Desoto County News

Heindl highlights Northwest’s growth, programs, and more

Aug. 12, 2025 – Northwest Mississippi Community College (NWCC) President Dr. Michael Heindl says the college is growing, expanding its programs, and deepening its role as an economic driver for the region. Speaking Tuesday to the Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce’s Quarterly Luncheon, Heindl detailed new facilities, rising enrollment, and the school’s continued success in academics, athletics, and workforce training.

Serving 11 counties and 7,800 credit students last year, NWCC is the third-largest community college in Mississippi. The college is aiming to enroll at least 8,000 students this year — continuing a streak of 11 consecutive semesters of enrollment growth.

Scholarships and University Partnerships

NWCC offers scholarships starting at an ACT score of 20, with full tuition awarded for scores of 24 to 27 and full tuition plus room and board for 28 and above. The school maintains strong transfer partnerships with universities including Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Delta State, Jackson State, and the University of Southern Mississippi.

New Ranger Center in DeSoto County

One of the biggest developments is the new Ranger Center on Church Road in Southaven, home to the Registered Nursing program, Practical Nursing program, and a new Commercial Electrical program. The center also provides flexible workforce training space, a regional testing center, and a community meeting facility.

NWCC President Dr. Michael Heindl (Bob Bakken/desotocountynews.com)

Academic and Career Programs

Popular academic programs include general college studies, business, and education, while career and technical tracks such as industrial electrical, precision manufacturing, and health sciences are seeing strong demand. NWCC awarded 2,226 degrees last year, with 84% of graduates staying in Mississippi to work or continue their education.

Economic Impact

A statewide study found Mississippi’s community colleges generate $2 billion in total economic impact. For every dollar invested by taxpayers, NWCC returns three dollars in income to the state economy.

Athletics and Student Achievement

NWCC competes in 14 intercollegiate sports and has seen national success in cheer, dance, women’s soccer, and rodeo. The women’s soccer team won its first-ever national championship last year, and the football team posted the highest GPA in the nation among community college football programs.

Heindl said NWCC’s mission remains focused on transforming students’ lives, enriching communities, and preparing a skilled workforce.

“It’s an exciting time to be a Northwest Ranger,” he told attendees. “We’re growing, innovating, and making a difference right here in our community.”

Bob Bakken

Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates and high school football play-by-play on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.