Dr. Ed Field, the Spirit of Northwest Award recipient, shares his journey in orthopedic sports medicine and his three-decade-long commitment to Northwest athletics. From treating elite athletes to working closely with NWCC's football, baseball, and other sports teams, Dr. Field reflects on his experiences, memorable moments, and his unwavering dedication to student-athletes. He also discusses Northwest’s state-of-the-art athletic facilities, its strong community ties, and what it means to receive this prestigious honor at the Northwest Soirée on March 29.

Ashley Drumheller, an instructor in Early Childhood Education Technology, provides an in-depth look at NWCC’s career-technical program. She discusses how the early childhood education curriculum prepares students for careers in childcare, preschool teaching, and early learning administration. Ashley also highlights NWCC’s hands-on learning opportunities, including a preschool lab school on the Senatobia campus, and the flexible online career certificate option for working professionals. She also touches on NWCC’s Bachelor of Applied Science degree pathway for those seeking further education.

In addition to these interviews, this episode covers NWCC athletics, including the women’s basketball team’s Region 23 Tournament game, upcoming baseball and softball matchups, and updates on the Northwest Rodeo Team. The Heindl Center for the Performing Arts lineup is also featured, with exciting upcoming events like Mean Girls the Musical, The Commodores, and the Northwest Soirée featuring Chapel Hart.

Keywords: Northwest Mississippi Community College, NWCC, Bank First Ranger Hour, Dr. Ed Field, Spirit of Northwest Award, Northwest athletics, orthopedic sports medicine, NWCC football, early childhood education, career-technical programs, NWCC preschool lab, online education, Bachelor of Applied Science degree, Heindl Center, Mean Girls musical, The Commodores, Chapel Hart, Northwest Soirée, community college athletics, Mississippi higher education.