-Information courtesy Tannis Jenkins, Warren County High School
Warren County High School is sponsoring an “Around the World” International Fair on Thursday, February 21, 2019, from 4-6 p.m. in the school’s gymnasium. The public is invited to participate.
The school is located at 149 Campus Dr. in Warrenton, NC.
If you have any questions about the event, please contact Valeria Rodriguez at (252) 257-4413.
-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College
Cyrus Jover of Henderson, the first participant in Vance-Granville Community College’s new apprenticeship partnership with Frigi-Temp of Youngsville, took third place in the North Carolina State Fair HVAC Apprenticeship Competition in October.
“I’m extremely proud of Cyrus and the way he represented the Frig-Temp team,” said Cory Thornton, chief operating officer of the commercial heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) company.
Jover joined the apprenticeship program earlier this year. Already enrolled in the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology program at VGCC, he had worked in the HVAC field for almost four years before he became an apprentice, but only in residential installation.
Cyrus Jover of Henderson, a VGCC student who participates in the VGCC apprenticeship program through Frigi-Temp of Youngsville, placed third in the 14th Annual Apprentice HV/AC-R Contest at the N.C. State Fair in October. In the photo above, Jover is being tested on his brazing skill level and safety precautions during one section of the day-long competition. Event organizers gave instructions and then, as shown in the background of the photo, judged students on how well they soldered while also observing their steps to follow good safety measures. (Photo Credit: VGCC)
The 14th Annual Apprentice HV/AC-R (Heating, Ventilation/Air Conditioning – Refrigeration) Contest was open to the first 20 applicants, registered in a program recognized by the N.C. Department of Commerce, who have completed less than 8,000 hours of training. Eight apprentices participated and six were awarded prizes. Third place awarded a prize of $175 out of a total of $1,325 in prizes to the top finishers. The top three finishers received extra prizes with Jover winning a tool bag, hand tools, and a drill set in addition.
The contest was designed to promote interest among apprentices in the skilled construction trades, according to the NC State Fair organizers. “This contest dramatizes a ‘job training program’ through which ApprenticeshipNC has assisted voluntary efforts of industry to meet their needs for skilled workers,” apprenticeship director Kathryn Castelloes said. “These skilled craftworkers have contributed significantly to the economic growth of North Carolina.”
A program of the North Carolina Community College System, ApprenticeshipNC seeks to “ensure the state has an innovative, relevant, effective and efficient workforce development system that develops adaptable, work ready, skilled talent to meet the current and future needs of works and businesses to achieve and sustain economic prosperity,” NCCCS says on its website.
Jover’s entry into the competition came at the suggestion of NCCCS staff, Thornton said. “Cyrus was signed up for the event even before he knew about it,” Thornton added, noting that it was a great experience for Jover and the company.
“I was very nervous going in because I had never competed in a contest like this,” Jover said. “You do not know how skilled your competitors are because they are strangers. You have no idea what to expect from them or the contest. I was also nervous because I knew that Vance-Granville and Frigi-Temp were depending on me to represent them well.”
“Despite the pressure and nerves,” he added, “the competition was a fun learning experience because it shows you how you rank when up against your peers. It also shows you how much more there is to learn so that you can be the best.” Thornton added that the contest began at 8 a.m. and lasted until 3 p.m.
Cory Thornton, chief operating officer for Frigi-Temp in Youngsville, left, celebrates with Cyrus Jover, a student in the Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology program at VGCC who is also an apprentice with Frig-Temp. Jover placed third in the 14th Annual Apprentice HV/AC-R Contest at the N.C. State Fair in October. (Photo Credit: VGCC)
“If I could hire five more team members just like him I would do so in an instant,” Thornton said. ”His drive to become a professional, his humility, his work ethic and the way that he chooses to work as a true team player is something I truly admire about him. I am humbled that I get to work at Frigi-Temp alongside Cyrus and many others just like him.”
Jover is originally from the Philippines, where he earned a college degree in Biology before coming to the United States seven years ago, at age 20. Here, he found that the HVAC field had numerous job openings. He enrolled at VGCC, first as a part-time and then a full-time student. Now, he is done with almost all of his classwork and spends most of his time working at Frigi-Temp. He sometimes works a full 40 hours per week at the company while continuing his studies.
Thornton said the apprenticeship program is going very well while “still in its infancy.” “We have high hopes for the future and look forward to hiring several more apprentices over the next year,” he said.
