More Than 300 Students Honored At VGCC Scholarship Awards Dinner

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College honored 326 students receiving scholarships, as well as the donors and partnering organizations who established those scholarships, at a dinner on Tuesday, Nov. 13, in the Civic Center on the college’s Main Campus.

In this third annual event of its kind, rescheduled from Oct. 11 because of inclement weather, students were given the opportunity to meet and have dinner with community leaders and supporters of the college’s Endowment Fund.

Dr. Gordon Burns, the interim president of VGCC, thanked the donors who have supported students through the Fund. “Because of you, these students have a greater likelihood of succeeding in life and being contributing members in our society,” he said. “These students have the time and the freedom not to worry about financing their educations and accruing debt and thus can focus their energies on their studies and academic success.”

VGCC Nursing student April Zuniga-Trejo speaks on behalf of her fellow scholarship recipients at the VGCC Endowment Fund Scholarship Awards Dinner. (VGCC photo)

Commending the student scholarship recipients for their academic accomplishments, he also said, “These students, too, one day will be able to reach out to help a deserving student in financial need to further his or her education.”

Speaking on behalf of the scholars was April Zuniga-Trejo of Henderson. She is a graduate of Vance County Early College High School who is currently dually enrolled with VGCC and North Carolina State A&T University in the four-year RIBN (Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nurses) program.

Describing how she was given the opportunity earlier to meet the donors for her scholarship — Phil Dixon and his wife, Cathy, who started the Henry and Cathy Dixon Annual Scholarship — Zuniga-Trejo expressed her appreciation to Dixon and other donors.

“By investing in our students, the gap between students and their goals is finally shortened,” she said. “Having the connection with my donors has helped me realized the importance of investing in a student’s future. It is not only helping to pay for our education, but it is also paving the way in making our dreams a reality.”

Zuniga-Trejo is studying to become a nurse midwife and plans one day to start her own medical clinic for the disadvantaged.

Speaking on behalf of the donors at the dinner, Dixon followed his scholarship recipient on stage with his remarks on how he decided to contribute to the VGCC Endowment Fund as a birthday gift to his wife because of their love for education. Dixon said they realized that “there were probably a lot of people not far away that have needs that are not getting met,” so he decided on the gift of a scholarship. “I’d have to say it’s almost like a ‘two-fer.’ Cathy got a gift and April got a gift.”

Sharing a thank you note that he and his wife received from Zuniga-Trejo at their first meeting, Dixon read aloud to the audience her words: “I was overcome with happiness,” Zuniga-Trejo wrote. “I felt as if it was a sign from the universe that I was headed in the right direction and that I would make it through. All in all, your acts of kindness made an incredible difference in my life. I’m about to begin my first semester of nursing thanks to both of you.”

Dixon concluded by adding his own words, “I suggest to you that being able to make a difference in someone’s life is one of the greatest gifts that any of us can receive. I think Cathy and I received the greatest of gifts.”

VGCC donor Phil Dixon of Oxford, who contributed the funds for Zuniga-Trejo’s scholarship, speaks on behalf of donors at the VGCC Endowment Fund Scholarship Awards Dinner. (VGCC photo)

The dinner ceremony also featured the announcement of the first-ever Presidential Excellence Award, a new scholarship level. The first of those scholarships was endowed by the family of Donald and Betsy Seifert of Henderson.

Sponsors for the scholarship awards dinner were Altec, CertainTeed, Duke Energy and Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company.

Scholarships of various levels, including 62 Presidential Scholar Awards (the most prestigious endowed scholarships), 59 Presidential Merit Awards, 179 Academic Achievement scholarships and 26 annual (non-endowed) scholarships were awarded to students this academic year, representing more than $240,000.

The scholarships presented to students this year bring the total to more than 9,400 awarded by the college to date. Endowment Fund officials have estimated VGCC has awarded nearly $5 million since the inception of the program.

VGCC scholarships have been endowed by numerous individuals, industries, businesses, civic groups, churches and the college’s faculty and staff. For more information about the Endowment Fund, call (252) 738-3409.

Here is a list of the awards that were presented for 2018-2019. The list is separated by scholarship category first, then by the county of residence of the students. The student’s program of study is in parentheses.

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR AWARDS: VANCE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Brenda W. Beck: Evan O’Geary of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

John T. Church, Sr., Memorial: Jolina Anne Chiong of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Gilbert and Frances Capps: Jerry Dickerson of Henderson (Criminal Justice Technology);

Julius M. and Breda O. Frazier Memorial: LaQuad Holden of Henderson (Automotive Systems Technology);

GSK: Amanda Miller of Henderson (Associate in Science);

GSK: Shadi Nagi of Henderson (Associate in Science);

Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: DeLonna Martin of Henderson (Radiography);

Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Wendy Jordan of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Guild Gift Gallery Volunteers: Michelle Matthews of Henderson (Radiography);

Daniel Knight Jr.: Shelly Benson of Henderson (Cosmetology);

Marsha J. Nelson: Kathy Wiggins of Henderson (Accounting);

Revlon: Kaylee Gleason of Henderson (Welding Technology);

VGCC Faculty & Staff: Amber Peoples of Henderson (Radiography);

Edward Tarry Watkins Memorial: Madison Hetrick of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Felix McDaniel Family: Courtney Mitchell of Kittrell (Medical Office Administration); and

John K. Nelms: Ethan Cole of Kittrell (Associate in Science).

 

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR AWARDS: GRANVILLE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

John T. Church, Sr.: Courtney Crute of Bullock (Early Childhood Education);

Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Brittany Buchanan of Bullock (Associate Degree Nursing);

The Johnson Educational Fund: Brianna Norris of Butner (Early Childhood Education);

Past and Present Volunteers Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Emily Padgett of Butner (Associate Degree Nursing);

Gean Bobbitt/Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Shanae Rhoades of Creedmoor (Associate Degree Nursing);

Jerome and Dora Faulkner Memorial: Shanice Alleyne of Creedmoor (Radiography);

Glen Raven: Daniel McIlvaine of Creedmoor (Welding Technology);

Patricia P. Graham: Paige Snider of Creedmoor (Radiography);

Eben G. & Mary Frances McSwain: Brandon Sparrow of Creedmoor (Automotive Systems Technology);

Oxford Lodge #103, I.O.O.F.: Hannah Parrott of Creedmoor (Associate in Science);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Charlene Kearney of Creedmoor (Business Administration);

John Weaver: Seham Mansour of Creedmoor (Early Childhood Education);

William David Barker, Sr., and Anabel Manderson Barker: Savannah Brogden of Oxford (Associate in Arts);

GSK: Kelsey Williamson McKeel of Oxford (General Science AAS Degree);

Guy Thomas and Lelle Courtney Horner/Guy T. Horner: Daniel Brown of Oxford (Automotive Systems Technology);

M.R. Williams, Inc.: Alyssa Gupton of Oxford (Business Administration);

Mary Ruth Nelms: Daniel Burnette of Oxford (Associate in Science);

Harold and Helen Sherman: Penny Glover of Oxford (Early Childhood Education);

Leon Turner: Katelynn Cheek of Oxford (Accounting); and

Jerome and Dora Faulkner Memorial: Solange Tant of Stem (Associate Degree Nursing).

