Gene Giles appointed to serve as Panola College Trustee

Panola College is proud to announce that Gene Giles was sworn in as the newest member of the Board of Trustees during its November 2 meeting. Giles was appointed at the previous Board meeting to fill the position formerly held by longtime Trustee Bobby Phillips, whose resignation was accepted earlier this year.

A lifelong supporter of Panola County, Giles brings decades of professional experience and community involvement to the Board. A native of Long Branch, Texas, Giles attended Carthage ISD before continuing his education at Panola College and Stephen F. Austin State University, where he earned a degree in business administration in 1976.

Giles began his professional career as a supervisor at Valmac Poultry and later worked as a purchasing agent for Louisiana Pacific. In 1978, he joined First State Bank & Trust as a loan officer, beginning a 45-year career in banking. Throughout his tenure, he advanced to the roles of president and director before retiring.

Giles and his wife, Brenda, have been longtime supporters of Panola College. Their involvement includes supporting the Green Jackets, the Panola College Alumni Association, and the Panola College Foundation. His family's connection to the College spans generations, as his mother-in-law, Fannie Watson, was a member of Panola College's inaugural class of students. Giles has also supported numerous community organizations throughout Panola County.

“Panola College is such a positive asset for the East Texas area,” said Giles. “I am honored to be a part of such a progressive institution. I hope my service will achieve continued success in the advancement of knowledge and skills.”

The Panola College Board of Trustees are: Kevin Smith, Chair; William Goolsby, Vice Chair; Brooke Lipsey; Fatha Burchette, Secretary; Mark Roberson; Joshua Carter; and Gene Giles.