VGCC to offer Enrollment Day on June 29

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Vance-Granville Community College will hold “Enrollment Day” on Thursday, June 29, from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m., at all four of its campuses.

During those extended hours, VGCC admissions, financial aid and advising staff members will be ready to assist anyone who is interested in enrolling at the college for the Fall 2017 semester, which starts on Aug. 14.

Students are encouraged to pre-register at www.vgcc.edu/enrollmentday.

Refreshments and free VGCC t-shirts will be available for incoming students on Enrollment Day while supplies last.

VGCC’s Main Campus is located on Poplar Creek Road in Vance County (about midway between Henderson and Oxford) at the intersection with Interstate 85 (Exit 209).

The Franklin County Campus is located just west of Louisburg on N.C. 56.

South Campus is on N.C. 56 between Creedmoor and Butner.

The Warren County Campus is located at 210 West Ridgeway Street (U.S. 158 Business) in Warrenton.

Registration for classes at VGCC is ongoing, through Aug. 10. For more information on enrolling for the fall, call (252) 738-3234 or visit any campus.

–VGCC–

Former Judge Quon Bridges speaks at VGCC South Campus

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Attorney and former N.C. District Court Judge S. Quon Bridges spoke to students, faculty and staff at Vance-Granville Community College’s South Campus as part of a speakers’ series sponsored by the college’s Male Mentoring Success Initiative (MMSI), as the spring semester drew to a close. Among those in the audience were Granville Early College High School students.

Bridges recalled his mother, who had recently passed away at the time he spoke to students. She had encouraged her 11 children to read and to stay out of gangs, he told the audience. Bridges then recalled a harrowing incident from his childhood when he found his mother, injured and bleeding, at home one night.

“She told me that some young men had beaten and robbed her,” Bridges said. “I picked up my baseball bat. I wanted to go look for these guys. But my mother grabbed my arm and said, ‘Son, I can get back what was robbed, but if you go out to get revenge, and you get hurt or get in trouble, I can’t replace you. Don’t be like those young men who did this to me. Make something of your life.’” He added, “I try to encourage all young people to do the same.”

Bridges said that young people need to “feel good about themselves” and avoid illegal drug activity. “You all have potential to do great things in life,” he told his audience. “You’re responsible for yourself. No more excuses! Get out there and do the very best you can do.”

Success, Bridges advised them, will not happen overnight. He talked about how, when he was a child, he and each of his siblings were given a wall in their house, on which they could post what they wanted. He would cut out pictures of courtrooms, lawyers and judges to post on his wall as a way of visualizing his future.

Bridges received his bachelor’s degree from the College of Wooster and his Juris Doctorate from the North Carolina Central University School of Law. He was appointed by former Governor Mike Easley as a district court judge for the 9th Judicial District in 2007. Prior to this appointment, he served as an Assistant District Attorney for 17 years. He began his career working for the North Central Legal Assistance Program before becoming a private practice lawyer. Bridges also is currently a member of the Oxford board of commissioners.

He encouraged students to continue their education, keep working hard and believe in themselves.

Supported by a grant from the North Carolina Community College System, the MMSI at VGCC works to help male students stay in school and on track to graduate or transfer to a four-year university. For more information on the mentoring initiative, contact Anthony Pope at popea@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3395.

–VGCC–

Creedmoor attorney speaks to Vance County Early College students

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Shortly before the recent spring semester ended, attorney Roderick Allison of Creedmoor spoke to Vance County Early College High School students as part of a spring speakers’ series sponsored by the Vance-Granville Community College Male Mentoring Success Initiative (MMSI). VGCC staff member Anthony Pope, co-coordinator of the MMSI, introduced Allison as a “triple threat,” not only an attorney but also a comedian and a musician. Allison has performed comedy and made motivational presentations to groups across the country.

Allison talked with the students, who were joined by some faculty and staff from both the high school and the college, about their dreams and the need for hard work to achieve those dreams. 

“Find out what you’re good at, and focus on that,” Allison advised the students. “Also, know what you’re not good at. Personally, I’m not good at math.” He recalled that in high school, “I made all A’s in math because I’m funny. I made the math teachers laugh and I was creative, and they gave me good grades for the effort!”

