2026 Alumni Honorees
Allison McBride Schuler (’97)
Alumna of the Year
Read Allison's Bio
Allison McBride Schuler (’97) began her journey in nursing at Holmes Community College, and it has taken her from the classroom to leadership roles in health care while she has remained committed to serving the community she calls home.
A native of Durant and longtime resident of Kosciusko, Schuler attended Holmes, earning an associate degree in pre-nursing. During her time at Holmes, she was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and graduated with honors. She was also a member of The Holmes Connection!, an experience that she says helped shape the person and professional she would become.
“I knew I wanted to work in health care, and I felt like nursing would give me a broad opportunity,” Schuler said.
The lessons she learned at Holmes have continued to influence her throughout her career. Among the most valuable was a strong work ethic, something she continues to bring to every role she takes on.
Schuler continued her education at The University of Mississippi Medical Center, attending the School of Nursing in 1997 and 1998 and earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1999. She later returned to UMMC in 2013 to earn her Master of Science in Nursing and Health Care Administration, graduating cum laude.
Her career began close to home when she accepted a registered nurse position at UMMC in Lexington. Over the course of 11 years, she gained experience in medical-surgical nursing, the emergency department along with medial quality and education.
Schuler is thankful for the opportunity her first nursing position provided as she transitioned from student life into a demanding professional career.
After her time at UMMC, Schuler continued building her career in health care, working at Montfort Jones Memorial Hospital and, since 2010, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Attala. She began at Baptist Attala as chief nursing officer(CNO) and, in September 2026, was named chief executive officer and chief nursing officer.
For Schuler, the nursing profession has provided opportunities to learn, grow and serve others every day.
“When I earned the CNO position in 2010, I finally felt like my experience had made and shaped me and reassured me that I was where I needed to be,” she said.
Another lesson from her Holmes days has remained with her throughout her career: “adapt and recover.” It was the motto used by her Holmes Connection group as they prepared for their performances, and Schuler has carried the philosophy into her professional life.
Schuler’s commitment to service extends beyond health care. She serves as president of the Kosciusko School District School Board and is a member of the advisory board for the health sciences program at the Kosciusko-Attala Career Tech Center. She also serves on the advisory board for the Holmes LPN and ADN nursing programs, allowing her to give back to the college that helped launch her own career.
Her involvement with Holmes’ nursing programs brings her journey full circle — from a pre-nursing student in the 1990s to a health care executive and community leader helping guide the next generation of nurses.
Schuler’s connection to Holmes is also a family tradition. Her husband, Howard Shea Schuler, is a 1998 Holmes alumnus and two of their children have attended. Together, they have three children: Kathryn Clair Lack (Cody), Reed and Jackson Schuler.
From the halls of Holmes to the leadership of a hospital, her career reflects a commitment to nursing, education, service and the communities she serves.
As she continues to lead in health care and give back through community and educational service, Schuler remains grateful for the foundation that began at Holmes— a foundation built on hard work, determination, accountability, adaptability and integrity.
Dr. Dudley Jacarious Moore (’12)
Young Alumnus of the Year
Read Dudley's Bio
Dr. Dudley Jacarious Moore’s journey from Goodman to a successful career in mechanical engineering began at Holmes Community College, where a physics instructor helped him discover his passion for engineering.
Moore attended Holmes from 2011-12 and earned an Associate of Arts degree in general studies. During his time at Holmes, he was recognized as a HEADWAE honoree and Holmes Plus participant, was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and earned a place on the MACJC All-Academic Team for football.
After Holmes, Moore earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from The University of Mississippi in 2015. He continued his education at The University of Alabama, earning both a master’s degree and a doctorate in mechanical engineering in 2022.
His academic achievements included recognition as a Ronald E. McNair Scholar and Fellow, Marcus Elvis Taylor Memorial Medal recipient, John A. Fox Award recipient, SOPREMA Scholar, Outstanding LSMAMP Senior, SEMA Scholar, John Deere Scholar, Chevron Scholar, Golden Key Scholar and LSAMP Bridge to Doctorate Fellow. He also graduated summa cum laude and received recognition from Phi Kappa Phi, Tau Beta Pi and Who’s Who Among Colleges and Universities.
Moore began his professional career with research experience at The University of Mississippi’s National Center for Physical Acoustics in 2014. He later completed an engineering internship with Caterpillar Inc. and three engineering internships with Solar Turbines Inc., focusing on combustion, heat transfer and performance.
