to remember those lost their lives and show support for the Santa Fe school district.
Memorial Day Remembrance
The names of each Galveston County serviceman who died during combat while defending the United States was read aloud during a Memorial Day Remembrance ceremony at College of the Mainland on Thursday, May 24. A total of 306 names were called out.
Deteriorating Tiles Removed Around Flag Pole
Tiles with the names of donors that have adorned an area around the flag pole at College of the Mainland’s Administration Building over the years have weathered and deteriorated. Recently, the decision was made to remove all the tiles and recognize the donors at another location.
Collegiate High School Honors Graduates
Eighty area high school students were honored during the 14th annual Collegiate High School Recognition Banquet on Tuesday, May 15.
Be Prepared for Hurricane Season
The 2018 Hurricane Season starts Friday, June 1. Be prepared!
College of the Mainland Graduates Largest Class in History
College of the Mainland held commencement ceremonies Saturday, May 12 to recognize 780 students – the largest graduating class in school history- who received more than 809 awards.
FIGHT! Just Playing
COM Theatre Students Take Knife and Unarmed Skills Test
Memorial Day Remembrance Planned
A remembrance of every Galveston County service member who has died in combat will be observed during a Memorial Day observance at College of the Mainland on Thursday, May 24.
PTK Inducts New Members
More than 20 students at College of the Mainland were inducted into the Sigma Delta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa honor society on April 12.
Emergency Alarms: What Do They Mean?
The City of Texas City sounded the emergency sirens when an explosion and fire erupted at the Valero Refinery Texas City Refinery on April 19. One of the city’s sirens is located across the street from College of the Mainland, which made the alarm prominent. During the emergency, many questions arose as to what to do when a siren sounds. Does it mean everyone should stay inside? Evacuate their building? Should employees get in their cars and leave, especially since the siren sounded around 5 p.m.
COM Student Receives National PTK Award
Jeremiah Lewis, a Collegiate High School student at College of the Mainland, received a Phi Theta Kappa 2018 Distinguished Chapter Member Award during the organization’s national convention in Kansas City, Missouri.
COM and GISD Sign Articulation Agreement
The College of the Mainland and the Galveston Independent School District signed an articulation agreement on April 19 enabling students at Ball High School to receive college credit for some courses taken while in high school.
COM Hosts Sixth Annual Academic Symposium
College of the Mainland hosted the sixth annual Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Academic Symposium on April 20 and two COM students walked away with top honors. The symposium – Narrating the Human Footprint - featured 120 participants with more than 25 student presenters. COM student served as hosts and COM faculty and staff were judges and moderators.
Celebrate Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month
The Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month is usually celebrated in May but College of the Mainland’s multicultural committee can’t wait and will celebrate on Tuesday, April 24 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. in the Student Center.
College of the Mainland Joins Houston GPS
College of the Mainland is the latest institution to join the Houston Guided Pathways to Success (GPS) alliance, a regional collaboration that provides a timely, structured and seamless pathway for students transferring from Gulf Coast-Houston area community colleges to Houston area universities. The overarching goal is to increase college completion rates.
Construction at Physical Education Building Begins
The fencing is up and construction crews have started work as College of the Mainland gets some much needed improvements to facilities. The first project involves the gymnasium where the swimming pool – which was closed years ago – was filled in to make way for a large multi-purpose conference center able to accommodate 500 people. The pool was covered with flowable fill – a liquid soil comprised of cement, water, fine aggregate and fly ash.
COM President Participates in Higher Education Panel Discussion
College of the Mainland President Dr. Warren Nichols was part of a panel discussion at a Higher Education Breakfast on Thursday, April 5 at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook.
PTEC Students Head to National Troubleshooting Skills Competition
Four Process Technology students from College of the Mainland will travel to Louisiana to compete in the North American Process Technology Alliance Troubleshooting Skills Competition on April 20 and 21.
Henriquez Named Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar
Maria Henriquez, a Collegiate High School student at College of the Mainland, has been named a 2018 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
Three College of the Mainland Students Named to All-Texas Academic Team
Three College of the Mainland students were named to the All-Texas Academic Team from among Texas community colleges.
COM Seeks Input for Academic Master Plan
Getting feedback from the community is key aspect of formulating the College of the Mainland’s long-range Academic Master Plan and Dr. Steve Sewell, COM’s Dean of Academic programs, sought more feedback on Wednesday, March 21.
COM Students Awarded $229,225 in Scholarships
The reoccurring theme of the College of the Mainland Education Foundation Student and Donor Appreciation Luncheon on Thursday, March 8 was Thank You.
Center for Harvey fast track training accepting students
As area residents impacted by Hurricane Harvey work to repair their homes, many are finding a shortage of construction workers, electricians and others who can do the work. A new College of the Mainland Construction Trades Center which offers courses in construction trades will be able to prepare needed workers through a Hurricane Harvey Fast-Track training.
Gym Closing
Recently announced plans to improve and modernize facilities on College of the Mainland campus are on track to start later this month and involves the closing of the gym.
Free College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble Concert
The College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble is presenting a free concert for the community on Tuesday, March 20 in the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall on campus at 7:30 p.m.
March Employee of the Month Cindy Cobb
Cindy Cobb has one biological daughter but as an Administrative Assistant for the Humanities Department at College of the Mainland, she has gained lots of “kids” of all ages.
COM Seeks Input at Academic Master Plan Community Forums
College of the Mainland is hosting community forums to gather community input about additions to the college’s academic course offerings.
Mechanical Maintenance Tech Student Learns from the Best
Melvin Robertson is just one of three mechanical maintenance technician students who received an apprenticeship with INEOS Olefins and Polymers in 2017.
January Employee of the Month Ashton Kimbark
January’s Employee of the Month, Ashton Kimbark, works behind the scenes to keep all that record-keeping as simple and user-friendly as possible.
Mexican Consulate Grants $28,000 to COM for Student Scholarships
Mexican Consulate Grants $28,000 to COM for Student Scholarships
COM President Receives The Rising Star award
The Texas City/La Marque Chamber recognized COM President Dr. Warren Nichols with the Rising Star award at its January 18 membership banquet.
COM Trustees Appoint Christine Brasher as Staff Attorney
College of the Mainland trustees have appointed Christine Brasher to the new position of staff attorney. COM has never before had such a position. In remarks to the board, President Dr. Warren Nichols said the staff attorney will save the college “considerably” in fees instead of using outside attorneys on routine matters.
COM Students Make All-State Band
Austin Kelton and Daniel Watson, both music majors at College of the Mainland, have been selected via audition to perform with the Texas Community College Band Directors All-State Jazz Ensemble.
COM's New Co-Requisite Program a Proven Winner for Students
In fall 2017, College of the Mainland implemented a new academic initiative to help underprepared students entering college succeed in higher rates and complete their college goals more quickly.
Ambitious Renovation Projects Ready to Ramp Up at College of the Mainland
Fifty-one years after the college was founded, the campus is about to begin the first phase of a major “overhaul”—with extensive renovation projects beginning on the college’s aging infrastructure, its familiar Student Center, gymnasium, and chemistry lab.
COM Employee of the Month
For Employee of the Month Trudy Trochesset, College of the Mainland has been part of her life almost as long as she can remember. Now, as controller, she is a vital part of the college’s life as well.
COM Trustees Lease Training Space to Address Shortage of Construction Workers
COM Trustees Lease Training Space to Address Shortage of Construction Workers
COM to present Jazz Ensemble concert Dec. 12
COM to present Jazz Ensemble concert Dec. 12
English professor named COM’s online instructor of the year
English professor named COM’s online instructor of the year
COM to celebrate Native American heritage Tuesday
COM to celebrate Native American heritage Tuesday
COM Art Gallery calls for entries in ‘Transformation’ photo exhibit
COM Art Gallery calls for entries in ‘Transformation’ photo exhibit
COM International Affairs Speaker Series presents Gordon Chang on North Korea crisis
COM International Affairs Speaker Series presents Gordon Chang on North Korea crisis
COM Saxophone Ensemble to present free concert Nov. 16
COM Saxophone Ensemble to present free concert Nov. 16
COM Concert Band will hold free concert Nov. 20
Concert Band
COM student art show entries to be accepted through Nov. 3
Entries for the Student Art Exhibition 2017 at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery are being accepted between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, Oct. 23 – Nov. 3.
PBK Architects of Houston Presents Check to Help COM Students
Alan Stilts, associate principal and higher education regional manager at PBK, made a donation of $1,500 to College of the Mainland Foundation to assist students impacted by Hurricane Harvey.
COM Dallas Pottery Invitational display ends Monday
Monday is the last day for patrons to see "A Decade of the Dallas Pottery Invitational" at the COM Gallery.
COM ceramics program to take part in ARToberfest
COM students will show their ceramic creations at Galveston ARToberFest Oct. 20-21
COM’s Jazz Ensemble schedules free concert
The College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble will present a free concert at 7:30 p.m.
COM board approves $16.2 million in maintenance tax notes for facilities improvements
The College of the Mainland Board of Trustees approved selling $16.19 million in maintenance tax notes during a public called meeting recently, paving the way to addressing some of the college’s pressing facility needs.
Concerned Alums form ‘Adopt a Gator’ Scholarship Fund
Four Dickinson High School 1989 graduates put their Gator spirit to work in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, joining forces to create and promote a scholarship fund specifically for current Dickinson high school students to attend College of the Mainland, either through the Collegiate High School are as entering students next year.
Increase workplace safety with 10- and 30-Hour OSHA outreach training
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or to expand their skills with Occupational Safety and Health. Administration’s 10- and 30-Hour OSHA Outreach Training safety courses at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute (GCSI) this fall. Classes will be held in both general industry and construction standards.
Mexican Consulate sets up temporary office at College of the Mainland
Mexican citizens in Galveston County need only travel to College of the Mainland to renew passports and Mexican identification the next couple of weeks.
Tax revenues to remain stable in 2017-2018
At the recommendation of administration, Trustees approved an effective tax rate of .216791-cents per $100 valuation, which provides the college the equivalent in tax-generated revenues as last year.
Students and employees lend a hand to Harvey-affected residents
As the widespread Tropical Storm Harvey damage was revealed, the College of the Mainland staff and students stepped up to help the surrounding community.
Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund created
College of the Mainland Foundation has created a Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund to help impacted COM students and employees.
COM reschedules opening of fall classes to Sept. 11
In an effort to respond to the needs of our community impacted by Tropical Storm Harvey, College of the Mainland will delay the opening of its fall 2017 classes until Monday, Sept. 11.
COM music professor publishes seventh book
College of the Mainland professor John Kiefer's seventh book, “Electric Baroque,” was released this summer.
Camera-less photos on display at COM
Photos created without a camera take center stage in Lauren Lohman’s exhibit at College of the Mainland Aug. 28 to Sept. 28 in the COM Fine Arts Building.
COM grad wins Terry Scholarship
Kaci Maris is on her way to the University of Houston – armed with scholarships and awards earned this summer and while at College of the Mainland.
COM students gives women’s shelter day of pampering
Eight women from a women’s shelter in Galveston were treated to breakfast, free haircuts and manicures and pedicures by the College of the Mainland Cosmetology Club.
COM professor’s art on display internationally
College of the Mainland professor Kristy Peet’s photographs have been on display in Houston, Dallas, Georgia, and now China.
Make work safe with OSHA training
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or to expand their skills with Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10 and 30-hour training at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute this fall.
Nursing robots breathe, talk and give birth
When students walk into the College of the Mainland nursing simulation lab, they hear a piercing newborn cry – but no baby is in sight.
From first COM graduating class to college historian
After helping fight to create a community college in mainland Galveston, Tillie Henson became one of the first to take a seat in its classes.
COM closed for convocation Aug. 21
College of the Mainland will be closed Aug. 21 so employees can participate in professional development at convocation.
Learning on vacation: students trek through Belize and Europe
Hiking through the jungle, snorkeling in reefs and touring the Louvre were a few of the adventures College of the Mainland students had on study abroad trips to Belize and Europe this summer.
5 ways to pay for classes
As the deadline to pay for fall classes at College of the Mainland approaches on Aug. 16, plan now how to fund your classes.
COM operator helps students find what they're looking for
Students who call the COM main telephone number are greeted by Debby Korn’s friendly voice.
Small businesses, big dreams
Devin Gary plans to start an engineering firm.
New continuing education classes open for registration
Join one of College of the Mainland’s continuing education classes, open for registration July 31, to launch a career or explore a hobby.
COM begins town hall meetings
The board of the Dickinson Chamber of Commerce met with Dr. Warren Nichols, president of College of the Mainland, on July 27 to provide input for the college’s five-year strategic plan.
COM coordinator named to international emergency manager commission
Trish McIntosh, College of the Mainland emergency management coordinator, has been invited to serve on the International Association of Emergency Managers Certification Commission starting in 2018.
From academic suspension to academic counselor
Chelsea Murray, of Houston, has already beaten the odds – and now she wants to help other students do the same.
New business communication, persuasion courses at COM
In the world of social media and half-truths, learn how to spot illogical arguments with College of the Mainland’s Argumentation class coming fall 2017.
From student to board member
Rachel Delgado, vice chair of the board of trustees of College of the Mainland, remembers being a student at COM.
Free August safety classes
The Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes to help individuals and companies increases safety – Blood-borne Pathogens: Disease Transmission Prevention Aug. 4 and Improving Your Respiratory Protection Program Aug. 18.
Dive into Oceanography at the College of the Mainland
Students can explore marine life, tides, oceanic models and take a field trip to the beach in College of the Mainland’s new Oceanography course (GEOL_1445).
10 years of COM safety grads serving in NASA, industry
Christi Baker, College of the Mainland graduate, knows her role as safety technician for Turner Industries Group is critical.
COM students serving region
College of the Mainland students will again be ambassadors for community college students on a regional level.
Musical mystery "Song of Singapore" now at COM Community Theatre
Enjoy a wacky parody of classic movies – full of music and intrigue – with “Song of Singapore” July 13-30 at College of the Mainland Community Theatre.
Cosmetology Open House July 24
Tour the Salon at College of the Mainland, meet instructors and ask questions about programs and services at an open house July 24 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
First electrical and instrumentation students graduate
COM’s first electrical and instrumentation students are ready for work – and some have already landed jobs in industry.
New sign language, German classes at COM
Learn to communicate with many cultures in two language courses offered at College of the Mainland for the first time.
COM Moving Forward and Looking to the Future
Last week trustees and administrators of College of the Mainland fleshed out long-term plans for the future—one that includes modernizing current facilities and building new ones, and making an education at the 50-year-old college more accessible in days to come.
COM buyer helps classes get quality supplies
Students using pipettes in COM’s science labs or new furniture in COM’s computer labs have Jerri Glenn to thank.
Free safety classes in July
Learn how to protect yourself from workplace hazards and keep records for OSHA in two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute in July.
COM announces design contest winner
Steve Schuenke, a graphic artist at the University of Texas Medical Branch, won the College of the Mainland parking permit design contest.
COM fifth in nation in science technology graduates
COM is tied for fifth in the nation in the number of degrees awarded in science technologies/technicians in 2016, according to a report by Community College Week. COM graduated 78 Process Technology Program students in 2016.
COM launches new medical assistant degree
College of the Mainland will be offering a new medical assistant associate degree in Fall 2017 in addition to the medical assistant certificate for students looking to further their careers in the field.
First emergency management student graduates
College of the Mainland, the only community college in the Houston/Galveston area with an emergency management program, has graduated its first student.
Making a difference for a decade: COM Upward Bound $1.3M grant renewed
When Karol Paredes, of Dickinson, steps onto campus at Texas A&M Kingsville as a botany major, she’s beating the odds.
Students explore careers at COM camp
High school students explored a fire engine, watched a welder at work and toured nursing labs at College of the Mainland’s fourth annual Career Exploration Camp.
Skipworth elected new board member
Melissa Skipworth will take a seat as a new member on the College of the Mainland board of trustees after winning the June 17 runoff election.
COM celebrates Juneteenth
Tillie Henson, COM archivist and among COM’s first students, shared about her journey with COM.
COM recognizes top students with dean's and president's lists
A round of applause to the 215 students who made the Dean's List and the 117 students who made the President's List.
Teachers of the Year: Making Science Fun
Passion and compassion were two essentials that students cited when voting professors Jessica Jemison-Williams and Jennifer Robinson College of the Mainland Teachers of the Year.
COM graduates 56 high school students with degrees
A total of 88 students – and one dog – graduated from College of the Mainland Collegiate High School this year, and 56 have earned associate degrees by high school graduation.
Ranked #2, COM student heading to billiards nationals
For Burak Temel, pool is like chess.
Fall classes open for registration
Begin your pathway to success this fall with College of the Mainland’s associate degree and certificate program classes, now open for fall registration.
Finish Faster Program launches at College of the Mainland
What are the options for students who want to begin college but haven’t quite mastered high-school English or math?
Vax-A-Nation, blood drives come to COM
Vax-A-Nation, a mobile meningitis vaccination clinic, is coming to COM.
18 cadets ready to serve
A total of 18 cadets are now ready for service after graduating May 26 from the College of the Mainland Basic Peace Officer Academy.
College of the Mainland comes to League City
College of the Mainland has signed an agreement with Odyssey Academy in League City to lease a facility to accommodate COM’s burgeoning dual credit and academic credit classes.
Newest COM board member delights in ranch, family
It’s been a great month for Don Gartman, who on May 6 was elected to the College of the Mainland Board of Trustees, and on May 2 welcomed his second great-grandchild.
COM graduates 41 future nurses
After more than 1,660 hours of clinicals, classes and labs, 41 students in the College of the Mainland Associate Degree Nursing Program have graduated ready for service.
COM Fire Academy graduates 20, awards top students
After more than 600 hours of rappelling, studying and simulating rescues, 20 students are ready for emergencies after graduating from the College of the Mainland Fire Academy.
Celebrate Asian-American/Pacific Islander Month
Celebrate Asian-American culture at College of the Mainland with traditional food and a documentary of Asian-Americans sharing their stories and experiences.
Celebrate Juneteenth at COM
COM will celebrate Juneteenth with songs, poetry and readings June 15.
Nursing professor creates capstone course
A total of 66 nurses graduated this year, thanks in part to Debra Bauer’s work as a COM professor and clinical instructor.
Auxiliary has given $200,000 for scholarships
Since retiring eight years ago, Jerry Cook has found a new calling – volunteering each week with the Mainland Medical Center Auxiliary.
Free June safety classes at GSCI
What’s safety worth? The Center for Risk Management will host four no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute covering current trends in safety, health and industry to help companies save time and money.
At 84, lifelong educator still making a difference
John Lenes has flown in fighter jets, worked as a logger and taught in prisons, but for past 24 years he has found home at College of the Mainland preparing students for college.
Free Career Exploration Day June 14
High school students can investigate a crime scene, explore firefighting or discover more about health care robots during a hands-on Career Exploration Day this summer at College of the Mainland.
First 100 days: COM president looks back, sets goals
In his first 100 days on the job as the fifth president of College of the Mainland, Dr. Warren Nichols has moved quickly to identify and address several major goals—such as student success, facilities improvement and increased opportunities to growing communities within the college’s service areas – and he is already seeing results.
“Red” colors life, art at COM Community Theatre
"What do you see?" Painter Mark Rothko asks his assistant, Ken, the burning question.
Zombies to prom queens: COM grad makes career of makeup
From dramatic smokey eyes to gruesome zombies, Amber Randall can deftly sweep makeup brush to transform a client into their dream look.
COM honor society inducts 27
Recognizing students who excel academically, the College of the Mainland chapter of the international honor society recently inducted 27 students.
Bronze Star veteran new COM HR director
After a nationwide search, College of the Mainland has named Michael McGee new executive director of human resources.
COM alumni win national honor society awards
For Kari Drake, joining the international community college honor society showed her children what she could accomplish. For Tige Cornelius, the organization helps him connect with students who want leadership development, teamwork and success.
Summer classes open for registration
Summer is the perfect time to branch out and start something new.
From eviction to honors graduation
Nearly 10 years ago, Leslie Ornelas was let go from her job, evicted from her apartment and her car was repossessed.
COM graduates 808, plus largest PTEC class ever
At the 50th anniversary College of the Mainland commencement ceremonies on May 13, a total 808 students graduated, marking a culmination of hours of classes, studying and dedication.
Theatre students swashbuckling certified
Thirteen College of the Mainland theatre majors are now armed with certifications in single sword fighting after excelling May 4 on double-edged tests.
COM symposium awards top truth projects
What is truth? A total of 28 students from four colleges explored truth in the arts and sciences recently at College of the Mainland.
Finals Break: Nerf Battle
Armed with NERF guns, bows and foam pellets, students blew off steam before finals week with an epic battle, free pancake breakfast and other student life events.
Veteran to share story at COM graduation
Barry Elkins has a message for his classmates. “Even if you’re 54, you can do anything if you set your mind to it,” said Elkins.
Gartman wins COM Position 7; Skipworth, Mitchiner vie in runoff June 17
After winning the May 6 election, retired businessman Don Gartman will take a seat as a new member on the College of the Mainland board of trustees, while Melissa Skipworth and Sharon Mitchiner will vie in a runoff for Position 5 on June 17.
Theatre students tackle swashbuckling certification
Thirteen College of the Mainland theatre majors will put their swashbuckling abilities to the test May 4 from 12:30-1 p.m. in the COM Gym as they take the Society of American Fight Directors’ skills proficiency test in single sword.
New IV certification course for pharmacists
Pharmacists and pharmacist technicians can take one course – Sterile Preparations – to gain IV certification needed to work in hospitals.
World traveler graduates at 75
At 75, Madeline Adams, of Texas City, is about to be a college graduate for the first time.
