Bryan Tarjick and Rebekah Wilson named 2026 Alumni of the Year
The Panola College Alumni Association proudly announces Bryan Tarjick as the 2026 Alumnus of the Year and Rebekah Wilson as the 2026 Young Alumna of the Year, recognizing their outstanding professional achievements, dedication to service, and lasting impact on their communities. Both individuals will be featured speakers at the College’s upcoming commencement ceremonies on May 7.
Bryan Tarjick – Alumnus of the Year
Bryan Tarjick attended Panola College from Fall 1997 through Spring 2001, earning an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration from LeTourneau University, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University, and an Associate of Biblical Studies from Word of Life School of Ministry.
A proud Carthage native and graduate of Carthage High School, Tarjick’s professional journey reflects resilience and purpose. After more than sixteen years working as an electrician at Martin Lake Power Plant, a life-altering accident redirected his path into education. Over the past twenty-five years, he has served Panola Schools as a career and technical education teacher, technology director, and now principal of Panola Early College High School.
In his current roles as principal and technology director, Tarjick has been instrumental in guiding students toward academic success and personal growth. His leadership has expanded opportunities for dual credit students, enabling many to earn college hours while still in high school and opening doors for families throughout the region.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tarjick is deeply committed to his family. He and his wife, Karen, have been married for forty-two years. They are the proud parents of Grant (and his wife, April) and Scarlett (and her husband, Edwin), and grandparents to Knox, Willow, Forest, and Ember.
Rebekah Wilson – Young Alumna of the Year
Rebekah Wilson is being recognized as the 2026 Young Alumna of the Year for her dedication to healthcare and service across East Texas. A Carthage native, she began her Panola College journey at just 16 years old as a dual credit student. During her time at the College, she developed confidence and a passion for learning, notably influenced by her experience in federal government coursework that encouraged critical thinking and self-belief.
Wilson earned her degree as an Occupational Therapy Assistant from Panola College before continuing her education with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Science in Allied Health from Northwestern State University and a Master of Occupational Therapy from The University of Texas at Tyler.
Today, Wilson serves as an occupational therapist in a variety of settings, including acute care hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home health, and school-based programs throughout Panola, Rusk, and Cherokee counties. Through her work, she helps individuals of all ages regain independence and improve their quality of life, making a meaningful impact across the region she calls home.
Wilson and her husband, Johnathan, are raising their three sons – Luke, Brooks, and Knox – in Panola County. Her role as both a healthcare provider and community member deepen her commitment to serving others.
Wilson credits her success to the support of mentors and family members who shaped her journey. She offers special thanks to Dr. Annissa Jackson and Mrs. Amy Allison for their guidance and encouragement, to her mother, Susan Corley, for instilling a strong educational foundation, and to her husband, Johnathan, for his unwavering support.
The Panola College Alumni Association congratulates Bryan Tarjick and Rebekah Wilson for their exceptional accomplishments and their ongoing dedication to their communities and careers. Both individuals will be celebrated and presented with awards at the May 7 commencement ceremonies, where they will share their inspiring journeys with graduates, families, and friends.