 

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR AWARDS: FRANKLIN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Leslie Carswell/Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Stephanie Parham of Franklinton (Associate Degree Nursing);

Rehoboth United Methodist Church: Kayla Romig of Franklinton (Associate in Science);

Revlon: Cassidy Burton of Franklinton (General Science AAS Degree);

Rudolph and Ruby Keller Corbitt: Megann Casady of Louisburg (Practical Nursing);

Glen Raven: Aislinn Julian of Louisburg (Associate in Arts);

Glen Raven: Nicolas Tucker of Louisburg (Welding Technology);

GSK: Shalinda White of Louisburg (Medical Office Administration);

Vera M. and H. Dermont Hedrick: Robert Holovnia of Louisburg (Associate in Arts);

Beverly Tucker, MD/Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Dulce Santillan of Louisburg (Radiography); and

Franklin Mills/Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Allison Thurkill of Youngsville (Radiography).

 

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR AWARDS: WARREN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Robbie Gilliam Hedrick/ Robert Jerome Hedrick: Megan Proctor of Macon (Radiography);

Lelia C. Brigham Memorial: Caleb Brauer of Norlina (Associate in Arts);

Glen Raven: Jennifer Newell of Norlina (General Science AAS Degree); and

Glen Raven, PSA: Angela Bullock of Warrenton (General Science AAS Degree).

 

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR AWARDS: RECIPIENTS FROM OTHER COUNTIES

Glen Raven, PSA: Joseph Nehme of Boydton, Va. (Mechatronics Engineering Technology);

Ann Rose Allen/Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Mary Wanjiku of Cary (Practical Nursing);

Harold and Helen Sherman: Charles Maina of Cary (General Science AAS Degree);

Frank and Ruth Askins Nursing: Moses Onchonga of Durham (Associate Degree Nursing);

Conduent: Victoria Swain of Durham (General Science AAS Degree);

VGCC Faculty & Staff: Brenda Rodriguez Morales of Durham (Accounting);

VGCC Faculty & Staff: Thomas Hilton of Myrtle Beach, S.C. (Associate in Arts);

Duke Energy: Lewis Carr of Raleigh (Information Technology);

Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Andrew Zambrano of Raleigh (Associate Degree Nursing);

Glen Raven: Ashley Davis of Rocky Mount (General Science AAS Degree);

Guild Gift Gallery at Maria Parham: Treva Gordan of Roxboro (Radiography);

George Wilson and Pattie Alston Macon/Katharine M. Horner: Kylie Blackwell of Timberlake (General Science AAS Degree);

Frank and Ruth Askins Nursing: Maria Perry of Zebulon (Radiography); and

Glen Raven: Joshua Miller of Zebulon (Associate Degree Nursing).

 

PRESIDENTIAL MERIT AWARDS: VANCE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Lucy Royster Brenner Memorial: Alexis Hayes of Henderson (Associate in Science);

Church of the Holy Innocents: Guadalupe Mata of Henderson (Paralegal Technology);

Emma Rose Church: Perla Lopez of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Marion Lee Johnson Church: Lizeth Nieto-Mata of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

The Farrington Foundation: Cassidy Grissom of Henderson (Medical Office Administration);

The Farrington Foundation: Mikayla Sellers of Henderson (Practical Nursing);

Dwight & Jane Frazier Family: Elaina Pendergrass of Henderson (Human Services Technology);

Hubbard Family/Americal: Randall Bullock of Henderson (Culinary Arts);

Grace Hamme Jester Scholarship: Shyanne Robertson of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

Kittrell Family: William Strickland of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

Leggett Family/Robert A. Leggett Memorial: Avery Hilliard of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Helen & Norris Post: Zachary Ayscue of Henderson (Associate in Science);

Sirchie Finger Print Laboratories: Kalin Jackson of Henderson (Criminal Justice Technology);

Holly Elizabeth Turner Memorial: Alec Moran of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

Union Bank/Stanley H. Fox: Ashley Hill of Henderson (Medical Assisting); and

Joseph and Carrie Hamme: Megan Twisdale of Kittrell (Cosmetology).

 

PRESIDENTIAL MERIT AWARDS: GRANVILLE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Friends of Hospice: Lakeisha Scott of Bullock (Associate Degree Nursing);

Priscilla Brooks Memorial: Rebecca Minkley of Creedmoor (Associate Degree Nursing);

Church of the Holy Innocents: Coleen Green of Creedmoor (Radiography);

Nelms Family: Elizabeth Brogden of Creedmoor (General Science AAS Degree);

Oxford Woman’s Club: Caliegh Katz of Creedmoor (Associate Degree Nursing);

Air Control, Inc.: Andrew Dickerson of Oxford (Associate in Arts);

Bridgestone Commercial Solutions: Erin Whitt of Oxford (Associate in Arts);

Marshall Young Cooper, Sr., and Mishew C. Cooper Nursing: Tammie Davis of Oxford (Associate Degree Nursing);

Ferguson Family Foundation: Brooke Oakley of Oxford (General Science AAS Degree);

Granville Industrial & Business Club: Madison Johnson of Oxford (Criminal Justice Technology);

Betty S. Hicks/Granville Industrial & Business Club: Stephen Long of Oxford (Criminal Justice Technology);

Christopher Johnson Memorial: Reginald Harris of Oxford (Criminal Justice Technology);

Ella Glover Rowell: Joseane Buckley of Oxford (Associate Degree Nursing);

William T. “Billy” Watkins Memorial: Jonathan Abbott of Oxford (Associate in Science);

Granville County Cattlemen’s Association: Isaac Newton of Stem (Associate in Science);

Granville Industrial & Business Club: Amber Wilkins of Stem (Accounting); and

Talmadge Hamm Memorial: Rachel Allen of Stem (Human Services Technology Substance Abuse).

 

PRESIDENTIAL MERIT AWARDS: FRANKLIN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Thurman and Fannie Crumpler Scouting: Milena Nelsen of Franklinton (Early Childhood Education);

Dr. Ben F. Currin: Ebony Cotton of Franklinton (Paralegal Technology);

Hugh White Holt Memorial: Stefan Godel of Franklinton (Associate in Science);

Dale Ramsey Music Scholar: Tessa Bowie of Franklinton (Associate in Science);

Linda Aleshire Memorial: Holly Heston of Louisburg (Medical Office Administration);

John T. Church, Sr.: Austin Finch of Louisburg (Welding Technology);

Hugh White Holt Memorial: Timon Bailey of Louisburg (Information Technology);

Margaret West Cousins Matteson: Allison Barlow of Louisburg (Associate in Arts);

Rain Park: George Tharpe of Louisburg (Welding Technology);

Hutson Wester Insurance: Heather Perdue of Louisburg (Business Administration);

Robert T. “Buster” and Elizabeth Brent Williford Memorial: Elizabeth Wiggins of Louisburg (Medical Office Administration);

VGCC Faculty & Staff: Christianna Allen of Louisburg (General Science AAS Degree);

VGCC Faculty & Staff: Cameron Alston of Louisburg (Associate in Arts);

Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Foundation: Cody Brandenburg of Youngsville (Information Technology); and

Hugh White Holt Memorial: Josiah Trotter of Youngsville (Associate in Arts).

 

PRESIDENTIAL MERIT AWARDS: WARREN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Bignall Speed Jones Memorial: David Peaden of Manson (Associate in Arts).

 

PRESIDENTIAL MERIT AWARDS: RECIPIENTS FROM OTHER COUNTIES

Robert A. Miller: Lilian Schleifer of Cary (Associate Degree Nursing);

Professional Construction Estimators Association – Triangle Chapter: Walter Goss of Durham (General Science AAS Degree);

Robert J. Walker Memorial: Chris Trotman of Durham (General Science AAS Degree);

CareFocus Nursing: Angela Talam of Raleigh (Associate Degree Nursing);

Lace Lastics Company, Inc.: Rawia Dafalla of Raleigh (Histotechnology);

VGCC Faculty & Staff: Mary Waithaka of Raleigh (Associate Degree Nursing);

Margaret L. Gupton and Linwood M. Gupton Memorial: Mandy Clements of Roxboro (Radiography);

Harriette G. Mast Memorial: Rubi Coyote of Roxboro (Radiography);

John Stovall Royster, Jr., Memorial: Kristina Tuck of Roxboro (Radiography);

VGCC Faculty & Staff: Emily Watkins of Roxboro (Associate in Arts); and

Friends of Hospice: Kyra Corrigan of Wake Forest (General Science AAS Degree).