April Staff and Student Highlights
COM faculty, staff and students stood out this month by serving the community, presenting at conferences and winning awards.
How COM crafts web courses
Margaret Cussen assists faculty in designing and creating courses online. She ensures both internet (fully online) and hybrid (50 to 85 percent online) courses are equal in content and quality to face-to face courses.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at COM
Celebrate a rich history and culture with College of the Mainland’s 43rd Cinco de Mayo Festival May 4 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Breezeway.
Finale to semester: COM students present free concerts
Enjoy free jazz, classical and a capella performances presented by College of the Mainland’s outstanding music ensembles.
Students pay it forward with family fitness day
Jump rope, tug of war and relays entertained kids of all ages in College of the Mainland students’ first Family Fitness Day.
Free workplace safety classes
Learn to avoid fire and environmental regulation violations in two no-cost classes by the Risk Management Institute: Fire Safety in the Workplace on May 5 and Environmental Regulations on May 19.
“Arrested Momentum” highlights functional art
Artist Marcus Helton pours his morning cereal into a handcrafted, ash-blackened bowl.
How industry drives COM workforce programs
Preparing students to succeed in the workplace starts with asking employers what they value in employees.
COM debate team in top ten in nation
With just 30 minutes to prepare an argument on a topic ranging from Brexit to basketball, College of the Mainland student Lauren Buchanan is used to working under pressure.
Want to teach? Job fair April 29
Learn more about a rewarding job as a part-time College of the Mainland faculty member at a job fair April 29 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. at the COM Learning Center-North County, 200 Parker Ct. in League City.
Free Fitness Day for kids of all ages
College of the Mainland students are tackling childhood obesity with jump ropes and Frisbees.
Win $200 in COM design contest
College of the Mainland is looking for designs for new campus parking permits. The contest is open to anyone.
Explore truth at COM symposium
What is truth? Students will give their answers to this question – and earn scholarships – at the next Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Academic Symposium April 21 at College of the Mainland. The event is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the COM Learning Resources Center Auditorium.
Veterans fair to highlight health care, community resources
Veterans, their family members and the community are invited to attend College of the Mainland’s third annual veteran fair April 20 from noon to 3 p.m. in the COM Student Center.
Announcing Adventure Radio Theatre
College of the Mainland theatre majors will hark back to the glory days of radio theatre April 26 at 7 p.m. with a public show featuring action-packed “Flash Gordon” “The Shadow,” “Sgt. Preston of the Yukon” and “Frontier Gentleman” episodes.
From full-time mom to Coca-Cola Gold Scholar
Kaci Maris, of Dickinson, is used to competition for the highest grades.
COM to host free lecture on U.S./China relations
Explore Chinese politics and their impact on U.S./China relations in a free lecture April 25 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the College of the Mainland Learning Resources Center Auditorium.
High schooler exploring space at NASA
Maria Henriquez, College of the Mainland Collegiate High School student, is heading to NASA.
Disney and more in free concerts
Check out three upcoming free concerts by the Jazz, Guitar and Saxophone Ensembles.
Pop culture in the classroom
Step aside, textbooks. In some College of the Mainland classes, students learn not just from books and PowerPoints, but with a dash of movies, music and more.
Staff and student highlights from March
Roundup of staff and students' work in the community.
Instructor instills love of reading in students
Giselle Hewitt has dual roles – balancing accounts and paying bills as an accounting specialist and instilling a love of literature in students as a COM English instructor.
Apply for a $2,500 petrochemical scholarship
College of the Mainland is accepting applications for the ExxonMobil Community College Petrochemical Initiative Scholarship. Students are eligible to receive up to $2,500 to cover books, fees and tuition.
Enjoy an Evening of Jazz
Kicking off Jazz Appreciation Month, the COM Jazz Ensemble will present an Evening of Jazz with the Texas City High School Jazz Band April 1 at 6 p.m. at the Texas City High School Auditorium.
Scholarship recipient first in family to get degree
For Marcus Garcia, of Texas City, a scholarship made the difference between his staying in college or dropping out.
Tour the world with COM 50 Plus Program
Ride the rails in California or hop a riverboat in Europe with two upcoming trips with the College of the Mainland 50 Plus Program. Adults of any age can join breathtaking excursions along the California coast or Danube River.
How to transfer: students share
Most students get first-day jitters transferring from a community college to a university. It’s a popular choice though – 70 percent of recent Texas bachelor’s degree earners started at a community college, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.
Tree dedicated to lifelong educator breaking boundaries
College of the Mainland Cameryn Tam hopes to run for political office and found inspiration in an educator elected to the College of the Mainland board of trustees for 34 years – Bennie Matthews.
Sword fights and shenanigans in comedy "Moon Over Buffalo”
Pratfalls, slammed doors and shenanigans abound in College of the Mainland’s production of “Moon Over Buffalo” March 23 to April 9.
Make workplace safe with OSHA construction courses
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or to expand their skills with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-hour construction industry safety courses at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Free Prelude to Europe Concert
Sounds of the centuries soar in College of the Mainland’s Prelude to Europe Concert March 31 at 7:30 p.m. at St. John’s United Methodist Church.
Women’s History Month: Honoring trailblazers
In honor of women’s history month, the college will host several talks as trend-setting career women share their stories, setbacks and successes.
COM student performs with Galveston Symphony Orchestra
Deftly switching between notes dramatic and playful, College of the Mainland piano student Greta Glasscock accompanied the Galveston Symphony Orchestra’s Feb. 19 performance.
Loss leads to art
Surreal scenes in grays take center stage in Ashley Whitt’s exhibit “The Haunted Mind” on display from March 8 to April 12 at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery.
Space Center Orthodontics donates for scholarships
Space Center Orthodontics has donated $400 for College of the Mainland student scholarships as part of the company’s Partners in Education Initiative.
How COM helps companies train their employees for free
A grant at College of the Mainland provides free technical training for those who qualify, and a Galveston-based electric company One Eleven Electric is taking advantage of it.
Marathon donates $16,000 for COM students
Continuing a longstanding partnership, Marathon has donated $16,000 to provide College of the Mainland students with tuition assistance and upgraded supplies.
Director ensures students' technology needs are met
Supporting students with technology for 21 years, Janis Cutaia oversees COM distance education, instructional labs and media services.
17-year-old earns degree, helps publish art magazine
At 17, Sky Mejias has completed an associate degree at College of the Mainland (one semester ahead of schedule) and recently added another accomplishment to her list – her first publication.
Free accident prevention classes at GCSI
How much do workplace accidents cost? Workers compensation costs for workplace injuries and illnesses cost employers in 2006 an estimated $48.6 billion, according to the American Society of Safety Engineers.
COM LVN program ranked in top 20 in Texas
At 17, Jael Rivera watched as her grandmother had a massive heart attack.
Students get free job training with COM grant
For Aziz Sanders, it was job security. For John Aumiller it was a career change. Both found what they were looking for through a College of the Mainland grant program that pays for training to help the under-employed and un-employed find work quickly.
Showing students the world
Like any great storyteller, English professor Bernie Smiley sets the stage.
Power lifter and professor: Esther Odamah
Working on a doctorate, teaching and volunteering are just a few of the things COM psychology professor Esther Odamah stays busy with. This year she’s also training in competitive powerlifting and shot put.
What I learned in dual credit classes
Dual credit classes let students simultaneously earn college and high school credit, saving time and money. Four students shared their experiences in dual credit classes and how to succeed in them.
Stink bugs, jello and you in biology for non-majors courses
A freshwater fish flopped in cold water as student Irwin Hernandez recorded his findings.
Caregiver, honors graduate, mom
In 2004 Jennifer Ausmus was expecting healthy twins and had a successful career in the aerospace industry.
Microbiology mini-grant funds "virus hunter" lab
A dozen College of the Mainland students peer into microscopes. Inside each petri dish of neighborhood pond water lurk myriad viruses and bacteria.
The other side of health care
While often doctors and nurses are the most visible health care professionals, many others work behind the scenes.
Three Grads Who Make a Difference
A teacher, safety technician and fire battalion chief share how they serve the community each day.
Vocational nursing students awarded
After completing the rigorous College of the Mainland Licensed Vocational Nursing Program, Karen Newkirk, of Hitchcock, won the Outstanding Student Award, and Jael Rivera, of Texas City, earned the Outstanding Clinical Student Award.
Welding a Career
As a combo welder for 3-J Ryan Inc. in Pasadena, Marissa Cantu works to turn eight-foot sheets of metal into pipes every day.
What's it worth to be accident free? Texas Mutual gives $100,000 for safety classes
Commemorating 18 years of partnership with the Gulf Coast Safety Institute and College of the Mainland, Texas Mutual Insurance donated $100,000 to continue funding free safety workshops to professionals in all industries.
Vanessa Walker named Officer of the Year
For her service and dedication, College of the Mainland Police Chief Sylvia Chapa named Sergeant Vanessa Walker COM Police Officer of the Year.
Lab coordinator helps students when deadlines loom
From Word to Access, students turn to Cynthia Mickens for help in every aspect of the college experience.
Police Academy honors top graduates
After 768 hours of training, 31 cadets have graduated from the Fall 2016 College of the Mainland Basic Peace Officer Academy.
Nichols new COM president
Dr. Warren Nichols was named College of the Mainland’s next president in a unanimous vote by the college board of trustees Jan. 30. He will start at COM Feb. 13.
Fire Academy awards graduates
Now, 13 more firefighters are ready for life-saving duty after graduating from the College of the Mainland Fire Academy.
Four ways to get help with a class
As classes take off, challenges often crop up. Here's how to find help in or outside of class.
Lost in Yonkers at COM theatre
As the second world war rages, two boys face turmoil closer to home when their father deposits them on their grandmother’s doorstep to become a traveling salesman.
COM audit nets no recommendations
Whitley Penn, an independent auditor, has conducted an audit of all College of the Mainland finances and had no recommendations or findings, the college announced Jan. 23.
Food trucks and magazines inspire artists' new exhibits
Mexican culture and American consumerism take center stage in two new exhibits at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery: Joe Pena’s ‘Lineage’ from Jan. 23 to Feb. 22 and ‘Layout’ by Eric Thayer Jan. 23 to March 7.
Celebrate MLK Day at COM
College of the Mainland students will reprise excerpts from Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches during a celebration Jan. 26 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Learning Resource Center Auditorium.
New risk management classes for professionals
The Center for Risk Management will host two upcoming, no-cost classes “How to Develop and Maintain an Effective Lockout/Tagout Program“ on Jan. 24 and“Workplace Violence Prevention” on Feb. 10.
Maintenance technician ensures campus shines
Ready with hammer, wrench and screwdriver, Marcus Taylor helps maintain and repair campus facilities.
COM professor nominated for Heroes of Military Medicine Award
Cheryl Bordwine, of League City, has been nominated for the prestigious Heroes of Military Medicine Award. Bordwine serves in the U.S. Army Reserves and is a division medical operations officer responsible for overseeing medical readiness before deployment for about 500 soldiers.
Handgun class exclusively for women
It’s 3:16 a.m. when you hear a window break in your home. What do you do?
Kick off the new year with fitness options
Kick off the new year by joining a COM fitness class, signing up for a gym membership or enrolling in a volleyball league.
How COM puts safety first
As part of ongoing efforts to upgrade College of the Mainland facilities, the college has implemented measures to increase security, including installing new video cameras and interior door locks that can be switched on from the inside of classrooms.
Nichols reconsiders, is sole candidate for COM presidency
The College of the Mainland board of trustees met in special session on Wednesday, Jan. 4, to discuss College of the Mainland’s presidential search. Dr. Warren Nichols has reconsidered and is moving forward as the sole candidate for the presidency at COM.
Community colleges to host women in industry conference
Buoyed by the success of its 2016 conference, the Community College Petrochemical Initiative (CCPI) will host Women in Industry 2017 on Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, at South Shore Harbor Resort in League City.
Fewer slammed doors the goal of Interpersonal Communications class
Words fly. Tempers flare. Voices shout - “But Criminal Minds is better than Shark Week!”
Unemployed to business owner
Unemployed after a sickness, Isabel Hernandez knew she needed new options.
Science and socks
College of the Mainland Science Club and biology students donated socks, a much-needed staple, for residents at the Resource and Crisis Center of Galveston County this holiday season.
COM collects for Toys for Tots
Making smiles bright, College of the Mainland students and employees donated six overflowing boxes of new toys to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation during the holiday drive.
Students' 1940s radio play thanks Elmcroft community
Dressed in flared skirts and plaid suits, theatre students stepped back to 1940s and entertained dozens of residents of the Elmcroft of the Mainland Senior Living Community in Texas City with “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Helping students navigate admissions process - for any college
The first in his family to attend college, Jason Garnados had lots of questions – about financial aid, applications and transferring. While he was a senior at Dickinson High School, Garnados had College Connection advisor Lionel De Luna on campus to help him each step of the way.
No-cost safety classes for busy professionals
The Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes for professionals “OSHA Recordkeeping” on Jan. 13 and “ANSI Z490-Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety, Health and Environmental Training” on Jan. 27.
Employees donate 1,000 pounds of food
Spreading holiday cheer, College of the Mainland employees collected and donated more than 1,000 pounds of nonperishable foods for the Galveston County Food Bank during a holiday drive.
COM names Warren Nichols sole presidential finalist
After a nationwide search, the College of the Mainland board of trustees has selected Warren Nichols the sole COM presidential finalist.
Debating superhero and everyday morality in ethics class
Choosing between saving a mentor or saving Gotham is one of the tough choices discussed in Stacey Burleson’s ethics class, which focuses on fictional and real-world dilemmas.
Increase workplace safety with no-cost OSHA training
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or expand their skills with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-Hour General Industry or Construction Outreach safety courses at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
79 students inducted in honor society
Excelling academically, 79 students were recognized at the fall induction ceremony of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at College of the Mainland.
Functional art? Two ceramic students discuss their pieces
Student Marcus Helton held up an ash-blackened bowl.
Esthetician graduates launch businesses, careers
Susan Brown, of Dickinson, started as a makeup artist when she noticed that the same products looked different on different skin types. “I wanted to find out why,” said Brown.
How a photograph is developed
In world of transient digital photos and 24-hour Snapchats, students in Kristy Peet’s photography class are discovering the power of permanence.
PTEC instructor teaches from 30 years' experience
After 30 years as a process operator and 19 as an instructor, Jonathan Leacroy is a wealth of experience and stories.
Theatre majors nominated for regional award
College of the Mainland students Tyler Fayad and Mackenzie Land have been nominated for the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival Irene Ryan Award for their performances in “C.O.M. Wasn’t Built in a Day.”
Spring classes open for registration
See why COM is the launchpad for success for those transferring to a university, beginning a career or pursuing an interest.
Live radio theatre rings in holiday season
College of the Mainland students will step back to the 1940s with radio theatre performances.
Student champion: Beth Hammett wins online teacher of the year
For her excellence and compassion, students voted professor Beth Hammett College of the Mainland online teacher of the year.
How COM helps students get jobs
The first male in his family to graduate from high school, Curtis Ward, of Texas City, enrolled in COM’s Process Technology Program. Then he landed an internship at Marathon Petroleum Galveston Bay Refinery.
COM debuts radio theatre with spooky hits
The echoes of 13 ominous chimes, howling wolves and screeching winds form the chilling backdrop to College of the Mainland students’ latest production: Chiller Radio Theatre.
Award-winning “Heroes” photo salutes the Santa Fe Fire Department
Firefighters’ soot-coated helmets, jackets and boots await their next mission in the award-winning photo “Heroes” taken at the Santa Fe Fire Department.
HIV testing at COM open to public
In recognition of World AIDS Day, College of the Mainland will host HIV testing for the public on Dec. 1 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the COM Student Center.
Presidential search forums open to public
The College of the Mainland board of trustees and presidential search committee will host public forums with each of the four top candidates for COM’s presidential position.
COM alum to perform master’s recital
College of the Mainland alum Jack McLaughlin will perform his master’s recital at the Moody Mansion ballroom Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m. in Galveston.
COM students pay it forward
After a classmate’s son was diagnosed with spina bifada, students in a College of the Mainland class decided to pay it forward.
Minimize workplace risks with free class
The Center for Risk Management will host a no-cost class to help organizations and businesses create safer workspaces Dec. 2.
Ring in the holidays with COM concerts
Enjoy musical performances, sing-alongs and more with the College of the Mainland vocal and instrumental concerts, free and open to the public.
9 ways to stay fit in the holidays
A little extra whipped cream on pumpkin pie, seconds on turkey and one more glass of punch can add up quickly. COM professors offered their tips on how to enjoy the holidays now without struggling to button your pants on Jan. 1.
Future pipefitters wanted
A new pipefitting program at College of the Mainland will prepare students for a rapidly growing career in refineries, manufacturing and power generation.
American classics and more in free concert
The College of the Mainland Concert Band will perform a free concert reprising patriotic tunes and movie soundtracks Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m.
COM makes top 10 online associate degree programs in Texas
A new mother, Janice Loper set a goal: earning a degree. Online classes gave her an opportunity her to earn college credit while caring for her infant son.
Students display ceramics and more at COM Art Gallery
Neon watercolors, shimmering ceramics, mixed media collages and more take center stage in the 2016 Student Art Exhibition on display now through Nov. 30 at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery.
A look back: COM publishes 50th anniversary book
Highlights from 50 years, hundreds of professors and 90,000 students fill the pages of College of the Mainland’s new 50th anniversary book telling the stories of the people, events and community that created the college.
From MLK to JFK, finalists reprise famous speeches
“Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.”
Volunteer firefighter, mom, EMT
In April 2013 Esthela Ortiz, of San Leon, decided to fulfill her lifelong desire to be a firefighter by joining the San Leon Volunteer Fire Department.
From Galveston to outer space, artworks of alum on display
The faint light illuminating the night glints off the rocks guarding Galveston Bay in one of Kevin Flores’ photographs.
At Man Up Conference, students learn leadership, career skills
Just one mentor – whether an older student, teacher, counselor or other role model – can make the difference between a high school student choosing to tackle the challenge of college or stop after high school graduation.
Open house for fast-track career classes
Learn more about how College of the Mainland’s Adult Education Program is changing lives and how you can sign up for career-pathway classes at an open house Nov. 12 in the COM Learning Resources Center Auditorium, come and go from 9 a.m. to noon.
No more VCRs: media specialist helps update classroom tech
As technology advances, COM’s classrooms increase in high-tech equipment, and Brad Denison works to ensure that it functions correctly for staff, faculty and students.
Honor veterans at COM Nov. 10
To recognize those who served and sacrificed in the U.S. Armed Forces, College of the Mainland will host a Veterans Day Program Nov. 10 at noon in the Learning Resources Center.
COM students glean from 567 years of experience
College of the Mainland's 18 industrial education instructors bring a combined 567 years of work experience to COM’s Continuing Education Industrial Workforce Programs. That pays off for students who learn through instructors’ stories and examples gleaned from an average of 31.5 years on the job.
Safety student scales new heights at NASA internship
With a father who works for a railroad where safety is such an important aspect of his job, Amanda Billingsley began questioning how workplaces developed into safe or hazardous spaces.
Original play dives into history of community college
Laugh, explore College of the Mainland’s history and discover how the best-laid plans can have unexpected results in a new original comedy Nov. 3-20 at COM Community Theatre.
Car crashes, cannons and more in physics class
What will happen if two cars collide at maximum speed? How far can you launch a can of soup? Will a frozen tennis ball bounce? These questions are pondered by students in College of the Mainland professor Herman Trivilino’s physics class.
Truth symposium open for student submissions
What is truth? Students can give their answers to this question – and earn scholarships – at the next Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Academic Symposium April 21, 2017, at College of the Mainland.
Book lovers can enjoy $10,000 in new e-books at library
College of the Mainland Library visitors will soon have access to new e-books thanks to a $10,000 Impact Grant for Library Innovation and Improvement.
Design degree opens doors to world
From designing products for an Alaskan retail company to creating a brand for a new store and restaurant in the Bahamas, Erica Tate has used her degree in myriad ways.
COM student named Coca-Cola scholar
College of the Mainland student Taylor Hollenshead has been selected as a 2016 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar for outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential.
Get noticed at the 2016 Student Art Exhibit
All College of the Mainland students may submit art for the 2016 Student Art Exhibition, which will be displayed Nov. 3-30 in the COM Art Gallery.
Tour Europe with COM choirs
Exploring castles, cathedrals and culture, the College of the Mainland choirs will tour Germany and the Czech Republic June 14-22, 2017.
Girls explore cockroaches and careers in science at COM conference
Cockroaches slid and millipedes slithered in girls’ hands at the second annual STEM Conference for Middle School Girls at College of the Mainland.
Free career training for students with grant
A grant covering class tuition for Darion P. Perkins, of Texas City, changed his job prospects – and his perspective.
International Speaker Series continues Oct. 27
Joe Barnes, the Bonner Means Baker Fellow at the Baker Institute of Public Policy, will speak about how the upcoming presidential election could affect foreign policy on Oct. 27 12:30-1:30 p.m in the College of the Mainland Learning Resources Center Auditorium.
In conversations and games students learn English
Lucero Garcia wants to be a flight attendant in her home of Mexico.
Future networkers explore with $100,000 in new equipment
Aiming to be a computer programmer, Kaylei Edmonston is starting with the basics: taking apart a PC and fitting the pieces back together.
Spooky sounds soar in Monster Musik concert
Sinister, classic movie soundtracks will soar eerily to life in a free Monster Musik concert Oct. 27 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building.
BP donates $15,000 for COM scholarships
At 17, College of the Mainland Collegiate High School student Emily Andrews, of Bacliff, is on track to earn an associate degree by high school graduation – and a BP scholarship is helping her reach her goal.