Everyone has potential, he emphasized. “In school, I was smart, but mostly, I worked hard and I developed my talents. I ended up being the valedictorian of my graduating class at North Carolina Central University, even though others were smarter than me.” Allison put that same work ethic to practice in comedy, repeatedly practicing a routine in his basement as a young man. He told the young students that they cannot wait until later to develop their talents and skills. “Prepare now for what you want to be,” he said.

Supported by a grant from the North Carolina Community College System, the MMSI at VGCC works to help male students stay in school and on track to graduate or transfer to a four-year university. For more information on the mentoring initiative, contact Anthony Pope at popea@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3395.

–VGCC–

Boys and Girls Club Recognizes 2017 Graduates

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Dre’ Terry will graduate with the Class of 2017, on June 9th, 2017 from Roanoke Rapids High School.  Dre’ will be graduating as a member of DECA and the National Honor Society.  Dre’ plays football, basketball as well as runs track, all while maintaining a 3.8 GPA.  The talented football and basketball player will be majoring in Mathematics, with a minor in Coaching at Chowan University.  Dre’ has signed a letter on intent to play football for Chowan in the fall.  Dre’ has been a member of the Boys and Girls Club since he was in elementary school..  We are so very proud of Dre’.

Christopher Blue has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club for 7 years. As a member Chris has participated in all programs offered. Chris is a member of the 2016 & 2017 African American Quiz Bowl Team, the Keystone Club President, & the 2016 & 2017 Youth of the Year. Chris has earned a position at the Boys & Girls Club as an activity leader. Chris graduated from Vance Granville Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Arts and Science on May 12, 2017 and from Vance County Early College on May 26, 2017. Chris plans to attend Fayetteville State University pursuing a degree in Pre-Dentistry.

Timothy Terry joined the Boys & Girls Club on his 18th birthday and considers it the biggest mistake of his life. Tim regrets not joining the club at an earlier age. While at the Boys & Girls Club Tim worked hard not just at programs but being a leader. As a result of his hard work and leadership Tim earned a position as an Employee. As an employee Tim has created a program Called NBA at the Club. NBA @ The Club allows older members to mentor younger members using the sports of basketball and cheer leading. One of the main focuses is to teach the importance of being a student athlete. Tim graduated from Vance County Early College on May 26th and is on his way to Shaw University to major in Recreation Management and minor in Computer and Information Sciences.

Jaylil Majette has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club for 6 years. As a member Jaylil participated in various programs and Trips. Jaylil was a member of the first place 2015 and 2017 African American Quiz Bowl team. He was also a member of the 16-18 Boys & Girls Club traveling basketball Team. Jaylil is undecided as to where he will be attending this fall but has been accepted to Greensboro College, Pfeiffer University and is awaiting on acceptance letters from Fayetteville State University, and Elizabeth City State University. Jaylil will graduate from Vance County Early College on May 26, 2017.

Ileq Jones has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club for 9 years. As a member Ileq has participated in all programs offered. As Ileq got older his involvement in athletics took him away from the Club but he always kept up his membership so that he could attend when he could. Ileq will be graduating from Southern Vance High School on June 10, 2017 with plans to attend the North Carolina Central University pursuing a degree in Engineering. Ileq has recently been accepted into the Stem program for Engineers to get hands on experience and college credits starting in June.

Kristofer Taylor has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club for 9 years. As a member Kris has participated in all programs that the club has offered. Kris has been a member of the Keystone Club (leadership club), and traveling basketball team. Kris will be graduating from Northern Vance High School on June 10, 2017 with plans to attend East Carolina University pursuing a degree in Sports Medicine & Business.

Quincy Henderson has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club for 5 years. Standing 6’4” he is known as “Teddy” the Teddy Bear. Quincy has been the alternate for the 2016 & 2017 African American Bowl teams and one of the biggest cheerleaders for the 16-18 traveling basketball team. Quincy will graduate Southern Vance High School on June 10, 2017 with plans to attend Vance Granville Community College to pursue a trade in welding.

Lawrence Hodge an Army Vet and 911 first responder came to the Boys  & Girls Club Franklin County Unit as a volunteer looking to help mentor our youth and support Great Futures. While volunteering Lawrence was attending Vance Granville in pursuit of an Associates in Applied Science-Health and Human Services. Somewhere along the way a kitchen manager position at our Vance County unit opened up and Lawrence was the right person to fill it. Lawrence is responsible for preparing food everyday for 3 of our clubs in Vance, Granville, and Franklin counties.

