Mathis honored with Distinguished Alumni Award

Published or Revised December 02, 2011

PJC English instructor Joan Reese Mathis received her Distinguished Alumna Award before a sold-out luncheon crowd of nearly 350 at the Civic Center. PJC President Dr. Pam Anglin introduced Mathis and relayed the many qualities that make her a special person to so many students, faculty and staff from her many decades spent at PJC, as well as in the community at large. After receiving her award, she regaled the crowed with lessons learned from her childhood. One story involved a family prohibition against uttering the word “lie” – everyone was to say “told a story.” Thinking herself alone at her uncle’s home she said the word aloud and then perceived her uncle had heard her. She told the audience that taught her that even if you think you’re by yourself, always believe you are observed, and act accordingly. She also shared her field trip adventure, when she and some friends thought they would change into jeans and white T-shirts after officially signing out instead of their proper school clothes. The principle escorted them off the bus and into the library. She thus learned “always respect authority." Joan received a standing ovation after the ceremony, and was engulfed afterwards by friends, family and well-wishers.