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Stay connected with the latest news from COM!
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. more »
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. more »
"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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
A new start for COM commencement speaker
COM's graduation ceremony will be a celebration of second chances for Michael Garcia and the 513 other members of the College of the Mainland 2014 graduating class. more »
COM commencement speaker to share transformation
To the 514 students in the College of the Mainland 2014 graduating class, the college became many things – a place to discover a passion, to pursue a skill, to launch a career. To Sveta Roady, of Santa Fe, the college became a place to find her voice and earn a degree at 18. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. For one night, however, none of it will matter as she transforms into a princess for prom. more »
COM student wins novice division in debate tournament, team wins top community college award
Battling students from four-year universities and community colleges, College of the Mainland student Samantha Burdick, of Texas City, won the novice division at the March 29 Lee College debate tournament. more »
Winning art at COM Senior Adult Program show demonstrates beauty of whimsy
As featured artists at the Galveston Art League, COM students created a dazzling array of more than 50 works, including acrylic paintings, watercolors, paper mache animals, stained glass and jewelry. At the recent reception, juror Carol Outlaw-Wagner awarded best of show and prizes to the top three entrants in each category. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Safety training honors Workers Memorial Day
The Gulf Coast Safety Institute will host a weeklong series of safety training in honor of Workers Memorial Day. The classes will be offered Monday, April 28, through Friday, May 2. more »
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. more »
Summer sports camps offered at COM
This summer, budding athletes can hone their skills in College of the Mainland's action-packed sports camps. more »
Painting and poetry mingle at International Poetry Day celebration at COM
For Anya Ezhevskaya, art is worth the mess. In a unique live painting and poetry talk at College of the Mainland April 22 at 12:30 p.m. in the COM Fine Arts Building, she will demonstrate her seriously lighthearted approach to art. more »
"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. more »
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. more »
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 April 17 in the COM Fine Arts Building. more »
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. more »
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. more »
COM grad makes Opry tour
A borrowed Garth Brooks CD ignited in Shawn Johnson, then in eighth-grade, a passion for the sound of country. more »
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. more »
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 recent debate tournament, co-hosted with Lee College. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. There is no charge to attend. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
A man for all football seasons: COM's
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. Based on the biography "When Pride Still Mattered" by Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss, the play traces the legendary coach's life and career and explores the mysteries within. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. The Spanish-language video is part of NSF's Advanced Technological Education program and designed to motivate students to enter the burgeoning field. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Free GCSI class on proposed workplace illness and injury prevention plan
In a moment, a workplace injury or illness can dramatically change a life. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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 Combowill perform popular hits at the spring concert, which is free and open to the public. more »
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. This event is free and open to the public. more »
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. more »
COM launches new scholarships for fall 2014
Cost should not keep any student from pursuing an education. In addition to offering a college education at a fraction of the cost of a university, COM is offering a variety of scholarships to ensure that all students can afford higher education. more »
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. more »
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. more »
First historic speech contest open for applications
The first Words That Changed History Contest is open for applications through March 7 at 5 p.m. more »
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. more »
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." more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
"I can't let cancer stop me:" student prepares to graduate from COM despite diagnosis
Students opt to take College of the Mainland courses online for many reasons—family responsibilities, traveling, jobs. Janie Torres-Harvey viewed them as an invaluable resource after she learned she had cancer. more »
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" Feb. 13. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. Participants will enjoy the chorale's two evening performances of American classics while exploring the Irish landscape, culture and history each day. more »
Puppy love inspires winning speech
The day is etched in Felicia's Poteet's memory. "Two years ago my husband came home with a puppy, and I was afraid because it was an American pit bull terrier," she began her speech, which earned top honors at the third Roger Stallings Student Speech Contest at College of the Mainland. more »
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. The best in show winner will receive a $300 prize. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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 and Kay Frieze earned the College of the Mainland Online Teacher of the Year Award. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
"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. Like the students assembled, all the guests are women. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. At the gathering uniting students from federally funded TRiO programs at colleges across the region, they also garnered an award for their outstanding public service announcement video. more »
First COM Ambassador earns degree
COM employee Earl Alexander knew exactly who to recruit as the first of the COM Ambassadors to visit high schools and talk about higher education – Janeth Rodriguez. Alexander knew the outgoing, determined 19-year-old was a living testament to the power of education. more »
$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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Armed with GED and in-demand skills, COM program's graduates enter workforce
Sometimes help arrives just in time. Newly single mother Tina Hancock, of Texas City, faced a predicament: As a former stay-at-home mom, she needed to re-enter the workforce quickly. However, without a GED certificate or high school diploma she struggled to find a job with a salary that would support her two daughters and herself. more »
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. more »
"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. more »
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. more »
BP Ex's Association funds scholarship
This month the BP Ex's Association donated $1,000 to fund an annual COM student scholarship. more »
Success in 3D
Tim Gaude deftly rotates the 3D model across his screen, viewing the image from every angle with the software familiarized in sci-fi and action movie montages. more »
Marathon donates $18,500 to COM
This month Marathon Petroleum Corp. donated $18,500 to support the COM Collegiate High School and the COM Process Technology Program. more »
COM is top community college at debate tournament
The College of the Mainland debate team won the Top Community College Team Award at their first International Public Debate Association tournament of the season hosted by Lee College in Baytown, Texas. Arguing topics ranging from the Syrian crisis to the superiority of tater tots over curly fries, the COM team earned the most points of any community college team and took sixth place overall in the tournament that featured 56 debaters from three states. more »
Juilliard pianist to perform at COM
Reviving the music of the masters, internationally renowned pianist David Syme will display his exquisite, energetic skill in a free concert at 7 p.m. Oct. 30 in the College of the Mainland Fine Arts Building Recital Hall. more »
Funk and jazz merge in COM concerts
Two free upcoming concerts at College of the Mainland will get your toes tapping and fingers snapping. more »
Monster Musik to showcase spine-tingling melodies
