March 20, 2025 – PJC capping 100th year with gala
Paris Junior College is celebrating a Century of Excellence with Golden Night, Glittering Lights: A Centennial Celebration Gala on Saturday, April 12.
“We wanted to have fun with the final event of 100th anniversary,” said PJC Advancement and Marketing Executive Director Baleigh McCoin. “We’re inviting you to step back in time and join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate 100 years of Paris Junior College with a roaring 1920s-themed gala. 1920s-inspired formal attire is encouraged.”
Honorary Gala Hosts are Althea and Kevin Dixon. Althea Dixon is Superintendent of the Paris Independent School District, the entity that created Paris Junior College in 1924.
The Centennial Celebration is more than just a gala; it is a commitment to the future of PJC students. This fundraiser directly supports essential student needs, including the food pantry, clothes closet, and student emergency fund. PJC is working hard to ensure that no student must choose between education and basic necessities.
“By sponsoring this milestone event,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC president, “you’ll help remove barriers to success, empower students to stay in school, and invest in the future of our community. Together, we can build a stronger foundation for the next century of education at Paris Junior College.”
The gala will open with a cocktail hour beginning at 5:30 p.m. under the Eiffel Tower at the Love Civic Center on April 12. Attendees will move inside at 6:30 p.m. The deadline for event registration is April 1.
Sponsorships are available. PJC thanks these early supporters: Dragon Pride Sponsor Huhtamaki, Centennial Sponsor McClanahan and Holmes, and Green & Gold Sponsor Farmer’s Bank and Trust.
To purchase tickets or a sponsorship, please go to https://secure.qgiv.com/for/parisjuniorcollege/event/pafadgtc/. Sometimes unforeseen issues can arise with today’s technology. If you experience difficulties with the form or have questions, please call the PJC Office of Advancement at 903-782-0315.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
