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Jully Zhu, Brian Naples, and Steven Zhu at the Academic Conference.

Panola College held an academic conference on Wednesday, Nov. 16.

The conference showcased student views and opinions and stressed the importance of a Liberal Arts education.The day's events began with an opening from Brian Naples, event coordinator and government professor, followed by presentations from Mark Dickerson, sociology and criminal justice professor, Kathy Watlington, Spanish professor and Clay Grizzle, theatre director.

Following these presentations, students presented their take on the John Sturge movie "The Magnificent Seven," Abraham Lincoln, and how the two relate to the characteristics of justice and nobility. Students who presented on Justice and the Magnificent Seven were Haley Rymel, Angela Rittenberry, James Walker, and Steven Zhu. Those who had expressions on Nobility and Abraham Lincoln were Roshunda Wilson, Allyson Smith, Alex Morris, and Jully Zhu. 

Once each student gave a speech regarding their respective topic, a panel discussion moderated by Dickerson and Naples was formed in which the students debated and defended their viewpoints. Audience members also presented the panels with questions that challenged panelists and put them to the test on the Liberal Arts Platform of critical thinking.

After lively discussions, participants enjoyed a catered lunch in the ballroom that consisted of lasagna, sausage links, green beans, garlic bread, and cheesecake.

Panola College President Dr. Gregory Powell joined participants for lunch and spoke on the importance of cultural literacy, aided by a book written by E.D. Hirsch, Jr, titled Cultural Literacy:What Every American Needs to Know. Following the speech, students were split into groups and engaged in seminar discussions with Dr. Powell, psychology professor Don Cocklin, Naples, and Grizzle. The seminars focused on a list of words and terms that Dr. Powell believes are essential to know as we strive for higher education and live in an ever-changing society.

The day's events concluded with a presentation by Teresa R. Brooks on choosing the right university and applying for scholarships.

Plans are being made for another academic conference in the spring. Naples hopes to one day set the stage for a three-day event in which junior colleges from around Texas will join and engage in debate and further complete the mission of the conference: renewing the dedication to the fundamental principles and customs that sustain the American culture.