Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College instructor Dr. James Gruich has been selected as a 2026 Moody Institute Fellow, an honor recognizing outstanding faculty members at Mississippi’s public community and junior colleges.

Gruich, who teaches Computer Networking and Cybersecurity Technology at MGCCC’s Harrison County Campus, will receive a $1,400 award to support professional enrichment opportunities, including attendance at the annual Cisco Academy Instructors Conference.

Established in 1990, the Moody Institute Trust Fund honors Dr. George V. Moody, the first executive director of the State Board for Community and Junior Colleges. The program supports faculty development and excellence in teaching across Mississippi’s community college system.

“The Moody Institute Fellowship is an investment in our students,” said Dr. Monica Donohue, Dean of Teaching & Learning at MGCCC’s Harrison County Campus. “Through this professional development opportunity, Dr. Gruich will bring updated Cisco instructional resources, hands-on training labs and emerging technology strategies into his courses. His continued growth helps ensure computer networking and cybersecurity students are developing the skills, knowledge and industry credentials needed for the high-demand careers.”

An MGCCC alumnus, Gruich brings more than 30 years of workforce experience and 10 years of teaching experience at MGCCC to the classroom. He was named MGCCC’s 2023 Instructor of the Year and received the 2024 Dale P. Parnell Faculty Distinction Recognition from the American Association of Community Colleges.