Spooky songs and a musical tribute to a mythical vampire dog will take the stage during the nineth annual Monster Musik, a free electric guitar concert at 8 p.m. Oct 24 in the College of the Mainland Fine Arts Building Recital Hall. more »
Prospective Parent Meeting to showcase COM Collegiate High School
Parents and students can discover how COM Collegiate High School can help students reach their goals and earn a high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously. The program will host a meeting for prospective parents and students Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the Learning Resource Center Auditorium. more »
COM Hispanic Heritage Celebration to highlight Central America
A land of rainforests, volcanoes and an estimated 41 million people, Central America is one of the most ethnically and geographically diverse regions in the world. Enjoy the areas cuisine, music and culture during College of the Mainlands annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Oct. 22 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Breezeway. more »
Waddling for a Cause: COM staff and students raise over $6K to end Alzheimer's
Each walker carries a water bottle and a story – a friend, sibling or parent diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia and slipping away. more »
COM breast cancer panel to offer support, treatment options
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, College of the Mainland and Mainland Medical Center will offer a panel discussion on preventative exams, navigating pre- and post-treatment options and supporting loved ones with breast cancer. The free panel and dinner will begin at 5 p.m. Oct. 23 in the COM Learning Resource Center Auditorium. more »
One-frame stories on display at COM Art Gallery
Look at the world through a different lens with the photography displayed at the COM Art Gallery through Oct. 24. Showcasing the work of photography students and educators from seven states, the exhibit is in conjunction with the Society for Photographic Education South Central Regional Conference. more »
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. more »
COM announces $100,000 energy savings
In celebration of Energy Awareness Month, College of the Mainland reports that in just a year the college has saved more than $170,119 in energy costs by implementing new efficiency measures. more »
University Fair shows students the possibilities
More than 20 colleges and universities from across Texas showed students how to reach their goals at the College of the Mainland University Fair Oct. 1. more »
COM welcomes new VP for institutional advancement
College of the Mainland is pleased to announce that Mary Ann Amelang has returned to the college in the newly created role of vice president for institutional advancement. more »
Photography conference at COM to link art and empathy
Look at the world through a new lens at the Society for Photographic Education South Central Regional Conference co-hosted by College of the Mainland and Houston Center for Photography. Gallery tours in Houston and Galveston, photography demonstrations and exhibitions at COM and Galveston College will fill the action-packed weekend Oct. 17-20. more »
Former ESL student and orginal COM Ambassador first in family to earn degree
College of the Mainland employee Earl Alexander knew exactly who to recruit as the first of the COM Ambassadors to visit high schools and share about the value of higher education – Janeth Rodriguez. Alexander knew the outgoing, determined 19-year-old was a living testament to the power of education. more »
Waddle to end Alzheimer's
Join the College of the Mainland Quack Pack and participate in the Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's, one of the nation's largest events to raise awareness and funds to fight the disease. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Students, families trade places at first COM Family Day
"Welcome to the magic show!" Herman Trivilino, College of the Mainland physics professor, greeted the students and families gathered at College of the Mainland's first Family Day. more »
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. more »
PBS News Hour anaylist to illuminate Syria's past and America's future
Dominating news media, politics and Twitter feeds, Syria is a land of turmoil and 20 million. Gain a greater understanding of the Mediterranean nation and the ten o'clock news with Joshua Landis' discussion, "Syria – what does the future hold?" on Oct. 3 at 12:30 p.m. in the College of the Mainland Learning Resource Center Auditorium. more »
Playing Hitler's tune or orchestrating rescues? You decide in "Taking Sides"
Half a century later, the case still intrigues. As the horrors of Nazism spread and his colleagues fled, German conductor Wilhelm Furtwangler determined to stay. Was his motive to do as much good as possible or was he secretly sympathizing with Hitler? more »
Reluctant student now advocates education
Apollonia Landrum determined she'd never to go to college. She had a plan after graduating from La Marque High School: join the military, retire and enter the workforce. more »
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. more »
Trading places: Family Day at COM
Family members will swap places with their students as they walk the halls, discover free campus resources and attend entertaining mini-classes for an unforgettable learning experience at the first Family Day at College of the Mainland Sept. 14. more »
Fire academy students save money now, lives later
A solid education shouldn't cost a fortune. With that in mind, not-for-profit Fire Science Online has compiled a list of fire science programs offering the highest return on investment and named College of the Mainland as number 34 on the list of the top 90 (roughly 10 percent) programs in the nation. more »
COM coach helps local student make college team
Lindsay Campbell came to the College of the Mainland gym with one goal: making the 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. Coming for an inexpensive gym membership, the former Santa Fe High School basketball player didn't expect to find impromptu coaching as well. more »
30 seconds to an answer
This fall, students and staff can find late-night, last-minute help via the Atomic Learning website. more »
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. more »
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!" more »
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. more »
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. more »
De-stress with affordable fitness classes, personal training
With the rush of back-to-school preparations, take time to unwind this fall with a College of the Mainland fitness class, affordable gym membership or personal training. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. The last day of the summer math camp for College of the Mainland TRiO students ended on a high note as students launched rockets into the air, and after watching the rockets' arc, applied the algebra concepts they had learned to graph their trajectories. more »
Summer blood drive saves 165 lives
During summer's height, many people depart for vacation, but the need for blood never takes a day off. more »
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. more »
COM music scholarships now open
Note by note, a solid musical education lays a foundation for a future entertainer or instructor. College of the Mainland is offering educational scholarships for music students who want to hone their skills and perform an instrument in one of the college's talented ensembles. more »
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. more »
First Texas City Small Business Fair draws crowd
Nearly two dozen Texas City small businesses gathered to showcase their services at the first Texas City Small Business Fair, which College of the Mainland hosted. more »
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. more »
Paint, running collide in event raising $1,000 for military
Bursts of powdered paint and laughter filled the air as 168 runners dodged obstacles during the Hurdles for Heroes 5K Color Course, College of the Mainland's first color run. more »
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. more »
Small Business Week Kickoff
Discover the unique, conveniently located businesses in Texas City without driving around at the Texas City Small Business Fair July 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. more »
Grad assists at-risk teens
Being a young mother who spoke English as a second language wasn't going to stop Maria Perez from getting an education. The first in her family to go to college, she was determined to earn a degree. more »
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. more »
Open registration begins
Begin your pathway to success this fall with College of the Mainland's associate degree and certificate programs now open for registration. more »
Small Business Week Kickoff
Discover the unique, conveniently located businesses in Texas City without driving around. more »
Spelling F-U-N with song
Uncommon words become uncommonly funny in College of the Mainland's production of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee." more »
Computerized GED testing now available
