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VGCC Recognizes 277 Students On Spring 2025 President’s List, Dean’s List

UPDATE: June 30, 2025

— Information courtesy of VGCC Public Information Officer Courtney Cissel

Vance-Granville Community College recognizes 277 students for academic achievements during the recently completed Spring 2025 semester – 175 students earned President’s List academic honors and another 102 earned Dean’s List academic honors.

The President’s List includes students who achieved a perfect 4.0 quality point average while carrying a full load (12 credit hours or more) in 100-level or higher courses leading to a diploma or degree.

To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must earn a quality point average of at least 3.5 but less than 4.0 and have no grade lower than “B,” while carrying a full load of courses as described above.

Students earning President’s List honors are listed below under their Area of Study:

Accounting & Finance:

Ms. Emily Florentino, Ms. Shemere Jackson, and Ms. Emily E. Travis, all of Henderson;

Ms. Zenita N. Wharf of Oxford

 

Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology:

Mr. Ricardo R. Quintanilla of Louisburg;

Mr. Keith-Berkley D. Bullock of Warrenton

 

Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology Diploma

Mr. Brent L. Stallings of Raleigh

 

Associate Degree Nursing:

Ms. Shannen N. Phelps of Creedmoor

 

Associate in Arts:

Miss Sofia D. Fernandez Torres of Butner;

Mr. Christopher T. Powell and Ms. Lacie C. Shelley, both of Creedmoor;

Ms. Peyton D. Paschall of Durham;

Ms. Sienna W. Armani, Ms. Anwaar Saleh, and Ms. Sarah B. Stein, all of Franklinton;

Mr. Noah A. Bean , Ms. Kianna L. Evans, Ms. Ashley M. Galmiche, Mr. Eyad S. Hauter, Miss Cassidy G. Hicks, Ms. Kenna V. Huynh, Ms. Wendy M. Portillo, Ms. Fatima M. Ramirez Ramirez, Ms. Layla M. Royster, Ms. Lauren N. Taylor, Ms. Thy Thi, and Mr. Andrew C. Tyndall, all of Henderson

Ms. Sydney T. Hockaday and Destiny L. Timberlake, both of Kittrell;

Mr. Renyeh Kromah of Louisburg;

Miss Juniper G. Cumming of Manson;

Ms. Emily B. Moseley of Norlina;

Miss Megan A. Coghill, Miss Cadence G. Hoyle, Ms. Madeline E. Jastrow, Miss Elizabeth A. Jones, Ms. Morgan E. Newton, Mr. Chase A. Pixler, and Miss Marleigh G. Swanner, all of Oxford;

Miss Allie E. Currin of Rougemont;

Ms. Kenley S. Sheats of Warrenton

 

Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation:

Ms. Susan P. Alford of Louisburg;

Miss Lily J. Young of Wake Forest

 

Associate in Fine Arts

Ms. Abigail G. Shaeffer of Franklinton

 

Associate in Science:

Miss Elizabeth R. Ellis of Bullock;

Mr. Noah B. King and Mr. William A. Tuck, both of Butner;

Mr. Brayan Hernandez-Mata of Creedmoor;

Mr. Emad Alashmli, Miss Sarah F. Alzubairi, Miss Lynna Y. Mariano, and Ms. Laney S. Renn, all of Henderson;

Miss Nicola T. Thompson of Kittrell;

Mr. Jackson C. Collins, Ms. Jillian E. Johnson, and Ms. Shayla V. McDowell, all of Louisburg;

Mr. Sovannarith B. Seng of Manson;

Mr. Andrew M. Arnott, Mr. Timothy M. Daniel, and Kailee E. Ford, all of Oxford;

Mr. George T. Montague of Stovall;

Mr. David D. Perry, III of Warrenton

 

Automotive Systems Technology:

Mr. Nicholas P. Wincovich of Louisburg;

Mr. David Ewbank of Oxford

 

Biotechnology:

Mr. Mason T. Pendergrass of Henderson;

Mr. Keith L. Bridges of Louisburg;

Mr. Jeriel Canales Perez of Oxford

 

Business Administration:

Ms. Katherine R. Pyle, Ms. Kenan G. Roberts, and Miss Logan A. Walker, all of Creedmoor;

Mr. Jackson N. O’Briant of Durham;

Ms. Kerria S. Fleming of Louisburg;

Ms. Darian J. Yates of Stem

 

CCP College Transfer Pathway

Miss Emily G. Wilkinson of Oxford

 

College Transfer Pathway:

Ms. Samah E. Aldiri, Ms. Joy P. Berry, and Ms. Brenda L. Cruz Cruz, all of Creedmoor;

Ms. Montana L. Preddy of Franklinton;

Ms. Addison E. Barrow of Henderson;

Ms. Daira I. Martinez-Parra of Louisburg;

Ms. Libby K. Johnson of Oxford;

Ms. Laura K. Toothman of Rolesville;

Ms. Madison D. Reed of Stem;

Ms. Ashley N. Baranski and Jaden S. Easow, both of Wake Forest

 

Cosmetology:

Ms. Kaitlyn C. Gilbert of Bunn;

Ms. Amber H. Rose of Franklinton;