LED facials and more at new esthetician lab
The College of the Mainland Cosmetology Program has expanded its location and added a new esthetics lab.
Free jazz concert Oct. 18
The College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble will showcase their versatility with a free concert featuring swing, Latin, jazz and the blues on Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall.
New Lifelong Learning Center unveiled
The sunlit, spacious, 15,000 square-foot College of the Mainland Lifelong Learning Center opened Oct. 4 with a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce.
50 years of professors collaborate for anniversary art show
Max-Karl Winkler, the first College of the Mainland art professor, hired in 1968 and 13 other art professors have collaborated to present the College of the Mainland 50th anniversary art exhibition now through Oct. 27.
Mitigating hazards workshops offered at no cost
Avoiding falls and improving process safety management in industrial, commercial and organizational settings will be the topics of two upcoming, no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute. Introduction to Process Safety Management will be Oct. 14 and Walking/Working Surfaces will be Oct. 28.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
College of the Mainland will host an annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration Oct. 11 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM breezeway.
Electrician lights up COM
A master electrician, Lorrin Ching installs lighting for the college, works with information technology to wire ethernet cables for computers and provides power for special events outdoors.
50th Bash draws crowd of 1,200 plus
College of the Mainland’s 50th Birthday Bash: A Family Day Event celebrated 50 years of service to the community with classic cars, kids’ zone and local food trucks.
Date With Destiny Oct. 13
College of the Mainland and other Gulf Coast area community colleges will host Date with Destiny, a free one-day conference on Oct. 13 for women who strive to work in the petrochemical industry.
Micro-scholarships impact lives for less than $100
For Raquel Balderas, Phi Theta Kappa opened doors – to a major she loved, leadership opportunities and two national scholarships.
Hitchcock student COM’s first honors scholar
Some students read science. Others live it.
COM y el Consulado Mexicano colaboran para servir a la comunidad mexicana
El College of the Mainland tiene el placer de anunciar que será el anfitrión del Consulado General de México en Houston por dos semanas en el mes de octubre de 2016.
81-year-old on a mission: college graduation
After graduating from high school in 1954, Carole Cowden is once again a full-time student.
Students' reward? Capitol tour
In solemn silence before the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, two College of the Mainland Upward Bound students Maria Camargo from Dickinson High School and Tavien Hearne from Hitchcock High School laid a wreath honoring those who gave their lives.
Donors help fund students’ psychology lessons in Europe
As a college student on a study abroad trip, College of the Mainland professor Doug Alvarez touched the Eiffel Tower in Paris, explored the Coliseum’s ruins in Rome and ran with the bulls in Spain.
Commissioners’ Court commends COM
On Sept. 13 the Galveston County Commissioners’ Court passed a resolution recognizing College of the Mainland for its 50th anniversary.
50 Plus assistant serves students
In an office adorned with students’ art given as thank you's, Maegan Guzman greets new 50 Plus Program participants.
Increase workplace safety with no-cost OSHA training
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or expand their skills with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-Hour General Industry or Construction Outreach safety courses at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Food trucks and more at 50th Birthday Bash
View classic cars through the decades while enjoying free birthday cake, live music and a kids’ zone at College of the Mainland’s 50th Birthday Bash: A Family Day Event Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Explore diversity in Belize
Adventurers, take notice: Jungle hikes, Mayan ruins, zip-lining and all-out discovery ahead.
COM Names Five 50th Anniversary Distinguished Alumni at Gala
College of the Mainland celebrated its 50th anniversary in a big way on Thursday, Sept. 15, at the Doyle Center.
Ribbon cutting for Lifelong Learning Center Oct. 4
The College of the Mainland Lifelong Learning Center will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 4 at noon for its new 15,000 square-foot facility at 14057 Delaney Rd. in La Marque.
New pistol defense simulator course at COM
It’s 3:16 a.m. when you hear a window break in your home. What do you do?
Artist to speak at COM
A ceramics artist and instructor will speak about his simple, elegant creations in a public lecture at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery Sept. 28 from 6-7 p.m.
Cutting-edge continuing education for cosmetologists
Cosmetologists can quickly complete their state-required continuing education hours with fun, discussion-based classes offered for the first time this fall at College of the Mainland.
COM ready to help ITT Technical Institute students
College of the Mainland is ready to assist local students affected by ITT Technical Institute’s announcement that it is closing all of its campuses nationwide, including locations in Houston and Webster.
Alumnus displays ceramics at COM
Showing the stages of an emerging artist’s progress, a College of the Mainland alumnus’ ceramics are now on display in the Fine Arts Building.
Secrets spill in "Crimes of the Heart” at COM theatre
Scandals and sorrows lie hidden, soon to bubble to the surface, in “Crimes of the Heart” at College of the Mainland Community Theatre Sept. 8-25.
Professor by day, firefighter by night
When R.E. Davis dismisses his last class of the day, he isn’t off the clock. He is now on call for the San Leon Volunteer Fire Department.
Increase workplace safety with no-cost OSHA training
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or expand their skills with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-Hour General Industry or Construction Outreach safety courses at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Safety lunch and learn
A free lunch and learn Tuesday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute will show how employers can meet OSHA compliance responsibilities when hiring temporary workers.
How to succeed in online classes
Online classes are convenient, and you can finish assignments from home, a coffee shop or while traveling. But they also present challenges not found in face-to-face classes. Professors and online students offer their tips for the new school year.
No-cost September safety classes
The Center for Risk Management will offer two September classes on ways companies and organizations can increase safety and reduce costs.
COM professor publishes music book
Two College of the Mainland professors have published works in their fields this year.
"This, But Not This" at COM gallery
Images and words collide in a collaborative exhibit at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery Aug. 29 to Sept. 25 with a free reception and Skype artist talk Sept. 14 at 12:30 p.m.
COMPeers arms students with crayons and glue
From shiny new markers for crafts to boxes of tissue for flu season, COMPeers, a College of the Mainland employee group, aims to help students with a fourth annual school supply drive.
Reserve your COM 50th anniversary gala tickets now
Celebrate 50 years with College of the Mainland Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. at the Doyle Convention Center with an evening of music, honoring alumni and commemorating historic firsts.
Public forums for COM presidential search
The College of the Mainland board of trustees will host three public forums on the COM presidential search Sept. 6 at 7 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. in the COM Learning Resources Center.
History in our backyard
College students looking for an alternative to national history have another option: exploring history around the corner.
Texas City honors COM students
Mayor Matt Doyle recognized three College of the Mainland graphic arts students for their work on projects for the city Aug. 3.
Cake decorating, origami, dance and more in new leisure learning classes
Serving more than 1,100 students, the College of the Mainland 50 Plus Program is expanding with new classes offered in days and evenings. Courses are $15 for a semester for those over age 50, but any student over 18 may join.
Students receive petrochemical scholarships
With the Gulf Coast area petrochemical industry needing more than 50,000 new workers within the decade, nine community colleges have set out to find and train this “next generation” of skilled workers, enabled by a grant from ExxonMobil.
COM launches honors classes
Students will pretend to fill the role of Supreme Court justices, “campaign” for a political candidate or investigate who first discovered America during honors government or history courses this fall at College of the Mainland.
Art to architecture
Painting was Shawn Cleveland’s respite in the military. He’s hoping to turn it into a career.
How to maximize your financial aid
Studies show the primary reason students drop out of college isn’t academic – it’s financial.
COM instrumentation program free for eligible students
A new Instrumentation Helper Program is free for students who qualify, thanks to the Department of Labor H-1B Ready to Work Grant.
Pre-college trains students for success
Without a high school diploma or GED, Maria Loredo didn’t think she was college material. A few months of College of the Mainland’s College Success Academy changed her mind.
Explore cosmetology careers at open house
The COM Cosmetology Program will host an open house Aug. 8 from 6-8 p.m. at 15009 Delaney Rd. in La Marque.
Distinguished alumni finalists announced
After receiving 53 nominations of outstanding alumni from staff, students and the community, College of the Mainland Foundation has named 12 finalists for its 50th Anniversary Distinguished Alumni Award.
A sound adventure at COM
College of the Mainland’s Music Department invites all new and experienced musicians to join one of COM’s acclaimed ensembles this fall.
Avoiding zaps! Electrical and industrial safety classes at GCSI
Participants will learn how to make workplaces safer with two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute in August: Electrical Regulations Governing Safe Workplaces on Aug. 5 and Nuts and Bolts of Industrial Hygiene on Aug. 19.
Fall registration open
See why COM is the launchpad for success for those transferring to a university, beginning a career or pursuing an interest.
Exchange student returns to say thanks
Three years after coming as a foreign exchange student to College of the Mainland, Omar Vela returned to say thank you.
Tablets in hand, students learn English, prepare for GED
Fresh off a 12-hour shift at Valero, Lecreshia Henderson arrives at her Adult Basic Education class at College of the Mainland to prepare for her GED.
Assistant registrar launches students on path to success
In her 30 years at the college, Laura Divine has watched – and helped – hundreds of students graduate.
Welcoming employees to COM
Welcoming employees to COM, Tham Ware assists new adjunct instructors and part-time staff. She helps them with new hire paperwork and other aspects of starting at COM.
Aliens and more in literature courses
Here be dragons … and other literary villains. Those looking for something different in an English course at College of the Mainland have new options this semester, from World Literature to Post-Apocalyptic Lit.
Students quickly re-career with Medical Assistant Program
In 1990 Reshmi Dutt, originally of Fiji, turned to COM to earn her GED. In 2011 she returned to the classroom, this time to earn a college education.
Don’t forget to play: Art class unites special-needs students and retirees
Here there are no essays or multiple choice tests. This class is about exploration and expression.
GED graduate determined despite mental illness
For any student, walking across the stage to receive a diploma is a milestone. For William LaRue, 37, it was a triumph.
Threading stories: 87-year-old instructor still stitching
Her needle has taken her to Oregon, Washington, California, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Canada. Certified through the Brazilian Dimensional Embroidery International Guild Inc., Charlotte Walker, 87, has taught across North America since 1984.
Allbright named COM interim president
The College of the Mainland board of trustees has unanimously named Dr. A. Rodney Allbright interim president of College of the Mainland. Allbright, of Alvin, worked for Alvin Community College for 45 years, and for 38 served as president. He was the only college president in Texas holding a master peace officer license.
Summer musical returns to Roaring '20s
With big musical numbers, singing and the Charleston, “The Drowsy Chaperone" recreates the best of Broadway at College of the Mainland Community Theatre July 14-31. When the show’s narrator puts on the record to his favorite musical, the characters pop to life in his apartment.
COM grad on air
The first in her family to earn a degree, College of the Mainland grad Jocelyn Saldierna is already making waves on the radio.
Free electronic record-keeping lunch and learn at GCSI
OSHA record keeping is going electronic, and a free lunch-and-learn and a free dine-and-discuss will share how any organization can prepare.
Future police officers graduate, win awards
Prepared to serve and protect, 17 cadets graduated from the College of the Mainland Basic Peace Officer Academy May 26.
Emergency management and workers’ compensation workshops
As hurricane season heats up, the Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute – Worker’s Compensation on July 8 and Safety Management During Emergency Operations on July 22.
COM professor joins in record-breaking trumpet performance
College of the Mainland music professor Sparky Koerner joined with 324 other trumpet players to set a Guinness World Record for the most trumpet players performing together.
From page to screen: Students create film in cinema class
Armed with cell phones and story ideas, a dozen students set off across campus to bring their films to life.
New staff helps students pay and stay for classes
Two new College of the Mainland staff members are helping students successfully apply for financial aid for college and succeed once enrolled.
Graphic design degree unlocks many doors
We see it, read it, wear it. Graphic designers’ work is ubiquitous from billboards to T-shirts. Students in College of the Mainland’s graphic arts program have discovered that having high-tech skills creates opportunities in many industries, from the corporate world to the medical field.
Outstanding nursing students awarded
On May 13, College of the Mainland Associate Degree Nursing Program faculty and staff honored 83 graduates. Four stood out for excellence.
Class assignment: prairie restoration
Depending on the day, you may find students in Sheena Abernathy’s biology class weeding in the College of the Mainland greenhouse or planting grasses on the Texas City Prairie preserve or discovering what they can do to help the environment at Armand Bayou Nature Center.
Emergency management and workers’ compensation workshops
As hurricane season heats up, the Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute – Workers' Compensation on July 8 and Safety Management During Emergency Operations on July 22.
Deadly force training for police cadets without firing a shot
It’s 3:16 a.m. when you are called to a domestic dispute at a home. First words fly, then a bottle soars through the air.
Naval officer to COM students: “You define yourself”
Speaking to 100 high school and college students, U.S. Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Kenneth John Campbell offers his encouragement: “If you don’t define yourself, others will define you. You don't realize how much you can achieve. You don't realize how much you can achieve. Use your time wisely. Remember the world is getting smaller; global competition is real!”
COM student among 20 to win national scholarship
Beginning at a university, Kristin LaValle found success with small classes and support at College of the Mainland.
Student mentoring project awarded
It takes courage to begin college and even more to graduate while juggling family, work and other responsibilities. College of the Mainland students in Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society, are working to ensure more students succeed, and were named one of the top 100 chapters in the world for their efforts.
Electrician students can take classes free, thanks to grant
A new electrical program at College of the Mainland will train students to be electrical helpers in about eight months. The H-1B Gulf Coast Ready to Work Grant will pay students’ tuition for those that qualify.
Teachers of the Year mentor future actors, nurses
Empathy – a defining characteristic of a good nurse, actor or person – is what H. Russ Brown and Rene Lovett delight in cultivating in students.
Changing communities through art
The College of the Mainland Art Club has created two murals now on display with Project Row Houses, an organization that uses art to transform communities in Houston's Third Ward.
Make workplaces safe with no-cost OSHA course
Emergencies don’t take a vacation, and this summer workers can prepare to enter industry or expand their skills with Occupational Safety and Health Administration courses at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Cosmetology club treats students to prom makeovers
Operation Cinderella provided the dress and College of the Mainland students did the rest.
Juneteenth Celebration at COM
Celebrate freedom at College of the Mainland’s annual Juneteenth celebration in the Learning Resources Center Auditorium June 16 from noon to 2 p.m.
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Students disaster-ready with new emergency management degree
From hurricanes to homeland security threats, oil spills to outbreaks, the Texas Gulf Coast experiences a variety of incidents, disasters and hazards. College of the Mainland is launching a new program to train emergency management professionals to prepare for and respond to emergencies.
50 Plus director grows program
Directing a booming 50 Plus Program that this semester reached enrollment of 1,100 for the first time in memory, Alesha Vardeman has introduced new classes and extended travel trips for the community over 50.
COM students earn stage-combat certifications
“I’m going to ask you one more time – Did. You. Touch. My. Drums?” Nick Mora asks Jalil Toussant. “No!” Tempers flare. Fists fly. Knives flash. A man falls.
COM police promotes sergeant, gives Top Gun Awards
At a recognition ceremony May 12 College of the Mainland Police Chief Sylvia Chapa promoted Officer Vanessa Walker to sergeant and gave two officers Top Gun Awards.
No-cost safety classes at COM
As the weather warms and employees try to stay indoors, the Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute on avoiding injuries: Ergonomics for Work on June 8 and Occupational Health Hazards on June 24.
Top COM Fire Academy grads honored
Barreling through tunnels and rappelling down walls, 20 College of the Mainland Fire Academy cadets bonded through 640 hours of training to graduate May 12.
Art Club showcases ceramics, paintings and more
The College of the Mainland Art Club is launching its first show, “Anatidaephobia,” at the COM Art Gallery through June 23.
NASA program selects COM student
The seeming magic of flight fascinated Javier Duran as a child.
Biology students spot nesting birds with binoculars, thanks to grant
College of the Mainland students sailing to the Rookery Islands in Galveston Bay will have a new way to spot the birds nesting in the shrubs they planted, thanks to a $4,830 Texas/New Mexico Power Grant.
“Bleacher Bums” scores at COM Community Theatre
In “Bleacher Bums” the drama on the baseball field is second only to the drama in the stands. Showing at the College of the Mainland Community Theatre May 19 through June 5, the all-too-familiar pang of defeat hasn’t dampened fans’ enthusiasm for their beloved Chicago Cubs.
Not giving up: Stroke survivor excels at COM
Drew Rogers still bears the scar – a semicircle on the left side of his scalp where doctors removed part of his brain after his stroke at age seven.
“Wikked Wyves” project wins at symposium
Romantic? Maybe. Fairy tales? Definitely not. In her winning project at the Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Academic Symposium at College of the Mainland, COM student Lauren Buchanan dissected the literature of the Middle Ages and the women they seemingly enshrine.
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Jump into action as nurse, detective or welder at COM summer camps
High school students can investigate a crime scene, explore firefighting or learn about health care fields during hands-on career explorations camps this summer.
Mainland Medical Auxiliary gives $20,100 for COM scholarships
Continuing its support for College of the Mainland nursing programs, the Mainland Medical Volunteer Auxiliary recently donated $20,100 to fund scholarships for nine COM nursing students next year.
New OSHA silica rule discussed in no-cost class
The Center for Risk Management will host a no-cost class OSHA’s Final Rule on Occupational Exposure to Crystalline Silica at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute May 29.
Student third in national debate
At 18, McKenzie Godeaux, a senior in College of the Mainland Collegiate High School from Dickinson, has learned to keep smiling while debating students from community colleges and universities often three or four years older (and more experienced) than she is.
High schoolers shadow nurses, earn certifications
Often just-graduated students have a great education but little practical application in their field. A College of the Mainland program is helping change that by helping students interested in health care get real-world experience while in high school.
Grant gives petrochemical students fresh start
In today’s economy corporate changes can happen quickly, leaving longtime workers unemployed. A College of the Mainland grant is helping individuals train for in-demand jobs.
Voices become instruments in new COM ensemble
Talented singers and students can now join Duck and Cover, College of the Mainland’s newest vocal group, an a cappella choir.
Honor society inducts 18
Excelling academically, 18 students were honored at the spring induction ceremony of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at College of the Mainland.
Open class on “Triangle of Death”
When an employee is ill or injured on the job, employers have responsibilities to take care of the employee.
Women-only handgun class trains in self-defense
Rita Guardiola had never touched a gun before. Linda Hertel qualified in firearms training for the corrections department where she spent 38 years. A new women’s basic handgun class united them at College of the Mainland as they learned (or relearned) how to hold a gun properly, aim and select a firearm to fit their needs.
Fun at COM with soccer, basketball camps
This summer students will dribble, pass and dunk their way to better skills in interactive soccer and National Basketball Academy camps.
Broadway to Bond … James Bond concert open to public
From Broadway to Bond to big band, the College of the Mainland Concert Band will reprise the legendary music of the stage in a free concert May 2 at 7:30 p.m. in the COM Fine Arts Building Recital Hall.
COM to celebrate Asian-American Heritage Month
Sample the sounds and flavors of the Pacific at COM's Asian/Pacific-American Heritage Month celebration May 3 at 12:30 p.m. in the Learning Resources Center Auditorium.
In election year, COM professor researches voting trends
In Shinya Wakao’s office three official documents hang from his walls – one degree emblazoned with the University of Texas seal and two in Japanese script.
Second Annual Fall-Prevention Stand Down
The Houston Fall Prevention Alliance will hold its Second Annual Fall Prevention Stand Down to protect workers from exposure to fall hazards in the construction industries on Tuesday, May 3, at an event hosted by TNT Crane and Rigging.
Instructor job fair May 7
Learn more about a rewarding job in education as a part-time College of the Mainland instructor at an adjunct faculty job fair May 7 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. at the COM Learning Center-North County, 200 Parker Ct. in League City.
Undercover Boss films COM alum
It was an exciting call. Roberto Sierra, general manager of the Nestle Toll House franchise at Baybrook Mall, was told a finalist in a reality show who planned to open a bakery wanted to come with a camera crew to shadow him on the job.
Nominate a distinguished COM alum
For half a century, College of the Mainland has launched careers and encouraged students to serve their neighbors. In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, the college will honor distinguished alumni who have made a difference in all aspects of the community.
Top speakers awarded at COM
Four College of the Mainland students presented passionate speeches on topics from equality to the need to protect endangered black spider monkeys at the college’s first QEP Speech Contest last week.
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Happy Jazz Day! TCHS and COM partner for concert
Celebrating International Jazz Day, the COM Jazz Ensemble and the Texas City High School Jazz Band will present a free, public concert April 30 at 6 p.m.
Veteran fair at COM April 26
The Second Annual Veteran Health and Resource Fair at College of the Mainland will be held April 26 from noon to 4 p.m. in the Student Center. This event is free and open to all veterans, COM students and the community.
Over 1,100 enroll in COM 50 Plus Program
Offering new courses from photography to iPad/iPhone for Beginners, the College of the Mainland 50 Plus Program has topped enrollment of 1,100.
Time and place symposium at COM April 29
College of the Mainland will host the fourth annual Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Academic Symposium April 29 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to showcase top students’ projects in all subjects.
COM trumpeter makes state band
Named among Texas’ top community college music students, College of the Mainland student Ronnie Howard was selected by audition to perform with the Texas Community College Band Directors Association Symphonic Band at the Texas Music Educators Conference in San Antonio.
Oh Snap! crowns contest winners
Waiting on a doctor’s diagnosis alone in a sterile, noiseless room, Van G. Garrett turned to the one thing he carries with him – his cell phone. He snapped a shot of the scene, capturing the nervousness of the moment and isolation of the place.
Public bond meeting April 18
COM will hold a bond advisory committee meeting on April 18 at the Texas City-La Marque Chamber Offices April 18 from 6-7:30 p.m.
COM offers no-cost safety class
The Center for Risk Management will host a no-cost class at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute Safety Audits on April 15.
