Highlander Highlights
Meet MCC Physical Therapy Assistant student and Student Liaison to the Board, Vino Dean!
Vino Dean began attending MCC in Fall 2023 after she and her husband visited the campus to learn more about STEM programs. With support from MCC Advising Specialist Patrick Williams and her family, Vino was inspired to enroll on the spot.
She is currently studying in the College’s Physical Therapy Assistant program and has been an active member of MCC’s Honors College since 2024. In that time, she had the honor of presenting at The Great Plains Conference at the University of North Texas in Denton.
Vino is also serving as a Student Liaison to the Board for the 2025-26 academic year.
When asked what stands out most about her MCC experience, Vino shared:
“MCC professors are at the top of my list of things I enjoy about MCC. They’re all dedicated and passionate about what they do, and it shows in student performance. Among my all-time favorite professors are Professor Shannon Thomas; my Honors College directors, Dr. Rogers-Sharer and Dr. Villarroel; and Professor Lauren Riddle.”
Beyond the classroom, Vino appreciates MCC’s supportive resources like the Upswing team, which offers detailed writing feedback at no extra cost. She also enjoys the welcoming library staff and has had opportunities to connect with MCC’s Leadership Team, noting that the College’s faculty and staff are consistently helpful and approachable.
“I am extremely thankful to God for MCC and will always look for ways to give back to the MCC community. Thank you for this opportunity.”
Meet MCC Professor of Engineering, Paulina Sidwell!
Paulina Sidwell began working at MCC in 2012 as an adjunct instructor teaching Engineering and Mathematics, and shortly after transitioned into the role as a full-time Professor of Engineering. Sidwell was inspired to pursue a career in higher education due to her upbringing in a family of engineers and educators.
Paulina moved to Waco in 2012, where a friend mentioned that MCC’s engineering department—at the time consisting of just one professor, the amazing April Andreas—was looking for another instructor. Although she didn’t know much about MCC at the time, one visit to campus was all it took for her to apply. "I immediately fell in love with MCC’s campus. Everyone was so welcoming and kind. It’s hard to describe why, but this place just felt like home to me,” Sidwell said.
Sidwell, who has spent 13 years at MCC, has taught a variety of courses and reflected on her time working with students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the unique and valuable experiences each individual contributes to the MCC community. Regarding advice for current students, Sidwell encourages them to become familiar with the resources that MCC provides.
Sidwell also spoke about how a campus community is a vital part of a college student’s journey. “Feeling like you belong here can be a huge factor in student success. I hope all students have the chance to meet others who share their interests. I also strongly encourage students to take advantage of opportunities outside the classroom—whether it’s networking, extracurricular activities, or simply broadening their horizons," Sidwell said.
Sidwell was chosen as one of five honorees selected to receive the 2023 National Institute of Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Awards.
Meet MCC Graduate & Occupational Therapy Assistant Student, Erika Pevia!
Erika began her journey at MCC in 2021 upon graduating high school. During her time at MCC, Erika was a member of the Honors College, Phi Theta Kappa, and TRIO. When describing her time in these organizations, Erika said, “Each of these programs gave me a strong sense of belonging and connection. I met people who were in the same season of life as me, and together we built friendships and support systems that made a lasting impact.”
Erika earned her associate degree in General Academics from MCC and is now entering her second year of MCC’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program. She is also working on her bachelor’s degree in Human Sciences from Texas Tech University! When she’s on campus and needs a moment of peace, you can find Erika on the arbor swings soaking in the beauty of campus. Erika says, “It’s a space that inspires reflection and I encourage everyone to take a moment to really enjoy it.”
Erika would like for current students to know, “There is a place for you here at MCC. You just have to take that first step, get involved, and make connections. You’ll be surprised how much support and community is waiting for you.”