VGCC celebrates first graduates supported by ‘VanGuarantee’ scholarship

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HENDERSON, N.C. — When six students walked across the stage to receive their degrees at Vance-Granville Community College’s May commencement exercises, they quietly made history. They were among the first graduates of the college who had received the “VanGuarantee” scholarship to help eliminate any financial barriers standing between them and their academic goals.

The innovative scholarship program was first announced in 2016 by the president of the college, Dr. Stelfanie Williams, with the first scholarships being awarded in the fall 2016 semester. The VanGuarantee was made possible by a $1.6 million bequest to VGCC from the estate of Wilbert A. Edwards, a resident of Oxford at the time of his death and a native of Vance County. The gift, announced in 2015, is the second largest in the history of the college. 

Three of the VanGuarantee recipients participating in Commencement were graduates of the Associate Degree Nursing program: Brittany Champion of Creedmoor, Courtney Humphries of eastern Granville County and Erin Woodlief of Franklinton. Alicia Toler of Raleigh, a former Granville County resident, graduated with an Associate in Arts degree. Kristen Honaker of Henderson completed a degree in Pharmacy Technology. Tanisha Silver of Warrenton graduated from the Medical Office Administration degree program.

“Receiving the VanGuarantee meant a lot to me,” Silver reflected. “I received a community college grant for the fall 2016 semester, but I still didn’t have enough to pay for my books. I was told about the VanGuarantee scholarship, and I was ecstatic about it. It has helped me out a lot, because it has made it possible for me to finish school.” Silver is currently in the job market for employment in a doctor’s office or hospital setting and is considering continuing her education at the bachelor’s degree level. A former certified nursing assistant and a mother, she said she waited until all of her children were in school to work on advancing her own career through education.

Toler said she was very appreciative of the opportunity that the VanGuarantee provided her. She intends to transfer into a four-year university to study nursing. “Had it not been for the VGCC Financial Aid Office staff, particularly Ms. Tonya Strum, telling me about the VanGuarantee scholarship, I don’t think I would have been able to stay in school,” Toler said.

At least two graduates are already employed, Champion in the emergency room at Duke Regional Hospital in Durham and Humphries at Maria Parham Health in Henderson, working in Outpatient Surgical Services. “I am very thankful that I was able to receive the VanGuarantee this year,” Humphries said. “It has helped me finish my last two semesters of RN school. I am truly blessed beyond words!”

The VanGuarantee is designed to cover tuition, student fees and/or textbooks for eligible students whose financial needs are unmet by federal financial aid and other means of support. The program is one of a number of “promise” or “guarantee” programs across the country, created by individual colleges or by states, in response to growing concerns from policymakers and students about the rising cost of higher education. In 2016, the VanGuarantee was recognized by the White House and national groups focused on college affordability.

Some college promise programs are open only to recent high school graduates, but the VanGuarantee applies to all eligible adults in the four counties, reflecting VGCC’s longstanding tradition of helping adults retrain for new careers at any age.

Among the eligibility requirements for the VanGuarantee, students must reside in the college’s service area (Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties) and qualify for in-state tuition. Eligible students must enroll in at least nine credit hours per semester in any VGCC curriculum program and not already possess a post-secondary degree from any college or university. They must first apply for and meet the eligibility requirements for federal and state financial aid programs. Next, they apply for endowed VGCC scholarships. When students still lack the funds to pay for their education after exhausting those and other sources, the VanGuarantee program helps to fill the gap. That makes the program an example of what is often called a “last-dollar scholarship.”

Once enrolled in the VanGuarantee program, students must maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average (GPA) to continue receiving the scholarship.

For more information on applying for the VanGuarantee, students can visit www.vgcc.edu/fao/vanguarantee.

–VGCC–

VGCC Receives Largest Grant in School History

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CREEDMOOR, N.C. — Vance-Granville Community College today announced it received an in-kind software grant from Siemens PLM Software, with a commercial value of $31 million.

The in-kind grant gives students access to the same technology that companies around the world depend on every day to develop innovative products in a wide variety of industries including automotive, aerospace, machinery, shipbuilding, high-tech electronics and many more.

Graduates with this type of software training are highly-recruited candidates for advanced technology jobs.

The in-kind grant was provided by the Siemens PLM Software’s academic program that delivers PLM software for schools at every academic level. Siemens PLM Software is a leading global provider of product lifecycle management (PLM) software and services.

The in-kind grant for VGCC includes Siemens PLM Software’sTecnomatix® portfolio, the industry-leading digital manufacturing software.

This is in addition to a previous in-kind grant that included the company’s Solid Edge® software, an intuitive product development platform for accelerating all aspects of product creation, including 3D design, simulation, visualization, manufacturing, and design management.

Both software packages will be used by students in VGCC’s Mechatronics Engineering Technology degree program.

“Vance-Granville Community College would like to thank Siemens PLM Software for this generous grant of advanced engineering software that enables our students to better prepare for successful advanced technology careers,” said Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the president of VGCC. “By using the same technology in the classroom that is used by companies all over the world to develop a wide variety of products, our students gain important real-world experience during their studies that will serve them well after graduation.”

“Despite an immediate, critical need for qualified technology-trained professionals in manufacturing, our customers have difficulty finding qualified candidates,” said Dora Smith, global director, Academic Partner Program, Siemens PLM Software. “Working with Vance-Granville Community College, Siemens PLM Software is helping prepare students with the knowledge and experience to fill this skills gap and become highly qualified employees.”