Texas Mutual Insurance gives $100K for COM safety classes
Texas Mutual Insurance Company has awarded a $100,000 grant to College of the Mainland to fund the college’s Gulf Coast Safety Institute Center for Risk Management, which provides workplace safety courses for community employers, workers and the general public.
Fall 2016 scholarships open for application
Current or prospective College of the Mainland students can apply for a fall 2016/spring 2017 scholarship for tuition or textbooks now.
COM professor’s screenplay premiering at Houston festival
A screenwriter for more than a decade, College of the Mainland professor Nathan Goldman will see his work on the big screen for the first time at the Houston International Film Festival Sunday, April 10.
COM student one of two in nation to win Geico scholarship
College of the Mainland student Cody Kelemen, 17, of Texas City, is one of two students selected across the country for the 2016 GEICO Pathway to Completion Bachelor’s Degree Scholarship.
HVAC students prepare for in-demand field
Summer is coming and with it the need for qualified air-conditioning technicians.
New COM Foundation scholarships announced
Nearly 200 attended the College of the Mainland Student-Donor Luncheon, which allowed students to thank individuals and companies for their generosity in creating new and continuing previous scholarships.
Mainland Vocal Arts in concert April 8 and 17
The Mainland Singers and Mainland Chorale will “Sing a Mighty Song” and perform other hits during vocal extravaganzas April 8 at 7:30 p.m. at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Texas City and April 17 at 2 p.m. at Moody Mansion in Galveston.
New women-only handgun class
For the first time this semester, COM is offering a First-Step Basic Handgun Class exclusively for women interested in personal protection with a handgun.
Student finds birth mother after 30 years
For 33 years, Rose Pipkin, a College of the Mainland student from La Marque, searched for her biological mother. She didn’t know that for 33 years her mother sought her.
Small-town secrets explored at COM Community Theatre
In sleepy little Second Samuel, Georgia, not much ever changes … until Miss Gertrude dies, setting off a revelation of the town’s not-so-simple secrets. Set in the late 1940s and filled with colorful characters, “Second Samuel” runs at College of the Mainland Community Theatre March 31 to April 17.
COM grad receives congressional recognition
Continuing to give back to the community including conducting several life-saving rescues, Kevin LaGatella was awarded a Certificate of Congressional Recognition. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee presented the certificate at the Salute to Our Heroes Award Ceremony.
Employees support Dickinson school
Continuing its work for local schools, College of the Mainland employee group COMPeers collected and donated 1,076 Box Tops for Education to the True Cross Catholic School in Dickinson.
New welding degree gives options
Giving students more career choices, College of the Mainland now offers students an associate degree in welding. The Associate of Applied Science is in addition to COM’s welding certificates and will allow students to move up in the field or teach in many community colleges.
Summer scholarships open for application
Current or prospective College of the Mainland students can apply for a summer scholarship for tuition or textbooks through March 20.
Apply for a petrochemical scholarship
The ExxonMobil Community College Petrochemical Initiative is accepting applications for scholarships to cover books and tuition.
Welding classes enrolling
COM’s welding classes, offered during the day and evening, are open for registration. The next classes begin the week of March 21.
Theatre students to portray leaders at Women’s History Month event
Portraying Eleanor Roosevelt, Abigail Adams, Barbara Jordan, Sonia Sotomayer and Ellen Ochoa, COM theatre students will honor world changers at a Women’s History Month Celebration open to the public. The event will be held March 22 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Learning Resources Center Auditorium.
COM announces $1.1. million in energy savings
Cenergistic has awarded College of the Mainland the Energy Pacesetter Award for achieving savings totaling $1,168,283 (35 percent) since 2012 when it partnered with the energy-conservation company.
Jazz Ensemble to perform free concert
The award-winning College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble will present a free concert on March 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall.
Learning through volunteering in COM class
Bathing 22 wet, wriggling dogs was only the beginning.
Tour U.S. with lifelong learning trips
Relax with upcoming extended travel trips with the COM Lifelong Learning Program to Southern California (April 10-15), Cape Cod and the Islands (Aug. 14-20) or New York City (Dec. 2-6).
No-cost safety class for general industry
The Center for Risk Management will host a no-cost class Safety for Confined Space Entry for general industry at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute Safety for on March 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Police department honors employees, promotes Meyers to lieutenant
College of the Mainland Police Chief Sylvia Chapa recognized seven employees and promoted Sgt. Rodney Myers to lieutenant at a recent ceremony.
Middle East professor to lecture
The College of the Mainland International Speakers Series will host a lecture on “The Islamic State and American Foreign Policy” Tuesday, March 8, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Learning Resources Center Auditorium.
COM now StormReady
For its work to prepare the college and its community for any weather emergency, the National Weather Service recognized COM as being StormReady.
COM student doubles Mardi Gras poster win
For the second year in a row, College of the Mainland student Chandler Milillo’s dramatic design has won the Galveston Mardi Gras poster contest.
Students learn English, earn GED and return to workforce with COM program
Martha Guerrero had only had a sixth grade education in Mexico before emigrating to the U.S.
Fantasy football funds scholarships
Curt Meyer, COM theater technical director, wasn’t the only winner of the COMPeers Fantasy Football League. Two COM students will receive $500 scholarships from the funds raised.
COM students raise $1,500 for Fisher House
College of the Mainland students in Phi Theta Kappa raised $1,500 through the Quacking Dead Fun Run for the Fisher House Foundation, which provides homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment.
Grant helps cover child care for students
Students attending COM may apply for a Carl Perkins grant to help cover the cost of child care.
Make workplace safe with OSHA courses
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or to expand their skills with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-Hour General Industry or Construction Outreach safety courses at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Learn how to earn degree and high school diploma
At a meeting for prospective parents and students Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the Learning Resource Center Auditorium, attendees will discover how COM Collegiate High School makes it possible to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an associate degree.
From Peru to COM, finding a home
One advantage of a community college is its convenience and localness, but some students travel over 4,000 miles to come to COM.
COM makes military friendly school list
Serving 356 veterans and facilitating 4,416 visits to the College of the Mainland Veterans Center last year, COM has again been named a military friendly school.
COM advisor encourages students with her story
Helping students get on the right track with a degree plan, recommending campus workshops and giving presentations in classrooms, Kristen Hatfield wears many hats.
Bright ideas mini-grants fund COM student success
Student success often lies in teacher innovation. This year College of the Mainland Foundation is launching the “Bright Ideas” Mini-Grants Program to help fund COM instructors’ ideas for technology, programs or services that will help them spark students’ interest.
Women in Industry Conference Feb. 19
Petrochemical refineries need to replace as much as 40 percent of current employees over the next decade—due to plant expansions and an aging workforce.
'Nunsense’ on parade at COM theatre
Take a seat and relax with toe-tapping tunes and witty wisecracks filling College of the Mainland Community Theatre’s hilarious musical spoof “Nunsense,” showing Jan. 28 to Feb. 14.
COM grad at 18 wins regional TRiO scholarship
Earning two associate degrees from College of the Mainland at 18, Elyssa Davila was recently awarded the Southwest Association of Student Assistance Program Scholarship, a regional TRiO scholarship.
Student art showcased at COM
View the best of COM students’ artwork including ceramics, painting, photography and drawing on display now through Feb. 14 in the COM Art Gallery.
Records specialist guides students in admissions process
Often one of the first faces new COM students see, Chris Rushing supports the Admissions and Records Office by answering students’ questions when they call or visit.
No-Cost Safety Lunch and Learn
This spring, the Small Business Safety and Health Center at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute is expanding its course offerings for small businesses. Beginning in February, the Center will offer monthly “lunch and learn” or “dinner and learn” opportunities. The first “lunch and learn” will be offered on Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute. The topic will be “Safety Training on a Budget.”
Entrepreneur and high school dropout graduates with highest honors
A first-generation college student, Will Manes had the drive to succeed as a full-time college student and business owner.
Bordwine wins online faculty of the year
For many students juggling work, family life and education, online courses are a convenient, and sometimes only, option.
CPR classes for layperson, health care professional
Learn a life-saving skill at upcoming CPR classes at College of the Mainland. COM offers the American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR/AED Class for the general public and the American Heart Association Health Care Provider CPR Class.
COM police chief featured in national magazine
For her advancement of the department and collaboration in the community, College of the Mainland Police Chief Sylvia Chapa was featured as a “Leader and Innovator” in this month’s issue of the national magazine Campus Security Report.
Football stars excel in dual credit classes
Playing football together since seventh grade, La Marque High School football players Ashton Holmes, Devyn Billiott, Marcus Mathews, Kristion Redwell, Madison Little, Brenten Jones, Mathew Adams and Aymiel Fleming fight for excellence on the field. They also stand out in the classroom, taking dual credit and Collegiate High School classes at College of the Mainland.
LVN students overcome loss, challenges to excel
Two students who overcame challenges were recently awarded at the College of the Mainland Vocational Nursing Program pinning ceremony.
17 graduate from COM Peace Officer Academy
A total of 17 cadets are ready for the call of duty after graduating from the College of the Mainland Basic Peace Officer Academy.
Third GCIC symposium open for submissions
The third annual Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Academic Symposium at College of the Mainland is accepting abstracts for projects on this year’s theme, “Time and Place as Context.”
Prepare to save lives with COM EMT program
Emergency medical technicians can restart a heart, administer medications and insert an IV, all in an ambulance flying at 80 miles per hour.
COM volleyball winners announced
Five teams competed for the championship title in the Coed 4 League.
From China to clinicals, COM student pursues nursing dream
Traveling from China to the U.S. for college, Chang Wang, of Katy, remembers her first day in nursing class.
Nine graduate from COM Fire Academy, pass state exam
After 16 weeks filled with rappelling, crawling through tunnels and simulating rescues in rooms the class president described as “hot enough to bake cookies,” nine cadets graduated Dec. 10 from the College of the Mainland Fire Academy.
Veteran and author shares experiences
Recounting tales from his military service, giving writing tips and telling stories culled from hours of historical research, Michael Lee Lanning, retired Army lieutenant colonel, spoke to a crowd at College of the Mainland as part of COM’s International Speaker Series.
Cell phone photo contest open for entries
Have a stunning photo or short video snapped with your cell phone?
1,082 pounds of groceries for food bank
College of the Mainland employees collected and donated 1,082 pounds of nonperishable foods for the Galveston County Food Bank during a holiday drive.
Five boxes for Toys for Tots
Making smiles bright, College of the Mainland students and employees donated five overflowing boxes of new toys to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation during the holiday drive.
Jobs await COM mechanical maintenance students
Students in the College of the Mainland Mechanical Maintenance Technician Program find that their high-level skills can open doors even before graduation.
BP donates $15,000 for COM scholarships, equipment
A $15,000 donation from BP will assist College of the Mainland students through upgraded equipment and scholarships.
Veteran to graduate at 73, despite tumor
Graduating from the COM Basic Peace Officer Academy at age 64, Elmer Venzke, now 73, is again beating the odds.
COM students meet Spurs, tour college at TRiO Day
Converging under the purple lights of the AT&T Center in San Antonio, College of the Mainland students joined dozens of other Texas students for TRiO Day along with special guests, the San Antonio Spurs.
Recycled letter finds way to COM exhibit
Crumpled memories and recycled objects form the centerpiece of “KWT,” on display now at the College of the Mainland J. Palmer Space.
COM honor society inducts 38
Excelling academically, 38 students were honored at the fall induction ceremony of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at College of the Mainland.
Serving those who served
Assisting over 200 veterans and their dependents and spouses attending COM, Detra Levige serves those who have served the nation.
Students launch Inspiring Heroism Through Dialogue Conference
Whether a parent, a high school student or the first in one's family to enroll, beginning college can challenge.
COM purchases new fire engine for training
College of the Mainland Fire Academy cadets train in the classroom, on the drill field and now, the college’s own fire engine.
Registration for spring continuing education classes open
Let this spring be the start of something new at COM.
President’s Concert by World-Traveling COM Choirs Dec. 4
Ring in the holidays with a majestic concert featuring Christmas classics and beautiful choral music Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in Texas City. The concert is given in honor of College of the Mainland’s president, Dr. Beth Lewis.
Learn how to increase profits with safety class at GCSI
Professionals can explore how implementing crucial safety principles can expand their company’s profits at a no cost class by the Center for Risk Management at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute Dec. 4, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Join Giving Tuesday and help a COM student
Support the students of College of the Mainland by participating in the worldwide movement known as Giving Tuesday.
Holiday grief support group open at COM
The arrival of holidays sparks traditions and memories of years past. For those who have lost a loved one, it can be a challenging time.
Three-hour art contest names winners
Art students had three hours, two piles of recycled materials and one theme: the architecture of the mind.
Concert Band to reprise movie soundtracks
From the adventurous “Raiders of the Ark” to jubilant “Star Wars,” movie soundtracks and marches will spring to life in a free performance Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall.
Creativity and connection: exhibit showcases COM faculty art
Gilded landscapes, intricate calligraphy, abstract portraits and glistening ceramics take the spotlight at the faculty exhibit at the COM Art Gallery on display through Dec. 2.
Civil rights, Holocaust memorial speeches win in contest
Cries for freedom, equality and justice rang out during College of the Mainland’s annual Words That Changed History Student Speech Contest.
Training exercise at COM Nov. 20
On Friday, Nov. 20, from 7:30 a.m. to noon, College of the Mainland will host a full-scale training exercise including many police, fire and EMS responders from Texas City and the Industrial Mutual Aid Systems (IMAS).
COMPeers arms teachers with crayons and calculators
From shiny new markers for crafts to boxes of tissue for flu season, a College of the Mainland employee group aims to help teachers and students with a third annual supply drive.
Spring classes open for registration
Let COM be your launchpad for success with online and on-campus classes.
Scholarship recipient: “I want to inspire kids”
Earning a College of the Mainland Foundation music scholarship for books and tuition, Candace Long wants to share her love for music.
COM graduate behind the scenes at Channel 8
Broadcasting Big Bird and big news, Houston Public Media manages 91.7 FM, 88.7 FM and TV channel 8 (PBS).
Swashbuckling workshop arms high school students for stage
Swords swooshed through the air and clanged as steel struck steel. “Save yourself!” a swashbuckler shouted to his partner.
COM employees donate to La Marque Elementary
COMPeers, a College of the Mainland employee group, coordinated a donation of 1,057 Box Tops for Education to La Marque Elementary. The Box Tops can be redeemed for 10 cents each for supplies for the school.
COM joins fight against Alzheimer’s with walk, $5K donation drive
For student Taylor Hughes, it started with her great-grandmother forgetting her name. Over the next year, it became more and more frequent. Now she no longer remembers Hughes or her daughter.
Mishaps and mayhem fill comedy at COM
Merriment and misunderstandings ensue in “Round and Round the Garden,” a quintessential British comedy showing at College of the Mainland Community Theatre Nov. 5-22.
Native American Heritage Month Celebration Nov. 10
Honoring the nation’s first people, College of the Mainland will host a Native American Heritage Month Celebration Nov. 10 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building, Room 117.
Mexican Consulate at COM for two weeks
College of the Mainland will host the Mexican Consulate General of Houston in the Student Center Nov. 3-6, 10, 12 and 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ronald McDonald House patients treated to game night
Children and their families living at Ronald McDonald House in Galveston were treated to a night of games, prizes and fun when College of the Mainland volunteers came to play.
Road rage, workplace violence topics in upcoming GCSI classes
Preparing individuals to be aware of and combat hazardous workplace situations, the Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute: Surviving Violent Encounters Nov. 6 and How to Improve Your Company’s Driver Safety Program Nov. 20.
Monster Musik to showcase spine-tingling melodies
Spooky songs and suspenseful show themes will take the stage during the 11th annual Monster Musik, a free electric guitar concert at 8 p.m. Oct 29 in the College of the Mainland Fine Arts Building Recital Hall.
COM lights up for STEM conference for girls
From dissecting owl pellets and discovering what owls ate for dinner to watching a chemistry professor make a gummy bear explode, over 250 girls explored careers at the first I Heart STEM Conference for middle school girls at College of the Mainland.
COM fifth in nation for science technology grads
As industries expand on the Gulf Coast, COM is helping meet industry demand. The college graduated the fifth most students with science technologies/technicians degrees in 2014, according to a recently released Community College Week report.
Grant at COM covers tuition for re-careering adults
Individuals looking to re-career or re-enter the workforce can receive assistance in reaching their goals through a College of the Mainland grant covering tuition and career services.
Galveston artist unveils gold leaf sculptures at COM
Gold leaf glints off free-form porcelain sculptures in a Galveston artist’s exhibit in the College of the Mainland Enrollment Center.
COM spring scholarships open
Spring scholarships are open for application through Nov. 2.
Fun Run at COM Oct. 31
Waddle along with family, friends or children in a Halloween-themed Quacking Dead Fun Run Oct. 31 at College of the Mainland.
COM student nabs national Shell Scholarship
Winning the Shell Scholarship, a national competition, Monique Jordan, of Hitchcock, is proud of the example she’s setting for her children.
COM grad at 16 among youngest at UTMB
Ruby Martin, 16, has accomplished much – beginning college at 14, joining the debate team and earning an associate degree from College of the Mainland this spring.
Listen to art in progress at COM gallery
From the high-pitched squeal of a marker on a glass panel to the rhythmic whispers of pen on paper, College of the Mainland’s newest exhibit captures the sounds of art.
Discover how to earn a degree by high school graduation
High school students and their parents will discover how COM Collegiate High School makes it possible to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an associate degree during a meeting Oct. 20 at 6:30 p.m. in the COM Learning Resource Center Auditorium.
COM receives $2.6 million grant as Hispanic-serving institution
A new $2.6 million grant at College of the Mainland will help Hispanic students succeed from typing a college application to striding across the stage to receive a diploma.
Anti-bullying music fest coordinated by COM prof and nonprofits
As a student flips backward across the stage, screams and cheers erupt from the audience.
TRiO grant renewed at COM to support first-generation college students
A federal TRiO grant of over $1.2 million dollars has been renewed for the Student Support Services Program at College of the Mainland, which helps students with school supplies, tutoring and mentors.
COM student named top speaker at debate tournament
Debating the virtues of apple vs. cherry pie and whether Congress should enact a law making voting mandatory, College of the Mainland student Aaron Maxwell triumphed as the top speaker at a recent debate tournament at Lee College.
COM student receives President’s Service Award
Already a full-time employee, high school student and college student at 17, Cody Kelemen recently claimed another accomplishment – recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award.
Independence Village resident earns COM certificates, spot in honor society
Brian Karacostas remembers the day he almost quit.
Despite loss, COM graduate excels in intermediate care
Vanessa Godfrey remembers the moment she knew she was supposed to be a nurse.
Advance in industry with OSHA safety courses
Individuals can prepare to enter industry or to expand their skills with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-Hour General Industry Outreach safety course at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Art of 1,000 pencils on display at COM
Forget paper airplanes and doodles – artist Jonathan Clark turns sticky notes, number two pencils and other office supplies into masterpieces.
Date with Destiny at COM to show women career options
As industry jobs expand in the Gulf Coast area, College of the Mainland and other community college partners will host a career forum for women called “Date With Destiny, Texas” Oct. 8 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Double-Tree Hilton Hotel, Houston Hobby Airport
New COM theatre director trains in action and accents
Crossed pirate swords and Captain America’s star-emblazoned shield guard the walls of H. Russ Brown’s office.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at COM Sept. 22
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 22 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the College of the Mainland Breezeway.
U.S. Air Force Band to play at COM
The U.S. Air Force Band of the West's jazz band, Dimensions in Blue, will perform a free jazz concert Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. in the College of the Mainland Learning Resource Center.
Gala raises $95K for COM scholarships
To fund students’ educations, futures and dreams, the College of the Mainland Foundation Bridge to the Future Gala raised more than $95,000 for COM Foundation scholarships.
Fossils, fertilizer and relationships examined in COM students’ honors projects
Diving into topics from student/teacher relationships to ideal plant fertilizers, four students at College of the Mainland explored, researched and presented their work for honors credit.
COM PTEC Program expands with new full-time instructor
A former Texas City firefighter and 26-year process operator veteran, Jonathan Leacroy will teach more classes as a full-time professor at College of the Mainland.
COM student shines on and behind the stage
Playing the man behind the curtain, the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, in elementary school sparked Max Estudillo’s passion – theater.
Former Secret Service officer to teach COM CHL classes
Working for the Secret Service, Daniel Blackford protected former presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, two Israeli leaders and kings and queens.
COM theater presents “Steel Magnolias”
Set in a 1980’s beauty parlor, “Steel Magnolias,” the quintessential Southern tale of fierce friendship, will run at the College of the Mainland Community Theatre Sept. 10-27.
BP scholarship helps fund mom’s dream
Italian translator, nighttime stocker, waitress, cashier and security officer - Christina Tobias filled varied positions before she became a fire watch at a plant.
Bands to Beyonce: COM grad styles models, musicians
The spotlight glaring and bass blaring, One Republic rocks out.
Students win scholarships in COM bridge program
A total of 18 students got a head start to the school year in the College of the Mainland bridge program, which eased freshmen students' transition to college through discovering campus resources, meeting staff and learning study skills tips.
Melted, mottled glass featured at COM art exhibit
Raised on her family’s one-acre island in Muskoka Lake in Canada, artist Margaret Smithers-Crump says she grew up “surrounded by water and light.”
Research analyst's data drives student success
Collecting, organizing and analyzing student and college data, Amber Lummus helps ensure that students succeed.
Citizenship, conversations, careers - ESL students reach goals one word at a time
Student Lizmarie Rodriguez has a goal – to pass the physical therapy exam in English so she can work in health care as she did in her native Puerto Rico.