 

 

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS: VANCE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Sam Alford Memorial/Henderson Lions Club: Joshua Jones of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

Charles and Audrey Ballentine: Heidy Morosumi of Henderson (Radiography);

W.B. Beasley Memorial: Kayla Whirley of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

George B. Blum Memorial/Middleburg Ruritan Club: Amali Hauter of Henderson (Paralegal Technology);

Dr. Joseph Alston Boyd, Jr.: Ashley Ward of Henderson (Radiography);

Amanda A. “Mandy” Braswell Memorial: Christopher Hernandez of Henderson (Automotive Systems Technology);

Annie R. Bullock Memorial/City of Henderson: Dorothy Wortham of Henderson (Human Services Technology);

BB&T: Danielle Dixon of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Davis – Royster Funeral Services: Sharon Bryant of Henderson (Business Administration);

Smith Doss and Claude Monnier: Barbara Bennett of Henderson (Early Childhood Education);

Carrie Draper/ Henderson Business & Professional Women’s Club: Brooklyn Rooker of Henderson (Radiography);

Joy Nicole Fleming Memorial: Rebekah Speed of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Friends of Hospice: Kelsey Ivey of Henderson (Medical Office Administration);

Hubert L. Gooch, Sr.: Darcel Alston of Henderson (Pharmacy Technology);

Robert B. Harrison/Henderson Kiwanis Club: Kailee Ball of Henderson (Associate in Science);

George W. Holden, Jr., Accounting: Jodi Vaughan of Henderson (Early Childhood Education);

Linda Vele Johnson Memorial: Chyna Hargrove of Henderson (Early Childhood Education);

Thurston S. “Judge” and Vivian L. Parham: Allison Ayscue of Henderson (Associate in Science);

W.D. Payne/Henderson High School Class of 1939: Kimberley Coghill of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

W.D. Payne/Vance County Unit NC Retired School Personnel: Autumn Julian of Henderson (Associate in Science);

William D. Payne: Kevin Smith of Henderson (Early Childhood Education);

William D. Payne/Henderson High School Class of 1938: Karen Sandoval of Henderson (Associate in Science);

Henry S. Peoples, Chapter #67 Disabled American Veterans: Nigoria Alston of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Henry S. Peoples, Chapter # 67 Disabled American Veterans: Carlota Sikes of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Myrtle Jane Pruitt Memorial: Allison Stell of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Myrtle Jane Pruitt Memorial: Kathleen Lee of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Myrtle Jane Pruitt Memorial: Phylicia Wimbush of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Buggana Subba Reddy Memorial: Dynasty Hargrove of Henderson (Medical Office Administration);

Steven Allen and Thomas “Tommee” Wayne Reese Memorial: Jadyn Jones of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

Santa Fe: Tyler Thorp of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Clemens Oscar Seifert/Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Henderson: Abigayle Edwards of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Mary Helen Harris Shields Memorial: Emily Isidro of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

 Robert J. Turner/Henderson Kiwanis Club: Katlyn Reams of Henderson (Human Services Technology Substance Abuse);

Vance Construction Company: Herbert Davis of Henderson (Mechatronics Engineering Technology);

Vance County Association of Educational Office Professionals: Sherly Gerardo of Henderson (Business Administration);

Vance County Farm Bureau: Christian Teasley-Hill Purnell of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Adam Short of Henderson (Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology);

Kate M. Wood Memorial: Shanetta Wright of Henderson (Business Administration);

Anne Wortham /Henderson Business & Professional Women’s Club: Stephanie Alston of Henderson (Practical Nursing);

Jerry Ellington Memorial: Rebekah Varker of Kittrell (Associate in Arts);

Hubert Lee Gooch, Jr., Memorial: Katherine Harris of Kittrell (General Science AAS Degree);

Robert Burnham Harrison, Sr. Memorial: Caitlin Melvin of Kittrell (Early Childhood Education);

Leo Kelly, Jr.: Matthew Varker of Kittrell (Associate in Arts);

John K. Nelms/Granville Industrial Club: Mary Ferguson of Kittrell (Associate in Science);

Myrtle Jane Pruitt Memorial: Caitlin West of Kittrell (Radiography);

Triangle North Healthcare Foundation RIBN: Rachel Spall of Kittrell (Associate Degree Nursing); and

Virginia L. Wester: Jennifer Crabtree of Kittrell (Business Administration).

 

 

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS: GRANVILLE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

George E. and Estelle H. Bullock Memorial: Rhonda Williamson of Bullock (Associate Degree Nursing);

Maria Parham Medical Center Volunteer Services: Candice Howarth of Bullock (Practical Nursing);

Robert J. and Isabel B. Morgan Memorial: Kevin Keeton of Bullock (Welding Technology);

John K. Nelms/Newton Instrument Company: Allyson Cash of Bullock (Associate Degree Nursing);

Walter J. Rublein Memorial: Xavier Eaton of Bullock (Mechatronics Engineering Technology);

Triangle Home Health Care, Inc: James Temple of Bullock (Associate Degree Nursing);

Capital Bank: Mia Ray of Butner (Culinary Arts);

Hettie Currin Skipper Memorial Nursing: Catherine Bullock of Butner (Associate Degree Nursing);

Grady W. Tunstall: Sharlett Wilson of Butner (Practical Nursing);

Michael White: Tanya Beal Smith of Butner (Criminal Justice Technology);

Pratt and Gwendolyn Winston: Emili Hernandez Gaona of Butner (Human Services Technology);

The Barnabus Fund: Morgan Edwards of Creedmoor (Medical Assisting);

Bernard O. Burgess Memorial: Lauren Stephenson of Creedmoor (Radiography);

Chick-fil-A of Henderson: Nicholas Albright of Creedmoor (Mechatronics Engineering Technology);

Lucille Couch: Shaquile Hawkins of Creedmoor (Practical Nursing);

Dorothy M. Currin Memorial: Kaylin Gibson of Creedmoor (Associate Degree Nursing);

Smith Doss and Claude Monnier: Alontis Hines of Creedmoor (Medical Office Administration);

Durham Coca-Cola Bottling Company/Classic Food Services: Dominique Winters of Creedmoor (Culinary Arts);

Stanley H. Fox: Kierra Green of Creedmoor (Associate Degree Nursing);

Mike Huffaker Memorial: Karene Anderson of Creedmoor (Radiography);

Seby B. Jones and Rufus T. Aiken: Paul McDonough Jr. of Creedmoor (Associate in Science);

Kerr Lake Area Home Builders Association: Dylan Klink of Creedmoor (Associate in Science);

Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Hill Cooper Auxiliary Post 2417, Inc.: Briana Williams of Creedmoor (Associate in Science);

Milton F. and Mary Legg Memorial: Christian Dockum of Creedmoor (Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology);

Mary Potter High School: Chenelle Headley of Creedmoor (Medical Office Administration);

Dr. and Mrs. Roy L. Noblin Memorial: Yamileth Portillo of Creedmoor (Medical Assisting Diploma);

Oxford Junior Woman’s Club: Yvonne Stills of Creedmoor (Radiography);

Putlur Jayarama Reddy Memorial: Astrid Portillo-Granado of Creedmoor (Associate in Science);