The COM Testing Center is now offering computerized GED testing, which allows students to register online and to receive scores immediately upon completion. more »
I left my heart in Japan: Students return with gifts – and tales
A journey to Japan spanning 18 days and 17,000 miles wasn't enough for some students in the College of the Mainland study abroad program – they're already preparing for a sequel. more »
Future doctors name educational inspiration
Shaping the next generation of medical professionals, College of the Mainland professor Dr. Chris Allen is as at home with students in coffee-shop review sessions as he is in the classroom. more »
17 years later, grad's journey complete
A 17-year journey concluded triumphantly when Crystal Davis walked the stage to receive her bachelor's degree from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. The first in her family to earn a bachelor's, she'd determined to finish college, despite giving birth to her daughter one week before she began college classes. more »
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. more »
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. College of the Mainland is partnering with SAFETY-USA to offer three online driving courses – Texas Online Defensive Driving, Texas Teen Driver Education Course and Adult Driver Education Online. more »
First CHS student enrolled at 14 earns degree before diploma
Not many eighth graders have determined their future careers, but Abigail Dickson knew exactly what she wanted to do. more »
Chance meeting inspires friendship, bachelor's degrees
For Doreen Bridges and Tomeka Blanks, History 1301 was a serendipitous choice. After a chance meeting in the class, the two students forged a bond that lasted through two schools, four years and countless hours studying. more »
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. more »
COM fire academy grad sets record
At the spring graduation ceremony, Justin Napoli, of League City, became the first student in the College of the Mainland Fire Academy's history to win simultaneously the Top Rung Award, President's Award and Academic Honors Award. more »
COM testing center now site for CompTIA, Microsoft exams
College of the Mainland has become an official testing center for the Microsoft Office Specialist and Microsoft Technology Associate certification exams and Pearson Vue tests, which include the Linux + and CompTIA A+ certifications. more »
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. more »
Summer kick-off for students
Kick off the summer with College of the Mainland's Sports and Spirit Day on June 26, where students can relax with friends or face off in challenges from canoe races to pie fights. more »
How to succeed in college without stressing
Have pre-college jitters? How to succeed in college from finances to social media will be covered in College of the Mainland's first Summer Bridge Program. more »
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. more »
Artist uses DNA, hair to create works
Artist Kamila Szczesna is a reverse detective. Rather than decipher clues, she leaves them for her viewers. more »
Collegiate High School honors top graduates
Kelsey Buchanan came to College of the Mainland Collegiate High School looking for "a chance to get ahead" – and found it. more »
Juneteenth: Celebrating liberty, community
They were free but didn't know it. more »
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. more »
New camps for kids, teens
Summertime gives children carefree days to relax—and to try new things. more »
Fast-track to summer credit
Community college and university students on break can take advantage of more than 300 summer courses offered online and on campus at College of the Mainland. more »
Former NASA investigator's class to explore moon rock tracking
While treasure seekers abound, treasure restorers are rare. more »
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. more »
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. more »
COM board members sworn in
Three newly elected College of the Mainland board of trustees members – Bennie Matthews, position 1; Rosalie Kettler, position 4; and Rachel Delgado, position 6 – took the oath of office at a special-called board meeting today. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. In her "Little Things Mean a Lot" course on how to recognize and prevent shaken baby syndrome, Anna Raumaker discusses not only how to soothe babies but why they cry. more »
Golfers brave cold, raise $3,500
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. more »
Graduation largest in school's history
Celebrating students' accomplishments, College of the Mainland's commencement ceremony honored 555 associate degree and certificate graduates, the largest class in its history. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
"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. more »
9/11 memories spur winning speech
Jaw-clenching, heart-pounding fear—that's what many felt one Tuesday morning in September 2001. Donna Haney still remembers the moment she heard the news of the first tower's hit and thought of one thing—her daughter in New York scheduled to interview that afternoon at a firm located in that tower. more »
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. more »
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. more »
COM faculty appreciation project wins regional award
A simple "thank you" wasn't enough for College of the Mainland students, so they launched a month-long campaign as their Phi Theta Kappa college project to show their appreciation for college faculty members. more »
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. more »
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. Enter "Dress To Impress." more »
Three hundred years of music in two hours
From uplifting choral music to Broadway showstoppers, College of the Mainland Vocal Arts will highlight the evolution of music during the past three centuries with its performance "From Mozart to the Modern Age: A Presidential Celebration of Music." The concert will be held April 26 at 7:30 p.m. at St. John's United Methodist Church in Texas City. more »
First symposium to explore Gulf Coast
With a wealth of history, industry and natural resources, the Gulf Coast is home to unique treasures. Discover more about the coast through top student and professional presentations during College of the Mainland's first academic symposium, "Our Gulf Coast: Past, Present and Future" May 4 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. more »
Exchange student from Mexico enjoying classes at COM
Most College of the Mainland students commute fewer than 15 miles to class. Exchange student Omar Vela traveled more than 1,000 miles to study at COM as a participant in the U.S. Department of Education North American Mobility Program. An engineering student from Veracruz, Mexico, Vela is studying English, management and AutoCAD, a software program used in computer-aided design and drafting. more »
Workers re-career to the medical field
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. "I really wanted to help people more," Landin said. "As a bookkeeper, you sit in an office and don't have interaction with people. I wanted something more rewarding." more »
Former GED student elected honor society officer
Angela Jordy is a newly elected College of the Mainland Phi Theta Kappa officer with a 3.75 GPA and a goal to be the first in her family to graduate from college. more »
Concert to perform rock and Renaissance music
From heavily distorted Mozart to minimalist pieces, College of the Mainland's Electric Guitar Ensemble will put its on spin on famous works at its spring concert April 25 at 8 p.m. more »
Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month with COM concerts
Alternating between the helter-skelter pace of Looney Tunes music and the haunting melodies of "Phantom of the Opera" classics, two concerts at College of the Mainland will showcase the versatility of jazz and the musicians. more »
New exhibit turns food into art
Master chefs are often hailed as artists, but a new exhibit at College of the Mainland Art Gallery shows artists as chefs, concocting a wry combination of hardware and hot dogs. more »
Giving them the tools they need to succeed: COM class increases retention, completion
Karmyn Spino-Chantre knows she wasn't ready for college. "I felt trapped in high school. I wasn't the best student. I wasn't prepared at all," she said. more »
Student named Silver Scholar
College of the Mainland student Kayla McDonald has been selected as a silver scholar on Coca-Cola's 2013 Community College Academic Team, one among only 50 students given the honor nationwide. more »
"Prelude to a Kiss" presents tale of love, humor and magic
A love story with a twist, "Prelude to a Kiss" at College of the Mainland Community Theatre offers a story of newlyweds trapped in circumstances beyond their control--and almost beyond their imaginations. more »
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. more »
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. The College of the Mainland debater was awarded second-best novice speaker out of 74 debaters. more »
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. more »