Those experiences led to a full-time position with Solar Turbines, where he joined the New Graduate Rotational Engineer program in 2022. In May 2023, he became a principal combustion fuels specialist, a position he continues to hold.
In his current role, Moore serves as a subject matter expert on fuels, addressing complex technical issues for projects in operation and development around the world. His work is shaped by a commitment to practical problem-solving, continuous learning and adaptability.
Mentorship and service also remain important to Moore. He has served as a Caterpillar intern mentor and is involved with the National Society of Black Engineers and ASTM. He also serves as co-chair of a company employee resource group, helping create opportunities for networking, professional development and skill building. In the community, he participates in events encouraging young people to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Moore credits his Holmes experience and the mentors he encountered along the way with helping shape his career. He now works to provide similar guidance to emerging engineers as they enter the profession.
Looking ahead, Moore plans to build on his technical expertise by pursuing broader project and program management opportunities. His goal is to lead strategic initiatives that support business growth, expand operational capabilities and create opportunities for the teams he leads.
From his beginnings at Holmes to his current role in the energy industry, Moore’s accomplishments reflect a commitment to education, professional excellence, mentorship and service.
Moore and his wife, Brittany Crump, reside in San Diego.
Margaret Monteith Davis (’66)
Distinguished Service Award
Read Margaret's Bio
Margaret Monteith Davis, a native of Grenada, is the 2026 Distinguished Service Award recipient. She has devoted her life to education, community service, faith, family and the development of young people. Her journey from a student at Holmes Community College to an accomplished teacher, principal, educational leader, community volunteer and longtime Holmes trustee reflects a lifetime of learning and service.
Education was never simply a career for Davis; it became a calling. Growing up surrounded by educators in her family, she developed an early appreciation for teaching and working with young people. Her experiences as a student, campus counselor, church volunteer, teacher, principal and community leader would ultimately shape a life dedicated to helping others learn and succeed.
When Davis first left Holmes, she carried with her more than academic credits. She carried skills, experiences, friendships and lessons that would remain with her throughout her professional life.
During her time at Holmes, she took a variety of courses and made a point of learning from each of them. She later reflected that the variety of courses she completed gave her skills that would help her succeed in the classroom.
One skill she recognized early as being especially important was public speaking. Davis worked hard to become a stronger and more confident speaker, and she credits Miss Emma Bostick with helping her develop that ability. The encouragement and instruction she received from Miss Bostick helped prepare her for a career in which communicating effectively with students, parents, teachers, administrators and community members would be essential.
The lessons she learned at Holmes became a foundation upon which she would build the rest of her education and career.
Davis earned an Associate of Arts degree with honors and was a member of Phi Theta Kappa while at Holmes. She went on to Mississippi State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree through the College of Education. After graduating, Davis was interviewed by a school in Huntsville, Alabama. She was offered a position teaching fourth grade, beginning her professional career in the classroom.
Her time in Huntsville was about more than teaching. She learned how to navigate a new community, build relationships and become comfortable in a new environment. Davis has always had a gift for making friends wherever she goes. She also became involved with a new church, continuing the pattern of faith and community involvement that has remained an important part of her life.
After approximately a year and a half in Huntsville, Davis returned to Mississippi, where she continued her teaching career. In 1969, Davis began teaching at Batesville Elementary School. While she enjoyed teaching, she knew that she wanted to continue her education and prepare herself for additional opportunities in the field.
Davis enrolled in summer and night classes at the University of Mississippi while continuing to work. Balancing professional responsibilities with continued education required discipline and determination, qualities that would become hallmarks of her life. She earned a Master of Education degree in 1972. Her commitment to professional growth continued, and in May 1980 she earned a Specialist in Education degree from the University of Mississippi.
Eventually, her career brought her back to Grenada, where she would spend many years serving students and families in the Grenada School District. From 1974 through June 1978, Davis served as a teacher at Lizzie Horn Elementary School in the Grenada School District. Her dedication to students and education soon led to an opportunity to serve in school administration.
In July 1978, she became principal of Lizzie Horn Elementary School, a position she held through 1982. She then became principal of Grenada Junior High School in August 1982, serving in that position until June 1992.
Throughout her years as a teacher and administrator, Davis remained focused on young people. Her leadership was shaped by the belief that students need educators who will listen to them, encourage them and help them recognize their own potential.
