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KC Community Webpage

At Kilgore College, we take pride in being more than just an educational institution — we're a vital part of our community.

This page highlights our ongoing partnerships, profiles of faculty, staff, and students actively engaged in community service, and showcases photos from recent college-sponsored events. Updated on the 25th of every month, this page serves as a hub for the latest community activities and initiatives involving KC. We encourage you to bookmark this page and visit regularly to stay connected with our efforts and involvement.

APRIL 2025

KEVIN KOSASIH

KC student, from Indonesia, majoring in Nursing

Kevin is an international student and was recently named “Most Outstanding Student in Psychology.” He currently works with the KC Admissions Office, where he primarily mans the Visitors Desk in the Devall Student Center, answering phone calls and guiding students through the next steps of the admissions process. One of his favorite activities is giving campus tours.
“I love showing prospective students how many opportunities a junior college can offer,” he said.
What are your proudest achievements?

Answer: I graduated from the nursing program at Kilgore College in December 2023. I passed the board exam and am now a licensed Registered Nurse.

What can you tell us about your family?

Answer: I am an international student who came to the United States in 2021. I’m from Indonesia, an archipelago country in Southeast Asia. I have a brother who also attends KC. My parents and two younger sisters are still back home.

How did you come to attend Kilgore College? 

Answer: My brother arrived a year before me and shared insights about Kilgore College, which our cousin had attended years earlier. He mentioned the nursing program, sparking my interest. At Kilgore, I found numerous opportunities that fueled my passion. I’m deeply grateful for the support and possibilities Kilgore College has provided me.

What are your passions or interests outside of work?

Answer: I love to travel and explore different towns and cities. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family.

Where are some interesting places you have visited? 

Answer: My favorite city to visit in the U.S. is New York City. Its unique vibe is unlike anywhere else—a place that feels alive with energy and possibility. It’s the city the little boy inside me always dreamed of seeing. Walking through NYC, I was struck by how many spots reminded me of iconic movie scenes, especially from Home Alone! I also adore Singapore, one of the most futuristic cities in Southeast Asia. Its cleanliness, organization, and cutting-edge charm make it truly stand out.

 What would a book about your life be called?

Answer: Across Worlds, Chasing Dreams: A Third-Culture Journey

Who would you most like to share a meal with? 

Answer: If I could have dinner with anyone, I’d choose my grandmother, who passed away in 2016. She was a remarkable woman who touched countless lives, including mine. We shared so much—our hobbies, our personalities, and a special bond that still feels alive. I’d love to sit with her, catch her up on my journey, and share my accomplishments, knowing she’d be proud.

What’s a memorable experience you’ve had in your career so far?

Answer: One memorable experience was working as a nurse in 2024, caring for patients recovering from spinal surgeries.

callie blakeley

KC Director of Admissions

Blakeley’s journey at KC began as a part-time student worker in the Registrar’s Office in 2014. After a brief hiatus, she returned to KC in 2017 as an admissions counselor, then became assistant director of admissions & recruitment in 2021. She is currently the director of admissions where she oversees admissions processing and recruitment efforts.
“I really love the duality of my position. The data and admissions processing aspect requires me to be very technical and analytical, while recruitment allows for creativity,” Blakeley said. “However, nothing quite compares to the satisfaction of getting to be part of a student’s journey to success. There have been many students I have encountered over the years who have needed a little extra encouragement to get started in college. Having the privilege to be that encouragement to a student who needs it is so rewarding.”
What is one of your favorite parts about your job?

Answer: After graduation ceremonies, I often pause at the stairwell window in Dodson Auditorium to watch our graduates celebrate in Clements Plaza. I know how cheesy it sounds, but it does usually make me a little teary-eyed seeing parents, families, friends, children, and students beaming with pride and joy. It’s such a great reminder of why we are all here – to help students succeed.

What’s a memorable experience you’ve had in your career so far?

Answer: As I pondered this question, most of the memorable experiences that came to mind involved instances of my clumsiness, which is probably better left unpublished. That being said, it is nearly impossible to identify just one memorable experience. Since my start as a student worker here in 2014, I have formed friendships that will last a lifetime. I’ve also been blessed to have found some incredible mentors in people like Chris Gore, Dennis Cliborn and Dr. Staci Martin, just to name a few. This is where I have “grown up” professionally, and the culmination of all my experiences here at KC is what makes this a memorable place.

What can you tell me about your family and background?