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. "Too often after people retire and just sit, they lose their passion," said Bane. "You're wasting time. Time is the greatest gift we have." more »
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. more »
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. more »
COM earns award for blood drives
The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center has granted COM the award "College/Educational Group of the Year" for going above and beyond in its blood drives in 2012. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Texas Workforce Commission presents grant to COM
The Texas Workforce Commission has given a $374,494 Skills Development Fund grant to fund a College of the Mainland partnership with Marathon Petroleum Corp. and Marathon Pipe Line LLC. The grant will be used to create 26 new jobs and custom-train 291 incumbent workers. more »
Police graduate is on patrol
The newest member of the Rockport, Texas, police force, Sara Carter, of Clear Lake, feels she has found her niche in the small beach town located between Houston and Corpus Christi. more »
COM graduate receives research grant
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. more »
COM gallery displays ceramics collection
Earthy, rock-like pots contrasting with delicate, fluted vases, College of the Mainland Art Gallery's newest exhibit underscores creativity and diversity. "Conspicuous Consumption: Utilitarian Ceramics from the Collection of David and Louise Rosenfield" is a sampling from their more than 1,800-piece treasure trove. more »
Contest inspires teenager'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. more »
Upward Bound now accepting applications
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. more »
Nursing graduate receives award for excellence
College of the Mainland graduate Jamie Hornbeck sees new challenges—and new life—every day. As a labor and delivery nurse, she recently received the Daisy Award for her work as a nurse at The Woman's Hospital of Texas. more »
COM launches Japan study abroad program
A city of tiered, 16th-century castles and flowing mountain springs, Ogaki, Japan, offers beauty and history. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
COM students meet state representatives, tour Capitol
Many students' idea of state government is a textbook blurb peppered with Latin phrases. For College of the Mainland students attending Community College Day, state government came to life through touring the Capitol and talking with their state representatives. more »
Celebrate Black History Month with films, music
From abolitionists to presidents, black leaders have shaped our nation's history and society. Highlighting men such as Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington and President Barack Obama, a Black History Month Film Commemoration will be held Feb. 12 from 12:30–1:30 p.m. at College of the Mainland in the Learning Resources Center Auditorium. more »
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. more »
Concert Band open for auditions
Restore music to your life with COM's Concert Band. Whether an engineer, former professional musician or student, instrumentalists can join others who share an enjoyment of music. more »
COM guide named Best of LibGuides
Besides coffee, students have another resource to turn to in the late night hours when writing a paper. more »
Ensemble represents COM at 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. more »
Out of the academy and into the fire
It's one a.m. and the bell sounds. It's a fire. Jasyn Jefferies suits up with the rest of the Galveston Fire Department and is on his way in seconds. more »
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. more »
Registration open for March for Troops 5K
Put feet to your support for veterans during the March for Troops 5K to be held March 2 at 8 a.m. at College of the Mainland. more »
Collegiate High School student named Junior Rotarian
Mary Roberts, recently named a Junior Rotarian and honored for her academic excellence and extracurricular achievements by the Texas City Rotary Club, isn't a typical high school student. This spring instead of sitting at a desk at Texas City High School, Roberts will be in a classroom at Baylor University studying premed. more »
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. more »
"A Grand Night for Singing" revives musicals' best
Relive musicals' glory days with COM Community Theatre production. more »
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. more »
Gulf Coast symposium open for submissions
Have a personal narrative about growing up in Galveston, research into an aspect of the island's rich history or a discovery about island wildlife to share? more »
Honoring MLK's legacy through serving
One woman's refusal made a statement. Thousands' refusal made history. more »
COM Art Gallery to display "Evolving Perspectives"
"Evolving Perspectives," an exhibition of work from students in the University of Houston Graduate Painting Program, will be on display through Feb. 7 at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. You can earn an associate degree, take a single class or complete a certification entirely from home. more »
Student overcomes diagnosis to teach
Wesley Willoughby first came to College of the Mainland as a 17-year-old high school student taking evening college classes for fun. more »
The giving season at COM
Bringing holiday cheer to residents throughout Galveston County, College of the Mainland has donated more than 50 sacks of groceries to be distributed by the nonprofit organization The Jesse Tree. more »
COM named business of the month
For College of the Mainland's continued volunteer efforts and work to provide an affordable education to residents in Galveston County, the North Galveston County Chamber of Commerce has selected COM as the business of the month. more »
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. more »
Exemplary online course instructors awarded
For the 2011-12 school year, 16 College of the Mainland instructors, four times as many as last year, have earned exemplary ratings for their online courses. Exemplary is the highest rating a course can achieve in COM's Online Course Review process. more »
COM Foundation honors Donors of the Year
College of the Mainland Foundation has honored three groups as Donors of the Year for their generous contributions, which enabled the Foundation to provide funding this year for 150 students to further their education. more »
Son's illness gives mother new dream
Her son's chronic illness led Angi Kirk to come to College of the Mainland—for the second time. more »
Nursing students to present projects
Accessing and understanding up-to-the-minute research is vital for future nurses. more »
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. "My love and addiction to 'liquid crack' led me to research Starbucks," she began, referencing her love for coffee more »
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. more »
Lewis receives Distinguished Career Award
"I think the thing I'm most proud of is starting an association between safety and young workers. It was something I could do to make a difference," said Lewis. more »
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. more »
Concert to feature guest Tom "Bones" Malone
The College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble will present an evening of blues classics and innovative jazz arrangements featuring guest artist Tom "Bones" Malone Dec. 1. more »
Show exhibits COM students' artwork
A bacon coin bank, "rebooted" laptop and six-foot fire hydrant are among the artistic treasures displayed in the 2012 Annual Student Art Show at the COM Art Gallery through Dec. 6. more »
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. more »
Hair and Style Show Extravaganza presents holiday ideas
Discover how to shine at holiday festivities with COM Cosmetology's Hair and Style Show Extravaganza. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Mexico, motherhood inspire a mural
The earthy smells and vivid colors of Oaxaca, Mexico, inspired College of the Mainland student Javier Ayala to create an artistic tribute to the city. more »
From the stage to the courtroom
Alicia Devoy O'Neill, assistant district attorney for Harris County, originally planned a career on the stage, not in the courtroom. After completing her basic courses at College of the Mainland, O'Neill was studying theater at the University of Texas at Austin when she got the call. more »
COM's Phi Theta Kappa chapter inducts new members
College of the Mainland's chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the national community college honor society, recently inducted eight members, honoring their academic excellence. more »
COM to host Native American heritage celebration
Sharing the story of her people through traditional tales, music and artifacts, Chance Landry, a Lipan Apache and curator of the Southern Apache Museum in Houston, will speak during College of the Mainland's Native American Heritage Month celebration Nov. 15 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the COM Library. more »
Concert presents movie theme music
The melodies of movies will come to life at the College of the Mainland Concert Band performance Monday, Nov. 12, at 8 p.m. more »