On Friday, May 22, 2017 Lawrence graduated with an Associates in Applied Science-Health and Human Services and walked across the stage with his two children also graduating. We are so proud to have our staff member reach his fullest potential.

Lawrence Plans on pursuing his dream of educating the public about the Prevention, Intervention, and Education of Domestic Violence. He will use his knowledge and business “Real Men Against Domestic Violence”  to make a difference for victims everywhere.

VGCC team competes in electric car race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

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Teamwork is what got a group from Vance-Granville Community College onto the track at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway — not only the teamwork demonstrated by students and faculty from curriculum programs at the college, but also by a team of sponsors from the community who supported them.

For the first time, VGCC sent a team to compete in an event as part of the GreenpowerUSA racing series supported by Siemens and the Sports Car Club of America. GreenpowerUSA is a national organization that promotes education in sustainable engineering and technology by offering challenges for schools based around designing and building a single-seat, electric-powered racecar. The series is open to middle schools, high schools, colleges and corporate teams. After the University of Alabama dropped out of this year’s GreenpowerUSA program, VGCC was the sole remaining college at the Greenpower Grand Prix at Indianapolis on May 1.

The Indy race followed a 10-week period of intense work by VGCC students to design, procure parts, manufacture parts and construct the car. It’s obviously not a cinch to construct a car, for it is a really arduous and tedious process. And the limelight that comes after a really good model is made is completely well-deserving. For example, the Cybertruck Takes A Joy Ride Through Pop Culture right after it was unveiled and has already become popular with all celebrities. But anyway, after Mechatronics Engineering Technology students designed the basic layout, Welding Technology student Joshua Pfohl of Wilton, with assistance from classmate Jared Q. Siemers of Wake Forest, fabricated the frame of the car. From there, the Welding team worked with the Mechatronics students, including Jerry Pierce, Jr. of Stem, Thomas Boyd of Henderson, Kyle Painter of Berea and Charles Nordcliff of Creedmoor, to complete construction and start testing. The drivers for the team were recruited from among the VGCC student body. Driving the car and setting the driving strategy in the final race of the weekend were Jessica Baker of Wake Forest (a pre-Nursing/general education student), Alexa Clayton of Rougemont (Cosmetology) and Olivia Williamson of Oxford (Radiography). None of the students had raced before.

Faculty members leading the effort included Applied Technologies Department Chair Keith Shearon, Welding Program Head Rusty Pace and Engineering Technologies Program Head Wesley Williams.

A number of local business sponsors joined to support the effort, including PowerSecure of Wake Forest, Charles Boyd Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC of Henderson, Vance County Tourism/East Coast Drag Times Hall of Fame, VanNess Chevrolet of Creedmoor, Duke Energy, Toyota of Henderson and Superior Tooling of Wake Forest. In addition, Action Graphics & Signs of Bullock affixed graphics representing the sponsors onto the sides of the car and provided some parts and expertise. The college’s Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) grant funded many of the components and raw materials for the collaborative project.

The Greenpower Grand Prix at IMS featured 27 teams from the United States and Britain coming together to race. The Indy event included two 90-minute races over the 2.6-mile MotoGP layout, during which pit stops were conducted for two driver changes. VGCC’s car placed 21st in the first race and came in 13th in the second. At the finish of the second race, the VGCC car was the fastest on the track. “For that car to have never run a race before, show up and run two races without failing during either, and to finish 13th in the second race, is a phenomenal feat,” Shearon said. He added that the drivers achieved faster speeds than he had expected. Being at the enormous speedway, student Jerry Pierce added, was a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

GreenpowerUSA racecars are built to a specification that includes a single-sourced 24V DC electric motor and two specific 12V DC batteries that are meant to provide similar performance capability between teams, according to Shearon. Teams focus on the engineering problems of reducing friction, total driver/vehicle weight, increasing reliability, and improving aerodynamics. The largest technical challenges are chassis and bodywork design.