Ms. Maresa Caceres of Henderson;

Ms. Robin S. Breagy, Miss Clara G. Brewer, and Ms. Shawntae M. Thomas, all of Louisburg;

Ms. Hannah N. Witt of Middlesex;

Miss Jada E. Godin and Ms. Catlyn M. Morris, both of Oxford;

Ms. Siriporn Healy of Raleigh

 

Criminal Justice Technology:

Ms. Chelsea O. Harris of Creedmoor;

Ms. Samirah D. Watson of Norlina;

Ms. Dorothy M. Betts of Oxford;

Mr. Christopher H. Boden of Roanoke Rapids;

Mr. Thomas L. Smith of Rolesville;

Mr. Andrew J. Blackley of Stem;

Mr. Damian D. Davies of Timberlake

 

Culinary Arts:

Mr. Martin E. Cardenas Ramirez and Ms. Haley L. Williams, both of Henderson;

Ms. Darian Porter of Timberlake

 

Early Childhood Education:

Miss Christina M. Rubio of Creedmoor;

Miss Jai G. Harvey and Ms. Brianna G. Inscoe, both of Louisburg;

Ms. Jessica M. Rochelle of Wake Forest

 

Early Childhood Education Diploma

Ms. Kimberlee C. Higgs of Raleigh

 

Early Childhood Education – Local:

Mr. James E. Smith of Henderson;

Ms. Latoya D. Reed of Stovall;

Ms. Jadyn F. Burk of Wake Forest

 

Electrical System Technology:

Mr. Ethan P. Jones of Bullock;

Mr. Kendric Steed of Henderson;

Mr. Victor O. Mogusu of Raleigh;

Ms. Patrice L. Haywood of Youngsville

 

Electronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Daniel I. Randolph of Butner;

Mr. Emanuel R. Gutierrez of Henderson

 

General Science AGE Degree:

Mr. Daniel Aylward and Ms. Jessmary Colon Ramos, both of Durham;

Ms. Jayla D. Grissom of Henderson;

Ms. Lily A. Wilkins of Oxford;

Ms. Monica G. James of Rolesville;

Ms. Shirley A. Morgan of Wake Forest

 

Histotechnology:

Ms. Destinee L. Murphy and Ms. Misty L. Senter, both of Henderson;

Ms. Christina M. Gourley of Hillsborough;

Ms. Lee Ann Rouse of Winterville;

Ms. Zariyyah N. Ward of Youngsville

 

Human Services Technology:

Ms. Beatrice A. Green of Henderson

 

Information Technology:

Ms. Chelsea A. McIntosh of Creedmoor;

Mr. Thomas B. Hilton, Mr. Christian Sanford, and Mr. Brandon W. Watson, all of Henderson;

Ms. Tamara M. Brubaker of Louisburg;

Mr. Jer’an N. Cheatham of Oxford;

Mr. Micheal Byamugisha of Raleigh;

Mr. Aaron M. Comer and Mr. Christopher D. Hutchings, both of Rougemont

 

Mechatronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Robert O. Howard of Butner;

Mr. Owen B. Hixson of Creedmoor;

Mr. Justin C. Hernandez and Ms. Tianna C. Wimbush, both of Henderson;

Mr. William M. Woodlief of Oxford;

Mr. Joseph Richmond of Wake Forest

 

Medical Assisting Diploma:

Ms. Chandler B. Beasley, Ms. Alyssa R. Donahue-Krise, Ms. Delia M. Escobar Rodriguez, and Ms. Katlyn N. Singleton, all of Henderson;

Ms. Makayla D. Cox of Oxford

 

Medical Office Administration:

Ms. Kristin L. Sims of Bunn;

Ms. Neshaunda Burton of Durham;

Ms. Carthia N. Kornegay and Ms. Mya A. Rose, both of Henderson;

Ms. Divya H. Patel of Oxford;

Ms. Rosalind S. Richardson of Warrenton

 

Paralegal Technology:

Ms. Tayler L. Hope of Creedmoor;

Mrs. Nicole M. Joyner of Louisburg;

Ms. Dylan S. Harrison of Youngsville

 

Paralegal Technology Diploma:

Ms. Tiara L. Shephard of Durham

 

Pharmacy Technology Diploma:

Ms. Alyssa D. Lake of Wake Forest;

Ms. Veronica M. Whitley of Zebulon

 

Practical Nursing Diploma

Miss Peyton B. Pernell of Oxford

 

Radiography:

Ms. Mariana Figueroa Bonilla of Butner

 

Technical Special Student:

Mr. Ismail Alashmli of Henderson

 

Welding Technology:

Mr. Kadarius J. Hargrove of Bullock;

Mr. Nathaniel J. Pulley of Franklinton;

Ms. Emily E. Beckwith, Pamela J. Burton, Mr. Matthew J. Harris, Mr. Dylan C. Minish, and Mr. Charles A. Porterfield, all of Henderson;

Mr. Ernest Rivas-Trejo of Kittrell;

Mr. William J. Currin of Oxford

 

Dean’s List students are listed below under their area of study, along with their residence:

 

Associate in Arts:

Mr. Chayton T. Strother of Bullock;

Ms. Jazlynn N. Epps, Miss Abigail R. Frank, Mr. Micah R. Hurt, Ms. Maliyah Q. Springle, and Ms. Emily G. Ung, all of Creedmoor;

Ms. Emma E. Saporita of Franklinton;

Ms. Kelly A. Calles-Flores, Mr. Pedro S. Gomez Gutierrez, Ms. Jetta M. Mangum, Ms. Valentina Ortega-Mora, Miss Makala F. Roberson, Ms. Jimena P. Rosas, and Ms. Reyna N. Santiago Estrada, all of Henderson;

Ms. Rama I. Hauter of Norlina;

Miss Laci M. Ford and Mr. Trevor A. Weary, both of Oxford;

Miss Kinsey A. Barbour of Raleigh;

Ms. Maycee B. Thompson of Stem;

Ms. Carrisa M. Blankenship of Wake Forest

 

Associate in Fine Arts:

Ms. TiaKathryn G. Iversen of Franklinton

 

Associate in Science:

Ms. Isabella C. Bechtel, Mr. Alexander D. Forkish, and Mr. Gavin D. Lister, all of Creedmoor;

Miss Adrianne Ces V. Aguilar of Franklinton;

Mr. Kori Barlow-Robinson, Mr. Edwin Cardenas, Mr. Kevin O. Duran, Ms. Maci B. Taylor, Mr. Antavious E. Terry, and Mr. Shane M. Tillotson, all of Henderson;

Mr. Elijah J. Murphy of Kittrell;

Miss Samirah M. Abdo of Oxford;

Ms. Michaella M. Haskins of Raleigh;

Mr. Kaden T. Grissom and Mr. Collin S. Martinko, both of Youngsville

 

Business Administration:

Ms. Hailey N. Aycock, Ms. Tydasia M. Faulkner, and Ms. Sheila N. McKnight, all of Henderson

 

College Transfer Pathway:

Ms. Sydni L. Rouse of Bahama;

Ms. Rosio L. Salazar-Vasquez of Creedmoor;

Ms. Alexa S. Riley of Durham;

Ms. Penelope L. Sirianna of Franklinton;

Ms. Annah G. Newman of Henderson;

Ms. Mikaela G. Field of Spring Hope;

Ms. Averi E. Boyd of Stem;

Ms. Jaiden D. Oey and Mr. Xan M. Pitt, both of Wake Forest;

Mr. Kane J. King and Ms. Addysen R. Walker, both of Youngsville;

Mr. Yaseen H. Nawar of Zebulon

 

Cosmetology:

Ms. Christa N. Thompson of Henderson;

Ms. Sage A. Lemaster of Louisburg;

Ms. Delores A. Dannemiller of Spring Hope;

Ms. Taylor L. Small of Stem;

Ms. Savannah Kennen of Youngsville

 

Criminal Justice Technology:

Ms. Destinee Cotten of Henderson;

Mr. Clayton W. Bowser of Hollister;

Miss Madison R. Castaneda of Louisburg;

Mr. Ernesto A. Bryant of Wake Forest

 

Culinary Arts:

Mr. Harry L. Compton of Stem

 

Early Childhood Education:

Ms. Danielle D. Monaco of Castalia;

Ms. Sharon Harris of Oxford

 

Early Childhood Education – Local:

Ms. Torronna L. Parham of Henderson

 

Electrical System Technology:

Mr. Caleb J. Morrisette of Franklinton

 

Electronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Logan R. Lloyd of Creedmoor;

Mr. Conall M. Desmarais of Henderson

 

General Science AGE Degree:

Ms. Taushua J. Alston Eaton of Butner;

Ms. Haven M. Ayscue and Ms. Khadijah M. Hardy, both of Franklinton;

Ms. Marinda T. Daye, Ms. Jasmin A. Gaines, Ms. Christie J. Tant, Ms. Nakeya D. Terry, and Ms. Taylor N. Vass, all of Henderson;

Ms. Brooke A. Chabala and Ms. Michelle Elvira, both of Stem;

Ms. Lamey’k K. Black and Ms. Jessica L. Hamill, both of Youngsville

 

Histotechnology:

Ms. Sherri R. Miller of Creedmoor;

Ms. Brittany T. Miller of Henderson

 

Human Services Technology – Substance Abuse

Ms. Hayley J. Holmes-Jones of Henderson

 

Information Technology:

Mr. Donald W. Weaver, Jr. of Creedmoor;

Mr. Nathan O. Daniel of Durham;

Ms. Leigh E. Matthews of Henderson;

Ms. Daniel S. Sema of Youngsville

 

Mechatronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Matthew K. Beck of Butner

 

Medical Assisting:

Ms. Moriah Hall of Zebulon

 

Medical Assisting Diploma:

Mr. Simon J. Hildreth of Louisburg

 

Medical Office Administration:

Ms. Amy W. Roghelia of Creedmoor;

Ms. Nelldine S. Scotland of Oxford

 

Office Administration:

Miss Morgan N. Fightmaster of Wake Forest

 

Public Safety Administration:

Mr. Delson S. Kearney of Creedmoor;