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. more »
Elective leads to career for high school students
A chance high school elective turned into a career for Matt Ball and Jacob Buffaloe, College of the Mainland students and current BP interns. more »
COM to host Veterans Day Observance
To honor U.S. veterans' service and to share practical ways to support veterans, COM is hosting a Veterans Day observance from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at the COM Library. more »
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. more »
Police graduate's intervention saves woman from jumping
As a former army combat medic, Kevin Lagatella is constantly, unconsciously alert. Sometimes it still saves lives. more »
Finalist announced in COM presidential search
The College of the Mainland board of trustees has named Dr. Beth Lewis, vice president of academic affairs at Northeast Lakeview College, the sole finalist in the COM presidential search. more »
COM board honors interim president
The COM board of trustees has passed a resolution honoring Dr. Larry Durrence for his outstanding leadership and service during two terms as College of the Mainland interim president. more »
Stand-up economist multiplies joy through education
"What is the difference between the mafia and bankers?" Yoram Bauman, the world's first and only stand-up economist, asked the crowd at College of the Mainland. more »
ISDs, COM expand articulation agreements
College of the Mainland, working closely with educators from local independent school districts, has expanded its list of degree and certificate programs that accept articulated credit, which allows students who take technical courses in high school to request credit at COM for these courses. more »
Monster Musik coming to play
Rolling fog and spider webs will set the stage for the eighth annual performance of Monster Musik, a performance by COM students in the Electric Guitar Orchestra playing spooky classical and classic rock music. more »
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." more »
Day of the Dead art contest honors legacies
COM students are sponsoring a Dia de los Muertos art contest to allow individuals of any cultural background to honor their ancestors. Submissions of artwork, photography, shrines, poetry or even music will be accepted from Oct. 29 to Oct. 31. more »
COM Community Theatre to present "Deathtrap"
'Tis the season to be scared, and the comedy-thriller "Deathtrap" provides both laughs and suspense at College of the Mainland Community Theatre. more »
Stand-up economist to perform
Yoram Bauman, self-titled "the world's first and only stand-up economist," will perform at College of the Mainland at 12:30 p.m. Oct. 23 in the College of the Mainland Theatre. more »
Jazz concert features swinging tunes
The award-winning College of the Mainland Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo will perform a concert featuring popular big band, swing and Latin jazz selections on Oct. 23 at 8 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall to raise money to perform at the Jazz Education Network Conference. more »
Fall into fashion
Step into autumn at the Fall Festival Fashion Show hosted by College of the Mainland Foundation. more »
"It's All About the Ride!" on display at COM Art Gallery
In conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month and the Day of the Dead, an exhibition by Juan de Dios Mora, a talented artist who portrays images of Mexican-American life, will be displayed at COM Art Gallery through Nov. 1. more »
College Boot Camp gives tools to combat students' fears
"What will I do with my life?" is a common question teens ask themselves. Fortunately, students have options, not just after high school but in high school as well. more »
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. Collegiate High School Parent Information Night will show them how to do that with a challenging, innovative program designed to help students earn an associate degree by high school graduation. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
COM announces finalists in presidential search
The College of the Mainland board of trustees has named three finalists in the search for the college's next president and will hold public forums at which community members may meet them. more »
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. more »
Government agencies collect information at open meeting
Nearly 150 people attended an open meeting sponsored by five government agencies hosted by the Gulf Coast Safety Institute at the College of the Mainland. more »
Capping a lifetime of learning
"You're going to get older anyway. You might as well do what you want," said Marilynn Kish-Molina. more »
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. more »
COM announces math tutoring hours
College of the Mainland is offering free math tutoring for students Monday through Friday. more »
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. more »
COM reduces expenditures with new budget
The College of the Mainland Board of Trustees has approved the operating budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year, reflecting nearly $1 million in cost cuts for the college and a slight cost-of-living salary increase for employees. more »
Designing a dream
Tanya Baker, a graphic designer, author and breast cancer survivor, credits an education at College of the Mainland with helping her to reach her goals. A COM professor "was the spark to ignite my flame," said Baker. more »
Learning to speak her mind
Overcoming loss, family resistance and her own shyness, Candy Sanchez graduated with an associate degree with honors from College of the Mainland. more »
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. "Students want to get a jump start on college," said Jones. more »
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. more »
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. more »
New exhibit at COM Art Gallery
Kathryn Kelley, creative writer and visual artist, will be presenting an artist talk and poetry writing demonstration at 2 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the College of the Mainland Art Gallery. The gallery will display her poetry and installation art "i dissolve my fabricated seatings" through Sept. 27. more »
Art exhibit details wonders of the body
Kristy Peet, College of the Mainland art instructor, will exhibit her current series, "Systematic Life," from Sept. 8 through Oct. 13 at BOX 13 ArtSpace in Houston. more »
Educating educators on the possibilities
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. For the last two years, Mike Kukuk, College of the Mainland director for contract training, has helped to educate teachers about the real-world applications and job possibilities in the science field. more »
COM to host Tanger Outlets Job Fair
Job seekers can explore new opportunities at the Tanger Outlets Job Fair hosted by College of the Mainland from noon to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 6 in the COM Gym. more »
COM adopts Higher One Card for student refunds
This fall, College of the Mainland will have a new financial aid refund disbursement program designed to simplify students' lives. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Catching a new scent
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Re-careering white-collar workers choose process technology
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. more »
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. more »
From Germany to Texas: Discovering passion at COM
Patrick Damrath, a German foreign exchange student who attended Texas City High School, discovered his passion at College of the Mainland. "I really fell in love with sciences the last two to three semesters at COM just because of great instruction and professors," he said. more »
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 and licensed psychologist, as Dean of General Education. more »
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. more »
COM Foundation awards scholarships
A total of 54 students have been awarded College of the Mainland Foundation scholarships for the fall 2012 semester. more »
Welding teachers spark new life in student
From a troublemaker on a rough street in New Orleans to a successful welding student, Archie Andrews' life has changed. "I came from the worst streets you can come from. Not having a father figure, I was your worst nightmare," Andrews said. more »
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. more »
Recruiting for education
COM community mentors/recruiters don't wait for people to decide to come to college; they go to them. more »
From brain surgery patient to neuroscience nurse
COM nursing graduate Dara Lewis, of League City, is now working at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center —in the same ward where just six months ago she recovered from surgery on her brain. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Register early for New Student Orientation
Mandatory for all first time COM-students, New Student Orientation will be offered July 24, Aug. 2, Aug. 7, and Aug. 16. more »
Zombies coming to COM this fall!
