Panola College prepares for Move-In Day 2025, calling on the community for support

Published 1:55 pm Monday, July 14, 2025

Panola College is gearing up for its Fall Semester 2025 Move-In Day, and as students prepare to settle into campus life, the community is once again rallying behind a cherished tradition of hospitality: providing “Welcome Baskets” filled with essential supplies. Move-In Day is scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For the past few years, the Community Connections Program has been instrumental in ensuring students feel supported from their first day. This marks the fourth year of this special project, providing welcome baskets to students moving on campus. These baskets are designed to give students a strong start, packed with practical items such as bedding (comforter, sheets, pillow), a towel set, toiletries, school supplies, a water bottle, and even a laundry basket.

The impact of this generosity is deeply felt, with a first year student last year expressing gratitude like, “I am very thankful to be in a community that loves to help one another no matter what. Thank you and God bless you all”.

Building on past success, the Community Connections Program is expanding its efforts this year. While full baskets will continue to be provided for students in Sharp Hall, smaller welcome baskets will also be created for those moving into campus apartments, ensuring every student receives a warm welcome.

The success of this initiative relies heavily on the “incredible support” and “faithful contributors” from the community. Last year, numerous organizations, including churches and clubs, demonstrated their support by handing out goodies, food, and even assisting with carrying heavy furniture into dorms, greeting students with warm welcomes and smiling faces. Community groups provided necessities like laundry pods, as well as treats like sandwiches and ice cream.

Panola College is inviting the community to get involved by sponsoring or donating items for the Welcome Baskets. This is a chance for Panola County to continue its tradition of caring for and supporting students.

For those interested in contributing, there are various ways to help. You can sponsor specific items or make a monetary donation.

A particular need that has been highlighted is for 30 twin bed dressing sets, which equates to about $700.

To learn more or make a donation, you can fill out a brief form online: form.jotform.com/251415577465160

For any questions regarding Welcome Basket sponsorship and donations, please contact Emily Zabcik at ezabcik@panola.edu. Payments can be made through PayPal options via the Fastlane Checkout.

The community’s continued support helps Panola College maintain this special tradition of hospitality and support for its students.