“The GreenpowerUSA program is a very good STEM catalyst,” Shearon said. “These projects promote science, technology, engineering and math to students through a hands-on experience as team members. GreenpowerUSA builds teamwork, releases creative energy and inspires confidence through personal achievement.” He added that the effort was “groundbreaking for VGCC, in the sense that we’re going way outside of our community and getting some recognition for our engineering and welding programs.” Shearon expressed his appreciation to the Welding and Mechatronics programs for collaborating so well, and to the local community sponsors for supporting the team.

Shearon said that the college plans to expand the program next year with more cars and hopes to encourage other local schools and colleges to compete. For more information on the TAACCCT grant program and participating in the next GreenpowerUSA project as a student, contact Zane Styers at styersz@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3342 or Keith Shearon at shearonj@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3256.

–VGCC–

VGCC Golf Tournament sets new record with more than $116,000 raised

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Vance-Granville Community College’s 33rd annual Endowment Fund Golf Tournament, presented by Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, hit a new record total by raising $116,675 to help fund scholarships for deserving students and support the mission of the college. That result surpassed the $104,160 generated in 2016, in what was previously the highest-grossing golf tournament in VGCC history.

A total of 161 golfers formed 41 teams to play in either the morning or the afternoon round on May 2, 2017, at Henderson Country Club.

“We are so appreciative of all the golfers and sponsors who demonstrated their commitment to education and economic development again this year,” said VGCC President Dr. Stelfanie Williams. “Such strong community support made this our most successful tournament ever and beat our previous fundraising record for the sixth consecutive year. Since 1985, VGCC golf tournaments have now raised more than $862,000, making a significant impact on our students and our college.”

At the dinner held to round out the day, players received trophies as they also took home an assortment of door prizes and participated in a silent auction. VGCC student Evan O’Geary of Henderson, who is also the reigning “Miss Henderson,” expressed her thanks to those who participated in the tournament.

In the morning round, the team of Jordan Peterson, Michael Patterson, Tim Gemmell and Billy Gillispie took home the “first net” trophy.

The team of Xavier Wortham, Cecil Lockley, Darryl Moss and Mike Bonfield won “second net.”

The “first gross” trophy went to the AAA team of Hal Finch, Kyle Holtzman, David Thomas and Blair Thomas.

In the afternoon round, the Union Bank team, which included John Burns, Gene Edmundson, Andrew Byrd and Carlston Harris, finished with the “first net” score.

The team of Jan Fletcher, Steve McNally, George Foster and Steven Brame won “second net.”

The “first gross” trophy in the afternoon went to the Institutional Interiors team of Tim Hill, Billy Stanton, Macy Foster and George Watkins.

Dennis Daniel took the longest-drive prize on Hole 1 in the morning round, while Tripp Watkins of the Rose Oil team had the longest drive in the afternoon.

David Rigsbee of the Durham Coca-Cola team won the closest to the pin prize on Hole 11 in the morning, and Chris Cheever of the MR Williams team took that honor in the afternoon round.

Numerous companies and individuals supported the VGCC tournament as sponsors. In addition to presenting sponsor Santa Fe Natural Tobacco, the “Premier Sponsors” included Ardagh; Charles Boyd Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC; Bridgestone; Carolina Commonwealth; Coldwell Banker Advantage; Duke Energy; Durham Coca-Cola; First Citizens Bank Investor Services; Glen Raven; Maria Parham Health; Novozymes North America, Inc.; Private Wealth Management of N.C.; Robling Medical; Rose Oil Company; Union Bank; Universal Leaf North America U.S., Inc.; and Wester Insurance Agency.

Platinum sponsors were Altec; CertainTeed; Granville Health System; HD Supply; Institutional Interiors; Inter Technologies Corporation; K-Flex; Kilian Engineering; MR Williams; Park Automation; Sullins Engineering; The Athlete’s Foot; Vanco Outdoor Equipment; and Variety Stores, Inc.

Gold sponsors for the tournament were Carolina Sunrock; Encore Technology Group; Golden Skillet; Ted’s Catering Service; and Winston International.

