With a few tears, 42 years’ worth of “Jackie-ism” stories and plenty of laughs, Jackie Granberry was celebrated at a retirement reception befitting not only her dedicated service to Hinds Community College but also her dynamic, fun-loving personality that has inspired countless others to give of themselves as she has.
She retired in January as Executive Director of the Hinds Community College Foundation, starting her Hinds career as first an academic counselor, then recruiter but with many titles in between including Vice President of Institutional Advancement.
“As I reflect back on my years at Hinds, the word ‘FAMILY’ keeps coming to mind. Hinds is a family and all of you are part of my family,” she said. “My journey at Hinds has been amazing. I would not change anything. I had the opportunity to work with the best people and had the ability each day to make a difference in someone’s life.”
Current and former Foundation board members attended Jackie Granberry’s reception. Those shown with Granberry in the center include, from left, Walter Hallberg III, Mark Buys, Judd Moss, Dorothy Davis Miley, Granberry, Peggy Brewer, Irl Dean Rhodes, Larry Swales and Ken Coomes.
Her Jan. 26 reception at Eagle Ridge Conference Center drew hundreds of colleagues, retirees, community members and former students from the college’s public relations and recruiting group, Hinds Connection, which she co-founded in 1979.
“By far my most favorite job title ever was Hinds Connection sponsor,” Granberry said. “We have spent many hours together working hard and playing hard. I am proud to call you all my family and friends.”