As for next year’s competition at the State Fair, Thornton says Frigi-Temp will be ready for another round. “We weren’t able to coach Cyrus prior to the event and, with this being the first time, none of us any idea what to expect,” he said. “He did an excellent job by placing in third and next year we are looking forward to him taking first place.”
Michael Whittemore, program head for Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration at VGCC, shared in Thornton’s excitement about Jover’s accomplishment. “Cyrus is exactly as Cory describes him. He is an excellent student and he makes Vance-Granville proud, not only for this contest but also for the professional manner in which he performs as an apprentice at Frigi-Temp,” he said.
Students interested in enrolling in the program can contact Whittemore at whittemorem@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3214.
Employers who are interested in partnering with VGCC on apprenticeships are encouraged to contact Ken Wilson, project manager for VGCC’s TechHire grant program, at wilsonk@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3259.
-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College
The State Board of Community Colleges has approved the appointment of Dr. Rachel Desmarais as president of Vance-Granville Community College.
She will begin her tenure as the seventh president in the college’s history on Monday, Jan. 28, 2019, according to Danny W. Wright, chair of the VGCC Board of Trustees. The action of the State Board came at its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 18, at the North Carolina Community College System offices in Raleigh.
Currently the executive vice president and chief operating officer of Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, Dr. Desmarais was selected for her new position by the VGCC trustees on Dec. 5. She was among nearly 90 applicants for the post.
The new president succeeds Dr. Stelfanie Williams who left in August to become the vice president for Durham affairs at Duke University. Dr. Gordon Burns, retired president of Wilkes Community College, is serving as interim president for VGCC until Dr. Desmarais takes office.
The State Board of Community Colleges has approved the appointment of Dr. Rachel Desmarais as president of Vance-Granville Community College. She will begin her tenure as the seventh president in the college’s history on Monday, Jan. 28, 2019.
-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College
Dr. Rachel M. Desmarais has been chosen as the next president of Vance-Granville Community College. With the final approval of the appointment by the State Board of Community Colleges on Dec. 18, she becomes the seventh president in the 49-year history of the college.
The VGCC Board of Trustees selected Dr. Desmarais on Wednesday, Dec. 5, following presentations by three finalists in a series of public forums from Nov. 30 through Dec. 4.
“The Board of Trustees has concluded Dr. Desmarais possesses the key attributes of an outstanding president that were identified in our search process,” said Danny W. Wright, chair of the board. “We are confident that Dr. Desmarais will provide: the visionary leadership to help our college expand and to promote economic development in our four counties, a powerful commitment to student recruitment and retention, the dedication to improving the lives of the people in our service area, the attention to facility planning and sustainability, and the articulation of our mission and vision to the college’s employees and the communities we serve.”
Dr. Rachel M. Desmarais, chosen as seventh president of Vance-Granville Community College.
The selection comes after a nationwide search that produced 89 applicants. She will begin work early in 2019.
The executive vice president and chief operating officer of Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem since 2015, Dr. Desmarais has been with Forsyth Tech in a variety of roles since becoming a department chair in 2002. Once a student at Forsyth Tech, taking Information Technology and Programming courses in 1994-1995, Dr. Desmarais became an adjunct instructor at the community college from 1996 to 1999 while also working in the private sector. She became the vice president of information services at Forsyth Tech in 2008 and moved to vice president of planning and information services in 2010 before assuming her current position.
She earned her doctorate of philosophy in instructional design and technology from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va., in 2015 after getting her masters of science in information technology management from the University of North Carolina in Greensboro in 2003. She earned a bachelor of music degree in voice performance from Mars Hill College in 1992.
She was also among fewer than 40 aspiring and emerging community college presidents nationwide who were chosen for the Aspen Institute Presidential Fellowship for Community College Excellence in 2017-2018.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve and lead Vance-Granville Community College as its seventh president,” said Dr. Desmarais after being given the news on Wednesday night. “VGCC is a special place with students, faculty, staff, and board members who care for and take great pride in the college and community. I look forward to building on the strong value and culture already present in the college to cultivate a new shared vision for VGCC and its communities. Together, we will truly be Vanguards!”
Born in Sumter, S.C., while her father was stationed at Shaw Air Force Base, she moved to Alabama when her family returned home after the Vietnam War.
“I got to watch my dad march across the stage at Auburn University as an electrical engineer,” Dr. Demarais said. “My mother was a preschool teacher. I got exposure to education at a young age, and I saw the value of it.”
Her family found a new home in Orangeburg, S.C., for her father’s first job after college and then eventually Rock Hill, S.C., where she attended middle school and completed her secondary education.