Sherman and Boddie: Owen Hernandez of Creedmoor (Automotive Systems Technology);

Thomas G. & Mildred K. Taylor Memorial: Sean Stephenson of Creedmoor (Welding Technology-Cert Prac);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: John Lawson of Creedmoor (Radiography);

S.M. Watkins, Sr., Memorial: Jessica Hendricks of Creedmoor (Associate Degree Nursing);

Brenda McGee Wester, RN: Sarh Riley of Creedmoor (Associate Degree Nursing);

Edward L. Williams Memorial: Ethan Hughes of Creedmoor (Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology);

Lucy West Abbott Memorial: Hellen Mbuya of Oxford (Associate Degree Nursing);

Minnie Moseley Cawley Memorial: Brittany Williams of Oxford (Practical Nursing);

Lenwood A. Crabtree/Duke Energy: Luis Briones Gomez of Oxford (Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology);

Sophia H. Currin Memorial: Teresa Coley of Oxford (Associate Degree Nursing);

Matthew Frink: Briah Thorpe of Oxford (Practical Nursing);

Gate Precast Company: Anna Sizemore of Oxford (General Science AAS Degree);

Elie Gut/Ideal Fastener Corporation: Brandon Darr of Oxford (Mechatronics Engineering Technology);

Irene Hamm Hester Memorial/Carolina Cooling & Heating, Inc.: Sarah Fowler of Oxford (Welding Technology);

George W. Jenkins Memorial Boy Scouts: Cody Greene of Oxford (General Science AAS Degree);

Fitzhugh A. Kesler/ Henderson Business & Professional Women’s Club: Carson Thompson of Oxford (Accounting and Finance);

Oxford Lions Club: Kalie Fisher of Oxford (General Science AAS Degree);

Elsie Gray and Julian Pernell: Belinda Davis of Oxford (Medical Office Administration);

 Putlur S. Devi Reddy Memorial: Rewees Ebrahim of Oxford (Associate in Science);

Samir Harith “Reef” Abdul Rasheed Memorial: Marquis Skinner of Oxford (Welding Technology);

Rotary Club of Oxford/In Honor of Thomas B. Currin: Adrienne Reams of Oxford (Pharmacy Technology Diploma);

Royster, Cross & Hensley, LLP: Matthew Smith of Oxford (Criminal Justice Technology);

South Granville Rotary Club: Brett Clayton of Oxford (Associate in Science);

Ben and Cornelia Terry: Hannah Tuck of Oxford (Associate Degree Nursing);

Rachel P. Thomas: Jazmine Hunt of Oxford (Cosmetology);

Triangle North Healthcare Foundation: Savannah Barnes of Oxford (Medical Assisting);

Robert J. Turner/Henderson Kiwanis Club: Jacob Carver of Oxford (Associate in Arts);

Dr. Rives Williams and Patty Lewis Taylor Memorial: Heather Huff of Oxford (Associate Degree Nursing);

Otha Wilkins Memorial: Brooklyn Fuller of Oxford (Associate in Science);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Blake Larcade of Oxford (Automotive Systems Technology);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Christopher Pennell of Oxford (Information Technology);

John T. Church: Maria Rojas Galvan of Stem (Associate in Arts);

Mattie B. Harris: Michael Andrick of Stem (Information Technology); and

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Rocio Crews of Stem (Associate Degree Nursing).

 

 

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS: FRANKLIN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

AMVETS – Vance County Chapter # 730: Casey Alford of Franklinton (Medical Assisting Diploma);

Cecil L. Chacon, Jr., Memorial: Vanna Farrar of Franklinton (Associate Degree Nursing);

Franklin Regional Volunteers Auxilary: Jane Jones of Franklinton (Pharmacy Technology);

Ethel Jane Rideout Harrison Memorial: Ashley Breslin of Franklinton (General Science AAS Degree);

Frank H. Madigan: Solace Outhouse of Franklinton (Associate in Arts);

Fred E. & Ernestine H. Miller Memorial: Brittney Smith of Franklinton (Associate in Arts);

Walter L. Newton: Savannah Morgan of Franklinton (Associate in Arts);

Novozymes North America, Inc.: Anaya Harrison of Franklinton (General Science AAS Degree);

Scott Parker Peace Memorial and Adna B. Pierce Memorial: Morgan Wiggins of Franklinton (Associate in Science);

Rain Park: Henrry Reboccar-Miguel of Franklinton (Associate Degree Nursing);

Rowan-Walters Nursing: Ashley Sawyer of Franklinton (Associate Degree Nursing);

Union Bank – Founding Directors: Grace Ohlandt of Franklinton (Human Services Technology Substance Abuse);

James R. Barnes/Vance County Unit N. C. Retired School Personnel: Ellen Young of Louisburg (Early Childhood Education);

Nathan Burwell: Jayliyah Edgerton of Louisburg (Cosmetology);

Martha M. Clark: Rachel Munson of Louisburg (Associate Degree Nursing);

J. ‘Pooky’ Currin Memorial: Caitlin Pernell of Louisburg (Associate Degree Nursing);

Smith Doss and Claude Monnier: Chelsea Ray of Louisburg (Associate Degree Nursing);

Oxford-Henderson Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.: Sarai Ross of Louisburg (Associate in Arts);

Rachel and Raymond Stone: Crystal Williams of Louisburg (Medical Assisting Diploma);

Frank Tedder Memorial/J.P. Taylor Employees/Universal Leaf: Spencer Duncan of Louisburg (Information Technology);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Cindy Blankenship of Louisburg (Practical Nursing);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Sarah Carr of Louisburg (General Science AAS Degree);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Oscar Peralta of Louisburg (Associate in Arts);

Morris and Jean West Memorial: Brittany Sullivan of Louisburg (Associate Degree Nursing);

Henderson Rotary Club: Michelle Harris-Evans of Youngsville (Associate Degree Nursing);

James Madison “Jimmy” Joyner Memorial: Katelyn Medley of Youngsville (Associate Degree Nursing);

Robin Rowland Memorial: Kelley Bural of Youngsville (Cosmetology);

J.P. Taylor/Universal Leaf: Mackenzie Clifford of Youngsville (Associate in Science);

Sam Watkins, Jr.: Sheniqua Pruden of Youngsville (Associate Degree Nursing); and

Emily G. Whitten/ Henderson Business & Professional Women’s Club: Rachel Bice of Youngsville (General Science AAS Degree).

 

 

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS: WARREN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Warrenton Rotary Club: Debra Richardson of Hollister (Criminal Justice Technology);

Mr. and Mrs. B. A. Parker: LaDayzha Hicks of Manson (General Science AAS Degree);

Julius and Harriet Banzet: Cara Manns of Norlina (Associate Degree Nursing);

Marvin H. Baugh/Warrenton Rotary Club: McKenzie Conlee of Norlina (Associate in Arts);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Cartes Newell of Norlina (Medical Office Administration);

T. Yancey Memorial: Shannon Manning of Norlina (Early Childhood Education);

Bank of America: Hunter Oser of Warrenton (Information Technology);

Mr. and Mrs. William A. Delbridge: Melissa Ramos of Warrenton (Associate Degree Nursing);

Eastern Carolina Rabbit Breeders Association: Conner Bryant of Warrenton (Associate in Arts);

Vesta Fortson Manning Memorial: Heather Gwin of Warrenton (General Science AAS Degree); and

Wilson Sawyer/Variety Wholesalers, Inc.: Milani Nolton of Warrenton (Associate in Arts).