Green sponsors included 220 Seafood Restaurant; Backyard Retreat Pools & Spas; Barnett Real Properties, Inc.; Bearpond Fresh Market; Burger King; CEI – The Digital Office; Cleary & Spears, DDS, PA; Dr. Ben Currin; Greystone Concrete Products; H.G. Reynolds; MARS Petcare; Mast Drug Company; Mpact Training Solutions; Nick & Sons Truck Repair; Prim Development & Residential Rentals; RFR Metal Fabrication; Southern Laundry; Vescom North America; Wake Electric Membership Corporation; Watkins Plumbing; J.M. White Funeral Service; and Keith and Stelfanie Williams.

Silver sponsors were AAA Gas & Appliance Company and Circuit Technology, Inc.

Tee box sponsors were Ahner Security; ARC3 Gases; Dr. Angela Ballentine; Banzet, Thompson, & Styers PLLC; Brame Specialty Company; Brassfield Commercial Realty; C & P Body Shop; Carolina Country Snacks; Stacey Carter-Coley; Dave Carver; Century 21 Country Knolls Realty, Inc.; City Tire, Inc.; Clayton Homes-Oxford; Comfort Zone Designers; Cross & Currin Attorneys at Law; Dave, Kay and Alexandria Currin; Dabney Drive Animal Hospital; Alex Drake, DDS, PA; Early Insurance Services, Inc.; EarlyFalsom Properties, Inc.; Encore Technology Group; Eddie and Debra Ferguson; Flowers Funeral Home; Frazco, Inc. Insurance – Real Estate; Fred’s Towing & Transport, Inc.; Granville County EDC; Hight Warehouses, Inc.; Hopper, Hicks, Wrenn, PLLC; Innovative Green Builders; Medical Arts Pharmacy; Morton and Sherman Implement Co., Inc.; Mosely Plumbing Company, Inc.; Marsha J. Nelson; One Source Document Solutions; Pete Smith’s Tire and Quick Lube; Phillips Dorsey Thomas Waters & Brafford, P.A.; Professional Pharmacy-Oxford; REW Medical Wear; Riggs-Harrod; Robco; Sam Royster, Attorney at Law; Sherman & Boddie, Inc.; Skipper Forsyth’s Bar-B-Q; Southern Educational Systems; Stainback, Satterwhite & Zollicoffer, PLLC; Sunrise Biscuits of Oxford; The Daily Dispatch; Curtis and Joanne Thompson; Vance Construction Company; Vance-Granville Deans; VGCC Communications Department; VGCC Franklin Campus; VGCC South Campus; Waste Industries, Inc.; Whitco Bug Warriors; J.M. White Funeral Service; William L. Stark and Company; and WOW Wash on Wheels.

The following individuals and businesses made contributions or other gifts to support the tournament:

Ace Hardware of Oxford; Bamboo Garden; Bojangles; Carolina Country Snacks; City Tire; Cracker Barrel of Henderson; Fastenal; George’s of Henderson; Golden Skillet; Harvest; Bob Hubbard; Ichibar; Institutional Interiors Inc.; International Paper; Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse; Nan’s Young Fashions; Pino’s; Rose Oil Company; Schewels Furniture Company; Smithfield’s Chicken ‘n Bar-B-Q;  Staffmark; Stella & Dot – Michele Burgess; Tarheel Vending and Wholesale; The Angus Barn; The Peanut Roaster; Tournament Promotions; Vance Furniture; Vanco Equipment Services; Variety Wholesalers/Roses Stores; Robert Winston; Jim Beck; Jim Crawford; Joe and Betty Jo Hamme; Ann Lee;   John Nelms; Newton Instrument Company; Revlon; Tom Robinson, Jr., CPA; Tru-Green Landscaping; Linda Weaver; and Sara Wester.

Each year, the golf tournament is the major fundraising event for the VGCC Endowment Fund, through which more than 8,800 scholarships have been awarded to students since 1982. Scholarships have been established by individuals, industries, businesses, civic groups, churches and the college’s faculty and staff. For more information, call (252) 738-3409.

–VGCC–

VGCC graduates 11 cadets in school’s 104th BLET Class

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Eleven cadets graduated on May 16 from the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program at Vance-Granville Community College, in a ceremony held in the Civic Center on Main Campus. After passing the state certification exam, all are authorized to work in any law enforcement agency in North Carolina.