In 1982, Davis married Hiram Eddie Davis Jr., who was also a Holmes Community College alumnus, having attended Holmes from 1965 to 1967. She describes it as a joy to help Hiram rear his children. She helped raise Hiram Davis II and Carol Davis Smith, becoming an important part of their lives and family.
Today, her family includes four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Her dedication to young people extended naturally from her professional life into her family life, where she continued to provide love, guidance and encouragement.
Davis’ commitment to service extends well beyond education. She has been involved in numerous organizations throughout Grenada and Mississippi. She is a lifetime member of the Junior Auxiliary of Grenada and an associate member of the Grenada Garden Club. She has also been involved with the Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames of the XVII Century and Magna Charta organizations at both the national and Mississippi levels.
Davis remains very involved in agriculture and community affairs. She has served on the Grenada County Farm Bureau Board since 2004. She has also served as a former vice president for North Mississippi with the Mississippi Farm Bureau.
Davis remains active in her community through organizations such as her community book club, continuing her lifelong interest in learning, reading, conversation and fellowship. She has been an active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Grenada and has participated in church activities that have allowed her to continue working with and encouraging others.
Since 1995, she has served on the Holmes Community College Board of Trustees representing Grenada County. Her service to the college has continued for decades, and this commitment is deeply personal. Holmes was the foundation of her educational journey, and she has never forgotten the opportunities and experiences she received at Holmes.
Col. James Thomas Bridges,
USAF, Ret. (’68)
Veteran of the Year
Read James's Bio
For retired U.S. Air Force Col. James Thomas Bridges, a native of Kosciusko, the lessons learned at Holmes Community College became part of a lifetime of service, leadership and dedication to his country and community.
Bridges attended Holmes from 1966-68, earning an Associate of Arts degree. During his time at Holmes, he was selected for Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges for the 1967-68 academic year.
After graduating from Holmes, Bridges continued his education at Delta State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1970. He also has additional studies from Northern Arizona University in 1978 and 1991 and graduated from The Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.
Bridges’ professional career has spanned education, military service, national security and emergency preparedness.
His first job after college was as a speech teacher at North Natchez High School in 1970. He remembers the process of beginning his career as being straightforward. Bridges submitted an application, interviewed and was hired for the position.
That first position, however, would soon give way to a much different career path. Bridges was drafted into the U.S. military in 1970 and volunteered for the U.S. Air Force. He served as an officer and aviator from 1971-98 and is a Vietnam veteran. During his military career, he earned his commission in the U.S. Air Force and his wings as a U.S. Air Force navigator and weapons systems officer.
Among the assignments he is most proud of is his service as commander of The Trent Lott Combat Readiness Training Center from 1993-98.
Following his military retirement, Bridges continued his service in the public and national security arenas. From 2003-10, he served as director of The Southern Anti-Terrorist Regional Training Academy in Carville, Louisiana.
Throughout his career, Bridges said, one of the most valuable skills he carried with him from his days at Holmes was communication.
“My communication abilities and skills from Holmes are what I used the most throughout my professional career,” Ret. Col. Bridges said.
While communication was a skill he brought with him from college, other abilities had to be developed through experience. One of the most unexpected skills Bridges found himself needing early in his career was strategic thinking.
As his responsibilities grew from the classroom to military leadership and national security, strategic thinking became an increasingly important part of his work. Bridges continues to develop professionally by maintaining a commitment to lifelong learning.
Along the way, Bridges has also benefited from mentors in both his military and civilian careers. Those relationships, along with years of education and service, helped shape his approach to leadership and professional development.
Bridges’ military and civic service extends beyond his professional responsibilities. He is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and has been involved with the Gulfport Rotary Club, where he was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. He is a life member of the National Guard Association of the United States and the National Guard Association of Mississippi. He is also a member of the American Legion, the National Rifle Association and the Military Officers Association of America.
“I am most proud of graduating from college, earning a commission in the USAF and earning my wings as a USAF navigator and weapons systems officer,” he said.
Those accomplishments reflect a journey that began with an associate degree at Holmes and ultimately led to a distinguished military career and continued service after retirement.
Looking back, Bridges said his career also taught him an important lesson about opportunity. Things do not always unfold exactly as planned, but hard work can create new possibilities.
Today, Bridges continues to value the education, relationships and experiences that helped prepare him for a lifetime of service. His journey from a Holmes student and young teacher to a U.S. Air Force officer, aviator, commander and national security professional demonstrates the many paths that can begin with a Holmes education.