Since her move to Mars Hill, N.C., at the age of 18 to attend college, she has remained in North Carolina, noting that her career has taken her from music education to an administrative assistant in manufacturing to information technology and ultimately to community college administration.
She still has a desire to teach and said she now blends that desire with her love of information and technology to help students find success in the classroom.
“I have a real passion for using data from our students to help them learn how to learn,” she said. “Students have jobs. They have their lives to lead while going to college. They have much to juggle. We have a responsibility to make sure that the education we offer them is as efficient and effective in its delivery as it can be.
“I’m really a strong believer in institutional effectiveness,” she added. “The data can be used as a tool to help our students succeed. We need always to use it as a positive tool. An educated society is a happier, more fulfilled society.”
Her work in the private sector includes a period from 1999 to 2002 when she worked with the Womble Carlyle Sandridge Rice law firm and later a subsidiary, FirmLogic, in Winston-Salem as a systems support manager and, later, project manager. She was assistant to the director of manufacturing and a systems analyst for Highland Industries in Kernersville in 1997-1999.
She also has been actively involved in community projects in the Winston-Salem area, including the United Way; Boy Scouts of America; Forsyth Futures, a non-profit community data research organization; WinstonNet Inc., a non-profit community technology initiative; the Center for Design Innovation; and the Board of Cooperative Ministries for the Southern Province of the Moravian Church.
Dr. Desmarais has an adult son, Ian, who is currently a biotechnology major at Forsyth Tech. Her younger son, Conall, who will be completing the eighth grade, is interested in attending an early college high school. Her husband, she said, plans to retain his job in the Winston-Salem area as he is able to do the majority of his work off-site.
The search process for the new president began in September when the Trustees selected the firm of Executive Leadership Associates (ELA) LLP of Emerald Isle to help the board create a profile of the ideal presidential candidate needed for VGCC, to guide the search process and to recruit and screen applicants. Applications and nominations were accepted beginning Oct. 8 with a deadline of Nov. 9.
Serving on the VGCC 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.
With the guidance of ELA, a consortium of former North Carolina community college presidents, the list of candidates was narrowed to five by the board’s search committee. On Nov. 19, at the regular bimonthly meeting of the board, the Trustees trimmed the list to three finalists who were invited to the college to meet with staff and faculty, county officials, chamber members and the public to participate in individual forums. Attendees were given the opportunity to provide input on each finalist via a form distributed at the forums or verbally to representatives of ELA in attendance.
The board met on Dec. 4 following the last of the interviews with candidates. A final decision on the selection was made at a continuation of that meeting, on Dec. 5, following the results of a vetting process conducted by the State Board of Community Colleges.
“After this carefully executed selection process, we believe Dr. Desmarais has the background and the experience to move us and our communities forward,” Trustee Wright said. “We do appreciate our two other finalists who showed such a strong interest in helping our college advance, and we owe much to the members of the public sector who also attended the forums and assisted us in this search process as well.”
The two other finalists were Dr. Quentin Johnson of Mooresville, vice president of Student Support Services at Guilford Technical Community College in Greensboro, and Dr. Melanie Thornton of Albany, Ga., vice president of academic affairs at Columbus Technical College in Columbus, Ga.
The new president succeeds Dr. Stelfanie Williams who left in August to become the vice president for Durham affairs at Duke University. Dr. Gordon Burns, retired president of Wilkes Community College, is serving as interim president for VGCC until Dr. Desmarais takes office.
-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!
-Information courtesy Tannis Jenkins, Warren County High School
Warren County High School ROTC will have a fish fry fundraiser at 220 Seafood Restaurant, 1812 North Garnett St. in Henderson, on Monday, December 10, 2018, from 4 – 7 p.m. Eat in or take out. The cost of a meal is $7.
If you have any questions, please contact Col. Paige or Msgt. Taft at 252-257-4413.
-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!
-Information courtesy Tannis Jenkins, Warren County High School
The Warren County High School DECA Club is sponsoring a Holiday Biz-aar on Saturday, December 1, 2018, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Warren County High School.
Please contact Pamela Jordan at 252-257-4413 ext. 3250 with any questions.
-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)
-Information courtesy Tannis Jenkins, Warren County High School
Warren County High School will host a curriculum night on Thursday, November 15, 2018, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity win door prizes and a turkey give away.
If you have any questions, please contact Tannis Jenkins at 252-257-4413 or email tjenkins@warrenk12nc.org.