Enroll in health care courses to fast-track to workforce
As the U.S. population ages and technology advances, health care is increasingly a solid career choice with good salaries and career opportunities. Enter the workforce in often less than a year with a COM certificate program.
COM Fire Technology Program enrolling
Lives can change in an instant, and the COM Fire Technology Program prepares students to handle emergencies at a moment’s notice.
GCSI to host no-cost safety classes
The Center for Risk Management will host three no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute in September: Introduction to Environmental Regulations on Sept. 11, Confined Spaces in Construction on Sept. 18 and Introduction to Process Safety Management on Sept. 25.
COM Foundation gala to honor Callender, UTMB Health
The College of the Mainland Foundation Gala on Sept. 10 will honor President David L. Callender, M.D., and the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) for championing the future of Galveston County through education, research, health care and economic development.
Fast-track to workforce with COM Pharmacy Technician Program
When Ann Greco walked the stage to receive her associate degree she already had two accomplishments – a job offer and the assurance she’d set a good example for her son.
CPR courses to train professionals
Learn a life-saving skill with College of the Mainland CPR courses for health care providers and other professionals.
More than a cup: COM grad crosses Asia for best coffee
What goes into a cup of coffee? College of the Mainland graduate Will Frith has been involved in nearly every aspect from seed to sip: growing, processing, roasting and serving.
43 students receive scholarships to pursue petrochemical careers
With the Gulf Coast area petrochemical industry needing more than 50,000 new workers within the decade, nine community colleges have set out to find and train this next generation of skilled workers, enabled by a grant from the ExxonMobil Foundation.
Extended registration hours announced
College of the Mainland will be open from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. Aug. 19-20 and Saturday, Aug. 22, from 8 a.m. to noon. The registration deadline is Aug. 22 at noon.
Future engineer and COM graduate wins $58K scholarship
The first in her family to earn an associate degree, Raquel Balderas isn’t stopping there.
Work from home? In health information management, flexibility is reality
Working from home, a flexible schedule and job satisfaction may seem to many people like buried treasure, elusive and mythical. For Patricia Brown they are a reality.
In months, COM students transform from dropouts to graduates
After three months, two certificates and one job, Michael Rios’ life has changed.
COM grad at 19 creates apps, websites
At age 8 Preston Temple began tinkering with computers, creating simple programs on a clunky Apple II.
Campus Concealed Carry - Texas SB 11
Texas SB 11 (Campus Concealed Carry) does not go into effect for community colleges until Aug. 1, 2017.
COM employees donate to food bank
College of the Mainland employees collected and donated $125 for the Galveston Food Bank School’s Out But Hunger’s Not Campaign.
COM Fire Technology Program enrolling
Lives can change in an instant, and the COM Fire Technology Program prepares students to handle emergencies at a moment’s notice.
COM machinist program trains for industry demand
From the titanium screws used in orthopedic implants to steel hardware, machinists craft the building blocks of our world.
COM jobs - and basketball - open doors for students with disabilities
For two Santa Fe ISD students with disabilities the path to greater independence lay through what every young adult seeks: a job.
Register now for fall COM classes
College of the Mainland gives you options. Whether you see yourself working in a hospital room, boardroom or control room, we can help you get there.
For COM ESL student, citizenship spells success
July 20 was among the happiest days of Maria A. Rodriguez’s life.
COM Cosmetology to host open house
See how you can launch a cutting-edge career at the COM Cosmetology Open House Aug. 4 from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Salon at College of the Mainland, 15009 Delaney Rd. in La Marque.
Mosaic and more on display at 50 Plus Art Exhibit
After her husband’s death, Marilyn Jewell delved deeper into an art form she loved –stained glass.
Cosmetologist-turned-pharmacy technician hired before graduation
Wanting a career change, Nicole Loukanis decided to take the people skills she employed and apply them to another service-oriented profession – health care.
Minority men’s college success aim of new consortium
Though more students head to college than ever, not all will leave with a diploma amid cheers - and statistics show that minorities are more likely to leave college without a degree.
COM students donate jewelry to Bayou Vista Wounded Warrior Project
Veterans treated to a weekend away got a little extra, thanks to students in the College of the Mainland 50 Plus Program classes.
No-cost safety classes unlock new career for technician
Working as a hydroblast technician, Shawn King sought a new goal.
Earn credit for serving with COM class
Want to get credit for volunteering? Students taking Lifespan Service Learning this fall can do just that.
Fast-track classes shortcut to success
Coming to College of the Mainland after several years out of college, Quincy Jones’ nemesis was not juggling two jobs and a full load of classes.
COM summer musical opens July 16
College of the Mainland Community Theatre will again present a show-stopping summer musical with “I Do, I Do!” a lyrical look at life and love.
Japan excursion is highlight of COM art course
Touring 14th-century castles, hiking through a bamboo forest and viewing a squirrel petting zoo fed students’ creativity during a nine-day tour of Japan with College of the Mainland.
Employee of the Month maintains, beautifies campus
Charlie King ensures the college’s 120-acre campus serves as a well-maintained backdrop to education.
COM mechanical students will graduate with certificates, jobs
For Caleb Mauer and Velvet Hill classes at College of the Mainland have paid off before graduation.
A long jump to success: Junior Olympian graduates with associate degree at 18
Nikes crunch on gravel as Asa Garcia’s muscles tighten, ready to spring into action. Rising and sprinting down the track, she leaps three times.
No topic off limits at COM workshops for middle schoolers
“What do I do if someone wants me to do drugs?” Scribbling anonymously on slips of papers, students asked their often unspoken questions during the first-ever leadership conference “Know the Difference, Be the Difference” facilitated by the College of the Mainland Collegiate High School students.
COM scholarship gala names honorary chairs
Six community leaders will serve as honorary chairs for the College of the Mainland Foundation Gala, which supports students and their success through scholarships.
COM police academy graduates awarded
Drawing on their diverse backgrounds in law enforcement, firefighting and emergency medical services, two College of the Mainland Basic Peace Officer Academy students received awards for excellence at graduation.
Outstanding COM nursing graduates honored
Among the 71 students graduating from the College of the Mainland Associate Degree Nursing Program this year, four stood out.
Students become machinists, welders in COM camp
Putting out digital fires, creating machine parts and welding were all in a day’s work for students in the COM Industrial Trades Career Exploration Camp June 15-19.
DHS students graduate with diplomas and job offers
This year 21 Dickinson High School students graduate not only with diplomas but with in-demand job skills and, in some cases, job offers.
COM greenhouse gets automatic sprinkler system, thanks to student
Native plants in the College of the Mainland greenhouse are flourishing under an automatic sprinkler system donated by recent College of the Mainland graduate William Manes.
COM awards first-ever summer scholarships
Finances should not keep any student from fulfilling their goals, so College of the Mainland Foundation awarded summer scholarships to students for the first time this year.
From ESL to university student
When the green cards came after years of waiting, Karelys Carreyo, 20, left the university she attended to travel with her family from Venezuela to the U.S.
Apply for a fall/spring scholarship now!
COM offers nearly 100 scholarships each year. Full-time and part-time students can apply by July 27 for scholarships to help pay for tuition and textbooks for the fall 2015, spring 2016 and summer 2016 semesters.
COM employees COM employees donate 1,005 box tops to Hitchcock Primary
Small actions added up to a big difference as College of the Mainland employees donated 1,005 Box Tops for Education to Hitchcock Primary.
COM commemorates 150th anniversary of Juneteenth
In honor of the 150th anniversary of the proclamation that Texas slaves were free, College of the Mainland will host a Juneteenth celebration on June 18 from noon to 2 p.m. in the COM Learning Resources Center Auditorium.
Generations find success with COM PTEC program
For Hal Pollock, of Dickinson, and sons Michael and Richard, the College of the Mainland Process Technology is a family affair.
COM Law Enforcement Academy enrolling for Fall 2015
Prepare for a career as a public protector with the College of the Mainland Law Enforcement Academy, now enrolling for fall 2015.
Tammie Helms Employee of the Month
Drawing from her 30 years in industry, Tammie Helms assists students and staff in COM Occupational Health and Safety Program.
Top CHS grads ready to begin college as juniors
With 67 college credits and almost $20,000 in scholarships, Allison Boyd feels ready for the next step in her education.
EMS, firefighting all in day’s work for COM grad
Each new day is a challenge for John Gonzalez. A firefighter for the Galveston Fire Department, Gonzalez responds to a myriad of emergencies from medical crises to car accidents.
Outstanding COM Fire Academy grads honored
After completing 640 hours of training from “thousands of pushups” to hacking ventilation holes in a roof, 11 College of the Mainland Fire Academy cadets graduated this month.
Interactive Civil War battle created by COM students
Visitors to the Fort Donelson National Battlefield will soon have an interactive video experience, thanks to the work of Logical Innovations Inc. and two College of the Mainland interns.
From rodeo clown to drafting student: Quadriplegic pursuing dream of degree at COM
From rodeo clown to drafting student: Quadriplegic pursuing dream of degree at COM
Retrace Bach’s steps with COM choir
Tour the centers of classical music with the College of the Mainland choirs during the groups’ tour of Germany and the Czech Republic June 15-23, 2016.
“The Drawer Boy” opens at COM Community Theatre
Peer into memories forged over a lifetime – and lost – in “The Drawer Boy” at College of the Mainland Community Theatre May 21 to June 7.
Demand sparks bright future for Gulf Coast welders
Working as a "surgeon with metal," welder Archie Andrews has high-level skills that companies along the industry-rich Gulf Coast compete to employ. Earning $30 per hour in contract jobs in addition to his full-time job at CBI in Texas City, Andrews owns his own truck and equipment and has found that welding jobs abound.
COM volleyball champions named
After a semester of tough competition, two College of the Mainland community volleyball leagues teams triumphed. Team Harrison won the Coed 4 Competition while Team Morrison triumphed in the A-League.
After motorcyclist crashes, COM student steps in
En route to Kemah on Highway 146 April 28, Felix DeLeon, of Texas City, watched as a motorcyclist slammed into a truck and flew off his motorcycle.
COM students win outstanding musician awards
Improvising new variations on the music of the masters, six College of the Mainland students won Outstanding Musician Awards at the Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Jazz Festival.
Mainland Medical Auxiliary donates $20,100 for COM scholarships
Nursing students face many pressures – class assignments, labs, work and often family responsibilities. Thanks to the Mainland Medical Auxiliary, students in the College of the Mainland nursing programs are assisted with one stressor: finances.
COM Collegiate High School students in top 20 at Dickinson
With accomplishments from power lifting to helping the homeless, four College of the Mainland students were named in the top 20 at Dickinson High School, and each honored a “Seed Sower” teacher who impacted their life.
Your Future Starts Now: Live chat and registration drive
On May 15, College of the Mainland, in partnership with ABC-13 and eight other community colleges, is hosting a one-day community college registration drive and live chat.
Couple who met in PTEC class to graduate together
For Rene Fuentes and Jonathan Rojas, a friendship forged over physics became more.
COM student designs firefighter games logo
A symbol of rebirth, the phoenix takes center stage in College of the Mainland student Chandler Mitchell’s winning design for the Texas City Fire Department’s First Annual Firefighter Games.
Rygaard COM's oldest grad at 85
Many students have walked the graduation aisle thanks to the dedication of College of the Mainland professor Pete Rygaard. On May 16, it’s Rygaard’s turn.
Award-winning jazz ensemble to present free concert at COM
The award-winning College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble will present a free concert showcasing their versatility on classics from swing to funk May 13 at 7:30 p.m. in the COM Fine Arts Building.
Unlock artist within with COM 50 Plus Program
Teaching art at the COM 50 Plus Program, Andy Karjala and Lee Johnson relate to those learning art later in life.
COM student voted SGA regional president
Serving as a voice of students on campus, College of the Mainland Student Government Association president Carlos Torres is now leading the region.
Sickle cell research wins at COM symposium
Bertrand Ebang was inspired to help research a treatment for sickle cell disease by two children - his five-year-old cousin and a seven-year old male patient at University of Texas-Medical Branch Galveston.
Why COM graduation rates are spiking
In two years, College of the Mainland student Melanie Lauret returned to college after more than a decade, joined the honor society and became the first in her family to earn a degree.
Optimist club names COM students winners of speech competition
Sharing stories of difficulties overcome, two College of the Mainland Collegiate High School students won first place in the Optimist International Oratorical Contest – Galveston.
COM named Mother-Friendly Silver Site
A cozy space graced with photos of sleeping infants is now available for COM nursing mothers.
COM police chief honored as Employee of the Month
COM Police Chief Sylvia Chapa is a protector.
Upward Bound helps student reach goal of nursing
Graduating this December with an associate degree in natural science, Tori Holiday knows exactly what she wants to do: comfort others the way a nurse reassured her.
HVAC program prepares students for high-skills, high-demand jobs
Maintenance technician Colby McNeel looks to improve his skills for more job opportunities within the field while Alex Crespo wants to enter the heating and air-conditioning field.
Music of “Frozen” and the masters presented in free COM concert
The Mainland Chorale and Mainland Singers will present their spring concert May 8, at 7:30 p.m. at Shrine of the True Cross Church, 300 Fm 517 Rd. E in Dickinson. The concert is free and open to the public.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration open to public
Celebrate a rich history and culture with College of the Mainland’s 41st Cinco de Mayo Festival May 5 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Breezeway.
COM honor society in top 34 in the world, honored for science education project
Research into the academic struggles of local students led members of the College of the Mainland Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society to bring science education to life at Crosby Middle School.
New COM nursing scholarship established
Thanks to the generosity of Dr. Jere Hammer, College of the Mainland director of nursing, COM students pursuing nursing will soon have another scholarship option.
Veterans Health Fair open to public
Learn about free resources available to veterans at the COM Veterans Center’s Health Fair April 30 from noon to 4 p.m. in the Student Center.
COM student earns international honor
After two years in the international community college honor society chapter at College of the Mainland, Kristin LaValle sums her lessons with “Never quit.”
Jump into action as nurse, EMT or machinist at COM summer camps
This summer high school students can climb inside an ambulance, discover how to use a fire hose or operate a lathe during hands-on career explorations camps at College of the Mainland.
From makeup to medicine, elementary students discover minerals with COM Geology Club
From the wispy hairs of a woolly mammoth to the porous rock formed in lava, geology came to life for fourth grade students at K.E. Little Elementary.
For HIM student, internship opens doors to UTMB job
Each paper represents a person for Greyson Burdette. In his new job at UTMB in employee records, the COM health information technician student helps complete, organize and maintain thousands of employee files.
Summer sports camps open at COM
Sprint, leap and score during summer sports camps at College of the Mainland.
40 years of art honored at COM 50 Plus Program
Traveling, teaching and art have filled Elaine Helm’s life.
Middle East expert discusses Syria, ISIS in free lecture
Students and staff discovered more about Syria, ISIS and unraveling events in the Middle East during a free lecture at College of the Mainland.
COM honor society inducts 19
Excelling academically, 19 students were honored at the spring induction ceremony of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at College of the Mainland.
Dig deeper into geology at open house
Explore dozens of fossils, minerals and rocks during the COM Geology Club Open House April 24 from 6-8 p.m. in the Technical-Vocational Building Room 1153.
Free COM concert showcases American classics
Feel the beat during a free performance by the COM Concert Band April 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the College of the Mainland Fine Arts Building Recital Hall.
Robotic man, clinical rotations and lab sessions at COM prepare future registered nurses
In the College of the Mainland Associate Degree Nursing program, preparation for providing compassionate care does not begin with a textbook.
Free Jazz Appreciation Month concert at COM
Savor the sounds of bebop and big band during “An Evening of Jazz,” a free concert April 18 at 6 p.m. at the Texas City High School Auditorium, 1431 Ninth Avenue N.
COM Foundation receives transparency recognition
College of the Mainland Foundation received the GuideStar Exchange Silver Participation Level, a symbol of transparency and accountability.
Job fair for COM adjunct faculty
Learn more about a rewarding job in education as a part-time instructor at College of the Mainland at an adjunct faculty job fair April 18 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the COM Learning Center-North County, 200 Parker Ct. in League City.
Geology Club uses fossils, gems to educate at mineral show
Glistening geodes and fossilized seahorses entranced parents and kids alike at the College of the Mainland's Geology Club exhibit at the Clear Lake Gem and Mineral Show at the Pasadena Convention Center.
Small Business Week Kickoff
Discover unique, conveniently located businesses, without driving around, during the Texas City Small Business Showcase April 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the COM Student Center.
“The Last Night of Ballyhoo” at COM theater
Peek into the 1930s Deep South with “The Last Night of Ballyhoo,” showing through April 26 at College of the Mainland Community Theatre.
Art festival names COM 50 Plus Program mayor’s choice
Sea-hued oil paintings, sharp photographs of Galveston and resplendent acrylics take center stage at the 16th annual Texas City Art Festival April 12-15 featuring the high-quality work of students in the College of the Mainland 50 Plus Program.
COM student named Coca-Cola scholarship winner
For academic excellence and leadership, College of the Mainland student Raquel Balderas has been selected as a Silver Scholar on Coca-Cola's 2015 Community College Academic Team.
Syria, ISIS discussed in free lecture
Learn about current events in Syria at a free lecture April 9 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Learning Resource Center Auditorium.
New algebra alternative at COM
Striving continually to make education mirror the real world, College of the Mainland is part of a statewide initiative to offer math options for students not majoring in a science, math or technology field.
COM nursing grads inspire classmates
For the 36 almost-graduates of the College of the Mainland Associate Degree Nursing Program, the end is in sight.
Women in STEM fields discuss challenges, opportunities at panel
Four women in science professions shared their stories of obstacles overcome and progress made by women in science, technology, engineering and math fields during a panel discussion March 24 at College of the Mainland.
Women’s challenges and contributions shared at STEM panel discussion
Hear stories of the obstacles overcome and progress made by women in science, technology, engineering and math fields during a panel discussion open to the public at College of the Mainland March 24 from 12:30 to 2 p.m.
COM paramedics earn 100 percent pass rate on national exam
Recently graduating from College of the Mainland, paramedic Jason Farrar is already serving his neighbors.
Random Acts of Kindness Day highlight of rodeo for students
The little things make a difference. During the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, eight College of the Mainland staff and students helped clean up, set up and assist people in wheelchairs during the Random Acts of Kindness Day.
Students showcase skills at COM Duck Debate
Nine colleges from Louisiana to Washington traveled to College of the Mainland for the third annual Duck Debates Tournament March 6-7.
Art and science symposium open for submissions
Have an artistic piece to present or research to share?
Ike-damaged home training site for COM Fire Academy
With 65 pounds of gear on their backs, College of the Mainland Fire Academy students hacked through walls, forced windows open and sliced ventilation holes in a roof during an intensive training at a Texas City home set to be demolished.
COM students thank scholarship donors
Grateful for those who help fund their dreams, College of the Mainland students shared their stories with donors at the COM Foundation Student and Donor Luncheon March 5.
COM mechanical students recruited by industry before graduation
Jose Hinojosa, 20, of Texas City, and Jason Lynch, 40, are three classes from graduation from the College of the Mainland Mechanical Maintenance Program but their in-demand skills have already landed them jobs as second-class machinists at Sun Edison paying $35.14 per hour.
Alum’s students sing their way to New York and beyond
Minarets from the summer’s production of “Aladdin” shimmering in the backdrop, the 31 young performers of the Bay Area Theatre and Voice Academy in League City belt out their musical quacks and cock-a-doodle-doos.
No-cost classes at Gulf Coast Safety Institute
Keeping pace with new Occupational Heath and Safety Administration regulatory changes, the Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute: “ISO 45001: Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems” March 6 and “NFPA 70E –2015 Updates” March 17.
Free textbooks introduced in COM science classes
Marc Cram paid tuition and fees for his College of the Mainland physics class, but there is one cost he did not have to pay – books.
COM grad public servant of the year
The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce recently honored College of the Mainland graduate Jonathan Burns, 27, of Santa Fe, as public servant of the year.
Home libraries for Hitchcock Head Start kids, thanks to Home Depot, COM
It took two days, sixteen hours and 10 employees, but 220 bookshelves stand ready for the children at Hitchcock Head Start to take home to launch a library.
COM student makes all-state band
Harmonizing with nearly 80 top musicians, College of the Mainland student Joseph Rodriguez, of Texas City, played the trumpet Feb. 14 with the Texas Community College Directors Association All State Symphonic Band.
COM wins Collegiate Advertising Award
A dynamic design of gold flames on a black background became the centerpiece for a College of the Mainland advertising campaign winning bronze in the Collegiate Advertising Awards in the Fundraising Campaign Category.
COM grant expands free GED, workforce training program
Students looking to enter the workforce quickly with in-demand skills will have a new option, thanks to the Accelerate TEXAS grant awarded to College of the Mainland.
COM clinicals student alerts staff to stroke victim
A routine day of clinicals quickly became an emergency for College of the Mainland graduate Mark White and his classmates.
COM student champion in debate tournament
Triumphing over students from two and four-year colleges, College of the Mainland student Alaina Spiers, of League City, became champion of a debate tournament hosted by Stephen F. Austin University.
EMS Program prepares students for action
At a moment’s notice, paramedics and emergency medical technicians can spring into action.
BP scholarship gives GED grad fresh start
Determined to earn his GED after a 25-year hiatus from school, David Rogers had two inspirations – his children Sarah, 5, and David, 7.
Burton named COM VP for Fiscal Affairs
With an extensive background in nonprofits, new College of the Mainland Vice President for Fiscal Affairs Clen Burton’s passion is community colleges.
LyondellBasell funds new COM scholarships
An ardent supporter of industrial education, LyondellBasell recently donated $10,000 to College of the Mainland Foundation to fund scholarships for process technology and occupational safety students.
