In honor of North Central Missouri College’s centennial, NCMC will spotlight 100 inspiring stories. These narratives will showcase the voices and journeys of our alumni, students, faculty, staff, donors, and the communities that have shaped TJC/NCMC’s legacy. Each story is a tribute to the people throughout history who make NCMC extraordinary.
Mitch Holder
2002-2004
Choosing North Central Missouri College for my college experience was a natural decision, given the college’s influence on my family over the years. My parents, Myron and Glenda Kay Holder (Moore), both graduated from Trenton Junior College (TJC). My mother was a member of the Class of 1964. She later returned to the area to teach elementary school in the Trenton R-IX School District, where she met my father. He attended TJC on the GI Bill and graduated as a member of the Class of 1971. While attending TJC, my mother worked as a secretary for C. F. Russell.
In addition, my uncle, George Moore, attended TJC in 1968–1969, where he played basketball and baseball for Coach Bill Ausmus. My aunt, Carol Reger (Moore), graduated from TJC in 1968, where she met her future husband, Ken Reger, who was also a student at the college. Ken would later serve as a history instructor at NCMC. All three of my brothers—Matt, Mark, and Michael—attended NCMC in the 1990s. I also have many cousins and a niece who have attended and graduated from NCMC. When it came time for me to choose a college in 2002, I was surrounded by family members whose positive experiences at TJC and NCMC made my decision an easy one.
As a student, I was drawn to the small campus and class sizes that NCMC offered. Those qualities made my transition from high school to college much more comfortable. When I arrived on campus in the fall of 2002, Dr. Vicki Wheeler was assigned as my faculty advisor. As a nervous freshman, I appreciated the encouragement and support she provided during an advising meeting. Her words continue to carry meaning for me today as I serve as NCMC’s Dean of Instruction and have the privilege of facilitating the Dr. Vicki Wheeler Student Honors Brunch each spring to honor her legacy and contributions to the institution.
During my time as a student, I also benefited from the guidance of caring instructors, including Melody Shipley, Steve Holt, Julie Hefley, Jim Norris, Tammie Wiebers, and Steve Richman. I am grateful for their support and guidance, which helped lay the foundation for my continued education and the pursuit of both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Today, NCMC continues to have a profound impact on my family and my life as I serve as Dean of Instruction. I am incredibly fortunate to work alongside dedicated faculty and staff members who invest their time, talent, and hearts in the success of our students every day. This small but mighty college continues to make a significant difference by providing access to high-quality, affordable education for students throughout north Missouri and beyond.
NCMC invites alumni, students, faculty, staff, and our communities to be part of the story. We would love to hear your story about Trenton Junior College/North Central Missouri College. Visit the Centennial Website to submit your own story, memory, or reflection. Whether you walked the halls decades ago or are just beginning your journey, your story is a vital thread in the college’s tapestry, and we want to hear it.
Visit the Centennial Website to explore Trenton Junior College/North Central Missouri College stories, rich history, and celebration recaps.
Photo: Mitch Holder