 

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS: OTHER RECIPIENTS

Pauline Neisler Brewer: Esther Ogachi of Cary (Practical Nursing);

Bessie Nelson Trado Memorial/First United Methodist Church: Abigail Rodriguez of Durham (Associate Degree Nursing);

John Pearson Harris, Jr. and Sr., Memorial: Kofi Boateng of Durham (Associate in Arts);

Henderson Woman’s Club: Hser Tha of Durham (Associate Degree Nursing);

William J. “Bill” Matthews Memorial: Christy Valerio of Durham (Criminal Justice Technology);

Diane W. Nethercutt Nursing Memorial: Takera Green of Durham (Associate Degree Nursing);

Thelma ‘Bug’ Dempsey/Henderson Business & Professional Women’s Club: Tiara Payton of Elizabeth City (Associate in Arts);

Newton Instrument Company: Tuesday Mathews of Fuquay-Varina (Associate Degree Nursing);

John T. Church, Sr./Roses Stores: Carly West of Littleton (General Science AAS Degree);

Veterans of Foreign Wars/Hill Cooper Post 2417, Inc.: Christopher Miller of Magnolia (Associate in Arts);

Talmadge Hamm Memorial: Meredith Finch of Nelson (General Science AAS Degree);

Henry and Mamie Banks: Chelsea Raposa of Raleigh (Paralegal Technology);

Kerr Lake Board of Realtors: Rahab Kamau of Raleigh (Information Technology);

Lou Ann Murphy: Teresa Onchiri of Raleigh (Practical Nursing);

PSNC Energy: Stephen Nyambariga of Raleigh (Practical Nursing);

SunTrust Bank: Samantha Pierce of Raleigh (Radiography);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Douglas Oanya of Raleigh (Associate Degree Nursing);

Keller and William Lee Keller Memorial: Kayla Lashley of Roxboro (Business Administration);

Henry S. Peoples, Chapter #  67 Disabled American Veterans: Mariana Ascencio of Roxboro (Associate Degree Nursing);

Myrtle Jane Pruitt Memorial: Michelle Madison of Selma (Associate Degree Nursing);

John Brigham Memorial: Wynett Pearce of Spring Hope (Medical Office Administration);

Hayden C. Bailey Family Memorial: Ashley Czuba-O’Brianâ of Wake Forest (Radiography);

CertainTeed Corporation: Mildred Tshuma of Wake Forest (General Science AAS Degree);

PNC: Lindsay Fenlason of Wake Forest (Associate in Science);

Myrtle Jane Pruitt Memorial: Ashley Flynn of Wake Forest (Associate Degree Nursing);

Carolina Sunrock: Jesse Pendleton of Wake Forest (Associate in Arts);

Jerry Marshall White, Jr. Memorial: Brandon Smith of Wake Forest (Associate Degree Nursing);

Church of the Holy Innocents: Cynthia Leon of Zebulon (Early Childhood Education); and

Anne Cooke Finch: Robyn Perry of Zebulon (General Science AAS Degree).

 

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS: VANCE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Henry and Cathy Dixon: April Zuniga-Trejo of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Duke Energy: Carrie Johnson of Henderson (Welding Technology);

Lloyd Gabriel Memorial Scholarship/Air Control, Inc.: Leah Grissom of Henderson (Business Administration);

Glen Raven, Inc.: Theresa Carrillo of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

Glen Raven, Inc.: Jayne Harris of Henderson (Associate Degree Nursing);

Glen Raven, Inc.: Kayla Whirley of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree);

State Employees Credit Union Foundation Scholarship: Caroline Nutt of Henderson (Associate in Arts);

T & T Laundries: Tiffany Williams of Henderson (Associate in Science);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Kailee Ball of Henderson (Associate in Science);

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Hannah Edwards of Henderson (General Science AAS Degree); and

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Erasmo San Juan of Henderson (Welding Technology).

 

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS: GRANVILLE COUNTY RECIPIENTS

State Employees Credit Union Foundation Scholarship: Caroline Williamson of Bullock (Medical Office Administration);

Brandon S. Coker Memorial: Travis Campbell of Creedmoor (Basic Law Enforcement Training Certificate);

Glen Raven, Inc.: Brian Johnson of Creedmoor (Associate in Arts);

Duke Energy: Thomas Culp of Oxford (Welding Technology);

Duke Energy: Anthony Wade of Oxford (General Science AAS Degree);

Glen Raven, Inc.: Emily Adcock of Oxford (General Science AAS Degree);

Glen Raven, Inc.: Joseph Noblin of Oxford (Welding Technology-Basic);

State Employees Credit Union Foundation Scholarship: Kristie Lumpkin of Oxford (Associate in Arts); and

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Alicia Davis of Oxford (Associate in Arts).

 

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS: FRANKLIN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Haun Family: Gricel Arroyo of Louisburg (Criminal Justice Technology); and

VGCC Faculty/Staff: Branden Lilley of Louisburg (Automotive Systems Technology).

 

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS: WARREN COUNTY RECIPIENTS

Glen Raven, Inc.: Emily Willis of Norlina (Associate in Science); and

Dan and Susan Sullivan: Nancy Noble of Norlina (General Science AAS Degree).

 

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS: OTHER RECIPIENTS

State Employees Credit Union Foundation Scholarship: Kacie Gann of Durham (Radiography).

More photos: Check out VGCC’s Scholarship Awards Dinner album on Flickr!

VGCC Trustees Narrow Presidential Search To Three Finalists

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College’s Board of Trustees has narrowed the search for the college’s next President to three candidates.

A search committee composed of six board members recommended five candidates from among nearly 90 applicants for the position, and the full board selected these finalists:

  • Dr. Rachel M. Desmarais of Clemmons, who is currently serving as executive vice president and chief operating officer at Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem;
  • Dr. Quentin J. Johnson of Mooresville, currently vice president of Student Support Services at Guilford Technical Community College in Greensboro; and
  • Dr. Melanie W. Thornton of Albany, Ga., the vice president of academic affairs at Columbus Technical College in Columbus, Ga.

The action came Monday, Nov. 19, at the regular bimonthly meeting of the board on the college’s Main Campus.

Following protocol established by the North Carolina Community College System, the trustees now present the finalists to the State Board of Community Colleges for vetting. The three candidates will be invited to the college for public forums individually on Nov. 30, Dec. 3 and Dec. 4.

“We are extremely pleased with the quality of the candidates who are interested in the position, and we are confident that we are on track to select an excellent leader to carry our college into our 50th year and beyond,” said Danny W. Wright, chair of the VGCC Board of Trustees. “We want for Vance-Granville a president with visionary leadership and a commitment to student access and success and economic development in the communities we serve.”

The board plans to have the new president in place early in 2019.

Invitations to the forums are being sent to county officials, school officials, area chambers, and VGCC faculty and staff, among other groups. The public is invited to attend. The forums will be held in the Civic Center on the Main Campus. Each will begin at 12:15 p.m. Dr. Johnson is scheduled to speak at the Friday, Nov. 30, forum; Dr. Thornton, on Monday, Dec. 3; and Dr. Desmarais, on Tuesday, Dec. 4.

Dr. Desmarais earned her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Instructional Design and Technology from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va., in 2015. She earned her Master of Science degree at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and her Bachelor of Music degree from Mars Hill College. She was an Aspen Institute Community College Excellence Presidential Fellow in 2017-2018. She has been with Forsyth Technical Community College since 2002, starting as a department chair before becoming a vice president in information services and in planning.

Dr. Johnson earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in Princess Anne, Md., in 2010. He earned his Master of Arts from Bowling Green State University and his Bachelor of Science from Defiance College in Ohio. Prior to beginning work at Guilford Technical Community College in July 2012, he worked with Fairmont State University and Pierpont Community & Technical College in West Virginia in 2011-2012 and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore from 2004 to 2011.