Certified Nurse Aide Program enrolling
Train for a new career in less than eight weeks with COM’s Certified Nurse Aide Program.
COM and community college students converge on capitol
Making their voices loud, 15 College of the Mainland students joined with the largest crowd ever advocating two-year colleges on Feb. 3 during Community College Day in Austin.
New career resource for COM students
“What will I do with my life?” is a common question of students, and College of the Mainland offers a new resource to help them navigate career options.
COM student's design named official Mardi Gras poster
College of the Mainland student Chandler Mitchell’s winning Mardi Gras poster blends fantasy and reality.
No-cost classes on fall prevention, communication at GCSI
Falling from heights and miscommunication issues are among the common pitfalls in any industry, and the Center for Risk Management will host two no-cost classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute in February “Gender, Culture, and Communication” on Friday, Feb. 6, and “Create and Maintain an Effective Fall Protection Program” on Friday, Feb. 20.
COM summer scholarships open
Apply now for new scholarships covering tuition for full-time or part-time College of the Mainland students taking summer classes.
COM receives nursing grant for robotic patient, lab
College of the Mainland will purchase another SIM Man, a computerized manikin that can talk, breathe and respond to students' treatments, through a Nursing Innovation Grant.
COM graduate becomes a La Marque Public Service Triple-Crown Holder
William Reed stands ready for any emergency - with a paramedic and firefighter certification, he recently graduated from the College of the Mainland Basic Peace Officer Academy.
Texas Mutual gives $100,000 to GSCI for safety classes
Continuing a 15-year partnership, Texas Mutual Insurance Co., the state’s leading worker’s compensation insurance company, has given $100,000 to fund free safety and health classes taught by experts at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
No-cost Intermediate and Advanced Incident Command System classes at COM
Emergencies arise at a moment’s notice, and no-cost Incident Command System (ICS) classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute will train personnel in government and private agencies in how to use ICS to coordinate their responses.
COM grad treats littlest patients
The rewards of work for Wesley Kuykendall are measured in the smiles on the faces of the children he treats.
"Always ... Patsy Cline" back by popular demand at COM Community Theatre
The fan favorite, "Always ... Patsy Cline" will shine again at the College of the Mainland Community Theatre Jan. 29 to Feb. 15.
COM police grad sweeps awards
For Jacob Williams’ family protecting others is a way of life.
Free workshop unlocks math for returning student
With years of experience in a plant, For Danny Magee, returning to school to become a process technician. One obstacle math.
Medela donates supplies for nursing mom room at COM
While a new baby becomes every mom’s priority, many mothers also remain students and employees.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Event
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, College of the Mainland will host guest speaker Jason Roy Jan. 27 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Student Center.
Extended travel trips return to COM
Explore the towering Canadian Rockies and rustic New England trails in two College of the Mainland Lifelong Learning Program trips, open to adults of all ages.
Fossil digging, mountain climbing part of COM science education
From the heights of Hill Country domes to pristine coastal habitats, science education at College of the Mainland goes beyond the classroom.
Master OSHA recordkeeping at no-cost class
This new year, discover how to improve your OSHA recordkeeping with two free classes Jan. 16 or Jan. 23 by the Center for Risk Management at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
COM ranked among top affordable online programs
Online college courses offer a convenient way to complete an education, and College of the Mainland’s online program recently ranked among the most affordable in the state. An independent student resource, Onlinecolleges.net, announced COM as the fourth most affordable two-year online program in Texas.
COM program prepares students for safety field
Safety, hygiene and health are issues often overlooked – until something goes wrong.
COM Fire Academy honors top graduates
Standing out as exemplary among an outstanding group of 12 cadets, three students were honored at the COM Fire Academy graduation Dec. 12.
BP donates $15,000 for scholarships, supplies for COM students
Continuing its decades-long support of College of the Mainland and education, BP Texas City Chemicals donated $15,000 to College of the Mainland Foundation to help make an education financially possible for outstanding COM students.
Ice Land Internship gives COM students experience
For Hector Villalobos, making the neon lights and majestic sculptures at Ice Land at Moody Gardens come to life for a 14x48-foot billboard is just part of a day’s work.
For COM LVN students of the year, loss inspires compassion
Hospitals formed the backdrop of much of Stephanie Macaluso’s life.
Women in welding a soaring trend
For Jamie Lewton, 31, of Texas City, a newspaper article changed everything.
COM students collect for Toys for Tots
College of the Mainland students and employees donated five overflowing boxes of new toys to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation during the holiday drive.
COM partnership with Head Start fosters lifelong readers
For children in Hitchcock Head Start this year, college preparation begins with a 32-page book “The Little Pink Pup.”
A smooth path: COM College Connections advisors now at high schools
Santa Fe High School senior Austen Belzer knows exactly what he wants to do after graduation: law enforcement.
Dual credit students graduate ready for workforce
A shower of sparks flies as Grant Dominy, 16, welds the pieces of a trailer together.
More than ever, COM dual credit springboard to college for Hitchcock students
As a junior at Hitchcock High School, Marcus Escobedo was already bounding between honors classes, power lifting practice (he earned 10th place at the state competition) and shifts with the Hitchcock Volunteer Fire Department. When Escobedo heard about dual credit classes, he thought it was too perfect of an opportunity to pass up.
New continuing education classes open for registration
En garde! Join a new COM Continuing Education class, now open for registration at www.com.edu/ce, from physical therapy assistant to fencing.
Celebrate the season with free COM concerts
Ring in the season in a jazz style with concerts Dec. 11 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. in the College of the Mainland Fine Arts Building Recital Hall.
Opposites collide in pieces winning best in show at COM
Three students channeled opposing forces in their art and photography and won best in show at College of the Mainland's annual student exhibit.
COM inducts 26 in honor society
Uniting students in service and scholarship, the College of the Mainland chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa National Community College Honor Society recently inducted 26 new members.
Registration begins for COM continuing education classes
A new year brings new possibilities. This spring try one of College of the Mainland’s wide array of continuing education and senior adult classes, now open for registration.
Gang violence examined in winning speech
Craving respect and belonging, some members of Ashley Valdez’s family turned to gangs.
COM Senior Adult Program relaunches as 50 Plus Program
50 is the new 55. The College of the Mainland Senior Adult Program is proud to announce its change to the 50 Plus Program. Classes, trips and lectures are now open to ages 50 and older at a nominal cost.
Extended travel trips return to COM
Explore the towering Canadian Rockies and rustic New England trails in two College of the Mainland Lifelong Learning Program trips, open to adults of all ages.
Words That Changed History Contest honors finalists
Four students championed equality - of genders, races and sexes - during College of the Mainland's second annual Words That Changed History Contest.
No-cost safety class on proposed OSHA rule
As the Occupational Health and Safety Administration has proposed a new rule for respirable crystalline silica, the Center for Risk Management will host a no-cost class explaining the rule’s effects on industry.
COM grads on duty at Galveston Fire Department
Five new battalion chiefs of the Galveston Fire Department are ready for the call of duty – and four are College of the Mainland graduates.
COM Child Development Program launches flipped classes
Two students rap while another adds the backbeat: “This is how we do it … teacher accountability and parent involvement.”
EKGs' accuracy analyzed in COM honors project
For cardiology technician Josie Howell, reading the wavy lines of heart monitors inspired an honors project
COM celebrates four generations of veterans
Standing tall to represent a generation’s sacrifice – during World War II, the Vietnam War, the Korean War and the war in Iraq and Afghanistan – four veterans were recognized Nov. 10 during College of the Mainland’s Veterans Day memorial.
Mock interviews with industry managers prepare COM students for workforce
“You’ve been in school for a long time, tell me about a problem you’ve loved to solve.”
Geology students share lessons from abroad
Students and professors traveling on the COM Study Abroad Program to Canada this summer will share their experiences Nov. 13 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Learning Resources Center.
Free Pregnancy and Prenatal Care Fair
The College of the Mainland So Psyched Club, partnering with the nonprofit Pregnancy and Parenting Support Center in Texas City, will offer a free fair for parents and soon-to-be parents Nov. 18 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Breezeway.
United Way to benefit from COM online auction
COM's annual United Way drive is continuing full speed ahead with an auction of baskets from fall flair to a complete place setting for an elegant Thanksgiving dinner.
BP Ex's Association funds scholarship
This month the BP Ex’s Association donated $1,000 to fund an annual COM student scholarship.
A safe space: COM launches Veterans Center
Rolanda Hill Roberts could proudly point to many accomplishments: serving in the Army, raising two children and working 13 years in banking. One goal eluded her: completing college.
Nursing fair open to public
Discover how COM’s nursing programs can help you achieve your goals during a presentation Thursday, Nov. 6, at 6 p.m. in the COM Technical-Vocational Building Room 1101.
COM recertified as Achieving the Dream Leader College
Nearly one half of all students seeking higher education choose a community college, but when life intervenes, fewer than half finish what they start.
$347,210 in equipment to boost COM mechanical program
Five mills, three lathes, rigging equipment and more add up to $347,210 in new equipment for College of the Mainland students training to become mechanical maintenance technicians.
Science Teachers Institute reveals career possibilities
Science experiments, career overviews and a chemical plant tour demonstrated job opportunities for high school teachers’ students during a four-day workshop hosted by Harris County Department of Education and sponsored by the Texas Chemical Council.
COM Art Gallery call for entries
The annual College of the Mainland Student Art Show is open for entries from students enrolled at COM any time in 2014. Photography, 2-D and 3-D works must be delivered Oct. 20-23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to the COM Art Gallery.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s names COM Quack Pack a top team
Converging on Stewart Beach Oct. 11, the College of the Mainland Quack Pack, made up of COM students, staff and friends 170 strong, became the top company team during the Galveston Walk to End Alzheimers – raising $9,208.73 to search for a cure.
COM former student mentors minorities at Stanford University
Andrew Edoimioya has not yet graduated from Stanford University, but already he is recruiting students for higher education.
Comet the Duck rallying point at local schools, parades
Though few know her name, Autumn Mason is famous around town – She’s the dynamo behind (or inside) College of the Mainland’s mascot, Comet the Duck.
COM alum helping create apps for nonprofits
Wonder which plants survive blistering Gulf Coast heat? An app could help with that.
Students discover their power at COM Make a Difference Day
At College of the Mainland’s first Make a Difference Day, students learned how their actions can impact the community by working with 13 nonprofit organizations.
COM Foundation gala grosses $100K for scholarships
In a record-breaking gala Sept. 19 at Tuscan Courtyard in Texas City, College of the Mainland Foundation grossed more than $102,000 to help students reach their career and educational goals.
COM fifth in nation in science technology graduates
COM ranks fifth in the nation in the number of degrees awarded in science technologies/technicians in 2013, according to a recent report by magazine Community College Week.
COM police chief Carr retires after 11 years
After 11 dedicated years as College of the Mainland chief of police, E.W. “Butch” Carr is retiring.
COM firearms training center dedicated to Lem Powell
In a room filled with people whose lives he touched, the late Lemuel “Lem” Powell was remembered Sept. 18 with the naming of the College of the Mainland firing range in his honor.
Houston Texan J.J. Moses visits COM
Sharing his story of through tenacity and hard work becoming the shortest player in the NFL, Houston Texan J.J. Moses encouraged College of the Mainland students and family members to pursue their dreams Sept. 13 during COM’s second annual Family Day.
COM Foundation awards scholarships
A total of 91 students are closer to pursuing their dreams thanks to College of the Mainland Foundation scholarships, awarded this fall.
Tree dedicated in honor of COM student killed in car accident
Remembered by those who knew him as happy, intelligent and outgoing, Blake Ingles died in a car accident Nov. 28, 2007, less than a month before his 17th birthday.
COM group supplies La Marque teachers for new year
On Sept. 3, members of the College of the Mainland employee group COMPeers delivered donated school supplies to La Marque Independent School District.
Higher education for high school students
Theresa Jones, the new director of the College of the Mainland Dual Credit Program, is focused on creating opportunities for students still in high school to earn more than 24 hours of college credit by graduation.
New Stephen King resource includes chapter by COM professor
Suspense building on each page, Stephen King’s works captivate readers, students and educators.
COM students nab 4 of 30 national Shell scholarships
Four College of the Mainland students were among the 30 students awarded Shell scholarships after a competitive process that drew more than 250 applicants from across the nation.
COM Family Day combines magic and classes
Magic science shows, moon bounces and J.J. Moses are on the menu at College of the Mainland’s free, second annual Family Day Sept. 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m
COM choirs tour Ireland
Ethereal Celtic ballads and upbeat American tunes danced in tandem during the College of the Mainland Chorale and Mainland Singers’ performances in conjunction with local choirs in Ireland.
Hitchcock dual credit student triumphs in first COM debate camp
A first debate tournament was a win for 16-year-old Drager Landry, a College of the Mainland dual credit student from Hitchcock High School.
Fast-track to jobs with physical therapy aide course
After graduating from the College of the Mainland Physical Therapy Aide Program, Monica Fischer found job searching to be a swift process.
New COM scholarships will be funded thanks to Del Papa and local businesses
In a post-recession economy, individuals flock to community colleges to continue their education or to re-career, but many face gaps in funding even after receiving federal financial aid.
Student diabetes-free after COM class
For College of the Mainland student Holly Napoli, a required course became life changing.
Enter rapidly growing field with COM pharmacy technician program
They dispense medicine, advice and compassion. Forming an integral part of the health care system, pharmacy technicians provide expertise and skill, working under licensed pharmacists.
COM Child Development and Education Offers Free Training
COM Child Development and Education will provide a free training for current or future child care workers Aug. 5 from 1-2 p.m. in the Technical-Vocational Building Room 1101.
Women from shelter treated to makeovers at COM salon
Just one day of pampering can transform someone's look - and outlook.
Memorial bench dedicated at COM
An avid walker who loved the ducks circling the lake at College of the Mainland, the late Alice Campbell was honored Monday with a lakeside bench inscribed with her name.
STEM scholarships available to COM students
As job opportunities explode in technology and health care fields, students can apply for $2,500 scholarships to study for careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), safety or health care at College of the Mainland.
Four COM alum collaborate at Texas City salon
For Brenda Valles, Beth Darden and Chad Thomas the camaraderie found in the College of the Mainland Cosmetology Program didn’t end at graduation.
COM students win ExxonMobil scholarship
Preparing to launch careers in the growing petrochemical industry, four College of the Mainland students were awarded scholarships from the ExxonMobil Community College Petrochemical Initiative.
Students stay sharp in Upward Bound Summer Program
Summer has come, but class is not out for students in the College of the Mainland Upward Bound Program.
COM scholarship to honor Grover Salsbury
Grover Salsbury, a man dedicated to the community, family and friends, had one focus in the last year of his life: endowing the College of the Mainland scholarship to honor his late wife of 50 years, Ada Faye.
Students study volcanoes, glaciers and craters in Canada
Hearing the rushing of waterfalls, hiking to craggy pinnacles and discovering fossils were among unforgettable opportunities for six College of the Mainland students on a study abroad trip to Canada.
Quilt wins best in show at COM Senior Adult Program exhibit
As a gift for her first granddaughter, born weighing only 4 pounds, 3 ounces, Gloria Matlage stitched a quilt of textured prints in black, white and crimson.
Soccer camp a hit with youth
Speed, agility and conditioning were just a few of the skills that 8 to 15-year-olds learned in College of the Mainland’s weeklong soccer camp.
Soccer camp a hit with youth
Speed, agility and conditioning were just a few of the skills that 8 to 15-year-olds learned in College of the Mainland’s weeklong soccer camp. Designed to get kids active in the summer and prepare for fall sports leagues, the camp helped students hone skills through group practice and personalized coaching.
COM choirs tour Ireland
Ethereal Celtic ballads and upbeat American tunes danced in tandem during the College of the Mainland Chorale and Mainland Singers’ performances in conjunction with local choirs in Ireland.
TWC awards $4.5 million for adult education center
A new two-year Texas Workforce Commission contract for $4.5 million granted to the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) in the College of Education and Human Development at Texas A&M University will provide new resources for educators of GED preparation and English as a second language classes for adults across the state.
COM volunteers help finish Habitat for Humanity home
Aug. 2 is a day emblazoned on Janelle Thewett’s calendar – the day she receives the keys to her new home.
Music classes and ensembles open at COM
Pursue a lifelong interest or explore a new passion with College of the Mainland’s personalized music classes, open this fall to continuing education and degree-seeking students alike.
Safety training honors Workers Memorial Day
The Gulf Coast Safety Institute will host a weeklong series of safety training in honor of Worker’s Memorial Day. The classes will be offered Monday, April 28, through Friday, May 2.
A COM music graduate shares his story
"It was because of my studies at COM and three faculty members there that I have gone on to make a career in music and enjoy a life filled with music."
Texas City Small Business Week Kickoff at COM
Discover the businesses at your backdoor.
COM alum constructs art around unique spaces
For Karen Brasier, any space – whether a rusted chain-link fence or a converted refrigerator – presents a potential canvas for art.
Senior adults reveal talent at COM gallery
Juxtaposing vivid floral paintings with intricate black-and-white drawings and translucent glass with dark brocade, the latest exhibit in the College of the Mainland Art Gallery exclusively features art created by students in the COM Senior Adult Program.
Networking class prepares students for jobs even before COM graduation
Fascinated by electronics, Michael Orlando has pieced together computers since he was a teen, but to gain a job in the information technology field he wanted credentials.
Students debut artwork at COM
Three young artists are unveiling their work at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery exhibit through July 10 “Awakening.”
COM's Nursing Program open for enrollment
Prepare for a life-saving career as a registered nurse in College of the Mainland’s Associate Degree Nursing Program, open for applications for the spring 2015 semester through Aug. 15 at 5 p.m.
Post-apocalyptic lit class open this fall
Worlds collide and universes collapse in the novels and films explored in College of the Mainland’s Post-Apocalyptic Lit course, back by popular demand this fall.
Student first to finish 16-week math course in 5
While serving in the Navy, Marcus Sauceda, of Texas City, viewed first-hand the myriad of opportunities open to those with an education.
In-demand welders find jobs before graduation
For Keith Harrington, a fresh start took just 12 weeks.
COM fall registration begins
Begin your pathway to success this fall with College of the Mainland’s associate degree and certificate program classes, now open for registration.
COM volleyball league champions crowned
Twelve teams came to win, but only two emerged victorious.
COM ECG students pass national exam
Several students are now ready to begin their careers in medicine.
Texas City High School student awarded Logical Innovations Scholarship
A determined student, Texas City High School senior Edgar Salinas keeps up with class assignments while working 38 hours per week at a restaurant to provide for himself and his family.
COM receives energy award
College of the Mainland was recently presented with the Award for Energy Stewardship for saving enough energy in 15 months to effectively plant more than 53,744 trees.
COM to host emergency planning workshop
Emergency situations can happen at any time. Learn to effectively plan for incidents in a free Center for Risk Management workshop.
Air quality inspectors become process technicians at COM training
Each class is different for Pete Rygaard, who has taught process technology at College of the Mainland for more than 40 years while employed at Union Carbide for 50.
COM Foundation gala to honor Doyle family
Rarely has one family given so much to a community.
COM honor society recognized for service
At the recent Phi Theta Kappa regional convention, College of the Mainland’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the national community college honor society, was recognized for its service and named a Five Star Chapter for the 17th consecutive year.
“Reality Town” at COM gives students sample of real world
In Reality Town, an educational program designed to give students a realistic financial experience, each student is given a profile with an occupation, education level, income and/or children. College of the Mainland’s federally funded TRIO programs hosted the event attended by students from Galveston College, Texas Southern University and the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club.
"Reality Town" at COM gives students sample of real world
Jalessa Jacob’s eyes shift questioningly from the cost of potential housing to her monthly income.
Student story contest winner announced
Read contest winner Joseph Riley's story of how one class changed his life.
Aspiring nurse named CHS valedictorian
When she first enrolled in College of the Mainland's Collegiate High School (CHS), Brooke Bartholomew had her fair share of doubts.
Why community college students are pledging to finish their degrees
Each year thousands of students drop out of community colleges across the nation. More than half will never return. At College of the Mainland recently, 85 students committed to reverse that trend. During Community College Completion Corps day, they inked their names to pledges to finish their degree or certificate.
COM employees raise $1,020 to launch scholarship
A College of the Mainland employee group raised more than $1,000 to launch a 2014 scholarship for a student dedicated to community service.
COM students show off sharks and specimens at Bay Day
Dogfish sharks and other denizens of the deep sparked children and parents’ curiosity at the Galveston Bay Foundation’s Bay Day Festival at Kemah Boardwalk.
COM Peace Officer Academy graduates 30
The streets are now a little bit safer thanks to a few new graduates.
Last original COM faculty member retires after 47 years
Dr. Manuel Urbina, College of the Mainland’s last original faculty member hired when the college opened its doors in 1967, will retire this year from the institution he helped shape.
Comedian in the classroom: Student inspires classmates at COM
Former juvenile parole officer and comedian are roles not often combined in one person.
New face of Taco Bell is COM dual credit student
One of three teens chosen as spokesperson for the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens, Erskin will encourage students to complete high school and will be featured on Taco Bell products at franchises across the nation.
COM volleyball league champions crowned
Twelve teams came to win, but only two emerged victorious.
Nursing students win awards
Empathy, endurance, patience and dedication are just some of the qualities demonstrated by Marcella Brizuela, Sandra Fields, Kelli Thompson, and Rachel Witte, winners of College of the Mainland's (COM) nursing student awards.
COM recognizes top Fire Academy grads
Commitment, integrity, determination, and bravery are just some of the words that can be used to describe the 2014 graduates of the College of the Mainland (COM) Fire Academy, recently honored at a commencement ceremony held Friday, May 9.