Mr. Sam M. Coleman of Spring Hope;

Mr. Bradley J. Parkstone of Stem

 

Radiography:

Mr. Daniel A. Alexander of Durham;

Ms. Mauren V. Echeverry of Franklinton

 

Welding Technology:

Mr. Brett A. Freeland of Creedmoor;

Mr. Davin G. Pickrel of Franklinton;

Mr. Brandon T. Pernell of Henderson;

Mr. Dylan M. Newcomb of Oxford;

Mr. Hunter T. Wise of Youngsville

 

— Information courtesy of VGCC Public Information Officer Courtney Cissel

Vance-Granville Community College is proud to announce that 151 students earned President’s List academic honors and another 83 earned Dean’s List academic honors during the spring 2025 semester, which ended in May. Congratulations to these students for all their hard work!

The President’s List recognizes students who achieved a perfect 4.0 quality point average while carrying a full load (12 credit hours or more) in 100-level or higher courses leading to a diploma or degree.

To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must earn a quality point average of at least 3.5 but less than 4.0 and have no grade lower than “B,” while carrying a full load of courses as described above.

Spring 2025 President’s List honorees are listed below by program of study.

The Dean’s List follows the President’s List.

Accounting & Finance:

Ms. Emily Florentino
Ms. Shemere Jackson
Ms. Emily E. Travis

Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology:

Mr. Ricardo R. Quintanilla

Associate Degree Nursing:

Ms. Shannen N. Phelps

Associate in Arts:

Ms. Sienna W. Armani
Mr. Noah A. Bean
Miss Megan A. Coghill
Miss Juniper G. Cumming
Miss Allie E. Currin
Ms. Kianna L. Evans
Miss Sofia D. Fernandez Torres
Ms. Ashley M. Galmiche
Mr. Eyad S. Hauter
Miss Cassidy G. Hicks
Ms. Sydney T. Hockaday
Miss Cadence G. Hoyle
Ms. Kenna V. Huynh
Ms. Madeline E. Jastrow
Miss Elizabeth A. Jones
Mr. Renyeh Kromah
Ms. Emily B. Moseley
Ms. Morgan E. Newton
Ms. Peyton D. Paschall
Mr. Chase A. Pixler
Mr. Christopher T. Powell
Ms. Fatima M. Ramirez Ramirez
Ms. Layla M. Royster
Ms. Anwaar Saleh
Ms. Abigail G. Shaeffer
Ms. Kenley S. Sheats
Ms. Lacie C. Shelley
Ms. Sarah B. Stein
Miss Marleigh G. Swanner
Ms. Lauren N. Taylor
Ms. Thy Thi
Destiny L. Timberlake
Mr. Andrew C. Tyndall

Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation:

Ms. Susan P. Alford
Miss Lily J. Young

Associate in Science:

Mr. Emad Alashmli
Miss Sarah F. Alzubairi
Mr. Andrew M. Arnott
Mr. Jackson C. Collins
Mr. Timothy M. Daniel
Kailee E. Ford
Mr. Brayan Hernandez-Mata
Ms. Jillian E. Johnson
Mr. Noah B. King
Miss Lynna Y. Mariano
Mr. George T. Montague
Mr. David D. Perry, III
Ms. Laney S. Renn
Mr. Sovannarith B. Seng
Miss Nicola T. Thompson
Mr. William A. Tuck

Automotive Systems Technology:

Mr. David Ewbank
Mr. Nicholas P. Wincovich

Biotechnology:

Mr. Keith L. Bridges
Mr. Jeriel Canales Perez
Mr. Mason T. Pendergrass

Business Administration:

Ms. Kerria S. Fleming
Mr. Jackson N. O’Briant
Ms. Katherine R. Pyle
Ms. Kenan G. Roberts
Miss Logan A. Walker
Ms. Darian J. Yates

College Transfer Pathway:

Ms. Samah E. Aldiri
Ms. Ashley N. Baranski
Ms. Addison E. Barrow
Ms. Joy P. Berry
Jaden S. Easow
Ms. Libby K. Johnson
Ms. Daira I. Martinez-Parra
Ms. Montana L. Preddy
Ms. Madison D. Reed
Ms. Laura K. Toothman

Computer Information Technology:

Mr. Aaron M. Comer
Ms. Chelsea A. McIntosh
Mr. Christian Sanford

Cosmetology:

Miss Clara G. Brewer
Ms. Kaitlyn C. Gilbert
Miss Jada E. Godin
Ms. Siriporn Healy
Ms. Catlyn M. Morris
Ms. Shawntae M. Thomas
Ms. Hannah N. Witt

Criminal Justice Technology:

Mr. Andrew J. Blackley
Mr. Christopher H. Boden
Mr. Damian D. Davies
Ms. Chelsea O. Harris
Mr. Thomas L. Smith
Ms. Samirah D. Watson

Culinary Arts:

Mr. Martin E. Cardenas Ramirez
Ms. Darian Porter
Ms. Haley L. Williams

Early Childhood Education:

Miss Jai G. Harvey
Ms. Brianna G. Inscoe
Ms. Jessica M. Rochelle

Early Childhood Education – Local:

Ms. Jadyn F. Burk
Ms. Latoya D. Reed
Mr. James E. Smith

Electrical System Technology:

Ms. Patrice L. Haywood
Mr. Ethan P. Jones

Electronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Emanuel R. Gutierrez
Mr. Daniel I. Randolph

General Science AGE Degree:

Mr. Daniel Aylward
Ms. Jayla D. Grissom
Ms. Shirley A. Morgan
Ms. Lily A. Wilkins

Histotechnology:

Ms. Christina M. Gourley
Ms. Destinee L. Murphy
Ms. Lee Ann Rouse
Ms. Misty L. Senter
Ms. Zariyyah N. Ward

Human Services Technology:

Ms. Beatrice A. Green

Information Technology:

Mr. Micheal Byamugisha
Mr. Jer’an N. Cheatham
Mr. Christopher D. Hutchings
Mr. Brandon W. Watson

Mechatronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Justin C. Hernandez
Mr. Owen B. Hixson
Mr. Robert O. Howard
Mr. Joseph Richmond
Ms. Tianna C. Wimbush
Mr. William M. Woodlief

Medical Assisting Diploma:

Ms. Chandler B. Beasley
Ms. Makayla D. Cox
Ms. Alyssa R. Donahue-Krise
Ms. Delia M. Escobar Rodriguez
Ms. Katlyn N. Singleton

Medical Office Administration:

Ms. Neshaunda Burton
Ms. Carthia N. Kornegay
Ms. Divya H. Patel
Ms. Rosalind S. Richardson
Ms. Mya A. Rose

Paralegal Technology:

Ms. Tayler L. Hope
Mrs. Nicole M. Joyner

Paralegal Technology Diploma:

Ms. Tiara L. Shephard

Pharmacy Technology Diploma:

Ms. Veronica M. Whitley

Radiography:

Ms. Mariana Figueroa Bonilla

Technical Special Student:

Mr. Ismail Alashmli

Welding Technology:

Ms. Emily E. Beckwith
Pamela J. Burton
Mr. William J. Currin
Mr. Kadarius J. Hargrove
Mr. Matthew J. Harris
Mr. Dylan C. Minish
Mr. Charles A. Porterfield
Mr. Nathaniel J. Pulley
Mr. Ernest Rivas-Trejo

Spring 2025 Dean’s List honorees are listed below by program of study.

Associate in Arts:

Miss Kinsey A. Barbour
Ms. Kelly A. Calles-Flores
Ms. Jazlynn N. Epps
Miss Laci M. Ford
Miss Abigail R. Frank
Mr. Pedro S. Gomez Gutierrez
Ms. Rama I. Hauter
Mr. Micah R. Hurt
Ms. Jetta M. Mangum
Ms. Valentina Ortega-Mora
Miss Makala F. Roberson
Ms. Jimena P. Rosas
Ms. Reyna N. Santiago Estrada
Ms. Emma E. Saporita
Ms. Maliyah Q. Springle
Mr. Chayton T. Strother
Ms. Maci B. Taylor
Ms. Maycee B. Thompson
Ms. Emily G. Ung
Mr. Trevor A. Weary

Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts:

Ms. TiaKathryn G. Iversen

Associate in Science:

Miss Samirah M. Abdo
Miss Adrianne Ces V. Aguilar
Mr. Kori Barlow-Robinson
Ms. Isabella C. Bechtel
Mr. Edwin Cardenas
Mr. Kevin O. Duran
Mr. Alexander D. Forkish
Ms. Michaella M. Haskins
Mr. Gavin D. Lister
Mr. Antavious E. Terry
Mr. Shane M. Tillotson

Business Administration:

Ms. Hailey N. Aycock
Ms. Tydasia M. Faulkner
Ms. Sheila N. McKnight

College Transfer Pathway:

Ms. Averi E. Boyd
Mr. Kane J. King
Mr. Yaseen H. Nawar
Ms. Annah G. Newman
Ms. Jaiden D. Oey
Mr. Xan M. Pitt
Ms. Sydni L. Rouse
Ms. Rosio L. Salazar-Vasquez
Ms. Penelope L. Sirianna
Ms. Addysen R. Walker

Cosmetology:

Ms. Delores A. Dannemiller
Ms. Sage A. Lemaster
Ms. Taylor L. Small
Ms. Christa N. Thompson

Criminal Justice Technology:

Mr. Clayton W. Bowser
Mr. Ernesto A. Bryant
Miss Madison R. Castaneda
Ms. Destinee Cotten

Culinary Arts:

Mr. Harry L. Compton

Early Childhood Education:

Ms. Sharon Harris
Ms. Danielle D. Monaco

Early Childhood Education – Local:

Ms. Torronna L. Parham

Electrical System Technology:

Mr. Caleb J. Morrisette

Electronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Conall M. Desmarais
Mr. Logan R. Lloyd

General Science AGE Degree:

Ms. Brooke A. Chabala
Ms. Marinda T. Daye
Ms. Michelle Elvira
Ms. Jessica L. Hamill

Histotechnology:

Ms. Brittany T. Miller
Ms. Sherri R. Miller

Information Technology:

Mr. Nathan O. Daniel
Ms. Leigh E. Matthews
Mr. Donald W. Weaver, Jr.