Dr. Thornton earned her Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum Studies from Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Ga., in 2007. She received her Education Specialist degree from Troy University in 2002, two Master of Education degrees from Georgia Southwestern State University in 1995 and 1997, and her Bachelor of Science degree from Albany State University in 1991. Prior to going to Columbus Technical College in 2013, she was vice president for Academic Affairs at Okefenokee Technical College in 2012-2013, and Dean and Professor of Reading at Darton State College in Albany, Ga., in 2007-2012.

The Board of Trustees began accepting applications for the position on Oct. 8 with a deadline of Nov. 9 for applications and nominations. A nationwide search was conducted under the guidance of the firm of Executive Leadership Associates (ELA) LLP of Emerald Isle. ELA, described as “a consortium of former North Carolina community college presidents who are committed to ensuring that our internationally recognized community college system continues its proud tradition of excellence,” was selected by the Board of Trustees at its Sept. 17 meeting. The firm helped the Trustees by creating the presidential profile of the ideal candidate needed, guiding the search process, and recruiting and screening applicants, as needed.

Serving on the Trustees’ presidential search committee were Trustees Deborah Brown, chair; Herb Gregory, vice chair; N. Annette P. Myers, Abdul Sm Rasheed, Donald C. Seifert, Sr., and Sara C. Wester.

Seiferts Honored By Family As New Scholarship Level Created At VGCC

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

As hundreds of students were being honored with scholarships at Vance-Granville Community College’s annual Scholarship Awards Dinner, the college announced the creation of a new level of scholarship and celebrated the first Presidential Excellence Award in honor of Donald and Betsy Seifert.

The new award was fully endowed with a gift of $60,000 from the family of the Henderson couple, and future student recipients will receive an annual award of $3,000 to cover tuition, books and fees at the college.

The announcement came as hundreds of scholarship donors and VGCC students gathered for dinner in the Civic Center on Tuesday, Nov. 13, to recognize more than 300 students receiving scholarships for 2018-2019.

Above, Dr. Gordon Burns, interim president of Vance-Granville Community College, and Eddie Ferguson, director of the VGCC Endowment Fund, gather with Donald and Betsy Seifert, shown holding the check in the center of the photo, and the Seifert family to celebrate the creation of the first-ever Presidential Excellence Award scholarship. From left are Dr. Burns, the Seiferts’ son Sam Seifert, daughter-in-law Jennifer Seifert, son Brent Seifert, Donald Seifert, son Clem Seifert, Betsy Seifert, daughter-in-law Donna Seifert, son-in-law Sandy Gabel, daughter Laura Gabel, and Ferguson. Unavailable for the photo was daughter-in-law Amine Seifert. (Photo Credit: VGCC)

Donald C. Seifert Sr. has been a member of the VGCC Board of Trustees since 1996 and served as the chair of the board for nine of those years. Appointed to the board by the Vance County Board of Education, he also serves on the college’s Endowment Fund Board of Directors.

“Our parents have shown us, through their good examples, that we should give back to our community,” the members of the Seifert family said in their statement announcing the honor. “They have demonstrated over and over again just how to give and why.” The statement was read by Eddie Ferguson, director of the college’s Office of the Endowment.

“Community can be defined in many ways,” Ferguson read. “Community is our home, our neighborhood, our workplace, our church and our community college. (Our parents) give – and have given – generously of their time, their talent, and their treasure for many years…. Their community is so important to them – they have dedicated themselves to their community – their hometown.”

“Their children, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, and grandchildren establish this scholarship to honor two special people and their commitment to the place they call home. They will, no doubt, downplay their role and the many ways they support and contribute to this community. That is who they are and that is what makes them special to us and, we hope, to their community. Those of you who have helped to create scholarships that we honor tonight, thank you. Those of you who are scholarship recipients, go and be a blessing to others in your community – however you define your community,” the statement concluded.

The announcement by Dr. Gordon Burns, VGCC’s interim president, and Ferguson was a surprise to the father and mother. As the details of the scholarship were being announced, the family members filed into the Civic Center to join them on stage.

“It’s exciting to see the bar raised in our efforts to help students receive the financial assistance they need in getting an education so that they can pursue their dreams,” said Dr. Burns. “We commend the Seifert family for their passion for community and expressing that passion through the support of our students.”

The Seiferts have one daughter and three sons, all of whom attended the event, along with their son-in-law and two daughters-in-law: Laura Seifert Gabel and husband Sandy, of Oxford; Donald C. “Clem” Seifert Jr. and Donna, of Wilmington; Brent Seifert and Jennifer, of Salisbury; and Sam Seifert of Decatur, Ga., whose wife, Amine, was unable to attend.

With the new scholarship level, the Endowment Fund now has four tiers of scholarships. In addition to the new Presidential Excellence Award, a $25,000 donation creates a Presidential Scholar Award that provides $1,250 per year to a student; a Presidential Merit Award, started with a $15,000 donation, awards $750 per year to a student; and a gift of $10,000 starts an Academic Achievement Scholarship, which awards $500 a year to a student.

The scholarships presented to students at Vance-Granville this academic year bring the total to more than 9,400 awarded by the college to date. VGCC scholarships have been endowed by numerous individuals, industries, businesses, civic groups, churches and the college’s faculty and staff. For more information about the Endowment Fund, call (252) 738-3409.

More photos: Check out our Scholarship Awards Dinner album on Flickr!

Camp Recognized as an ‘Educator of Excellence’ at Recent Reception

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-Information courtesy Dr. Stan Winborne, Public Information Officer, Granville County Public Schools 

Robin Camp, an Exceptional Children’s Program (ECP) “Teacher of Excellence“ with Granville County Public Schools (GCPS) was recognized last week at the Educator of Excellence Reception at the ECP Conference. Camp works at Granville Central High School in Stem, NC.

Dr. Stan Winborne, public information officer for GCPS, congratulated Camp on her well-deserved honor. “Please join us in congratulating Robin. She demonstrates daily ‘Excellence and Achievement for all!’ We are so proud of her, and can’t wait to see what she does next!”

Robin Camp, an Exceptional Children’s Program (ECP) “Teacher of Excellence” with Granville County Public Schools (GCPS) was recognized last week at the Educator of Excellence Reception at the ECP Conference. Camp works at Granville Central High School in Stem, NC. (Photo Credit: GCPS)

 

Granville County Public Schools

Granville Co. Board of Education to Hear on School System Finances at Nov. 19 Meeting

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-Press Release, Granville County Public Schools

NOTICE TO PUBLIC AND PRESS

The Granville County Board of Education will meet Monday, November 19, 2018, at 5 p.m. at the Granville County Public Schools Central Office, 101 Delacroix Street, Oxford, North Carolina. The purpose of the meeting is to receive a presentation from staff on School System finances and consideration of other items as listed in the online agenda.

The next regular scheduled Board meeting is Monday, December 3, 2018, at 6 p.m.

Registration Underway for Spring Semester at VGCC

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 -Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Registration for classes has begun for the Spring 2019 semester at Vance-Granville Community College, which starts Monday, Jan. 7, 2019.

In addition to the traditional 16-week semester session, VGCC is offering a 12-week term, two 8-week terms and two 4-week terms for the Spring.

“We know that our students have busy lives, going to college, taking care of a family and working, in most cases,” said Jeff Allen, VGCC’s dean of enrollment and outreach. “Vance-Granville wants to meet students where they are and help them get to where they need to be. We recognize that flexibility in scheduling is more important than ever.”