Graduates of VGCC’s 104th BLET class included Jill Nicole McLean of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office; Spencer Reid Warehime of the Granville County Sheriff’s Office; Shawn Maurice Brown, Jr., of the Henderson Police Department; Alonza Kyle Fitts of the Louisburg College Campus Police Department; Jacob Matthew Gardner, Thomas Sellers Marrow and Joshua Taylor Mills, all of the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation; Kevin Wayne Murphy of the Oxford Police Department; Christopher Michael Agamaite of the Roxboro Police Department; Mark Donald McNamara of the San Jose (California) Police Department; and Kirk Richardson of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.

The ceremony began with a presentation of colors by students from the ROTC program at Northern Vance High School, and the singing of the national anthem by NVHS student Jaylen Webb.

In welcoming remarks, Dr. Angela Ballentine, VGCC’s vice president of academic affairs, thanked the many leaders from local and state law enforcement agencies in attendance for partnering with the college. “We are honored to work with you, and we thank you for supporting our cadets, providing many of our instructors, and hiring our graduates, as together, we promote increased safety and quality of life for the communities we serve,” Ballentine told the law enforcement representatives. “All of today’s graduates are either employed or have at least accepted conditional job offers from law enforcement agencies.” She congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the rigorous, 667-hour training program and encouraged them to continue their education. “I wish you success and safety as you protect and serve all of us,” Ballentine added.

Speaking as leader of the class, Cadet Jill McLean thanked the many instructors who had trained them, as well as the family members and friends who were there to support the graduates. “These past four months have flown by,” McLean reflected. “This class has taught us a lot about ourselves and what it takes to do this job. I could not have asked for a better group of guys to take on BLET with. We are a ‘family’ of eleven. These guys have made my job as class leader extremely easy.”

Graduates selected Sgt. Christopher Dickerson of the Roxboro Police Department, one of their instructors, to serve as their featured speaker. He is a 2006 graduate of the VGCC BLET program. “This profession is the greatest profession in the world,” Dickerson said of law enforcement. He noted that in 2016, a Gallup poll found that Americans had a higher opinion of their local police than in any survey since 1967.  Dickerson recalled, “I asked you why you wanted to be a police officer, as I do in every class. I heard ‘I want to help my community’ or ‘I want to make my family proud.’ Not a single one gave a selfish response, and that’s why you’re here today.”

He asked the graduates to “remember your drive and what put you in this class” and “never forget your first badge. By pinning that badge on your chest, you have joined the largest family in the entire world.”

Andrea Hyson, the training program coordinator, and instructor Glen Boyd presented awards to the top students in the class in three categories. Murphy won the “Top Gun” Award for having the highest accuracy score in firearms qualification. Fitts earned the Physical Fitness Award for scoring highest in the various fitness tests the cadets undergo during physical training. McLean took home the Academic Achievement Award for having the top grade average in the written tests each cadet must pass.

For more information on the BLET program, contact Hyson at hysona@vgcc.edu.

–VGCC–

VGCC pins Associate Degree Nursing graduates

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Vance-Granville Community College recognized 41 students who graduated this spring from the Associate Degree Nursing program with a pinning ceremony in the college’s Civic Center on May 10.

Among those honored with distinctive nursing pins at the ceremonies were seven who graduated through the LPN to ADN Transition Program, which helps Licensed Practical Nurses to continue their education and then become Registered Nurses. These graduates were Ashley Brooke Jones of Bullock; Brittany Mechel Champion and Martina Usher McKinnon, both of Creedmoor; Theresa Ann Channer of Durham; Kimberly Ramsey Ilupeju of Hillsborough; Heather Margaret Pipkin of Kittrell; and Jahid Kwaku Ross of Winston-Salem.

