Most every college and university has an alumni association, so former students can stay involved in their beloved alma mater.

     But why not high schools? What better way to motivate students than to get people that have been there involved?

     Bogue Chitto Attendance Center is doing just that.

     “The school has such a rich history. There are people that are very passionate about this place,” said Bogue Chitto Principal Mickey Myers.

     Thus, he decided to start the Bogue Chitto Alumni Association when he became principal last June.

     “We felt it was an excellent opportunity for alumni to do some things for the school,” said Myers.

     President of the association is 1990 Bogue Chitto graduate Cornelia Gayden. Myers has been appointed vice president.

     The alumni association is busy planning many projects, including mentoring and academic enrichment programs, historical murals, a bistro pavilion and an official Bogue Chitto school flag. The group also plans to bring in motivational speakers (alumni) and provide scholarships.

     “We want to be proactive instead of reactive on things,” said Myers.

     The Bogue Chitto Alumni Association has already sold posters to raise money. The large posters displayed a football team picture and game schedule. The association also painted “Bobcat Nation” on the school’s field house.

     Myers said the group’s primary function is to celebrate the history and rich heritage of Bogue Chitto. Bogue Chitto Attendance Center opened on its current site in 1923.

     “We want to help our students be successful,” he added.

     The association plans to begin a vigorous membership drive as soon as the group can get a non-profit status, which has been applied for. The goal is 200 members.

     “I look to exceed that to be honest with you,” said Myers.

     The annual membership fee is $25.

     “Alumni can call the school and get involved in any way possible,” said Gayden.

     Myers said that everyone has something to contribute.

     Myers was Gayden’s junior high basketball coach, history teacher and bus driver. She was reminiscing how he was such an influence in her life.

     “You exhausted yourself with pushing me – driving me places and dropping me off,” said Gayden to Myers.

     “You had a world of potential,” replied Myers. “Most kids do.”

     The alumni group plans to talk to seniors about getting involved in the association when they graduate.

     The first event on the alumni association’s roster was the Bogue Chitto v. Cathedral game on Feb. 8. The State Championship teams of 1965, 1966, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1993 and 1995 were invited and recognized during the game, also celebrating the 50th anniversary of Calhoun Gymnasium.

     The group is also planning to host a golf classic and fall festival this year to fundraise.

     “This is an opportunity to give back,” said Myers of the new club. “You can have a real impact on student achievements.”