Answer: I am an East Texas native and the youngest of 4 children. Two of my siblings have blessed me with some of my favorite people in the world – my nieces and nephews. I have 3 nieces and 2 nephews ranging in age from 3 to almost 17. It is such a joy to watch them grow and experience life. I would be remiss if I did not also mention my dog, Pickle. He is the best friend and companion a girl could have.

What is your last song played on Spotify? Or what artist do you have on your Playlist?

Answer: I can’t pinpoint a singular song or artist, but I can say that at any given time, if you get in my car, the radio will more than likely be tuned into ‘80s and ‘90s country music.

What’s the one snack we’d always find in your kitchen?

Answer: Chester’s Hot Fries! No nutritional value whatsoever, but a guilty pleasure nonetheless.

Where was your most memorable vacation?

Answer: Summer 2020. Thanks to my sister, brother-in-law and their kids, I discovered a great love for the American Southwest and the red rocks. We spent a week hopping between campsites in Utah, and got to visit Canyon Lands National Park, Arches National Park, Moab, Lake Powell, Bryce Canyon National Park, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, and Peekaboo Slot Canyon.

micah goodding

KC Theatre Instructor

As Kilgore College Theatre Director, Goodding collaborates with faculty and students to produce live theatrical performances on campus for our community to enjoy. He teaches courses in Voice, Stage Makeup, Theatre Appreciation, and Film. He also mentors theatre majors pursuing an associate degree as they prepare to transfer to four-year universities or transition directly into theatre and film careers.
 
In addition to performances for the general public, Goodding also collaborates with local high school theatre programs through workshops, UIL competitions, and an annual One Act Play Clinic. He also mentors student actors for the REEL East Texas Film Festival and organizes educational performances of the department’s plays with Q&A sessions for schools across the region.
 
“My goal is to help East Texas students see themselves in college-level arts training and recognize Kilgore College Theatre as a welcoming, high-quality option close to home,” Goodding said.
What do you like most about your job or career?

Answer: The best part of my job is watching students discover what they’re capable of and grow in confidence as they develop their creative voice.

What motivates you in your personal and professional life?

Answer: I’m driven by gratitude and the belief that theatre can change lives. Helping students find purpose, passion, and direction through the arts keeps me energized and committed.

What does a perfect weekend look like for you?

Answer: Walking the dogs, gardening with my wife, getting lost in a book, taking my kids to the park, catching up with my folks, hitting the gym, enjoying good food and maybe squeezing in a monster walk with my son.

What’s your approach to work-life balance?

Answer: I try to be fully present wherever I am. I try to build an atmosphere where creativity and collaboration thrive.

What’s the one snack we’d always find in your kitchen?

Answer: Protein bars and Topo Chico

What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day?

Answer: Laughing at memes with my wife.

What are your proudest achievements?

Answer: Sharing life with my incredible wife and my two thoughtful and hilarious kids. Also building a strong, supportive theatre program at Kilgore College that helps students launch meaningful careers.

View photos of recent activities KC participated in.  Click on each photo or the links below for a larger photo gallery of the events!

MUSICIAN ALLY VENABLE SPEAKS TO KC MUSIC STUDENTS

Blues guitarist and singer Ally Venable spoke to Kilgore College music students April 15 in Van Cliburn Auditorium, taking time out of her worldwide tour to share insight into her music career and creative process. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC

KC RECEIVES AMBULANCE  FOR EMS STUDENT TRAINING

Kilgore College received a decommissioned Mobile Intensive Care Unit from the Longview Fire Department to enhance EMS training. The unit will allow students to practice patient care procedures in a realistic, ambulance-like environment. WATCH VIDEO

Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC

NEW TALENT 25 FEATURES ARTWORK OF AREA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Kilgore College’s “New Talent 25” art show featured works by area high school students, showcasing a variety of mediums and highlighting emerging young artists from across the region. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC

KILGORE MAYOR PROCLAIMS APRIL 8 LADY RANGERS DAY

Kilgore Mayor Ronnie Spradlin proclaimed April 8 as Lady Rangers Basketball Day in honor of the team’s historic season. The proclamation was presented during the Lady Rangers’ Hoops Troops Banquet. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC

TRIO HOLDS ANNUAL SPRING BANQUET celebrating success

Kilgore College’s TRIO program held its Spring Banquet to celebrate the achievements of its students. TRIO provides support services to first-generation, low-income, and disabled students, helping them succeed in their academic journeys through tutoring, mentorship, and financial aid guidance. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Bella Huetson/KC Communications Intern

foundation holds alumni & friends easter egg hunt

The Kilgore College Foundation hosted a large Easter Egg Hunt April 19 at the Lee Mall/Mike Miller Plaza, bringing the community together for a day of fun and excitement. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Jayci Pyle/KC Communications Intern

kc student activities hosts global fair

KC Student Activities hosted a vibrant Global Ranger Fair that brought together students, faculty, and staff for an afternoon of cultural celebration. The event featured a diverse mix of entertainment, delicious food and opportunities to connect with the KC community, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere for all attendees. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Bella Huetson/KC Communications Intern