Mechatronics Engineering Technology:

Mr. Matthew K. Beck

Medical Assisting:

Ms. Moriah Hall

Medical Assisting Diploma:

Mr. Simon J. Hildreth

Medical Office Administration:

Ms. Nelldine S. Scotland

Office Administration:

Miss Morgan N. Fightmaster

Public Safety Administration:

Mr. Delson S. Kearney
Mr. Bradley J. Parkstone

Radiography:

Mr. Daniel A. Alexander
Ms. Mauren V. Echeverry

Welding Technology:

Mr. Brett A. Freeland
Mr. Dylan M. Newcomb
Mr. Brandon T. Pernell
Mr. Davin G. Pickrel
Mr. Hunter T. Wise

N.C. Attorney General Investigation Into PowerSchool Breach Continues

— information courtesy of the office of N.C. Attorney General Jeff Jackson

A security breach of the company many public school districts have used as their data management system has affected about 4 million teachers, students and parents in North Carolina. N.C. Attorney General Jeff Jackson said he is demanding that the company, PowerSchool, disclose more information about exactly how the breach happened and how it affected as the investigation continues.

Students and staff affected by the data breach have until July 31, 2025, to enroll in free identity protection and credit monitoring (offered for adult students and educators) here. You can also find out more about setting up a free security freeze here.

Vance County Schools was part of the security breach. Visit  https://www.vcs.k12.nc.us/about/powerschool-data-breach for the most current information about the breach.

“Last year’s data breach compromised the personal information of teachers, public school employees and families across North Carolina,” Jackson stated in a press release.  “I’m demanding more information from PowerSchool about how this breach happened and who it affected, and what we learn will drive our next steps.”

Jackson issued a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) to PowerSchool that legally requires it to provide to him the following information:

·          The exact number of North Carolinians impacted by the 2024 data breach.

·          Details about PowerSchool’s cybersecurity measures that were in place to protect users’ personal information leading up to the breach.

·          Which security flaws may have contributed to the breach.

·          Information about PowerSchool’s response and actions in the immediate aftermath of the breach.

·          Steps PowerSchool has taken to address the cybersecurity failures that contributed to the data breach and strengthen data protection methods.

·          PowerSchool’s work to communicate with and assist consumers affected by the breach.

PowerSchool sells software products used by schools across the country, including public schools across North Carolina. In December 2024, a hacker gained access to that software, potentially exposing Social Security numbers, addresses, names of minors, and medical and disciplinary information. The breach impacted more than 62 million people across the country. PowerSchool later paid a ransom to the hacker to delete the information that was stolen, but a hacker then tried to extort North Carolina public school districts again.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Justice charged 19-year-old Massachusetts college student Matthew Lane with hacking PowerSchool’s system and facilitating the 2024 data breach. Lane entered a plea deal with the federal government in May. Lane pleaded guilty to cyber extortion conspiracy, cyber extortion, unauthorized access to protected computers, and aggravated identity theft.

Telessie McGhee Honored By Prince Hall Grand Lodge Masonic Group Aug. 9

Telessie McGhee is being honored by the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of North Carolina & Jurisdiction, Inc.

A celebration of service and testimonial is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 9 at the Durham Hilton, 3800 Hillsborough Rd., Durham.

Tickets for the event are $60.

Contact the hotel at 919.383.8033 to make a lodging reservation. Mention “PGWP McGhee Testimonial” to receive a special room rate.

The following web address (https://mwphglnc.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Telessie-McGhee-Testimonial-2025.pdf) has a QR code for tickets to the testimonial dinner.

Tar River Land Conservancy: Picture Branch Nature Preserve Adds 2.6 Miles Of Hiking Trails In Southern Granville County

— Information courtesy of Tar River Land Conservancy

Tar River Land Conservancy and the Granville County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, June 13 to open the newest nature preserve in Granville County. The Picture Branch Nature Preserve offers visitors 2.6 miles of hiking trails to explore near Stem and Butner.

Local officials participating in the ribbon cutting event included Stem Mayor Casey Dover, Butner Mayor Dr. Linda Jordon, Granville County Commissioners Mark Griffin and Tim Karan, Stem Commissioner Dave Pavlus and Stovall Commissioner Doug Lunsford.

The Picture Branch Nature Preserve is located at 89 Richmond Run in Stem. Trails are open to visitors year-round during daylight hours. Maps are available at the trailhead parking area. The trails wind through pine and hardwood woodland along scenic Picture Branch,  across several streams and past an old cemetery.

“The opening of the Picture Branch Nature Preserve marks another milestone for land conservation in Granville County,” said TRLC Executive Director Derek Halberg. “Thanks to hundreds of hours of volunteer service and generous financial support from donors, we can open these new trails for the whole community to enjoy. We encourage folks to explore the new trails, and to reap the many benefits of walking in the woods!”

