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Maddie Sims, a senior at 17�Թ�, has revitalized the 17�Թ� Press as its editor, channeling her lifelong passion for writing into leadership, growth, and mentorship.

Blake Wilson, a junior majoring in Management Information Systems with a concentration in Enterprise Systems, has been named 17�Թ�'s First-Generation Student of the Month for December.

17�Թ� faculty and staff lent their support to this year’s ToyFeast, a community-wide initiative aimed at providing food, toys, and monetary donations to benefit Southeast Texas families during the holiday season.

17�Թ� celebrated its fall commencement on Thursday, Dec. 12, and Friday, Dec. 13 at the Montagne Center, honoring the achievements of more than 2,500 graduates.

Hardin High School senior Abbey Lanier has been named a recipient of 17�Թ�'s full-ride Presidential Scholarship for 2025-2026.

Dr. Kalyan "Kal" Chakraborty, an associate professor at 17�Թ�, has been named the December 2024 Member of the Month by the International Atlantic Economic Society for his extensive research contributions in applied microeconomics, health economics, public education economics, and biotechnology policy.

17�Թ�’s online MBA program, accredited by the prestigious AACSB and offering 12 areas of concentration, ranks #32 among College Consensus's 40 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs for 2025, combining affordability, flexibility, and academic excellence.

The JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing at 17�Թ� celebrated its 50th anniversary, highlighting its legacy, innovative programs, and commitment to nursing excellence with awards, community partnerships, and advanced educational opportunities.

Scott Thomas, a 17�Թ� senior, turned his passion for civil engineering into impactful work at Collins Engineers, excelling in marine structures and leadership while preparing for a promising career.

17�Թ� has received a $500,000 donation from Valero Energy Corporation to upgrade the Process Control and Unit Operations Labs in the Department of Chemical Engineering, enhancing student training with advanced equipment, including a PetroSkills simulator and a carbon capture system.

Jacqueline Marroquin’s journey at Lamar’s JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing is marked by resilience, inspiration from her mother, and a commitment to excellence as she graduates during the program’s 50th anniversary.