Allison McBride Schuler (’97)
Alumna of the Year
Allison McBride Schuler (’97) began her journey in nursing at Holmes Community College, and it has taken her from the classroom to leadership roles in health care while she has remained committed to serving the community she calls home.
A native of Durant and longtime resident of Kosciusko, Schuler attended Holmes, earning an associate degree in pre-nursing. During her time at Holmes, she was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and graduated with honors. She was also a member of The Holmes Connection!, an experience that she says helped shape the person and professional she would become.
“I knew I wanted to work in health care, and I felt like nursing would give me a broad opportunity,” Schuler said.
The lessons she learned at Holmes have continued to influence her throughout her career. Among the most valuable was a strong work ethic, something she continues to bring to every role she takes on.
Schuler continued her education at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, attending the School of Nursing in 1997 and 1998 and earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1999. She later returned to UMMC in 2013 to earn her Master of Science in Nursing and Health Care Administration, graduating cum laude.
Her career began close to home when she accepted a registered nurse position at UMMC in Lexington. Over the course of 11 years, she gained experience in medical-surgical nursing, the emergency department along with medial quality and education.
Schuler is thankful for the opportunity her first nursing position provided as she transitioned from student life into a demanding professional career.
After her time at UMMC, Schuler continued building her career in health care, working at Montfort Jones Memorial Hospital and, since 2010, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Attala. She began at Baptist Attala as chief nursing officer(CNO) and, in September 2026, was named chief executive officer and chief nursing officer.
For Schuler, the nursing profession has provided opportunities to learn, grow and serve others every day.
“When I earned the CNO position in 2010, I finally felt like my experience had made and shaped me and reassured me that I was where I needed to be,” she said.
Another lesson from her Holmes days has remained with her throughout her career: “adapt and recover.” It was the motto used by her Holmes Connection group as they prepared for their performances, and Schuler has carried the philosophy into her professional life.
Schuler’s commitment to service extends beyond health care. She serves as president of the Kosciusko School District School Board and is a member of the advisory board for the health sciences program at the Kosciusko-Attala Career Tech Center. She also serves on the advisory board for the Holmes LPN and ADN nursing programs, allowing her to give back to the college that helped launch her own career.
Her involvement with Holmes’ nursing programs brings her journey full circle — from a pre-nursing student in the 1990s to a health care executive and community leader helping guide the next generation of nurses.
Schuler’s connection to Holmes is also a family tradition. Her husband, Howard Shea Schuler, is a 1998 Holmes alumnus and two of their children have attended. Together, they have three children: Kathryn Clair Lack (Cody), Reed and Jackson Schuler.
From the halls of Holmes to the leadership of a hospital, her career reflects a commitment to nursing, education, service and the communities she serves.
As she continues to lead in health care and give back through community and educational service, Schuler remains grateful for the foundation that began at Holmes— a foundation built on hard work, determination, accountability, adaptability and integrity.
Dr. Dudley Jacarious Moore (’12)
Young Alumnus of the Year
Dr. Dudley Jacarious Moore’s journey from Goodman to a successful career in mechanical engineering began at Holmes Community College, where a physics instructor helped him discover his passion for engineering.
Moore attended Holmes from 2011-12 and earned an Associate of Arts degree in general studies. During his time at Holmes, he was recognized as a HEADWAE honoree and Holmes Plus participant, was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and earned a place on the MACJC All-Academic Team for football.
After Holmes, Moore earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Mississippi in 2015. He continued his education at the University of Alabama, earning both a master’s degree and a doctorate in mechanical engineering in 2022.
His academic achievements included recognition as a Ronald E. McNair Scholar and Fellow, Marcus Elvis Taylor Memorial Medal recipient, John A. Fox Award recipient, SOPREMA Scholar, Outstanding LSMAMP Senior, SEMA Scholar, John Deere Scholar, Chevron Scholar, Golden Key Scholar and LSAMP Bridge to Doctorate Fellow. He also graduated summa cum laude and received recognition from Phi Kappa Phi, Tau Beta Pi and Who’s Who Among Colleges and Universities.
Moore began his professional career with research experience at the University of Mississippi’s National Center for Physical Acoustics in 2014. He later completed an engineering internship with Caterpillar Inc. and three engineering internships with Solar Turbines Inc., focusing on combustion, heat transfer and performance.