In addition to offering hiking trails, the 95-acre nature preserve helps protect streams for water quality and safeguards habitat for North Carolina’s wildlife. TRLC acquired the preserve in two transactions. Funding from the N.C. Attorney General’s Environmental Enhancement Grant program and City of Raleigh’s Watershed Protection Program allowed TRLC to purchase 94.6 acres in December 2019. The Environmental Enhancement Grant program began after an agreement between the Attorney General’s Office and Smithfield Foods in 2000. Under that agreement, Smithfield provides $2 million to the state every year to be distributed among environmental projects across North Carolina.

Stem Mayor Casey Dover said the new trails are the result of positive partnerships, calling them “a wonderful new addition…that highlights what’s possible when great partnerships come together. Thanks to the Tar River Land Conservancy and everyone involved, Stem now has an incredible outdoor space for families, hikers and nature lovers to enjoy. This is a big win for our community, and just the beginning of what we can accomplish together.”

Forestar USA Real Estate Group, a division of national homebuilder D.R. Horton, transferred an additional 0.35 acres to TRLC in May 2025. The Picture Branch Nature Preserve adjoins the Mangum Farms subdivision, located off Old NC 75 in Stem, where D.R. Horton will begin constructing and selling new homes this summer. Neighborhood residents will have walkable access to the Picture Branch Nature Preserve trails.

The trails, footbridges and benches were constructed by 90 volunteers who contributed more than 950 hours of service at the nature preserve. TRLC received generous grants and in-kind donations for the trail project from Town of Stem, Town of Butner, Granville County, City of Creedmoor, the Jandy Ammons Foundation, Universal Leaf North America and Sunrock.

With the opening of the Picture Branch Nature Preserve, TRLC offers 14.8 miles of hiking trails on five nature preserves near Butner, Creedmoor and Stem.

TownTalk: 9th Annual Bee Jubilee Buzzes Into Granville County Expo Center Saturday, June 28

The 9th annual Bee Jubilee and Food Truck Rodeo will take place on Saturday, June 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Granville County Convention & Expo Center.

Christy Henthorn, one of the event organizers, said the daylong celebration of all things “bee” has something for everyone, from educational workshops to live entertainment and a live auction – not to mention all the honey and beeswax products that will be available for purchase.

The event is free to the public and has evolved from a small event with a couple of hundred visitors to one that attracts thousands of folks from near and far.

There are additional children’s activities planned for this year, Henthorn said. “It will be very well rounded…there will be something for everyone.”

Anticipating hot temperatures, there will be a misting tent to help visitors keep cool, but there’s another activity that’s going to make an even bigger splash – a dunk tank.

Sign up to spend 15 minutes in the dunk tank and help raise money that will be sent to beekeepers in western North Carolina who lost hives in last fall’s flooding.

The event, hosted by the Granville County Beekeepers, celebrates all types of pollinators, Henthorn said, from honeybees to native bees, and other animals that pollinate, from insects to birds and other animals.

Workshops will be held throughout the morning on a variety of topics including Beekeeping 101, apitherapy (bee venom therapy) and planting for pollinators.

The live auction will begin at 1:30 p.m. and there will be a competition that judges local honey and products made with local honey and beeswax.

Find out all the details, including rules and categories for the judging competition at https://granvillecobeekeepers.wildapricot.org/BEE-JUBILEE

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NC Coop Extension

Master Gardener Volunteer Class Forming Now For Aug. 14 Kickoff

A new Master Gardener Volunteer class is getting underway in mid-August and gardeners and plant enthusiasts of all levels are invited to sign up.

The classes will be held on Thursdays at the Berea Fire Station or the Vance County Regional Farmers Market beginning Aug. 14 and running through Nov. 20, according to information from the Vance and Granville offices of the N.C. Cooperative Extension.

Tuition is $175 and includes all materials and resources needed for the class. Participants will receive training on soils and plant nutrients, native plants, diagnostics and much more.

To register, contact Vance County Agent Michael Ellington at 252.438.8188 or email maelling@ncsu.edu or Granville County Agent Johnny Coley at 919.603.1350 or email jwcoley@ncsu.edu.

2-Day ‘June Bloom Fest’ Kicks Off Saturday, June 14 At Sunshine Lavender Farm In Hurdle Mills

Sunshine Lavender Farm in Hurdle Mills is celebrating 25 years with June Bloom Fest, a two-day event centered around that aromatic herb in full bloom now.

Hurdle Mills sits near the Person/Orange County line, and Sunshine Lavender Farm includes a private residence and small working farm located at 4104 Millstone Rd. The event will take place Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15.

Individuals and families are invited to visit and “make memories in the countryside and celebrate the sweet, soothing properties of lavender.”

Visit sunshinelavenderfarm.com to find information about ticket prices and other activities that will be taking place during June Bloom Fest. Pre-paid general admission and workshop tickets are required to attend.

Live music by folk singers Mary Rocap and Megan Whitted of The Travelin’ Mercies will perform on Saturday.

Children under 15 get in free when accompanied by a paying adult.

(This post is not a paid ad. However, it is a trade in exchange for the generosity and kindness shown by the farm and its owners to John Rose of WIZS and his family.)

