By: McKenna Neal, Resource Development Specialist
Dr. Winston McCowan, Jr.’s story reflects resilience, passion, and the importance of education. It began in 1985 when his family moved to Mount Pleasant, Texas, coinciding with his father’s 33-year career as a Biology Professor at Northeast Texas Community College. His father's dedication to teaching greatly influenced Dr. McCowan, Jr., fostering a deep respect for education shaped by both his father's and mother's roles as educators.
After completing his freshman year at Mount Pleasant High School, Dr. McCowan Jr. sought a change and transferred to Chapel Hill High School, near NTCC. This decision brought him closer to the college, and during the summer before his senior year, he took his first classes. By the time he graduated from Chapel Hill High School in 1998, enrolling at NTCC felt like a natural next step.
Dr. McCowan, Jr. began his college journey pursuing general studies and working toward his associate degree. Initially, he had his sights set on meteorology. However, his path shifted after enrolling in an introductory psychology course taught by Dr. Clay. Her passion for teaching and her ability to make psychology come alive sparked something new in him.
“Dr. Clay was an amazing professor,” Dr. McCowan, Jr. recalls. “She inspired me to pursue a field where I could help others and make a direct impact. That class changed everything for me.”
With his newfound passion for counseling and psychology, Dr. McCowan, Jr. embraced his studies with a renewed sense of purpose. NTCC not only provided him with a strong academic foundation but also offered the autonomy and support he needed to thrive.
After earning his associate degree, he continued his education, ultimately achieving a Ph.D. His academic journey came full circle when he returned to NTCC as an adjunct professor, teaching Introduction to Psychology—the very class that had once inspired him. “Teaching at NTCC was an honor,” he says. “It allowed me to give back to the community that gave me so much.”
His advice to current NTCC students reflects this understanding: “Enjoy the process. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. NTCC provides you with the opportunity to explore your interests and choose the path that suits you best.” Dr. Winston McCowan, Jr.'s journey exemplifies the transformative power of education, mentorship, and service, underscoring his impactful leadership at Northeast Texas Community College.
The NTCC Alumni Association is officially accepting applications! The membership fee is only $5 and you can be among the founding members. Not only will it help you stay in the know about what’s going on at NTCC, you can also network with others and get involved.
Click here to sign up now! You can also follow us on Facebook.
To celebrate our Alumni Association, we will be periodically posting spotlights highlighting members. If you know a former NTCC student you would like to see highlighted, please contact Mason May at mmay@ntcc.edu.
