Class of 1972

Karl Collins is a Splendora High School Class of 1972 graduate. He attended Sam Houston State University where he received his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Mechanization in 1976.  For 41 years, Karl worked in the agricultural industry. For the past 13 years, he worked as the Account Manager for AGCO Corporation where he led sales of all agriculture-related equipment, helped manage dealer business, and promoted the AGCO product line. Karl was also instrumental in creating the Tractor Tech Competition. This contest is for high school students interested in becoming technicians in the agricultural industry. It is the only FFA sanctioned contest of its kind in the United States. Karl recently retired and is enjoying retirement life with his wife Doris.

What does it mean to be a SHS Wildcat? “No matter your circumstances, Wildcats are always able to see over the  horizon.”     

Twynia Gardner Atkins is a 1972 graduate of Splendora High School. While in high school, Twynia was an active letterman in all sports and a member of several school clubs. After graduation, Twynia married her high school sweetheart, Fred Atkins, Jr. – C/O '69 (third-generation Wildcat). They have two sons, Aaron – C/O ‘94, and Bryan – C/O ‘98. Her granddaughters, Brooklyn – C/O ’21 and Emily – future C/O ’29, are the FIFTH generation attending Splendora ISD. One can clearly see why her love for the school and community is deep-rooted. Along with raising their two sons, she had what she called “real jobs” before completing her college career at Sam Houston State University. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. Twynia taught at Leggett ISD and Cleveland ISD before arriving back home to teach and coach at Splendora High School. She taught physical education and coached various sports until she retired from Splendora ISD in July 2014.   

What does it mean to be a SHS Wildcat? “Being a Wildcat has ingrained a sense of pride, commitment, and loyalty to my school and community.  These are the attributes I was hoping to transfer to all my students and athletes.  I truly believe, ‘Once a Wildcat, ALWAYS a Wildcat! ’