COM partners with NAMI, Gulf Coast Center to spotlight mental health
Bullying, mental health and opportunities for those with disabilities were spotlighted when the Gulf Coast Center (GCC) and National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Gulf Coast partnered to offer the Pursuit of Wellness and Recovery for Youth Conference, at College of the Mainland (COM) Friday, May 9.
COM Peace Officer Graduation to be held May 23
A new class of graduates will soon be ready to answer the call of duty.
Golfers raise $3,500 for scholarships
Despite an unusually chilly May day, 64 golfers teed off for a cause in the College of the Mainland Annual Golf Tournament, which raised $3,500 for COM Foundation scholarships for students active in community service.
Medical Assistant Program offers fast track to career
Prospective students looking to jump start a career in medicine are encouraged to apply for College of the Mainland's (COM) one-year Medical Assistant program.
Allen, Bordwine named COM's Teachers of the Year
In background they are miles apart: He is a PhD experienced in cancer and gastrointestinal research, who felt a call to teach during his doctoral studies. She is an Army captain,and survivor of the 2009 Ft. Hood shooting.
"Love, Loss and What I Wore" showing at COM
Remember your first prom outfit? Clothing choices – and the memories they spark – take center stage in “Love, Loss and What I Wore” playing May 17 to June 1 at College of the Mainland Community Theatre.
Free lunch and learn on workplace safety
Workplace falls, while among the most common causes of serious job-related injuries and deaths, also rank among the most preventable.
COM students show off sharks and specimens at Bay Day
Dogfish sharks and other creatures of the deep sparked children and parents’ curiosity at the Galveston Bay Foundation’s Bay Day Festival at Kemah Boardwalk.
Prepare for hurricane season and severe weather with NWS weather-spotting course
As hurricane season approaches, learn from a National Weather Service meteorologist how to spot severe weather and how to report sightings to the National Weather Service.
Mainland Medical Auxiliary donates $10,000 for COM scholarships
Nursing students face many pressures – class assignments, labs, work and often family responsibilities. Thanks to the Mainland Medical Auxiliary, students in the College of the Mainland nursing programs are relieved of one stressor: finances.
Fervor of Malcolm X channeled in winning speech
For her dynamic interpretation of Malcolm X’s 1963 speech “Message to the Grassroots,” COM student Chelsea Murray won first place and a $100 prize during COM’s first Words That Changed History Speech Contest.
COM students earn outstanding musician awards
The sound of sambas filling the air, four students in the College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble won Outstanding Soloist Awards at the Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Conference Jazz Festival.
Free prom makeovers at COM give seniors night to remember
Clear Brook High School senior Bryanna Molina has faced many challenges this year – her health problems, family struggles, her father's layoff.
Washington process technology students gain hands-on experience at COM lab
For a student, nothing tops firsthand experience. Recently students from Bellingham Technical College, in Bellingham, Wa., traveled 2,500 miles to gain hands-on practice in College of the Mainland’s process technology lab.
Winning cell phone images showcase wonder of everyday
A glimpse of a hand reaching skyward, an image of a mountain bike awaiting its next ride and a powerful selfie are among the stunning photographs winning awards in the College of the Mainland Oh Snap 2! Cell Phone Photo Contest.
Summer sports camps offered at COM
This summer, budding athletes can hone their skills in College of the Mainland’s action-packed sports camps.
"Rounding Third" hits home run at COM Community Theatre
For many Little League coaches, baseball can be summed in one word “ fun." Or is it winning? Two coaches' wildly opposing views on the game and the right way to play collide in "Rounding Third," playing at COM Community Theatre April 24-27.
Painting and poetry mingle at International Poetry Day celebration at COM
For Anya Ezhevskaya, art is worth the mess.
Apply to study in Canada free with grant
This summer the Canadian coast will become students’ science lab. A new program will let COM students apply to take a biology or geology class for three weeks at COM and then travel for two weeks of field work in Canada.
Renaissance rock and Jimi Hendrix mesh in COM concert
Classic Bach, Beethoven and Jimi Hendrix melodies will take on a new edge in COM Guitars’ spring concert at 8 p.m. April 17 in the COM Fine Arts Building.
Texas City seniors shadow jobs at COM with Junior Achievement
Neon lights flicker along the sleek row of computer servers in the heart of College of the Mainland as Texas City High School students gaze at the 17-foot-long information hub.
COM Fire Academy cadets to demonstrate firefighting and rescue skills
Cadets in the College of the Mainland Fire Academy will demonstrate their firefighting and rescue skills during an action-packed family night April 23 at 7 p.m. at the League City Fire Department Drill Field at 911 N. Kansas.
Prepare for hurricane season and severe weather with NWS weather-spotting course
As hurricane season approaches, learn from a National Weather Service meteorologist how to spot severe weather and how to report sightings to the National Weather Service.
Eight colleges converge at COM's debate tournament
Electricity fills the air as Lance Tran, from Tulane University, and Erika Hill, from Bossier Parish Community College, battle over the statement “gluten-free food is a fad” at College of the Mainland’s March 28 debate tournament, co-hosted with Lee College.
Homecoming to launch COM alumni association
All former students, retirees and community members are invited to College of the Mainland’s second annual homecoming April 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
COM Foundation relaunches under Amelang
At the first College of the Mainland Foundation meeting led by new COM Vice President for Institutional Advancement Mary Ann Amelang, members of the COM Foundation discussed how to better serve COM students and increase the number of student scholarships offered each year.
Enjoy an Evening of Jazz at Texas City High School
In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, the COM Jazz Ensemble, Texas City High School Jazz Band and Blocker Middle School Jazz Band will put on a show April 5 at 6 p.m. in the Texas City High School Auditorium.
COM Career Fair welcomes businesses, job seekers
Job seekers are invited to bring their resumes to College of the Mainland’s annual career fair April 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the COM Student Center.
COM International Festival feast for the senses
Join the panoply of nations April 4 from 6-9 p.m. in the COM Gym. At this free event, participants can sample foods from around the world and enjoy diverse entertainment.
Millsap named VP for instruction
The College of the Mainland board of trustees has approved Pam Millsap, COM dean of general education programs, as the new vice president for instruction.
COM honor society inducts 28
A total of 28 students participated in the spring induction ceremony of Phi Theta Kappa, the national community college honor society, at College of the Mainland.
A man for all football seasons
The story of the man who stalked the sidelines springs to life in College of the Mainland Community Theatre's "Lombardi," running March 27 to April 13.
Student passionate about service, nursing assisted by scholarship
Waiting in eager anticipation in the Texas City High School Auditorium, Monique Wylie heard her name boom over the microphone as the winner of the Danny Boswell scholarship.
COM Vocal Arts to present a preview concert of Ireland tour
A celebration of the best of American music by College of the Mainland Vocal Arts will be held April 4 at 7 p.m. at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Texas City.
Book signing with Galveston author at COM April 2
College of the Mainland will host a book signing with Amanda Albright Still, author of “The Galveston Hurricane Mystery Series,” April 2 from 1-3 p.m. at the COM Learning Center-Delmar, located at 1130 Delmar in La Marque.
COM employees donate to Heights Elementary
Small actions added up to a big difference as College of the Mainland employees donated 500 Box Tops for Education and 100 Labels for Education to Heights Elementary in Texas City.
ExxonMobil expands support for workforce training to $1 million
ExxonMobil is committing an additional $500,000 in financial support to expand its commitment to $1 million for the Community College Petrochemical Initiative (CCPI), which seeks to train students for high-skill, high-demand jobs in the petrochemical industry.
COM Debate Team Sweeps Top Community College Honors
Continuing a four-tournament winning streak, College of the Mainland was recognized as the top community college in the sixth annual Eddy Shell Invitational Debate Tournament hosted by Bossier Parish Community College in Bossier City, La.
National Science Foundation video stars COM students
Two College of the Mainland process technology students shared their stories and college experiences in a recent National Science Foundation-funded video shoot at COM.
Fast-track classes shortcut to success
Coming to College of the Mainland after several years out of college, Quincy Jones’ nemesis was not juggling two jobs and a full load of classes. For him, like many other students, the challenge was scoring high enough on the placement exam to enter college algebra, a required class.
Island magic takes center stage at COM students' Galveston art show
Quintessential Galveston—from creatures of the sea to Dickens on the Strand—forms the backdrop for the newest exhibit at the Galveston Art League featuring works by students in the College of the Mainland Senior Adult Program.
Conflict resolution workshop teaches everyday skills
Conflicts and crises, though sometimes inevitable, do not have to splinter a workplace team. Learn how to handle communication hurdles and build a more solid group in the Verbal Defense and Influence class at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute March 26-28.
Islamic awakening lecture hosted at COM
Dr. Laura Robson, an associate professor of Middle Eastern history at Portland State University, provided insights into the Islamic awakening to students, faculty and the community March 4.
COM SGA welcomes state representative District 23 candidates
The COM Student Government Association recently held roundtables with two candidate for District 23 state representative to learn more about election issues.
Free GCSI class on proposed workplace illness and injury prevention plan
In a moment, a workplace injury or illness can dramatically change a life.
Free GCSI class on proposed workplace illness and injury prevention plan
In a moment, a workplace injury or illness can dramatically change a life.
Japan's castles and college are destinations in COM program
A city of mountain springs and tiered, 17th-century palaces, Ogaki, Japan, offers beauty and history. This summer participants in a College of the Mainland study abroad program can discover both.
Saddle up and join COM and the ExxonMobil Community College Petrochemical Initiative at the rodeo
College of the Mainland, and the other eight community colleges of the ExxonMobil Community College Petrochemical Initiative (CCPI), will be out in full force at the 2014 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo March 4-23 at Reliant Park.
COM professor accompanies Molly Ringwald performance
With signature flair, trumpeter and College of the Mainland Fine Arts Department chair Sparky Koerner, along with the Brazosport Jazz Orchestra, provided the back up for actress and jazz singer Molly Ringwald in her recent Lake Jackson performance.
COM nursing program open for applications
Prepare for a life-saving career as a registered nurse in College of the Mainland’s Associate Degree Nursing Program, now registering through May 16 at 5 p.m.
COM jazz concert celebrates spring March 4
The sounds of jazz improvisation will ring out of the College of the Mainland Fine Arts Building Recital Hall on March 4 at 8 p.m. Under the direction of Sparky Koerner, the COM Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo will perform popular hits at the spring concert, which is free and open to the public.
Expert to present lecture on Islamic awakening at COM
Discover more about world events through renowned expert Laura Robson’s lecture, “The Islamic Awakening,” March 4 at 12:30 p.m. in the College of the Mainland Learning Resource Center Auditorium.
Galveston landmarks, family take center stage at COM student's exhibit
Hues of blue—from the shade of Galveston Bay to color of her niece’s eyes—sparkle in photographer Mary Ann Elliott’s latest exhibition at the Evelyn Meador Public Library in Seabrook on display through Feb. 28.
COM launches new scholarships for fall 2014
Cost should not keep any student from pursuing an education.
COM professor named 2014 Phi Theta Kappa Faculty Scholar
Encouraging students to excel is what Dr. Chris Allen does best. Recently the College of the Mainland biology professor received the international honor of being named a Phi Theta Kappa 2014 Faculty Scholar for his demonstrated excellence in teaching and understanding of the 2014-2015 Honors Study Topic, “Frontiers and the Spirit of Exploration.”
First historic speech contest open for applications
Throughout history, words have sparked revolutions, advocated freedom, averted conflict and inspired nations.
COM professor accompanies Molly Ringwald performance
With signature flair, trumpeter and College of the Mainland Fine Arts Department chair Sparky Koerner, along with the Brazosport Jazz Orchestra, provided the back up for actress and jazz singer Molly Ringwald in her recent Lake Jackson performance.
First historic speech contest open for applications
Throughout history, words have sparked revolutions, advocated freedom, averted conflict and inspired nations. Any COM student wanting to interpret the words of great orators will be eligible to win a $100 cash prize in COM’s first Words That Changed History Contest. The contest is now open for applications through March 7 at 5 p.m.
COM student government named to regional post
Seeking to promote the cause of community college students, the Texas Junior College Student Government Association represents the more than 730,000 students enrolled at community colleges across Texas.
COM student government named to regional post
Seeking to promote the cause of community college students, the Texas Junior College Student Government Association represents the more than 730,000 students enrolled at community colleges across Texas.
Call for papers at second COM symposium
Recognizing the inextricable link between academic research and debate, College of the Mainland’s second symposium will center on the theme “Controversy in Our Nation: Past, Present and Future.”
COM senior adult students endow senior scholarship
Eager to help other seniors pursue an education, the College of the Mainland Senior Adult Program Advisory Committee has raised funds to endow a scholarship exclusively for degree or certificate-seeking adults over 55.
COM named fourth in nation in science technology graduates
A just-released report by the magazine Community College Week ranked COM fourth in the nation in the number of degrees awarded in 2012 in the science technologies/technicians category.
COM Collegiate High School meeting welcomes prospective students
At a meeting for prospective parents and students Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Learning Resource Center Auditorium, attendees will discover how College of the Mainland Collegiate High School makes it possible to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an associate degree.
COM Collegiate High School meeting welcomes prospective students
At a meeting for prospective parents and students Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Learning Resource Center Auditorium, attendees will discover how College of the Mainland Collegiate High School makes it possible to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an associate degree.
COM Fire Academy awards top graduates
Standing out among the 13 graduates of the College of the Mainland Fire Academy, Patrick Watson, of League City, received the Instructors Choice Award and Christopher Lescombes, of League City, garnered the Top Rung Award at the recent graduation ceremony.
COM police academy grads earn 100 percent pass rate on state exam
Eighteen new graduates are ready to answer any call after earning a diploma from the College of the Mainland Basic Peace Officer Academy and passing the state exam on the first attempt.
COM theatre presents "Fascinating Rhythm: A Gershwin Celebration"
The inimitable music of the masters sparkles in the original premiere "Fascinating Rhythm: A Gershwin Celebration" playing at College of the Mainland Community Theatre now through Feb. 16.
Free small business lunch and learn tackles workplace hazards
Whether a business operates in a seemingly benign office or in a warehouse with a plethora of chemicals and equipment, hazards can lurk beneath the surface. Learn how to tackle hazards assessments and mitigate risks with the Small Business Safety and Health Center’s quarterly lunch and learn entitled, “Hazard Analysis.”
COM Art Gallery announces spring schedule
The College of the Mainland Art Gallery plans a semester of eye-catching exhibits featuring the work of artists from college faculty to children in the COM Child Development Lab School.
COM scholarships now open
New and returning students may apply by March 31 for College of the Mainland Foundation scholarships open to students with a variety of majors, grade point averages and interests.
COM cosmetology grad wins contest and trip to Hollywood
Marilyn Monroe has always been Brittany Martinez’s muse. So when the recent College of the Mainland cosmetology graduate heard about the Big Sexy Hair Glam Contest to create a vintage hairstyle, she envisioned the actress’s elegant curls. Recreating the past challenged her, and she made several attempts before she perfected her look.
Tour the Irish isle with COM chorale
Tour castles, cliffs and cathedrals on the Emerald Isle with a breathtaking tour with College of the Mainland’s Mainland Chorale June 18-26.
Puppy love inspires winning speech
The day is etched in Felicia’s Poteet’s memory.
Cell phone photo contest open for entries
Have a stunning photo snapped with your cell phone? Now those with striking cell phone images may submit them to College of the Mainland’s Oh Snap 2! Cell Phone Photo Contest for a chance to have the picture displayed in the COM Art Gallery.
BP donates $15,000 to COM
Continuing a longtime partnership and supporting its commitment to education, BP made donations totaling $15,000 on Dec. 12 to College of the Mainland in Texas City.
Finding history on a golf course: Professor traces World War II vet's story
Gary Wilson is not only a history professor – he is an investigator.
Inspirational instructors tie for COM Online Teacher of the Year
Tying for first place with an equal number of rave reviews from students, LaWanda Franks, right, and Kay Frieze, left, earned the College of the Mainland Online Teacher of the Year Award.
COM gives to Toys for Tots
Making smiles bright, College of the Mainland employees raised more than 200 toys to support the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.
COM employee drive collects food for the holidays
College of the Mainland President Beth Lewis and COM employees collected an abundance of boxed and canned goods for a food bank in Dickinson.
COM debate team's winning streak unbroken
Bounding to their third win this semester, the College of the Mainland Debate Team garnered the Top Community College Award at the Tiger Invitational International Public Debate Tournament held at East Texas Baptist University.
New OSHA rule demystified in free seminars
The federal work-safety overseer, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, recently proposed a new rule designed to improve workplaces’ injury and illness tracking, one of the most common causes of OSHA citations.
Holiday concerts at COM ring in festivities
Sounds of the season will soar during free holiday concerts by College of the Mainland’s outstanding vocal and instrumental groups.
"Stand proud" message of women in industry to students
College of the Mainland process technology students converge at this club meeting in anticipation of special guests – five professionals with more than fifty years of combined experience in the chemical, oil and gas industries.
No-cost Incident Command System classes at COM
Emergencies arise at a moment’s notice, and free Incident Command System (ICS) classes at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute will train personnel in government and private agencies in how to use ICS coordinate their responses.
Free crisis communications class at COM
When sirens blare onsite, no one’s first thought is what to say into a reporter’s microphone. As events unfold and rumors swirl, however, communicating the facts effectively to the public becomes crucial.
Free crisis communications class at COM
When sirens blare onsite, no one’s first thought is what to say into a reporter’s microphone. As events unfold and rumors swirl, however, communicating the facts effectively to the public becomes crucial.
Grass dancer, flutist present culture at COM Native American Heritage Celebration
Music, artifacts and dance told the story of America’s first people at College of the Mainland’s annual Native American Celebration.
COM students' video takes first place at conference
Zip lining, swimming and enjoying the outdoors were just the start of the weekend for College of the Mainland students at the Southwest Association of Student Assistance Program’s Student Leadership Conference in Hawkins, Texas.
$10K e-book grant for COM Library
Stepping back to the Jazz Age for an upcoming history presentation, College of the Mainland student Montgomery Beavers searches for information on jiving musicians and the era of the first talking movie.
Native American heritage celebration at COM
Music, artifacts and dance will tell the story of America's first people at College of the Mainland's annual Native American Celebration Nov. 21 from 12:30-1:30 in the Learning Resource Auditorium.
Explore cutting-edge career with COM cosmetology open house
Discover how to reach your goals and prepare for a cutting-edge career at the College of the Mainland Cosmetology Program open house Nov. 14 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Salon at College of the Mainland.
Homeland Security Department conducts public session at COM
College of the Mainland hosted a Department of Homeland Security public listening session Nov. 5 to allow industry and private stakeholders to comment on a recent executive order on improving chemical facility safety and security.
Armed with GED and in-demand skills, COM program's graduates enter workforce
Sometimes help arrives just in time.
Honor society inducts new members
College of the Mainland’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the national community college honor society, inducted 16 new members at its fall induction ceremony.
"Boeing Boeing" to take off at COM theatre
Climb aboard for fast-paced comedy at the College of the Mainland Community Theatre’s production of “Boeing Boeing,” showing Nov. 7-24.
COM to host Homeland Security stakeholder session Nov. 5
College of the Mainland will host a Department of Homeland Security public listening session Nov. 5 to allow industry and private stakeholders to explore and comment on a recent executive order on improving chemical facility safety and security. The session will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Learning Resource Center Auditorium.
LyondellBasell partnership to upgrade PTEC equipment
LyondellBasell has given a third recent donation of $5,000 to upgrade equipment that students in the College of the Mainland Process Technology Program use to gain real-world experience in plant operations.
COM senior adult students steal show in Galveston exhibit
Students in the College of the Mainland Senior Adult Program created a menagerie of deep-sea and furry creations that garnered awards at the Galveston Art League’s fall juried art show. Their works will be on display through Sept. 24 at the Galveston Art League Gallery, located at 2117 A. Postoffice St., open Thursday through Sunday from 12-6 p.m.
COM online classes surge in popularity with working students
Enrollment is up at College of the Mainland, but fewer students are jostling in the halls this fall.
PTEC Program expands offerings with new instructor
New full-time instructor Al Jivan encourages students to pursue excellence. "Education is like an ocean," he said.
COM coach helps local student make college team
Home for the summer from Stephen F. Austin State University, Campbell, 19, discovered that the best place for a penny-pinching college student to shoot hoops was the COM Gym.
COM group equips teachers for new year
The smells of new erasers and crisp notebooks thrill not only students but teachers as well. An employee group at College of the Mainland conducted a campus-wide drive and collected nine boxes of binders, pencils, tissues, glue and other supplies to stock Hitchcock ISD teachers' cabinets for a new school year.
Lights, camera, action! Preteens discover joys of acting in camp
Instructor Nancy Moore smiles as she repeats her oft-asked question: “What’s your biggest tool?” Her students eagerly respond as one: “Imagination!”
Canvas and cartoons collide at art gallery
Both the elegant and the everyday engage the viewer in “Breaking the Boundaries: Illustrations and Paintings from Tokyo” on display at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery from Aug. 26-Sept. 19.
Robots and "Wicked" prepare freshman to enroll and stay in college
With a rush of graduation celebrations, shopping for dorm décor and farewell fetes, incoming freshman ride a wave of hormones and well wishes into their first semester of college.
New bridge program on-ramp for returning students
Inspired in part by President Obama’s proposal to have five million new community college graduates by 2020, College of the Mainland is offering an innovative program to allow students to bridge seamlessly from continuing education to credit courses.
COM launching physical therapy aide, patient care technician programs
This fall, College of the Mainland will offer two new programs to train workers for rapidly growing branches of the medical field.