Salvation Army

Henderson Salvation Army Welcomes Majors Jonathan And Staci Gainey As Corps Officers

The Salvation Army announces the appointment of Majors Jonathan and Staci Gainey as new Corps Officers for The Salvation Army in Henderson. Their ministry will officially begin on Sunday, June 15 to serve in Vance, Granville, Franklin, Warren, Halifax and Northampton counties.

The Gaineys bring more than two decades of faithful service as Salvation Army officers, with deep roots in both personal and pastoral ministry, according to information from Gina Eaves, office coordinator at the Henderson office on Ross Mill Road.

Married in November 1988 in Jacksonville, FL, Jonathan and Staci have four children and also enjoy being grandparents.

Staci was born into a family of Salvation Army officers and raised in a life of ministry, with her parents, Majors Thomas and Kareen Nicholls, now retired from active service. Jonathan, on the other hand, had no personal connection to The Salvation Army before meeting Staci. After 10 years of marriage, he began attending the Salvation Army corps in Jacksonville with Staci and their children. There, he experienced the transforming call of God upon his life and responded with a wholehearted commitment to ministry.

Jonathan is also a veteran of the U.S. Army and active-duty National Guard, having served honorably for more than five years before his discharge in 1998. In 2002, the Gaineys were commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers as part of the Crossbearers session, beginning a journey that would take them across North Carolina, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Alabama in seven different corps appointments.

Jonathan has also served as a local pastor in the United Methodist Church from 2012 to 2015 and as ordained clergy within the Global Methodist Church from 2023 until earlier this year.

Their educational backgrounds reflect their dedication to spiritual formation and Christian leadership. Staci holds a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership from Nazarene Bible College and is especially known for her gift of pastoral care and leadership.

Jonathan holds both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He has a strong passion for biblical study and theology, and he enjoys helping others grow in their understanding of Scripture and faith.

Music also plays a central role in their lives and ministry. Staci is an accomplished pianist who enjoys playing for worship and is often invited to provide accompaniment at divisional and territorial events throughout The Salvation Army. Her musical sensitivity brings richness and depth to the worship experience. Jonathan plays both acoustic and electric guitar, offering rhythm and lead accompaniment that enhances congregational singing and contemporary praise. Together, their musical gifts help create Spirit-filled worship environments that are both reverent and joyful.

They describe their leadership style as both delegative and coaching—empowering others through encouragement, accountability, and intentional development. They uphold an open-door policy and strive to create a culture of approachability, professionalism, and care. They believe in cultivating meaningful relationships with staff, volunteers, donors, and members of the community.

Jonathan and Staci are already in prayer for the corps family, staff, Advisory Board, friends of The Salvation Army, and the many lives that are touched through its outreach in the Henderson region. They look forward to building upon the excellent work of Major Beth Mallard, whose faithful service has made a lasting impact.

They said they are excited to continue the ministries of The Salvation Army, including providing food for those in need, serving children through the Red Shield Club’s after-school and summer programs, offering excellent worship experiences, and growing lasting relationships with volunteers, supporters and community partners throughout the region.

In both life and ministry, the Gaineys are guided by the words of Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

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Rabies Cases Confirmed In Dead Raccoons Found On White Oak Drive South Of Oxford

— Information courtesy of Granville County Public Information Officer Terry Hobgood

 

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has confirmed a rabies case from several deceased raccoons picked up on White Oak Drive near US Highway 15. White Oak Drive is approximately one mile south of Interstate 85 at Exit 202.

Residents are urged to ensure that pets are up to date on their rabies vaccines. Vaccines are available at the Granville County Animal Shelter at a cost of $10 per vaccine. Rabies vaccines are administered Tuesday through Friday from 12 noon p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

The Local Skinny! Oxford Armory Farmers Market Off To A Strong Start

The Oxford Armory Farmers Market has gotten off to a good start. In just a few Saturdays, organizers say the open-air market has had about 2,400 visitors. That number makes Wendy Tatum very happy, and hopeful for future sustainability.

Tatum is the Food and Built Environment associate with Granville County Cooperative Extension, a new position supported by N.C. A&T State University.

Using information from a 2022 needs assessment, Tatum assembled a core group of volunteers to create a place for local producers could sell their produce and farm products. What began as a series of pop-up markets in downtown Oxford morphed into dozens of vendors setting up shop on the grounds of the Armory.

“We’re very much centered around agriculture,” Tatum said on Thursday’s segment of The Local Skinny! with WIZS’s Scout Hughes. The market is open on Saturdays May through October from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Craft vendors are at the market on the third Saturdays of each month.

She credits strong partnerships with the city of Oxford, the Granville County Board of Commissioners, the Kerr-Tar COG Food Council and many volunteers to get off on a positive note and to have such strong support from the community.

“We wanted a place that was highly visible,” Tatum said, in the choice made for the location of the market. “We needed it to be a walkable space – and comfortable,” she added. The Armory, located at 105 W. Spring St., is just a block or so away from the main downtown area of Oxford.

With a grant for $8,500 from Triangle North Healthcare, Tatum said the market buys produce from vendors at the end of the market day to stock the “Farm to Fridge” coolers located in library branches in the county.

Visit https://granville.ces.ncsu.edu/oxford-armory-farmers-market/ to learn more about the market or call Tatum at 919.603.1350.

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