This fall COM is offering two new courses, The Undead in Literature and Argumentation and Debate. more »
Singing and dancing to the 80s with COM's "The Wedding Singer"
In the 80s when Michael Jackson was big and hair was too, wedding singer Robbie Hart is jilted by his fiancée via a note at the altar... more »
COM professor inspires future doctors
Dr. Chris Allen, COM biology professor, was voted "Most Outstanding and Inspirational Professor" by students in UTMB's Medical Careers Diversity Program. more »
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 August 20. This introductory project management class provides participants with systematic strategies to increase customer satisfaction and maximize companies' return on investment. more »
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. more »
"Excited delirium" class inspires EMS/police dialogue
Bath salts are not just for bathing anymore, said Dr. Jay Kovar, medical director of PHI AIR MedicalService, at his presentation to at College of the Mainland. more »
Transferring for success
The first in his family to graduate from college, Warren Marsh II, likes a challenge. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Explore jobs at COM's hands-on, high-tech camp
This summer high school students can learn practical, technical skills from wiring a circuit to installing a ceiling fan at College of the Mainland's Industrial Craft Career Exploration. more »
Whether overseas or home, seeking to serve
After a nearly four-year break from college to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, Santiago Guerrero, 24, is back at COM with a new goal. more »
At 18, a diploma in one hand and a degree in the other
At 18, even before graduating from high school, Christine LaFoy has reached a milestone—an associate degree. more »
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. more »
College of the Mainland in compliance with Public Funds Investment Act
College of the Mainland has once again been found to be in full compliance with both the Public Funds Investment Act and the investment reporting requirements in fiscal year 2011, according to the State Auditor's Office report. more »
"This time I"m doing it right;" single mom graduates
By 26, Merretta Vasquez had quit college several times. more »
Prepare to launch into college
This summer, get ready to survive and thrive in college with College of the Mainland's Ready, Set, College! Classes. more »
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. These funds will be used primarily to support free and reduced lunches for the students, plus supply other critical needs of the program. more »
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. He is also passionate about teaching students to think through literature discussions filled with characters, controversy and humor. more »
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. more »
Different men, same struggle: COM Community Theatre presents "Bill W. and Dr. Bob"
In the tumultuous days following the stock market crash of 1929, two men meet by chance. Despite different professions and personalities—Bill is an ambitious, sometimes shady, stockbroker; Bob is a sardonic, easy-going surgeon—they discover commonality in a shared struggle with alcohol. more »
Beating the odds
Donald Lacy Jr. has been fighting the odds since he was born. "I was a miracle baby," he said. more »
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. more »
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. more »
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. more »
Dr. Chris Allen wins Paragon Award
Dr. Chris Allen received the Paragon Award for New Advisors at the Phi Theta Kappa International Convention in Nashville, TN. Students in College of the Mainland's chapter nominated him for the award, and out of 700 advisors the organization selected him as one of 30 to receive this honor. more »
Dates announced for COM's 2012 Oaxaca, Mexico study abroad trips
College of the Mainland is inviting students and community members to sign up for one of three trips to Oaxaca, Mexico, this summer. Students have the option of a two-week or four-week stay and the option to earn up to eight college credits. Non-credit students are also welcome. more »
COM students competed in Art Bout on Friday, March 2
College of the Mainland Art Club President Ryan Clemon of League City enjoyed competing in the inaugural Art Bout on Friday, March 2, in the Fine Arts Building. "I like how it forced me out of my comfort zone," Clemon said. "Usually, I work in two dimensional art exclusively." more »
COM to hold Adult Education GED Classes at Parker-Williams Library
College of the Mainland Adult Education will hold General Equivalency Diploma (GED) classes from April 9 through May 18 at Parker-Williams Library, 10851 Scarsdale Blvd., Suite 510, Houston, TX 77089. Registration will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 5. more »
COM's NAMP program hosts foreign dignitaries
College of the Mainland's North American Mobility Program (NAMP) is hosting foreign dignitaries from Canada and Mexico, March 4-6, on campus. NAMP works specifically with COM's business, sociology, Process Technology, (PTEC) and safety and environmental programs. NAMP is a $190,000 four-year grant program issued by the U.S. Department of Education. more »
Dickinson High School sophomore wins COM's
April Walsch didn't know what to expect when she submitted photos to College of the Mainland's inaugural Oh Snap! Cell Phone contest earlier this year. The 15-year-old Dickinson High School (DHS) sophomore never competed in any type of photography contest. more »
Articulated credit program gives high school students an opportunity to earn college credit
College of the Mainland, along with Alvin Community College and San Jacinto Community College, is participating in the new Educators Alliance for Articulated Credit program. more »
Basketball club defeats Lee College in season opener
College of the Mainland's Club Basketball Team won its inaugural basketball game with an emphatic 62-51 victory over Lee College on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at COM Gym. Greg Wilson, a Texas City High School graduate, led the Fighting Ducks (1-0) with 15 points and seven rebounds. more »
Debate Club will make tournament debut on Saturday, Feb. 25
The COM Debate Club will compete in its first tournament, the 2012 Mardi Gras Alumni Classic, on Saturday, Feb. 25 and Sunday, Feb. 26 at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. more »
COM will host inaugural Art Bout on Friday, March 2
Are you a community college student who enjoys art and competition? The inaugural Art Bout, a competition co-sponsored by College of the Mainland and the Gulf Coast Intercollegiate Consortium Art Committee, is open to students who would like to compete individually or as part of a group. more »
COM Jazz Ensemble collaborated with Texas City ISD bands
College of the Mainland's Jazz Ensemble shared the stage with Texas City ISD student bands during an exciting evening of musical excellence Saturday, Feb. 18 at the new Texas City High School auditorium. The Jazz Ensemble headlined the show, accompanied by renowned trombonist Ron Wilkins. more »
Phi Theta Kappa Sigma Delta chapter hosts first District IV Conference in more than a decade
College of the Mainland's Phi Theta Kappa Sigma Delta Chapter hosted its first District IV Conference in more than a decade. Sixty-four students from eight colleges attended the day-long event that featured team building activities, guest lectures and networking opportunities. more »
COM Adult Education earns Texas LEARNS honors
Texas Association for Literacy and Adult Education (Texas LEARNS), an adult education and family literacy collaboration, gave College of the Mainland Gold Level recognition for meeting all performance measures in 2010-11 for Adult Education and for EL Civics. more »
Diversity and Equity interns gain valuable experience
Joshua Cratic and Rumela Roy are gaining valuable experience as interns for Lonica Bush, College of the Mainland executive director for Diversity and Equity and in-house counsel. more »
Child Development and Education Club makes donation to Pregnancy and Support Center of Texas City
College of the Mainland's Child Development and Education Club received a donation of baby quilts that it gave to the Pregnancy and Support Center of Texas City. A total of 19 quilts were handmade by the Sew Sisters of League City Quilting group of League City. The quilts are available for the expectant mothers to earn by attending classes on caring for their baby. more »
TRiO students win Academic Bowl competition