Camp's rocket launch demonstrates algebra concepts
5, 4, 3, 2, 1 … Veronica Flores hit the trigger and with a burst of smoke, a hiss and a bang the model rocket soared into the sky.
Free online course demystifies OSHA regulations for small business
As small business owners support our community’s economy, the Small Business Safety and Health Center of the Gulf Coast Safety Institute is creating innovative ways to support them.
Shaping careers with jigsaws
While crafting customized projects from Harry Potter wands to cabinet fronts, College of the Mainland students learned woodworking – and life – skills while participating in a five-month study abroad program in Canada.
COM Upward Bound students rock Academic Bowl
When the final student had slammed the buzzer and the judges tallied the points, students from College of the Mainland won first place in the Upward Bound Academic Bowl held at Texas Southern University.
Streamlined business program tailors to students' goals
Adapt your training to your career goals with College of the Mainland’s newly streamlined associate degree business program.
Camp a slam dunk
Running shoes squeak across the polished gym floor as 12 budding basketball players race to the hoop, turn and shoot while their team members calculate their cumulative score.
Kids fish for education
“Mr. Robert, Mr. Robert, I caught a fish!” Students’ excited cries fill the air as they lure minnows into their fishing “nets” flung into the lake outside College of the Mainland.
COM offering driver's ed, defensive driving courses
Those seeking a convenient option for a ticket dismissal, teen or adult driver’s education course need look no further.
Teacher of the year "champion of lost students"
Beth Hammett always has a project – whether helping collect lesson plans and materials into ready-to-go packets for teachers in Oklahoma schools devastated by tornadoes, tutoring a student at Starbucks or teaching soldiers in Afghanistan via Skype.
COM testing center now site for CompTIA, Microsoft exams
Just in time for summer, a local option is now available for those wanting to take computer and IT certification exams.
Make a splash with 5K Color Course
A spectrum of colors will soar through the air as runners race through a Hurdles for Heroes 5K Color Course on July 20 at College of the Mainland.
Baby birds' island home being restored, thanks to students
Ensconced in isolation, the Rookery Islands in Galveston Bay are silent except for the call of the roseate spoonbill and laughing of the gulls.
Top nursing graduates change careers, win awards
A former restaurant manager, certified nurse and two stay-at-home moms demonstrated it’s never too late to pursue your dreams as they received awards for excellence in nursing during College of the Mainland’s associate degree nursing program pinning ceremony.
Students win Outstanding Musician Awards
Alternating between playful swing tunes and somber ballads, 12 College of the Mainland students displayed their talents and earned Outstanding Musician Awards at the Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Jazz Festival.
New SGA officers take oath, share dreams
Creating a government of the students, for the students, six new officers took the oath of office in a ceremony that moved some in the audience to tears as students shared their stories and dreams for College of the Mainland’s future.
Top students awarded at first symposium
Building a wall against the Mississippi River seemed like a good idea in 1722, but 300 years of levees holding back the water have wreaked havoc on Louisiana's ecology, said College of the Mainland student Kristin Barnes at COM’s first academic symposium.
Cosmetology students work magic before prom
Girls in Project Cinderella needed no fairy godmother to transform from ordinary students into queens for prom. Students in the COM Cosmetology Certificate Program offered to do everything from their perfectly styled curls to trendy pedicures.
Captivating images win photo contest
Encapsulating the college in 300 pixels, two students' images captured the hallmarks of the campus and won the Picture This: Student Photo Contest.
Student recalls experience at Boston Marathon
Thrilled to be running “the Super Bowl of marathons,” Al West set a personal best at the Boston Marathon: 3 hours, 9 minutes, 15 seconds.
Continuing education summer registration kicks off
Summer is the perfect time to kick back, relax and try something new. College of the Mainland’s wide array of continuing education classes for children, teens, adults and senior adults are open for registration today.
"College Duck Whisperer" prompts rescues
An animal lover, Shirley Terry Lopez was driving home after taking her two rescue dogs to the vet when she spied other creatures in need.
9/11 memories spur winning speech
Jaw-clenching, heart-pounding fear—that’s what many felt one Tuesday morning in September 2001.
Nursing grad finds niche
Maegan Koster, registered nurse and College of the Mainland graduate, has found her dream job—working with women experiencing a difficult pregnancy in the antepartum unit at Clear Lake Regional Hospital.
Welding program prepares students for booming industry
After graduating from College of the Mainland at age 20 with no debt, rig welder Merced Arroyo feels that he is ahead of the game.
First student completes new self-paced math
Evoking more pencil erasures and frustrated groans than perhaps any other subject, math is made easier—or at least quicker—in a new option at College of the Mainland.
COM students launch prom drive
Looking forward to friends, fun and fashion statements, many students eagerly anticipate prom, but for some students the event can create more trepidation than longing.
Dog-friendly 5K at COM May 3
Mount hurdles and navigate obstacles with your furry best friend in College of the Mainland’s 5K color course May 3.
First symposium to explore Gulf Coast
Students from COM, Lee College and Alvin Community College whose innovative work was accepted will discuss a wide spectrum of topics from the personal “Galveston Through My Eyes” to the scientific “The Natural Bridge Caverns of Texas” to the historic “Galveston’s Balinese Room Presents Bootleggers, Big Bands, High Rollers and Headliners.”
Exchange student from Mexico takes advantage of computer classes
Most College of the Mainland students commute fewer than 15 miles to class
Nursing program offers fresh start for grads
Elizabeth Landin, University of Texas Medical Branch patient care facilitator, was working as a bookkeeper when she decided that she was ready for a change.
Play dough, skits give students study skills
Karmyn Spino-Chantre knows she wasn’t ready for college.
COM named top ROI fire technology program
A solid education shouldn’t cost a fortune.
Annual golf tournament to fund COM scholarships
Support student scholarships and enjoy a fun, competitive game at College of the Mainland’s annual golf tournament on May 2 at the Bayou Golf Club in Texas City.
COM debater awarded
Taryn Clark’s quick thinking and calmness under pressure was rewarded with a trophy at the Eddy Shell Invitational International Public Debate Association tournament in Bossier City, Louisiana.
Sigma Delta named Five Star Chapter, inducts new members
College of the Mainland’s chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society has been named a Five Star Chapter for its service, scholastic excellence and involvement in the society on the local, regional and international levels.
League City retiree to debut at COM theatre
After retiring, Donna Bane, of League City, created a bucket list of activities that she'd always wanted to do but never made time for.
MMC Auxiliary donates 23K for COM scholarships
Continuing a tradition of generosity, Mainland Medical Center Auxiliary has donated $23,000 to fund scholarships for College of the Mainland nursing students.
Senior adults bead it forward
An intricately beaded one-and-a-half-inch square may seem small, but for women in the College of the Mainland Senior Adult Program, that’s all the space that’s needed to help raise funds for cancer research.
Geology Club organizes party for kids at UTMB
It was all smiles as students from College of the Mainland created a birthday party—complete with goody bags and homemade cupcakes—for patients at John Sealy Children’s Hospital at University of Texas Medical Branch.
High school students graduate with CNA license
Taking each other’s blood pressure and shaving balloons lathered with cream may seem like fun, but for high school students in this class at College of the Mainland, it is part of their assessment.
Conflict resolution workshop teaches everyday skills
Conflicts and crises, though sometimes inevitable, do not have to splinter a workplace team. Learn how to handle communication hurdles and build a more solid group in the Verbal Defense and Influence class at the Gulf Coast Safety Institute March 26-28.
Contest launches CHS student's business
For April Walsch,16, a quick snapshot of red, dew-covered berries taken in a foggy mist with her cell phone launched a photography business.
Upward Bound prepares first-generation college students for success
For Elyssa Davila, Upward Bound at College of the Mainland presents not only a world of possibilities, but also a road map to achieving them.
COM launches Japan study abroad program
A city of tiered, 16th-century castles and flowing mountain springs, Ogaki, Japan, offers beauty and history.
Elementary school students explore careers during workshop
“What do I want to be when I grow up?” is a question that poses endless possibilities for a child. Recently, 90 fourth-grade students from Stewart Elementary explored the world of career options through hands-on activities at College of the Mainland.
Gulf Coast Safety Institute receives $100K from Texas Mutual Insurance
Continuing a successful 13-year partnership, Texas Mutual Insurance Company has donated $100,000 to the College of the Mainland Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Gulf Coast Safety Institute receives $100K from Texas Mutual Insurance
Continuing a successful 13-year partnership, Texas Mutual Insurance Company has donated $100,000 to the College of the Mainland Gulf Coast Safety Institute.
Graphic arts students create winning designs
Creating a dazzlingly intricate Mardi Gras poster is a far cry from designing astronaut badges for NASA, but for Sandra Wilkes, of League City, her innovation paid off.
COM students meet state representatives, tour Capitol
Many students’ idea of state government is a textbook blurb peppered with Latin phrases.
COM program to save $2.8 million
This year, College of the Mainland is kicking off its commemoration of National Green Week by announcing its new energy conservation program estimated to save the college $2.8 million over the next 10 years.
COM senior adult students endow senior scholarship
Eager to help other seniors pursue an education, the College of the Mainland Senior Adult Program Advisory Committee has raised funds to endow a scholarship exclusively for degree or certificate-seeking adults over 55.
COM guide named Best of LibGuides
Besides coffee, students have another resource to turn to in the late night hours when writing a paper.
Ensemble wows at jazz conference
Joining a panoply of musicians from across the nation, the College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble displayed their talents at the recent Jazz Education Network Conference in Atlanta.
COM interns graduate with jobs in hand
For most students, the thrill of college graduation quickly fades into the challenge of job searching. Chase Douglas graduated from College of the Mainland not only with an associate degree but also with a full-time job.
LyondellBasell donates $5,000 to Process Technology (PTEC) program
College of the Mainland’s Process Technology (PTEC) program and LyondellBasell strengthened a growing partnership.
COM excellence in nursing students awarded
Inserting IVs, dispensing medicine and calming nervous patients were all part of a 12-hour day’s work during clinicals for Kyle Tice and Kathy Maxey, winners of the College of the Mainland vocational nursing student awards.
Grant sends three COM students to Canada
When Julian Saldierna and Leonardo Hernandez took a French class at Dickinson High School for fun, they didn’t know they would put their skills to use while studying abroad in Canada through a College of the Mainland program.
New center to provide free resources for small businesses
Massive oil spills and facility infernos make headlines, but small businesses’ safety and health practices can have costly consequences on their neighborhoods as well.
Composing a career
When composing, Chad Robinson views each piece as a blank sheet of paper with endless possibilities. With each note penned, he confidently removes those possibilities, one by one.
COM phlebotomy class achieves 100 percent pass rate
Learning to draw blood can be intimidating, admits College of the Mainland phlebotomy graduate Lori DeNileon, especially when, after learning on a dummy, students begin to practice on each other.
Begin a degree without leaving home
Now open for registration through Jan. 11, College of the Mainland’s online courses make it easy to fit an education into your busy lifestyle.
COM students win best of show
For their originality, creativity and skill, three students garnered best of show awards during the COM Annual Student Art Show.
Nursing students to present projects
Accessing and understanding up-to-the-minute research is vital for future nurses.
Caffeine craving fuels winning speech
College of the Mainland student Deneika Herron freely confessed her obsession at COM’s first annual Roger Stallings Student Speech Competition.
COM students' banks raise money for food bank
College of the Mainland students in George Bowes’ art class learned more than just ceramics this semester. They also discovered how one person can make a difference.
Lewis receives Distinguished Career Award
In recognition of her work promoting on-the-job safety, Cindy Lewis, director of the Gulf Coast Safety Institute, has received the Distinguished Career Award from her alma mater MacMurray College in Jacksonville, Il.
College Boot Camp offers tips
Students from Texas City, Hitchcock and La Marque High Schools learned the secrets of success at the College Boot Camp coordinated by College of the Mainland students in Phi Theta Kappa and the COM Amigos student club.
Grant puts COM students on career fast track
Adult learners now have a new reason to be thankful with an opportunity to get on a fast track to workforce readiness with an innovative COM program
Hair and Style Show Extravaganza presents holiday ideas
Discover how to shine at holiday festivities with COM Cosmetology’s Hair and Style Show Extravaganza.
COM student wins honors scholarship
College of the Mainland student Kadi Maxwell has been awarded the Walter B. Cooper Memorial Scholarship sponsored by the Texas Regional Alumni Association of Phi Theta Kappa.
COM hosts first Duck Debates
Debating sports, politics, pop culture and debate itself, students from four colleges participated in COM's Duck Debates, the first tournament hosted by COM.
COM announces new president
College of the Mainland has announced Dr. Beth Lewis as its seventh, and first female, president. Lewis’ contract is for three years, effective Jan. 1, 2013.
COM instructor receives Patriot Award
Carla Anderson, College of the Mainland department chair of public service careers and allied health, has received the Department of Defense’s Patriot Award for going above and beyond expectations to support her employee, Capt. Cheryl Bordwine, an Army Reserve member who was training at Ft. Hood at the time of the 2009 shooting.
Funds now available for COM workforce students
Texas Workforce Solutions has approved College of the Mainland as an eligible training site provider for its Welding, Machinist and Mechanical Maintenance Programs, which means that students enrolling in these programs may be eligible to receive funds from Texas Workforce Solutions to cover all or part of tuition costs.
Monster Musik performance to debut student piece
Dissonant chords, eerie melodies and wolves’ howling filling the air, this year’s Monster Musik performance will feature a composition by College of the Mainland student Jonathan Mireles, “Schimbarea Univers.”
College Boot Camp gives tools to combat fears
"What will I do with my life?” is a common question teens ask themselves.
Jump-start college with Collegiate High School
With college costs rising, high school students and parents are looking for ways to save on higher education.
Going to Canada (and going green)
Expanding the borders of education, a new College of the Mainland study abroad program will enable students to experience another culture and explore green building techniques in Canada.
COM receives $35,000 for scholarships
As a demonstration of its longstanding support for College of the Mainland nursing programs, Mainland Medical Auxiliary has donated $35,000 to fund scholarships for nursing students at COM.
COM Dual Credit Program has record-breaking class
This year, 817 students are enrolled in COM’s Dual Credit Program, the largest number in the program’s 13-year history. The Dual Credit Program allows students to take college courses—and earn college credit—while still in high school.
Grant makes new hires cost-effective for Marathon
The Texas Workforce Commission has awarded College of the Mainland a skills development grant totaling more than $300,000 that will allow Marathon Petroleum Corporation in Texas City and Marathon Pipe Line LLC in Findlay, Ohio, to hire new and train current employees.
Capping a lifetime of learning
After nearly 30 years of encouraging her students’ education, College of the Mainland professor Marilynn Kish-Molina has capped her own by earning a Ph.D. in public health specializing in epidemiology.
SALUTE to success
The SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society, the first higher education honor society solely for current or former military members, has inducted the COM Veterans Association as an official chapter.
COM named to Military Friendly School list
For the fourth year in a row, College of the Mainland was named to the coveted Military Friendly Schools list by Victory Media Inc., the premier media entity for military personnel transitioning into civilian life.
Sowing seeds for education
Two outstanding Dickinson High School graduates designated College of the Mainland professors Dr. Bernie Smiley and Dr. Tracy Orr as “Seed Sower” teachers, educators who had made the greatest impact on their lives.
COM professors share industry possibilities with high school teachers
While it’s no secret that U.S. students often lag behind other nations in science test scores, educators often wonder what to do to narrow the gap.
Work-Study Program prepares students for the real world
To give students an opportunity to gain financial assistance and hands-on work experience, College of the Mainland has created a number of work-study positions.
Taking COM sports to the next level
This fall, students have new options for competing and honing their athletic skills with experienced coaches through College of the Mainland’s men’s basketball club sports and flag football teams.
COM graduates excel on state EMT exams
On the first try, 84 percent of graduates of College of the Mainland’s EMT-Basic graduates passed the state exam, and 80 percent of EMT-Intermediate graduates passed, exceeding the average first-time pass rates for Texas.
TCPD conducts canine training at COM
Drug and explosive detection training is all part of a day's work at the Texas City Police Department's K9 unit, which recently conducted a training exercise with drug-sniffing dogs at College of the Mainland.
Student to perform classical concert at COM
College of the Mainland music student Jack McLaughlin, who was recently accepted to study at the University of Houston Moore School of Music, will be performing a full-length piano concert at the COM Concert Hall in the Fine Arts Building at 7 p.m. on Tues., Aug. 21.
COM offers new scholarships for child development students
College of the Mainland is offering a new scholarship in conjunction with the Texas Workforce Commission open to any student taking child development courses at COM.
Re-careering white collar workers choose PTEC program
When the financial bubble burst, Tony Langston, a finance worker with an M.B.A., knew what to do—create a spreadsheet of his alternatives.
Accelerated Real Estate Academy puts students on fast track to success
Realtor Cyndi De Palermo, graduate of COM’s Real Estate Academy, says she enjoyed the affordable fast-track program that prepared her to enter the field that she still loves after 29 years in the business.
COM's Phi Theta Kappa chapter inducts new members
College of the Mainland’s Sigma Delta chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the national community college honor society, recently inducted 17 members.
COM Adult Education receives top honors from Texas LEARNS
For the second year in a row, Texas LEARNS has awarded Platinum Level Recognition to College of the Mainland’s Adult Education Program for its high level of compliance with programmatic and financial reporting requirements.
Dr. Pam Millsap named Dean of General Education
College of the Mainland has hired Dr. Pam Millsap, Chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, as Dean of General Education.
COM Foundation awards scholarships
A total of 54 students have been awarded College of the Mainland Foundation scholarships for the fall semester.
Teens explore the "real world" with Mad City Money course
In the futuristic Mad City, fifteen teens briefly became adults with careers, families and debt in the Mad City Money course at the College of the Mainland North County Learning Center in League City.
Stay young with COM's senior adult program
Explore the Titanic, create a project on the computer, stay physically fit or learn to tell your life story with COM’s Senior Adult Program.
Recruiters center of community
COM community mentors/recruiters don’t wait for people to decide to come to college; they go to them.
COM offers customized training for business and industry
Offering training year-round at an affordable price, COM Continuing Education can customize courses to fit any company’s needs.
COM intern develops new commercial
With camera and whiteboard in hand, College of the Mainland intern Wardah Ajaz toured the campus recording students' perspectives of COM.
Losing weight and gaining a role
Between auditioning, taking classes and losing 147 pounds, Aishah El-Akkari, of Texas City, has had an eventful year and a half. After working to get in shape, the college student decided it would be fun to audition for COM’s production of “The Wedding Singer.”
Zombies coming to COM this fall
This fall COM is offering two new courses, "The Undead in Literature" and "Argumentation and Debate."
COM professor inspires future doctors
Dr. Chris Allen, COM biology professor, has been voted “Most Outstanding and Inspirational Professor” by students in UTMB’s Medical Careers Diversity Program.
Six Sigma Green Belt Course teaches cost-cutting skills
The standard in project management, the Six Sigma Green Belt Course will be offered at COM beginning Aug. 20.
Sigma Delta named Five Star Chapter
COM’s Sigma Delta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society has been named a Five Star Chapter, the PTK designation of the highest level of excellence.
Twelve-lead interpretation course offered for EMS workers
Twelve-lead EKGs have become the standard of care in ambulances, but many medical professionals seek additional training to better understand the results of the technology, which essentially looks at the heart from 12 different angles.
La Marque adopts city poster created by COM student
Acknowledging its history as the “Buttermilk Station,” La Marque adopted the official City of La Marque Historical Poster created by College of the Mainland graphic arts student Tina Gomez.
Learning Equations Through Robots
Some students learn math by scratching out lengthy equations on notebook paper — high school students in College of the Mainland’s Upward Bound Summer Program work with robots.
COM students inspired to mentor others
Inspired by a statewide Latino-affairs conference, College of the Mainland students became motivated to encourage high school students to pursue further education.
BP Donates $15,000 to Collegiate High School at COM
BP has donated $15,000 to benefit students in Collegiate High School at College of the Mainland.
COM and Safety Council partner to offer Electrical Skills Training program
College of the Mainland and the Safety Council of Texas City are partnering to launch a new program, Electrical Skills Training.
Dr. Bernie Smiley named Teacher of the Year
Zombies, books and world travel are just a few of the things that interest Dr. Bernie Smiley.
Gala raises $16,000 for scholarships
The Mainland Heroes Gala sponsored by the College of the Mainland Foundation raised over $16,000 for COM scholarships.
Award-winning presentation shares baby-soothing secrets
How to calm a crying baby is a skill every parent would love to have—especially at 3 a.m.
COM math professor wins second place in National SoftChalk Competition
Designated by SoftChalk software as a power user for uploading more lessons than any other user, Marilyn Larsen, associate professor of developmental math at College of the Mainland, won second place in the 2012 SoftChalk Lesson Challenge.
COM creates Distinguished Alumni Award
College of the Mainland created the Distinguished Alumni Award to honor its remarkable alumni and their achievements. At spring commencement, Dr. Larry Durrence, interim president, announced the first recipients of the award: Julie Dues Masters, mayor of Dickinson; Mark E. Ciavaglia, Texas City attorney; and Troy E. Sybert, M.D.
COM graduates largest class in its history
A record number of students received diplomas and certificates at College of the Mainland’s spring commencement exercises last week.
COM students win Outstanding Musician Awards
The soulful sound of saxophones filled the air at the Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Jazz Festival where nine College of the Mainland students won Outstanding Musician Awards.
Dr. Chris Allen wins Paragon Award
Student growth, service and academic success are goals that Dr. Chris Allen helps his Phi Theta Kappa students reach.
Scholarship recipient: “I want to inspire children”
Earning a College of the Mainland Foundation music scholarship for books and tuition, Candace Long wants to share her love for music.