The full 16-week semester, starting on Jan. 7, concludes on May 6. Hundreds of courses are being offered on each of the college’s four campuses in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties, and online courses are available, including eight curriculum programs offered totally online.

The four-week “Spring Forward” mini-term begins Dec. 17 with a registration deadline of Dec. 13. Classes for this session will end on Jan. 15. The session is designed for students who are home for the holidays and want to pick up extra classes to help them get ahead in their studies, Allen said. Most of the courses have credits that are transferable to other colleges and universities, but students are always encouraged to check with their advisers to guarantee transferability to other institutions. Course offerings include computers, criminal justice, American history, music appreciation, American government, psychology and sociology, among others.

A second four-week mini-term, labeled “March Forward,” is scheduled for March 5 through April 1, with a registration deadline of March 1. The course list for this mini-term includes management, criminal justice, success and study skills and college transfer success.

The first of two 8-week sessions will begin on Jan. 7 and run through March 5. The second 8-week session starts March 5 and concludes May 6, with a registration deadline of Feb. 28. These two mini-terms offer dozens of courses.

A 12-week mini-term also offering dozens of classes begins Feb. 5 and runs through May 6, the registration deadline coming Jan. 31.

All of the courses offer the full credits a student normally receives. The schedules for the mini-terms are compressed to allow students to complete the coursework in less time.

In addition to the curriculum courses are continuing education opportunities for those wanting job training or new skills or personal enrichment and basic skills for those seeking a high school equivalency or an adult high school diploma.

Registration for the 16-week Spring classes opened Thursday, Nov. 1, and closes on Thursday, Jan. 3. College officials advise students to apply for admission and financial aid, request transcripts from high school or other colleges and schedule a placement test. Students will then meet with an academic coach to register for classes, followed by an orientation session. Students are advised to register for classes as early as possible to secure the classes they need to take.

The upcoming semester’s course schedules and a link to ARCHES, the latest edition of the college’s guide to enrollment, are now available online at schedules.vgcc.edu.

The tuition payment deadline for the 16-week semester is Thursday, Jan. 3, by 5 p.m., if paying in person, or by midnight, if paying online through the college’s online WebAdvisor.

For more information, contact VGCC at studentsuccess@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3234, or visit any campus.

FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE

Prospective students interested in seeking financial assistance are encouraged to immediately complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.gov and to visit the VGCC Financial Aid Office.

Eligible students may receive Pell Grants ranging from $343 to $3,047 per semester. Students may also qualify for other college or state funds. The Financial Aid Office recommends completing the FAFSA and all financial aid documents by Wednesday, Dec. 12. In order for a student to charge tuition, fees, and books to financial aid awards, the student’s entire financial aid file must be completed prior to the tuition payment deadline of Thursday, Jan. 3. Students with preschool-age children may receive financial assistance to help pay for child care, and applications for this help are also available at the Financial Aid Office.

Information about other resources is available online at financialaid.vgcc.edu.

For more details regarding financial assistance, visit the Financial Aid Office in Room 8215 on Main Campus or call (252) 738-3280.

HELP FOR VETERANS

Military veterans who wish to use their Veterans’ Education benefits may contact the Financial Aid Office at (252) 738-3522. Veterans should check with Financial Aid to see if the programs in which they are interested are covered.

(This is not a paid advertisement)

Granville Co. Public Schools to Host School Safety Summit

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-Information courtesy Dr. Stan Winborne, Public Information Officer, Granville County Public Schools

You are invited to a “School Safety Summit” to be held in the Northern Granville Middle School auditorium – 3144 Webb School Rd., Oxford – on Thursday, November 15 at 6 p.m.

Join Granville County Public Schools staff, law enforcement and elected officials as we discuss what is being done to keep our schools safe.

The event is open to the public. Submit your comments in advance by clicking here.

 

VGCC, Southeastern Open New Pathway For Students

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College and The College at Southeastern have entered a partnership to provide a “ready-made pathway” for students to be dually enrolled on their way to a Bachelor of Science degree at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

In VGCC’s Civic Center, colorfully decorated with banners displaying the various applied technology, business and health sciences academic programs offered by Vance-Granville, a ceremony was held on Monday, Oct. 22, for the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the two colleges.

“Partnership is very important as you think about higher education today,” said Dr. Levy Brown, Vance-Granville’s vice president of academic affairs. “We hear about pathways. We hear about multiple entry points for students. We hear about collaboration. Today we are very excited to join Southeastern in this opportunity to provide more training opportunities for their students.”

Dr. James Dew of The College at Southeastern, left, and Dr. Levy Brown of Vance-Granville Community College sign a memorandum of understanding officially launching a partnership that provides a “ready-made pathway” for students to be dually enrolled at the two colleges on their way to a Bachelor of Science degree at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. (Photo: VGCC)

The partnership opens a new door for students at The College at Southeastern (C@SE) in Wake Forest to earn additional credentials in the career and technical education areas, nearly 40 curriculum programs, at Vance-Granville, Dr. Brown noted, citing the significance of the regional collaboration.

With plans for the partnership in the works for several years, Dr. James Dew, Vice President of Undergraduate Studies and Distance Learning and the Dean of The College at Southeastern, said he was pleased to see two institutions working together rather than being competitive in their recruiting efforts. Students have had to choose between schools when pursuing their college educations, he said, “either here or there but not both.”

“We can do far more together than we can do apart from each other,” he said. “I think the days are gone, or should be gone, when we compete against each other in unnecessary ways.”

“As we sat down to think about the possibilities,” Dr. Dew added, “what we began to realize is that there are actually ways that we can serve each other. You have students in your vocational programs who ultimately desire to do something for the Lord. And we have students who very much want to do something for the Lord but are going to need along the way various kinds of vocational training to get there.”

At C@SE, he said, they refer to the situation as the “Tentmaker’s Paradigm.” Citing Acts 18:1-4, he described how the Apostle Paul had a vocation of making tents. “He would go from place to place, and as he went he would build tents and that would give him a platform to preach the Gospel to the nations,” Dr. Dew said.

“That ultimately is our vision,” he added. “We are training a generation of people at Southeastern to go into the darkest places in the entire world, places where there is no hope, places where the darkness is thick and depression is strong. And there in those places shine their light of Jesus Christ to those places and to those nations. But to get there … they are going to need the kinds of programs that we see represented here in this room.”

He said C@SE wants their students to have these kinds of programs that VGCC offers, but “I also understand that they need the kinds of theological and ministerial training that we can offer them at Southeastern as well.”

C@SE began in 1994 as an undergraduate school of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS) in Wake Forest. Students who are pursuing their Bachelor of Science degree from SEBTS have had the option to transfer in an associate’s degree from another college, dually enroll in a vocational program at another college or complete a business minor at C@SE.

The partnership will provide a clear pathway, the college officials noted.

Among the highlights of the partnership:

  • C@SE students may enroll in as many as 12 credit hours per semester at VGCC and have those hours count towards their status at C@SE.
  • Southeastern students who complete an associate’s degree, diploma or certificate of study in a VGCC-approved vocational and/or applied technical program will receive full credit for courses taken in which a grade of “C” or better was earned.
  • C@SE will also accept credits from high school and early college high school students enrolled in an approved Career and College Promise (CCP) track through VGCC.
  • VGCC will allow students to dual enroll in a Bachelor of Science degree program at C@SE.

The partnership also allows for a seamless integration of recruitment initiatives between both colleges.

Dr. Dew recognized Cory Thornton of the Youngsville-based Frigi-Temp commercial heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration service provider for being a part of a three-way meeting with VGCC and C@SE last year that eventually led to the partnership. Thornton is the chief operating officer of the licensed mechanical contracting company which is now a partner in VGCC’s Vanguard Apprenticeship Collaboration.