Those experiences led to a full-time position with Solar Turbines, where he joined the New Graduate Rotational Engineer program in 2022. In May 2023, he became a principal combustion fuels specialist, a position he continues to hold.
In his current role, Moore serves as a subject matter expert on fuels, addressing complex technical issues for projects in operation and development around the world. His work is shaped by a commitment to practical problem-solving, continuous learning and adaptability.
Mentorship and service also remain important to Moore. He has served as a Caterpillar intern mentor and is involved with the National Society of Black Engineers and ASTM. He also serves as co-chair of a company employee resource group, helping create opportunities for networking, professional development and skill building. In the community, he participates in events encouraging young people to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Moore credits his Holmes experience and the mentors he encountered along the way with helping shape his career. He now works to provide similar guidance to emerging engineers as they enter the profession.
Looking ahead, Moore plans to build on his technical expertise by pursuing broader project and program management opportunities. His goal is to lead strategic initiatives that support business growth, expand operational capabilities and create opportunities for the teams he leads.
From his beginnings at Holmes to his current role in the energy industry, Moore’s accomplishments reflect a commitment to education, professional excellence, mentorship and service.
Moore and his wife, Brittany Crump, reside in San Diego.
Margaret Monteith Davis (’66)
Distinguished Service Award
Margaret Monteith Davis, a native of Grenada, is the 2026 Distinguished Service Award recipient. She has devoted her life to education, community service, faith, family and the development of young people. Her journey from a student at Holmes Community College to an accomplished teacher, principal, educational leader, community volunteer and longtime Holmes trustee reflects a lifetime of learning and service.
Education was never simply a career for Davis; it became a calling. Growing up surrounded by educators in her family, she developed an early appreciation for teaching and working with young people. Her experiences as a student, campus counselor, church volunteer, teacher, principal and community leader would ultimately shape a life dedicated to helping others learn and succeed.
When Davis first left Holmes, she carried with her more than academic credits. She carried skills, experiences, friendships and lessons that would remain with her throughout her professional life.
During her time at Holmes, she took a variety of courses and made a point of learning from each of them. She later reflected that the variety of courses she completed gave her skills that would help her succeed in the classroom.
One skill she recognized early as being especially important was public speaking. Davis worked hard to become a stronger and more confident speaker, and she credits Miss Emma Bostick with helping her develop that ability. The encouragement and instruction she received from Miss Bostick helped prepare her for a career in which communicating effectively with students, parents, teachers, administrators and community members would be essential.
The lessons she learned at Holmes became a foundation upon which she would build the rest of her education and career.
Davis earned an Associate of Arts degree with honors and was a member of Phi Theta Kappa while at Holmes. She went on to Mississippi State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree through the College of Education. After graduating, Davis was interviewed by a school in Huntsville, Alabama. She was offered a position teaching fourth grade, beginning her professional career in the classroom.
Her time in Huntsville was about more than teaching. She learned how to navigate a new community, build relationships and become comfortable in a new environment. Davis has always had a gift for making friends wherever she goes. She also became involved with a new church, continuing the pattern of faith and community involvement that has remained an important part of her life.
After approximately a year and a half in Huntsville, Davis returned to Mississippi, where she continued her teaching career. In 1969, Davis began teaching at Batesville Elementary School. While she enjoyed teaching, she knew that she wanted to continue her education and prepare herself for additional opportunities in the field.
Davis enrolled in summer and night classes at The University of Mississippi while continuing to work. Balancing professional responsibilities with continued education required discipline and determination, qualities that would become hallmarks of her life. She earned a Master of Education degree in 1972. Her commitment to professional growth continued, and in May 1980 she earned a Specialist in Education degree from The University of Mississippi.
Eventually, her career brought her back to Grenada, where she would spend many years serving students and families in the Grenada School District. From 1974 through June 1978, Davis served as a teacher at Lizzie Horn Elementary School in the Grenada School District. Her dedication to students and education soon led to an opportunity to serve in school administration.
In July 1978, she became principal of Lizzie Horn Elementary School, a position she held through 1982. She then became principal of Grenada Junior High School in August 1982, serving in that position until June 1992.
Throughout her years as a teacher and administrator, Davis remained focused on young people. Her leadership was shaped by the belief that students need educators who will listen to them, encourage them and help them recognize their own potential.