About Vance-Granville Community College
Vance-Granville Community College, one of the 58 institutions of the North Carolina Community College System, is the local source for higher education and training in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties, north of the Research Triangle. Established in 1969, VGCC today serves students at four campuses (one in each county of the service area) and online. The college offers more than 40 curriculum programs, as well as occupational certifications, continuing education, adult education, customized training for employers and the first two years of a four-year degree. VGCC’s Mechatronics Engineering Technology degree program is based at the college’s South Campus, located near Creedmoor in southern Granville County. For more information, visit www.vgcc.edu.

–VGCC–

Legal note

Note: Solid Edge and Tecnomatix are trademarks or registered trademarks of Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and in other countries.

Local Teachers Attend Summer Professional Development Training

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Vance County Schools

For Immediate Release

June 20, 2017 

Career and Technical Education teachers in Vance County Schools are joining their counterparts from Granville, Franklin and Warren counties in a three-day “AMSTA Summer Cruisers” professional development training this week.

The educators are shown in the accompanying photo as they worked on an activity during their “Lean Manufacturing” training today in the Vance County Schools’ Administrative Services Center.

They began the training on June 19 and toured the Dill Air Controls and Revlon manufacturing plants in Granville County. They also heard presentations on youth services and how to best prepare students to be career and college ready. In addition to the manufacturing training session today, they also are touring the bioMerieux plant in Durham County. They will conclude their participation in the AMSTA event tomorrow at Franklinton High School in Franklin County, where they will meet with state commerce officials and listen to educational presentations including a session entitled, “School Choice and the Impact on Public Schools.”

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–

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 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.

VGCC grads encouraged by presidents of Community College System and student government

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Less than one year into his tenure as president of the North Carolina Community College System, Dr. James C. “Jimmie” Williamson addressed some of his system’s newest graduates as the principal speaker at Vance-Granville Community College’s 48th commencement exercises on May 12. Members of the Class of 2017 were joined by numerous loved ones at the outdoor ceremony in front of the gazebo on the college’s Main Campus.

While saluting the graduates’ accomplishments thus far, Williamson focused on what their future would hold. “Today is not just an end, it is also a commencement, a new beginning,” he said. “Each of you has a unique ‘what’s next’ path before you. Regardless of your path, you will face obstacles along the way. It’s how you handle those obstacles that will matter the most.”

Williamson said that his own career path had not always been focused. “In hindsight, everything I’ve ever done has led me to this position today, but it was not always so clear for me,” he told the graduates. “Early on in my career, I landed in jobs, almost serendipitously at times, that enabled me to explore new ideas and concepts which I had never considered.” Likewise, Williamson advised graduates to be on the lookout for moments that offer the unexpected. “I’ve never had an opportunity come up to me and shout, ‘Hey, I’m that great opportunity that you’ve been waiting for!’” he said. “No, instead, it presents itself as a challenge or a roadblock that gently steers me in the direction that, upon reflection, seems to be the most obvious of all choices. I would urge you to fully vet any and every opportunity that comes your way.”

The state community college system leader cited the example of twin brothers in the graduating class, Paul and Peter Caroline of Louisburg, who looked at challenges as opportunities to be seized. Williamson formally presented the system’s Academic Excellence Award to Paul, just after he received his Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees. Both brothers, Franklin County Early College High School students, have received full QuestBridge scholarships, Williamson said, Paul to the University of Pennsylvania and Peter to Stanford University. “They will both make the N.C. Community College System, VGCC and their community proud as they embark on stellar academic pursuits,” Williamson said. “Paul and Peter, we are honored to have been a part of your future.”

Colton Hayes of Epsom, who graduated with an Associate in Arts degree, spoke on behalf of his classmates. A Franklin County Early College High School student, Hayes is the first student from an early college program to serve as president of the VGCC Student Government Association and student member of the college’s Board of Trustees. He is set to continue his education at North Carolina State University in the fall.

Hayes said that his time as a VGCC student had taught him about hard work and persistence. “For my fellow students about to walk across this stage tonight, things are about to change,” Hayes said. “Some of you are going straight into the workforce. Some are transferring to four-year universities to further your education. Some may even be going into the line of duty to serve our country. No matter what it is you do, it’s going to be far different from anything you’ve done up until this point, and it’s probably going to be a lot harder than anything you’ve ever done. But we’re going to deal with this the way we’ve dealt with everything else in our lives. We’re going to push forward. We’re going to get stronger. We’re going to get better. And we’re going to jump over every hurdle that life throws at us.”

Following the speakers, Dr. Stelfanie Williams, president of VGCC, applauded the graduates for their achievements. “The class of 2017 is a fine group of scholars,” she said, with 70 inductees into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society and one third of the class recognized as honor graduates. She noted the diversity of the class, who included not only young Early College High School students, but also “students who have attended college while taking care of families, and some students who are the first in their families to earn a college degree. These graduates reflect our living mission.”

After Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Angela Ballentine presented the candidates for graduation, Board of Trustees chair Danny Wright and President Williams presented degrees and diplomas and congratulated the graduates. 

Members of this year’s class, including those predicted to graduate at the end of the summer term in July, were awarded a total of 523 credentials. These included 242 Associate in Applied Science degrees in a variety of curriculum programs, 174 Associate in Arts degrees, 59 Associate in Science degrees and 48 technical and vocational diplomas. Many students graduated with more than one credential.

Hayes led the new graduates in ceremonially turning their tassels as the ceremony concluded. Music was provided by the Vance-Granville Community Band, conducted by Brian Miller. Bearing the ceremonial mace for commencement was Law Enforcement/BLET Coordinator/Instructor Andrea Hyson, the college’s 2016-2017 Faculty Member of the Year.

–VGCC–