The Dr. Warren Nichols Gone
Fishing Retirement Scholarship Gala

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Celebrating a Legacy

Supporting Future Generations

Saturday April 26, 2025

5—9 p.m. Doyle Center

2010 5th Ave. N., Texas City, TX 77590

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the retirement and legacy of our esteemed COM president, Dr. Warren Nichols, whose leadership has shaped our community and inspired countless students.

The Gone Fishing Retirement Scholarship Gala is a festive, coastal-inspired evening featuring food, live auction, entertainment and the opportunity to support a meaningful cause. Gather with friends, alumni, and community leaders to honor Dr. Nichols while raising funds to empower future students.

Purchase Tickets or Sponsorship

Selfie with COM President and a group of students.

Dr. Warren Nichols

Dr. Warren Nichols has served as President of College of the Mainland (COM) since 2017, driving transformative growth in student success, campus expansion, and workforce development. Under his leadership, COM became the first Texas institution to fully implement a corequisite program, achieved record enrollment growth, and secured over $400 million in bond funding for major infrastructure improvements.

A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Nichols brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, previously serving as Vice Chancellor of Community Colleges for the Tennessee Board of Regents and President of Volunteer State Community College. Passionate about community engagement, he actively supports regional economic initiatives and serves as the Past Chair of the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Dr. Warren Nichols photo

Dr. Warren Nichols

Dr. Warren Nichols has led College of the Mainland (COM) since 2017, driving significant institutional growth, student success initiatives, and transformative campus improvements. Under his leadership, COM became the first Texas institution to fully implement a corequisite program, enabling underprepared students to complete English and math requirements at higher success rates. He has also championed the Guided Pathways to Success initiative, ensuring students stay on track toward completing associate degrees, workforce certificates, and seamless transfers to four-year institutions.

Dr. Nichols has overseen remarkable student enrollment growth, the passage of two bond referendums totaling over $400 million and major infrastructure improvements across the college. Following years of unsuccessful bond attempts, he led a $162.5 million bond election in 2018 and a $250 million bond election in 2023, securing critical funding for new facilities and campus expansions. These initiatives have led to the construction and renovation of key buildings, including the STEAM and Allied Health Building, Industrial Careers Building, Administration Building, Public Services and Corporate Training Center, Library and Classroom Complex, and Fine Arts, Welding and Industrial Education renovations. His strategic focus on workforce development has also strengthened COM's partnerships with local industries, expanding career-training opportunities for students.

A first-generation college student and native of Fort Worth, Dr. Nichols began his career as a police officer in Arlington, Texas, before transitioning to higher education. He earned his doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Houston and holds both a master's and bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Before joining COM, Nichols served as the vice chancellor of community colleges for the Tennessee Board of Regents, providing leadership for 13 public community colleges and advancing workforce and economic development initiatives. He was also the President of Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, Tennessee, where he led record enrollment growth and campus expansions. Additionally, he has held academic leadership positions at Darton College in Georgia and Montgomery College in Texas.

Beyond academia, Dr. Nichols is an active community leader and advocate for regional economic development. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Texas City and serves as Past Chair of the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. His leadership has been recognized with the Rising Star Award, an honor given to emerging leaders making a significant impact in their profession and community.

Through his student-centered vision, commitment to educational access, and focus on strategic growth, Dr. Nichols continues to position College of the Mainland as a leading institution for higher education and workforce training in Texas.

About the Scholarship

The Dr. Nichols Scholarship Fund is designed to continue his legacy by providing financial support to students pursuing higher education. Your contributions will help deserving students achieve their academic and professional dreams, ensuring that Dr. Nichols' impact extends for generations to come.

Purchase Tickets or Become a Sponsor

Be a part of this special celebration! Secure your tickets or become a sponsor to support the scholarship fund and enjoy an elegant evening with a purpose.

Purchase Tickets or Sponsorship

Event Sponsors

Amoco Federal Credit Union logo
Texas First Bank logo

Sponsorship Opportunities

Various sponsorship levels are available, each offering unique benefits and visibility for your business or organization. Your support will directly contribute to the success of our students.

Download Sponsorship Flier (1 MB)

Event Sponsorship Opportunities
Event Sponsor — $20,000
  • Recognized as the primary event sponsor
  • Verbal Recognition and opening speech thank-you
  • Branded giveaways or marketing materials
  • Premier seating: Two tables
Catering Sponsor — $7,000
  • Covers cost of catering or a meal portion
  • Recognition on menus and table cards
  • Premier seating: One table
Entertainment Sponsor — $6,000
  • Funds entertainment (e.g., band, DJ)
  • Stage branding or performance shout-outs
  • Recognition in the program and speeches
  • Premier seating: One table
Decor Sponsor — $5,000 (sold out)

SOLD OUT

Beverage Sponsor — $4,000 (sold out)

SOLD OUT

Photo Booth Sponsor — $5,000 (sold out)