The graduates who took courses in the traditional five-semester sequence included Peggy Marie Forsythe of Bahama; Amber Buchanan Womack of Bullock; Connie Frances Bass of Creedmoor; Taylor Sommer George, Fathia Gyamfi, April Latoya Harris, Lucy Wambui Ngethe and LaDonya Santrell Tinnin, all of Durham; Jenna Marie Davis, Heather Jade Floyd, Emily Gordon McGhee, Erin Breslin Woodlief and Lonnie Linwood Wright, all of Franklinton; Madelaine Lyon Sachs of Henderson; Reneé Kathleen Jackson of Kittrell; Jordan Lynne West of Littleton; Rachel Anne Edwards and Victoria Mae Turner, both of Louisburg; Marissa Abuyen Coghill, Talia Monique Dyce, Stacy Nicole Miles and Sharon Nikita Ray, all of Oxford; Sara Elizabeth Wheeler and Katherine Darby McRae, both of Raleigh; Courtney Mae Humphries and Abbey Gentry Loftis, both of Roxboro; Sandra Holland Enloe of Stem; Heather Jean Avery, Brooke Ashton Hursey and Kayla Dawn Roberson, all of Wake Forest; Taylor Reneé Crisp and Amanda Lee Oser, both of Warrenton; Sonia Beverly Childers of Wendell; and Deborah Yvett Janifer of Youngsville.

In welcoming remarks, VGCC President Dr. Stelfanie Williams congratulated the students on their success. “The class of 2017 is the most recruited class we’ve had in our history,” she said, noting that at least 26 had already obtained employment by the time of the ceremony. She thanked the graduates’ families and friends, as well as their instructors, for their support. “This occasion demonstrates the excellence of our esteemed Nursing faculty and the other faculty and staff who have educated, inspired and supported the graduates to this achievement,” Williams added. “Graduates, just as VGCC has made an impact on your lives, you will make a difference in the lives of others as registered nurses,” the president told the members of the class. “We are proud to have trained you for such a worthy endeavor.”

Class of 2017 President Brooke Hursey made welcoming remarks on behalf of her classmates as they reached the culmination of what she termed “a long and very difficult journey.” She thanked the graduates’ families and friends “for not allowing any of us to quit,” and their instructors, “for the education you have provided and the foundation you have helped us lay in nursing.” Hursey added that during the program, the class had become like a family and had overcome “huge obstacles.”

Student Heather Floyd presented a gift on behalf of the class to the VGCC Nursing department: a plaque engraved with a quote attributed to Florence Nightingale, “I attribute my success to this — I never gave or took any excuses.”

Academic honors were presented to graduates who completed the program with at least a 3.5 grade point average: Dyce, Enloe, Jackson, Jones and finally Sachs, who was recognized for having the highest GPA in the class.

Cords were presented to students who participated as members of the National Student Nurses Association, which sponsors community service projects and professional development. These students included Avery, Bass, Crisp, Davis, Edwards, Floyd, Forsythe, Humphries, Hursey, Jackson, Janifer, Loftis, McGhee, McRae, Oser, Roberson, Tinnin, Turner, Wheeler, Woodlief and Wright.

Former VGCC Nursing instructor Tracey Hight, who now works for Granville Health System, served as guest speaker for the ceremony. “It has been a pleasure to work with each student who will be pinned tonight,” she said. “I am grateful to be part of your nursing career.” She offered three pieces of advice to the graduates.

“First, treat your patients like they were your family members,” Hight said. “Patients are people, our people, the people we feel called to help.” Second, she told her former students, “have no fear and believe in yourself. The career path you have chosen is wide open. Do not be afraid of change and the doors that may open for you. Continue your education, reach for the stars and know that the options are endless.”

Finally, Hight said, “You are ready to go into the world and become a nurse. As scary as that seems now, you have had education to prepare you. You’re ready to become the nurse you’ve always dreamed of. After you pass the NCLEX [National Council Licensure Examination] and walk into your new job as a nurse and receive the name badge that says ‘RN,’ your heart will thump with excitement and your stomach will fill with anxiety. Just look at that name badge and those letters RN and remember that Ms. Hight said you were ready.”

Instructor Heather Wilson described the significance of the nursing pin. The unique green and gold pin identifies each nurse as a VGCC graduate, and indicates that the graduate has the training and competence to serve as a professional nurse. During the ceremony, graduates were pinned by Associate Degree Nursing program head/instructor Anna Seaman, and received lamps and roses from instructors Julia Falkner and Dr. Markiesha Edgerton. Meanwhile, Nursing Department Chair Erica Jastrow read their biographies. After all graduates had received pins, the lights in the Civic Center were lowered, and instructor Crystal Senter led students in reciting the “Florence Nightingale Pledge” by lamp-light.