DENARD HADEN DANCE STUDIO UNVEILED AFTER GENEROUS DONATION

A ribbon-cutting ceremony April 18 marked the grand opening of the Denard Haden Dance Studio at KC, honoring the legacy of the first choreographer of the world-famous Rangerettes.

The newly renovated facility was made possible by a generous donation from Priscilla ‘Prissy’ Abshier Sliva, a former Rangerette and lifelong supporter of KC. Her contribution ensures that future generations of dancers have a state-of-the-art space to cultivate their talents. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Bella Huetson/KC Communications Intern

softball holds strikeout cancer game

Kilgore College softball hosted a Strikeout Cancer game, part of a nationwide initiative to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Bella Huetson/KC Communications Intern

annual rangerette revels packs dodson auditorium

Kilgore College’s annual Rangerette Revels dazzled audiences with four sold-out performances from April 5–6 and April 10–12, 2025, at Dodson Auditorium. The spring showcase featured a dynamic mix of dance styles, culminating in the Rangerettes’ signature high-kick finale. As one of the most anticipated events in East Texas, Revels brought massive crowds together to celebrate the tradition and talent of America’s first drill team. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Bella Huetson/KC Communications Intern

phi theta kappa inducts 30 students into honor society

KC’s Gamma Omicron chapter of Phi Theta Kappa inducted more than 30 students into its honor society on April 15. Biology department chair and PTK member Natalie Wade challenged the students to keep going toward their goals, despite any obstacles. Donny Seals, dean of liberal and fine arts, and Kristen Stovall, dean of business, entrepreneurship and information technology, were honored for their support of PTK. The group is advised by Curtis Ivory and Lori Solley. MORE PHOTOS

Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC

winners honored at annual kc student art show

Winners of the Kilgore College Visual Arts Department’s Student Spring Show a juried art exhibition were announced in a special reception on Wednesday, April 23. The exhibition showcases the best works from our Visual Arts majors created during this academic year.
 
The Student Spring Show aims to illuminate the creative depth and technical innovation of our Visual Arts majors while providing a platform for engagement with the community. The exhibition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students and the artistic leadership of the Visual Arts faculty. The show will be on display through May 8.  Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday. Admission is free.

Winners (BELOW) from left to right: Kate Galvan – 3rd place (tie); Brianna Estrada – Academic Achievement Award and the winner of the O Rufus Lovett Scholarship; Anthony Castro – 3rd place (tie); Jayci Pyle – 2nd place; Alex Nabor – 1st place.
 
 

Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC

kc sponsors at annual best preps banquet in longview

Kilgore College was a sponsor of the Longview News-Journal’s Best Preps Awards on Tuesday, April 22, presenting an award for Outstanding Achievement in Academics to Longview High School tennis player, Sydney Singh. Singh is 3rd in her class of 491 students (pictured below with Chris Craddock & Manny Almanza of the KC Communications Office).
 
Honors also went to incoming KC Ranger softball player Camryn Milam (from Tatum) for the Peltier Ford Award for Inspiration. Milam signed her letter of intent earlier this semester. Keynote speaker for the 10th annual event was Tyler Campbell, motivational speaker and son of Earl Campbell. He realized his dream of playing Division 1 football, even after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 20 years old. Jack Stallard, KC alum, was the emcee for the evening. 
 
Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC

former kc student honored as citizen of the year in longview

Jo Lee (Hammer) Ferguson, aka Ms. Answer Line in the Longview News-Journal, and an award-winning reporter for nearly 30 years, was named the Longview Rotary Club’s Citizen of the Year, on Tuesday, April 22, at a luncheon at Pinecrest Country Club. Ferguson’s interest in journalism began at Kilgore College in 1993, as a reporter on The Flare, under instructor Bettye Craddock. She continued to pursue journalism at Stephen F. Austin and received one of COX newspaper’s early intern scholarships in 1996, signaling the start of her passion for community journalism. Ferguson has battled a second round of cancer for the last four years, but continues to keep her faith in God and her drive for telling the story of those with a diminished voice in the community.
 
Photo by Rachel Stallard/KC