Student, Staff to represent West Tennessee as finalists at state competition
Jackson State Community College (JSCC) student Leah Mustain and Director of Physical Plant Preston Turner have been selected as finalists to represent the Western Region in the 7th Annual Statewide Outstanding Achievement Recognition (SOAR) Awards, hosted by the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR).
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Mustain, a non-traditional Nursing student, has been described by JSCC administrators during the nomination process as kind, compassionate, and having a heart to serve others. Her drive to excel in her profession and dedication to helping others are unparalleled, and she is looked up to for guidance and encouragement amongst her peers. After suffering a heart attack in 2020 which resulted in an extensive recovery process during the height of the pandemic, Mustain experienced first-hand the selfless care that nurses and medical professionals provide to better their patients. This nearly life-altering event and the experience that followed sparked a desire in Mustain to pursue a degree in Nursing which led her to enroll. |
Mustain, a non-traditional Nursing student, has been described by JSCC administrators during the nomination process as kind, compassionate, and having a heart to serve others. Her drive to excel in her profession and dedication to helping others are unparalleled, and she is looked up to for guidance and encouragement amongst her peers.
After suffering a heart attack in 2020 which resulted in an extensive recovery process during the height of the pandemic, Mustain experienced first-hand the selfless care that nurses and medical professionals provide to better their patients. This nearly life-altering event and the experience that followed sparked a desire in Mustain to pursue a degree in Nursing which led her to enroll.
Through her time as a Nursing student, Mustain has shown great dedication to growing within her future profession, using every opportunity during her clinical rotations and internship to grow her knowledge within the healthcare field. She credits “never saying no to an opportunity” as to how she’s been able to gain the hands-on experience she has through the program.
Mustain is also involved in the campus community, serving as a Student Liaison for the Student Nursing Association where she encourages other Nursing students to grow within their field as both nurses and people.
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Preston Turner, the Director of Physical Plant from Lexington, TN, has a passion for the beautification of the college’s campus and facilities – a passion that has won the college the “Mayor’s Civic Pride” award in 2010 and 2024 that is presented by the City of Jackson and judged by a panel of Master Gardeners. Turner began his career with the college in 2006 overseeing the landscaping of the college. His career soon grew to oversee facility system enhancements, increasing sustainability through building management systems, resource conservation, and continual development of the campus’ physical image. Although his focus has become broader throughout his career, he continues to return to his roots to reinforce the biodiversity of the campus. |
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Preston Turner, the Director of Physical Plant from Lexington, TN, has a passion for the beautification of the college’s campus and facilities – a passion that has won the college the “Mayor’s Civic Pride” award in 2010 and 2024 that is presented by the City of Jackson and judged by a panel of Master Gardeners.Turner began his career with the college in 2006 overseeing the landscaping of the college. His career soon grew to oversee facility system enhancements, increasing sustainability through building management systems, resource conservation, and continual development of the campus’ physical image. Although his focus has become broader throughout his career, he continues to return to his roots to reinforce the biodiversity of the campus.
Throughout his career, Turner has overseen capital improvement projects spanning from the redevelopment of the college’s interior courtyard known as the “Green Jays Quad,” to a recent navigational signage project to improve the navigational experience for students and visitors to the campus. He is now actively overseeing the development of the new Regional Workforce Training Center, a $34.5 million, 67,800-square-foot facility slated to open in late 2026 along with the renovation of the college’s administrative building and student center.
“Jackson State’s two nominees are truly exceptional, and I think that shows with them being selected to represent the Western Region as finalists,’ said JSCC President Dr. Carol A. Rothstein. “Each one embodies the excellence we strive for here at Jackson State. They go above and beyond to excel in their respective fields, all while showcasing the passion that makes them so great at what they do. I am excited to see them represent Jackson State and West Tennessee at this year’s SOAR awards.”
JSCC has shown a great presence at the past two SOAR awards, winning the Outstanding Student and Faculty awards in 2023 and the Outstanding Staff award in 2024.
About the SOAR Awards
The SOAR Awards are hosted annually and given to a single student, faculty, and staff member from higher education institutions across Tennessee. Each year, institutions submit letters of recommendations for those that they feel best represent their respective institution to compete at the regional level. Following interviews at the regional level, selections are made for finalists who will compete for the award in Nashville. This year’s SOAR awards will take place on February 26-27 at the Grand Hyatt in Nashville.
For more information on the 2025 SOAR Awards, visit www.tbr.edu/external-affairs/soar
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