–VGCC–

SCAM JAM Planned In Person County on June 14

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Henderson – A recent survey shows that nearly all North Carolinians 50 years and older worry about being a victim of fraud. On June 14, the Kerr Tar Area Agency on Aging with the Person County Senior Center has scheduled a Scam Jam to help educate seniors to protect themselves from frauds and scams.

The Person County SCAM JAM is a free educational and entertaining forum where seniors will learn to avoid today’s scams and frauds, from identity theft to telemarketing and consumer and Medicare frauds.

Elder Abuse takes many forms and it is not always immediately apparent. In fact, many of the signs and symptoms of elder abuse mimic symptoms associated with aging, but should not be ignored. Failure to recognize and avoid fraud and exploitation can ruin one’s financial security. Financial abuse involves unauthorized use of an elderly person’s funds or property, either by a family member, caregiver, or an outside scam artist. Signs of financial abuse may include: significant withdrawals from accounts, missing cash or items from household, suspicious changes in wills, power of attorney, titles, and policies, unpaid bills or lack of medical care, although the elder has enough money to pay for them and unnecessary services, goods, subscriptions.

The SCAM JAM is designed to empower citizens to protect themselves and their families. Scheduled speakers include representatives from the Senior Medicare Patrol from the North Carolina Department of Insurance, North Carolina Attorney General’s Office, North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State as well as local Law Enforcement.

This free half day seminar will begin at 1:30 p.m. ending at 4:30 p.m. and will be held at the Person County Senior Center, 87 Semora Road, Roxboro.

The Kerr Tar Area Agency on Aging leads and is involved in the efforts that provide for the development and enhancement of comprehensive and coordinated community based systems of services, opportunities, and protections for older adults which assist them in leading independent, meaningful and dignified lives in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

We serve five counties, Franklin, Granville, Person, Vance and Warren.

For more information about the Kerr Tar Area Agency on Aging, please call 252-436-2040.

Oxford Prep Inducts 47 into Beta Club

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Friday, in a school-wide ceremony, 47 students in grades 9 through 12 were surprised as they were tapped to join Oxford Preparatory School Beta Club, an academic and service oriented honor society. Beta Club President Rachel Sanya explained the meaning and history of Beta Club followed by Vice-President Noah Greenway who explained the principles expected of Beta Club members. Senior Beta Club member Alyssa Ross shared with the audience of over 450 people what the requirements are to maintain Beta Club membership at Oxford Prep. Students who were being tapped were then surprised as Senior Betas Zoe Peace, Jonathan Cole, Hunter Strickland, Asa Thomas, Alyssa Ross, Rachel Sanya, and Noah Greenway led in the notification ceremony by calling the names, providing a formal invitation to join and draping a academic excellence medal about the candidates’ necks.

To be invited for membership students must have completed at least 3 full semesters at Oxford Prep, must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and must have no grade less than a C. Students must maintain this high academic expectation along with giving 20 service hours per year in order to remain a member of the Beta Club. Students who choose to accept the invitation to join Beta Club will be formally inducted in a formal, evening candlelight ceremony in the fall of 2017.

Students invited to become members of the OPS Beta Club are:

Wes Aitken
Aymen Alashmli
Alex Bare
Josh Blackburn
Jacob Bliss
Autumn Brantley
Hannah Brewer
Brian burch
Kim Campbell
McKayla Campbell
Ethan Collins
Jason Corbett
Callie Danehy
Zach Ellington
Erica Evitts
Nelson Fuentes
Danny Gillis
Claire Gordon
Maria Kate Graham
Montana Hamlin
Misty Holloway
Ridge Huff
Kaylah Hunt
Emily Iannuzzi
John Linge
Jose Kyle Maghanoy
Shawn Matthews
Nathan Metcalf
Sophia Metcalf
Rick O’Neal
Krystal Parrish
Mira Patel
Mackenzie Pendergrass
Cesar Ponciano Quintana
Justin Ranes
Allie Reeder
Trey Reese
Jaylen Rose
Camden Ross
Maecy Ross
Kyle Satterwhite
Adam Sizemore
Hampton Short
Kaitlyn Spain
Jackson Vaughan
Travis Wallace
Christian West
Zoie Wilson

 

Victoria Bradsher

Assistant Director

Oxford Preparatory School