SOLD OUT

Marketing Sponsor Print — $2,500
  • Covers printing of invitations, programs and signage
  • Logo placement on printed materials
  • One table
Marketing Sponsor Digital — $2,500
  • Supports online event promotion
  • Recognition in digital posts before and during the event
  • One table
Table Sponsorship Opportunities
Blue Marlin — $10,000
  • Two Tables
  • Full page ad on program & digital display
  • Premier signage at the event
  • Website recognition
  • Logo included on all ads and printed materials (e.g., save the dates, invitations)
Yellowfin Tuna — $5,000
  • One Table
  • 1/2 page ad on program & digital display
  • Website recognition
Barracuda — $3,000
  • One Table
  • 1/4 page ad on program & digital display
  • Website recognition
Mahi-Mahi — $1,500
  • One Table
  • Logo on program & digital display
  • Website recognition
Red Snapper — $200

Individual Ticket

Live Auction

Prepare for an exciting live auction featuring exclusive and unique experiences. All proceeds will go towards the Dr. Nichols Scholarship Fund.

7-night stay at a stunning condo in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Bahamas Condo Bahamas Condo Bahamas Condo Bahamas Condo
Freeport Condo Details
  • Spacious Retreat – 2,800 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths (sleeps 6).
  • Breathtaking Views – Main balcony overlooks Coral Beach.
  • Luxury & Comfort – Two king bedrooms + an office with a queen sleeper sofa.
  • Fully Equipped Kitchen – New appliances + utility room with extra fridge.
  • Resort-Style Living – Outdoor pool, pickelball court, and exercise room.
  • Beach Essentials Included – Chairs, boogie boards, pool floats & pickleball gear.

Condo donated by Dr. and Mrs. Nichols

Villa Pez Vela Vacation Home in Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Carribean Paradise
Villa Pez Vela Details
  • 5 Days, 4 Nights in a luxurious oceanfront home in Isla Mujeres
  • 4 Bedrooms, 5 Baths – casually comfortable, yet elegant
  • Private Pool & Rooftop Views – relax and soak in the Caribbean beauty
  • Chartered Fishing Trip aboard the isla Firl for an unforgettable day on the water
  • Explore the Island – just a short golf cart ride to town

Home donated by Pam & Darrell Apffel | Fishing by Darrell Apffel & Lee Skipper

Caraguay Ranch Argentina — Extreme Dove Package

Wing Shooting
Caraguay Ranch Argentina Trip Details

Includes:

  • 3 nights at the Lomitas Lodge
  • 3-Dove Hunts
  • Ground Transportation from SDE Airport
  • Gourmet Meals and Drinks
  • Guides and Assistants

Extras not included:

  • Hunting License
  • Shotgun Rental
  • Shell Box
  • Bird Boy

Upgrade

  • Pigeon Hunting Over Decoy
  • Perdiz Hunting Behind Pointer Dog
  • Fishing Golden Dorado

Gulf Coast Fishing Adventure

Fishing Adventure Details

Guided Fishing Trip for 4

  • 6 a.m. — Noon, Monday — Friday, May — Aug
  • Departs from Top Water, San Leon
  • Bait and tackle provided
  • Fishing license required
  • BYO beverages
  • Book your trip with Glen Fuller: 409-457-3563

2 or 4 Hour – Galveston Bay Fishing Trip

Galveston Bay Fishing Trip

Fishing Trip Details
  • All gear, fuel, live bait & safety equipment included.
  • Captains clean, filet, and bag your catch, or take it to a local restaurant.
  • Restrooms available on two boats.
  • Learn about Galveston's fishery & fishing techniques.
  • Unforgettable memories & great catches!

Note:

  • Saltwater Fishing License required for those over 17.
  • Bring your own snacks, drinks and personal items. A small cooler is okay.

Feast for 25 with Gumbo

Feast for 25 with Gumbo

Feast for 25 Details

Enjoy a delicious Fish Dinner for 25 with all the trimmings! We've got everything covered – plates, bowls, napkin packets, cocktail sauce, and tarter sauce. Just bring your appetite!

Prepared by: Chris Delesandri

To schedule your dinner, call: 409-739-0505.

Don't miss out on this incredible meal – Gather your crew and let's eat!

Sponsored by: Skipper & Morgan, Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network

Crawfish Feast for 15

Crawfish Feast for 15

Crawfish Feast Details

Out Da Ditch Crawfish and Total Events and Tents will provide two 35 lb. sacks of crawfish, plus corn and potatoes – enough to feed 15 people at 5 lbs. per person.

  • Mouthwatering crawfish cooked to perfection
  • Classic fixings like corn and potatoes
  • Unforgettable dining experience for 15 guests

Coastal Cocktail Attire

Dress to impress with an upscale seaside twist:

  • Cocktail dresses with nautical accessories
  • Blazers with relaxed slacks or linen
  • Add a playful fishing-themed touch—think fish-patterned ties, shell jewelry, or hook cufflinks

Questions? We're here to help.

For ticket purchases, sponsorship details, or event inquiries, contact:

Tige Cornelius

Executive Director, Foundation & Institutional Advancement

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