College of the Mainland students won an Academic Bowl competition against seven other institutions, including University of Houston, University of Houston-Downtown and Texas Southern University. more »
COM receives $600,000 Gulf Coast PASS Grant
College of the Mainland has been awarded a $600,000 Gulf Coast PASS grant to implement new strategies to increase the success of students who enroll unprepared for college credit courses in Math or English. The grant, managed by the Community College Leadership Program at the University of Texas at Austin, is made possible by Houston Endowment. more »
COM Jazz Ensemble to perform with renowned trombonist, Ron Wilkins, on Feb. 18
Local music fans can enjoy College of the Mainland's Jazz Ensemble perform alongside Ron Wilkins, one of the most accomplished trombonists in the United States, on Saturday, Feb. 18. more »
COM Veterans Club provides camaraderie, guidance
Texas City native Ruben Garcia served as a combat medic in the United States Army from 2001-09, including 18 months in Iraq. When he enrolled at College of the Mainland in the fall of 2009, he began planning a veterans club to provide guidance and camaraderie to fellow military personnel returning from war. more »
Friendswood resident thrives in Collegiate High School program
Collegiate High School student Johnathan Moore knew he could continue his Friendswood High School extracurricular activities when he enrolled at CHS as a junior. That was important to the 17-year-old senior who is captain of the FHS debate team and its National Honor Society chapter. more »
Jackson returns to COM for doctoral internship
Patricia Jackson started College of the Mainland's Career Services Department 12 years ago. "We had a five-year plan and accomplished those goals in two and a half years," said Jackson, who worked for COM from 2000-02. more »
Renowned civil rights speaker, Lecia Brooks, visits COM for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
Lecia Brooks, director of outreach for the Southern Poverty Law Center in Montgomery, Ala., was the guest speaker at College of the Mainland's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History Month Celebration on Thursday. S more »
Quite a Show: Community enjoys COM faculty art reception
College of the Mainland student Christian Carlin, of League City, was impressed with the COM Faculty Art Exhibition during the artist reception on Thursday afternoon at the art gallery. more »
Phi Theta Kappa members honored for volunteer work
College of the Mainland students Merretta Vasquez and Taylor Hernandez volunteered to teach a class on American cultures as part of the "Scouting on the Boardwalk," an event for Boy Scouts of America groups from Texas. more »
LyondellBasell donates $5,000 to Process Technology (PTEC) program
College of the Mainland's Process Technology (PTEC) program and LyondellBasell strengthened a growing partnership. LyondellBasell made a $5,000 donation to the College's renowned PTEC program. It was approved at the COM Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday afternoon. more »
League City resident prepares for job market with North County Learning Center computer class
Wendy Kane, a 63-year-old League City resident, decided to refine her computer skills in preparation for the job market, so she turned to College of the Mainland's North County Learning Center (NCLC) where she'll begin a computer course this winter. "I wanted to go to a local school," Kane said. "I really wanted to do COM because of their reputation, and I knew they had this extension center here (in League City). This is very convenient when you're an adult working person, particularly an adult working person in retail." more »
Friendswood resident stars in musical
Friendswood resident Melanie Bernsen Clinkscales grew up enjoying the sounds of the 1960s, courtesy of her parents' music collection. As one of the five cast members in College of the Mainland Community Theatre's "SHOUT! The Mod Musical", Clinkscales is returning the favor. "I'm excited to sing songs that my parents played," Clinkscales said. "It's kind of nice for my family to see it and watch (me) sing the songs they grew up on. It's extra special to them." more »
COM graduate, Blinka, returns as director of purchasing
College of the Mainland graduate Sonja Blinka understands the importance of community in a community college. Blinka, who was hired as COM's director of purchasing on Jan. 3, grew up in Dickinson and now lives in Santa Fe. more »
Recreation coordinator reflects on stellar basketball career
College of the Mainland coordinator of memberships and community recreation Michael Richardson works with students, faculty and local residents so they can enjoy the College's athletic facilities and programs. more »
Local resident enjoys playing in COM Jazz Ensemble
Ted Williams made the most fortuitous sale of his career in 1983. A music salesman, Williams delivered a flugelhorn to College of the Mainland Director of Instrumental Music/Jazz Studies Sparky Koerner. more »
Cell phone art contest yields a $100 reward for first place
Have you ever taken a photo with your cell phone and thought it was worthy of being in an art gallery? This could be your big break! more »
Faculty Art Exhibition begins on Jan. 17 with artist reception on Jan. 26
Seven of the top artists in Texas will have their work on display from Tuesday, Jan. 17 through Thursday, Feb. 16 at College of the Mainland Faculty Art Exhibition at COM Art Gallery. "Each person has a different media," said gallery director and artist Mayuko Gray, who is also a participating artist. "It shows a high level of work. It shows our Fine Arts program is really strong." more »
Health fair proves to be informative, helpful for local residents
College of the Mainland student Janelle Fry is glad that she and her mother, Joyce Burke, attended the Winter 55+ Health and Wellness Expo on Friday at COM Gymnasium. The Dickinson residents were just two of the 150 attendees at the four-hour event. more »
Library earns international honor
The College of the Mainland Library is on top of the world! The library recently received an international recognition as the most active LibAnswers institution out of 443 worldwide. LibAnswers is a knowledge base of all the questions and answers that students submit to the Library. more »
Registration is ongoing at COM's North County Learning Center
With the new year underway, it's the perfect opportunity for local residents to learn new skills or enjoy a hobby at College of the Mainland's North County Learning Center (NCLC), 200 Parker Court in League City, which is located off FM 518, just west of Interstate 45. more »
COM's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration to feature renowned guest speaker, Lecia Brooks
Lecia Brooks, director of outreach for the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) in Montgomery, Ala., will be the guest speaker at College of the Mainland's Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration, presented by COM's Multicultural Team. Brooks is also the director for the Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery. "I'll be talking about Dr. King and his legacy and what was going on at the time," Brooks said. "(I'll talk about) those engaged in The Civil Rights Movement – what were they up against and juxtapose that with the current situation." more »
COM Hosts Virtual Open House
College of the Mainland, in association with National Distance Education Week, will host a Virtual Open House on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. COM faculty and staff will be online to answer questions from prospective students and provide information about the different courses available online at COM. The goal of the Virtual Open House is to allow students, who haven't thought of taking online courses before, to ask questions to help them get connected to online learning. more »
COM Celebrates Dia de los Muertos
College of the Mainland will be celebrating Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, Nov. 1, 12:30 to 1:30 in the library. Dia de los Muertos, stemming from Aztec and Mayan traditions, is the celebration of life of those loved ones who have passed. COM Multicultural Team will present a program featuring entertainment, face painting, sugar skulls and pan de muertos. Spanish Professor Rafael Naranjo will give a brief history and explanation of the traditions of Dia de los Muertos. An altar commemorating the memories of deceased loved ones will be on display in the library. more »
College of the Mainland 9/11 Commemoration