Dr. Dew added, “We began to think together about what your curriculum looks like, what ours looks like and the various ways that we can partner broadly by taking the diplomas, the certificates and the associate’s degrees offered here in vocational trainings at Vance-Granville and let the students either come to Southeastern after they finish here by way of transfer or to work on those degree programs concurrently.”

“It is a unique day in the life of Southeastern when I can begin saying to our students, ‘Hey, you should also go to this school,’” he said. “Praise God for good things that He has brought. I’m excited for this day.”

VGCC’s Interim President Dr. Gordon Burns applauded the “efforts, insights and wisdom” of Dr. Brown and Dr. Dew “and all of those colleagues who supported them in our two institutions.”

“Thank you for making this day possible,” he added. “I think it’s especially important that we allow the doors to be open for further higher education. By accepting our credits at your college, you open the door to new opportunities to advance study, and for that, we are most grateful,” Dr. Burns said.

Also instrumental in the creation of the partnership is VGCC’s project manager for the TechHire grant, Ken Wilson, who also spoke to the staff and faculty from both institutions who gathered for the signing. “We look forward to wonderful times ahead for this great partnership,” Wilson said.

Questions about the partnership can be directed to Ken Wilson at VGCC by phone at (252) 738-3259 or by e-mail at wilsonk@vgcc.edu or Dr. Brent Aucoin at The College at Southeastern by phone at (919) 761-2286 or by e-mail at baucoin@sebts.edu.

Click here for a Flickr album with photographs from the signing ceremony: https://www.flickr.com/photos/vancegranvillecc/albums/72157703270339775

VGCC Honors 2018-2019 Faculty And Staff Members Of Year With Awards

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

An instructor who also is leading one of VGCC’s curriculum programs and a director of a jobs skills training program for the unemployed and underemployed have been honored as outstanding employees for 2018-2019 at Vance-Granville Community College.

Stewart Lyon, a Biology instructor at VGCC and the point of contact for the Bioprocess Technology curriculum program at the Franklin County Campus, was named Faculty Member of the Year at the college, and Blondelle Edgerton, director of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program, was selected as the Staff Member of the Year.

Above: VGCC’s 2018-19 award winners are Faculty Member of the Year Stewart Lyon, left, and Staff Member of the Year Blondelle Edgerton, right. Dr. Gordon Burns, VGCC’s Interim President, center, has praised both employees for their commitment to Vance-Granville’s mission of educating, inspiring and supporting students. (VGCC photo)

The honors are two of VGCC’s three Glen Raven Excellence in Teaching and Leadership Awards for 2018-2019. Glen Raven, Inc., the custom fabrics manufacturer with a facility in Warren County, is a longtime partner and supporter of the college. In addition to sponsoring the annual stipends to recognize excellence among VGCC instructors and staff members, Glen Raven has endowed several scholarships for students.

Lyon and Edgerton are now eligible to be considered for the N.C. Community College System’s statewide R.J. Reynolds Excellence in Teaching and BB&T Staff Person of the Year awards, respectively.

“Stewart and Blondelle are two outstanding leaders among the faculty and staff at our college,” Interim President Dr. Gordon Burns said. “Every day, they are dedicated to our college’s mission of educating, inspiring and supporting a diverse community of learners to achieve professional and personal success. Their extraordinary commitment, positivity and expertise are appreciated by both students and colleagues.”

Stewart Lyon

Stewart Lyon joined the VGCC faculty in August 2013 as an adjunct instructor for Biology at VGCC’s South Campus in Creedmoor. In January 2014, he came on board as a full-time Biology instructor, teaching classes at all four of VGCC’s campuses — South, Franklin, Warren and Main. In the Fall Semester of 2017, he became the point of contact for the Bioprocess Technology program based at Franklin Campus.

A 2007 graduate of North Carolina State University with his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences, Lyon earned his Master of Science degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from East Carolina University in 2010. He has a graduate certificate in Business Foundations from ECU, in 2014, and is currently is working in non-degree graduate studies in Chemistry with Montana State University.

“Stewart has a unique approach to teaching cultivated to help students understand why they are learning the course material by connecting the content to aspects of their own lives,” said VGCC’s Interim President Dr. Gordon Burns. “He grabs their attention and the students are more likely to be motivated, resulting in a more successful learning environment. He has built rapport with his students and demonstrated a sincere desire to help them learn.”

Lyon has recently carved out some time from his Biology teaching and leadership of the Bioprocess Technology program to represent VGCC’s faculty on the Achieving the Dream Core Team as the college works to implement, align and scale cutting edge reforms to improve student success, Dr. Burns added.

Among his activities at the college and in the community, Lyon has participated in the Leadership Program of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. He has volunteered for area public high school science fairs. He also was an event leader for the Science Olympiad, taught classes for VGCC’s Summer Science Camp for middle school children, and coordinated VGCC Earth Day celebrations at Main Campus and Franklin Campus.

“Stewart displays very high levels of professionalism and he intentionally engages students, colleagues and the general public with enthusiasm, positivity, and reminders that we are all making a difference in students’ lives,” said Cecilia Wheeler, VGCC’s Dean of Arts & Sciences.

Blondelle Edgerton

Blondelle Edgerton came to Vance-Granville in September 1995 as a part-time education specialist for what was the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) program, later renamed the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program. She became full-time in 1999, and in August 2004, she became a program analyst and job developer for WIA. Less than two years later she became the supervisor for the program while still serving as job developer. She was elevated to director of the program, her current position, in February 2013. The program in recent years was renamed Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science at East Carolina University in 1994. Since then she has had professional training in nearly two dozen areas related to her role in WIOA. She is a member of the North Carolina Employment Training Association (NCETA), and she volunteers on the Community Advisory Committee of the Franklin-Granville-Vance Partnership for Children.

“Blondelle is deeply committed to the mission of our college and the North Carolina Community College System to open the doors to educational opportunities for the people of the communities served by Vance-Granville,” said Dr. Burns. “Through her position with the WIOA, she works with the unemployed, underemployed, economic disadvantaged and those who need to upgrade their job skills. She makes sure eligible students get help with tuition, fees, books, supplies, transportation, counseling, work experience and job placement.

“Clearly the right person for this critical job, Blondelle has a heart for her students and understands well the obstacles they face as she helps them ascertain their goals and aspirations,” Dr. Burns said.

Edgerton has built partnerships for work experiences with businesses and organizations in the community, and she has structured her program at VGCC in such a way that it is a model for the Kerr-Tar Council of Governments and the Workforce Development Board, the administrators of the federal funding for the program.

“Blondelle unselfishly assists students and staff far above her normal job responsibilities,” Kali Brown, VGCC’s Dean of Student Support Services, added. “She has assisted other employees with reporting requirements, served as a chaperone at the annual Youth Summit, and even watered plants in our administration building. She is an employee that every supervisor dreams of having.”

Granville County Public Schools

Granville Co. Board of Education to Hold Regular Meeting on Mon., Nov. 5

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-Information courtesy Dr. Stan Winborne, Public Information Officer, Granville County Public Schools

The Granville County Board of Education will meet for a regular board meeting on Monday, November 5, 2018, at 6 p.m. at the Granville County Public Central Office, 101 Delacroix Street, Oxford, North Carolina.

The board will also meet in a Closed Session for Personnel/Attorney-Client Privilege in accordance with N.C. General Statute 143.318.11 (a)(6), 143-318.11 (a)(3), 143.318.11 (a)(5) and Section 115C-321 on this evening.