Russell Pennington Appointed to Northwest Board of Trustees

by Sarah Smith

Senatobia, MS (09/17/2025) — Marshall County Board of Supervisors appointed a new Northwest Mississippi Community College Board of Trustees member, Russell Pennington of Byhalia.

"It is an honor to be a part of the work that Northwest is doing," said Pennington. "And I am looking forward to being a part of the team."

Growing up in Byhalia, Pennington was an involved student involved in student government, FFA, BETA Club, FCA and Marshall Youth Leadership, as well playing baseball and running cross country. In 1997, Pennington was chosen to be Byhalia's ambassador to Hugh O'Brien Youth Leadership.

Russell is no stranger to the college. After high school, Russell achieved his associate of arts in Business Management at Northwest Mississippi Community College and then received his bachelor's from the University of Mississippi finishing with a 4.0 GPA from both colleges. After college, Russell went on to work at Northcentral Electric Power Association in 2004 as a linemen apprentice, and then ventured into the engineering department as a staking technician in 2006 who helped.

In 2003, he married Amanda Dyess, also a Northwest alumna, shortly thereafter, they welcomed their four children James, Silas, Jonah and Emma.

Since then, Pennington has made an impact with his community in both his career and civic pursuits such as serving at his church, being a board member and President of Byhalia Chamber of Commerce. He also enjoys volunteering at local food banks and helping distribute food to those in need. Pennington is looking forward to giving back to Northwest by serving on the Board.

Northwest President Dr. Michael J. Heindl is elated about his addition to the Board.

"We are happy to welcome Russell to the board and look forward to his service helping Northwest Mississippi Community College provide opportunities for the citizens of North Mississippi," said Dr. Heindl. "His leadership will be a welcome addition to the college."

Media Attachments

Photo Russell Pennington by Carly Fox.