In 1982, Davis married Hiram Eddie Davis Jr., who was also a Holmes Community College alumnus, having attended Holmes from 1965 to 1967. She describes it as a joy to help Hiram rear his children. She helped raise Hiram Davis, II and Carol Davis Smith, becoming an important part of their lives and family.
Today, her family includes four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Her dedication to young people extended naturally from her professional life into her family life, where she continued to provide love, guidance and encouragement.
Davis’ commitment to service extends well beyond education. She has been involved in numerous organizations throughout Grenada and Mississippi. She is a lifetime member of the Junior Auxiliary of Grenada and an associate member of the Grenada Garden Club. She has also been involved with the Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames of the XVII Century and Magna Charta organizations at both the national and Mississippi levels.
Davis remains very involved in agriculture and community affairs. She has served on the Grenada County Farm Bureau Board since 2004. She has also served as a former vice president for North Mississippi with the Mississippi Farm Bureau.
Davis remains active in her community through organizations such as her community book club, continuing her lifelong interest in learning, reading, conversation and fellowship. She has been an active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Grenada and has participated in church activities that have allowed her to continue working with and encouraging others.
Since 1995, she has served on the Holmes Community College Board of Trustees representing Grenada County. Her service to the college has continued for decades, and this commitment is deeply personal. Holmes was the foundation of her educational journey, and she has never forgotten the opportunities and experiences she received at Holmes.
Col. James Thomas Bridges,
USAF, Ret. (’68)
Veteran of the Year
For retired U.S. Air Force Col. James Thomas Bridges, a native of Kosciusko, the lessons learned at Holmes Community College became part of a lifetime of service, leadership and dedication to his country and community.
Bridges attended Holmes from 1966-68, earning an Associate of Arts degree. During his time at Holmes, he was selected for Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges for the 1967-68 academic year.
After graduating from Holmes, Bridges continued his education at Delta State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1970. He also has additional studies from Northern Arizona University in 1978 and 1991 and graduated from the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.
Bridges’ professional career has spanned education, military service, national security and emergency preparedness.
His first job after college was as a speech teacher at North Natchez High School in 1970. He remembers the process of beginning his career as being straightforward. Bridges submitted an application, interviewed and was hired for the position.
That first position, however, would soon give way to a much different career path. Bridges was drafted into the U.S. military in 1970 and volunteered for the U.S. Air Force. He served as an officer and aviator from 1971-98 and is a Vietnam veteran. During his military career, he earned his commission in the U.S. Air Force and his wings as a U.S. Air Force navigator and weapons systems officer.
Among the assignments he is most proud of is his service as commander of the Trent Lott Combat Readiness Training Center from 1993-98.
Following his military retirement, Bridges continued his service in the public and national security arenas. From 2003-10, he served as director of the Southern Anti-Terrorist Regional Training Academy in Carville, Louisiana.
Throughout his career, Bridges said, one of the most valuable skills he carried with him from his days at Holmes was communication.
“My communication abilities and skills from Holmes are what I used the most throughout my professional career,” Ret. Col. Bridges said.
While communication was a skill he brought with him from college, other abilities had to be developed through experience. One of the most unexpected skills Bridges found himself needing early in his career was strategic thinking.
As his responsibilities grew from the classroom to military leadership and national security, strategic thinking became an increasingly important part of his work. Bridges continues to develop professionally by maintaining a commitment to lifelong learning.
Along the way, Bridges has also benefited from mentors in both his military and civilian careers. Those relationships, along with years of education and service, helped shape his approach to leadership and professional development.
Bridges’ military and civic service extends beyond his professional responsibilities. He is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and has been involved with the Gulfport Rotary Club, where he was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. He is a life member of the National Guard Association of the United States and the National Guard Association of Mississippi. He is also a member of the American Legion, the National Rifle Association and the Military Officers Association of America.
“I am most proud of graduating from college, earning a commission in the USAF and earning my wings as a USAF navigator and weapons systems officer,” he said.
Those accomplishments reflect a journey that began with an associate degree at Holmes and ultimately led to a distinguished military career and continued service after retirement.
Looking back, Bridges said his career also taught him an important lesson about opportunity. Things do not always unfold exactly as planned, but hard work can create new possibilities.
Today, Bridges continues to value the education, relationships and experiences that helped prepare him for a lifetime of service. His journey from a Holmes student and young teacher to a U.S. Air Force officer, aviator, commander and national security professional demonstrates the many paths that can begin with a Holmes education.