To remember the many Americans who lost their lives in the terror attacks, and honor those who wear police, EMS, fire and military uniforms, College of the Mainland, in collaboration with area first responders, held a commemoration event Friday, Sept. 9, in the COM Gymnasium. Events included an emergency vehicle display, commemorative ceremony, tree dedication and a 21-gun salute. more »
College of the Mainland Attains Leader College Status
College of the Mainland has been awarded Leader College status by Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national nonprofit organization that assists colleges and universities help students stay in school and earn a college certificate or degree. COM, one of 23 colleges designated as a 2011 Leader College, was recognized for raising graduation rates, closing achievement gaps and changing lives. COM joins more than 50 other ATD Institutions in the nation that have achieved Leader College status. more »
COM Begins Veterans Support Group
The transition from the military to the classroom can often be a difficult challenge for many of our country's veterans. But veterans enrolled at College of the Mainland now have a place to turn for support. COM recently started a veterans peer support group through Gulf Coast Center. The group is designed to allow veterans to interact with other veterans who are going through some of the same issues as they transition into civilian life. "Education is about self discovery and it's a change for veterans because they are use to a disciplined regiment where they are told what and when to do things," said Derick Hutchinson, Student Advisor at COM. more »
COM welcomes nationally-known educator and storyteller
To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, College of the Mainland presents a performance by Dr. Jesús 'Chuy' Negrete on Friday, Oct. 7 at 11 a.m. in the Fine Arts Building Room 117. With harmonica and guitar, Dr. Negrete recounts the Mexican and Mexican-American experience through storytelling, poetic song and corridos (running verse ballads) as he traces the history of Mexican-Latino experiences from pre-Columbian times to the present. Dr. Negrete is an engaging teller of tales and master narrator of the Mexican experience through song and ballad. more »
COM Professor Passionate About Travel
"'Travel makes you a man.' That's what my father told me growing up," said Dr. Bernie Smiley, Professor of Humanities. Smiley has been leading a Study Abroad expedition for College of the Mainland students the past four years. This summer students and community members traveled to Germany and the Swiss Alps. The Study Abroad program gives students the opportunity to experience different cultures and visit historical destinations around the world. more »
COM Offering Ophthalmic Assistance Course
College of the Mainland, in partnership with UTMB Health, is offering an ophthalmic assistant training program for the first time this fall from Sept. 12 through Jan. 16, 2012. This course provides the knowledge and skills to work in an ophthalmologist office, and teaches patient care by having students perform different eye-related clinical procedures. Students will learn about the various functions of the ophthalmic office including: taking medical histories; testing for visual and/or color diseases of the eye; performing certain eye assessments; and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses. The course prepares students for the certification exam. more »
COM Student Receives Scholarship
College of the Mainland student Carmen Bahena has been awarded a $2,500 scholarship from The Barbara Bush Texas Fund for Family Literacy. Funded by a donation from the family of long-time Texas Fund volunteer Patricia (Pat) Marie Peebler, this scholarship honors Pat's dedication to programs that support family literacy, working women, and single mothers in Houston. more »
Student awarded in CHI contest
College of the Mainland cosmetology student, Tammy Sybert of Texas City, recently placed second in a cut and color contest through the CHI Environmental School Program and Houston-based Farouk Systems, Inc. more »
COM Partners with Junior Achievement To Educate Children
College of the Mainland has teamed up with Junior Achievement of Texas to educate school children on free enterprise, business and economics. This past spring semester, six COM staff members spent an hour a week for five weeks teaching students at Northside Elementary School in Texas City. more »
COM Professor receives Regional Award
Dr. Pam Millsap, College of the Mainland professor of psychology and chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, has been awarded the 2011 Association of Community College Trustees Western Regional Outstanding Faculty Member. The award will be presented at the ACCT Leadership Congress in Dallas in October. This distinction makes her one of five finalists for the national 2011 William H. Meardy Outstanding Faculty Member Award that will be announced during the ACCT Leadership Congress in October. "When I learned that the board had nominated me I was incredibly honored. When I found out that I won I was stunned. I appreciate the honor and am glad to work at an institution where people really want to focus on student success," said Millsap. more »
COM Adult Education Receives State Recognition
College of the Mainland's Adult Education program was awarded Platinum Level Recognition from Texas LEARNS at the State Adult Education Administrators' Summer Institute in Galveston. This award celebrates the College's student academic performance and program management for the 2009-10 program year by meeting all federal performance levels and the timely reporting of all program and financial reports, demonstrating the high quality of services, providing accountability and return on investment for the community and the state. more »
From Collegiate High School to medical school
Eddie Hicks has dreamed of becoming a medical doctor for as long as he can remember. more »
COM Mechanical Maintenance Technician Program
The College of the Mainland Mechanical Maintenance Technician program has quickly developed into an asset to the Gulf Coast. In just four years the program is one of the strongest programs in the area. more »
College of the Mainland Trustees take Oath of Office
College of the Mainland Trustees Wayne H. Miles and Roney G. McCrary were sworn in at the Monday, May 23 board meeting. more »
COM Theater Presenting "The Sunshine Boys"
The original Grumpy Old Men hit the stage in COM's production of Neil Simon's "The Sunshine Boys," May 12 through June 5. more »
College of the Mainland Class of 2011
College of the Mainland had the largest graduating class in school history at its graduation ceremony Wednesday, May, 11 at Moody Gardens Convention Center. more »
New SIM Patients at COM Nursing
College of the Mainland Nursing Lab recently admitted two new patients for students to nurse back to health. The new patients are interactive technologically-advanced manikins that allow learners to practice emergency treatments. more »
COM Concert Band to Perform
College of the Mainland's Concert Band directed by Sparky Koerner will present a concert Monday, May 2 at 8 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall. The concert is free and open to the public. more »
COM Process Technology Program Grad Receives Promotion
Erik Montmayor, one of the first students to go through the Associate of Applied Science Process Technology Program at College of the Mainland has quickly ascended the career ladder. more »
Bellingham Tech Students Visit COM
Six students from Bellingham Technical College in Bellingham, Washington, traveled to College of the Mainland, to learn troubleshooting and operations in the Process Technology Department. more »
Internationally-renowned artist painting mural at COM
Internationally-renowned mural artist Maestro Shinzaburo Takeda, chair of the art department at Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca in Oaxaca, Mexico, is painting a mural at COM in collaboration with COM students. more »
Enriching the Lives of Senior Adults
Senior adults have a variety of offerings available through the College of the Mainland Senior Adult Program. more »
COM Student Enjoying Disney Internship
College of the Mainland student, Brooke Sumrall, is currently interning at Disney World. Sumrall is working as an American Representative at the World Showcase at EPCOT. more »
Continuing Education Students Benefit from Program
Two College of the Mainland Continuing Education students have obtained rewarding jobs after completing COM's Medical Billing course. more »
World Affairs Documents Have Ties To College of the Mainland
A collection of documents relating to the Gulf Coast Council on Foreign Affairs, Gulf Coast World Affairs Council and Houston World Affairs Council have been acquired ... more »