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VGCC’s Endowment Golf Tournament Sets Record For Seventh Consecutive Year

June 11, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College’s 34th annual Endowment Fund Golf Tournament hit a new record total by raising $125,000 to help fund scholarships for deserving students and support the mission of the college.

That result surpassed the $116,675 generated in 2017, in what was previously the highest-grossing golf tournament in VGCC history.

A total of 168 golfers formed 42 teams to play in either the morning or the afternoon round on May 1 at Henderson Country Club.

“We are always so appreciative of the support from all of the golfers and sponsors who demonstrate their commitment to higher education and to economic development through this event,” said VGCC President Dr. Stelfanie Williams. “Thanks to such strong community support, we again set a record, surpassing our previous fundraising record for the seventh consecutive year. Since 1985, VGCC golf tournaments have now raised nearly $1 million, with the current tournament bringing our total to $987,000 thus far. The impact on our students and our college is incredible.”

Above: Eddie Ferguson and Kay Currin of Vance-Granville Community College’s Office of the Endowment and VGCC President Dr. Stelfanie Williams celebrate the results of the 34th Annual Endowment Fund Golf Tournament at the Henderson Country Club with VGCC students Jeannie Adcock and Andrew Lynam. At a dinner after the tournament, the students voiced their appreciation to golfers and sponsors for support of college scholarships. From left are Ferguson, Currin, Adcock, Lynam and Dr. Williams. The total of $125,000 that was contributed represented an increase over the amount announced at the dinner after additional donations were received. (VGCC Photo)

At the dinner held to round out the day, players received trophies as they also took home an assortment of door prizes and participated in a silent auction. VGCC students Andrew Lynam of Youngsville in the Welding Technology program and Jeannie Adcock of Henderson in the Associate Degree Nursing program expressed their appreciation to tournament participants.

In the morning round, the team of Mark Heilman, Jeff Hoffner, Bill Oncea and Andy Archer of the CertainTeed team took home the “first net” trophy with a score of 54. The AAA team of Blair Thomas, David Thomas, Kyle Holtzman and Hal Finch won “second net” with a 57. The “first gross” trophy went to the team of Ben Bryan, Tony Murray, Mike Hill and Scott Dickerson, sponsored by Jesse Sullins, with a score of 52.

In the afternoon round, a second team sponsored by Sullins, which included George Foster, Jesse Sullins, Matthew Jones and Gary Bowman, finished with the “first net” score of 55, winning on a scorecard tie-breaker. The Charles Boyd Chevrolet team of Russell Boyd, Rusty Crocker, Mike Rainey and Jan Fletcher won “second net” with a 55. The “first gross” trophy in the afternoon went to the CenturyLink team of Chris Joyner, Steve Launder, Randy Gilmore and Mike Cook with a 52.

D.J. Matthews on the Vanco Outdoor Equipment team took the longest-drive prize on Hole 1 in the morning round, while Gary Bowman on the Jesse Sullins team had the longest drive in the afternoon.

Kevin Cox of the Palziv team won the closest to the pin prize on Hole 11 in the morning, and Gary Nethercutt of The Athlete’s Foot team took that honor in the afternoon round.

Numerous companies and individuals supported the VGCC tournament as sponsors. The morning round sponsor was CertainTeed of Oxford and the afternoon round was sponsored by Altec Industries of Creedmoor.

Other Premier sponsors included Bridgestone Bandag Tire; Carolina Commonwealth; Charles Boyd Chevrolet Buick GMC; Duke Energy; Durham Coca-Cola; First Citizens Bank Investor Services; Glen Raven, Inc.; Granville Health System; John Nelms, Jr.; Novozymes North America, Inc.; Private Wealth Management of North Carolina; Robling Medical; Rose Oil Company, Inc.; Union Bank; Universal Leaf North America U.S., Inc.; Vanco Outdoor Equipment; Linda Weaver; and Wester Insurance Agency.

The Platinum sponsors were The Athlete’s Foot; CenturyLink; Core & Main; Henderson Collegiate; Institutional Interiors, Inc.; K-Flex; Kilian Engineering; Maria Parham Health; MR Williams, Inc.; Park Automation, Inc.; and Variety Stores, Inc.

Gold sponsors were AAA Gas & Appliance Co.; Carolina Sunrock; CEI; Golden Skillet; Palziv; Ted’s Catering Service; and Winston International.

Green sponsors included Backyard Retreat; Barnett Real Properties, Inc.; Bearpond Fresh Market; Coldwell Banker Advantage; Dill Air Controls Products; Encore Tech; Greystone Concrete Products; HG Reynolds; JM White Funeral Services; Mast Drug Company; May & Place; MPACT Solutions, LLC; Nick & Sons Truck Repair; NT Techno; RFR Metal Fabrication; Vescom, North America; Wake Electric Membership Corp.; Watkins Plumbing; and Dr. Stelfanie Williams.

Tee Box sponsors were Ag Carolina Farm Credit; Ahner Security; Alex Drake, DDS, PA; Banzet, Thompson, Styers & May; Benchmark Community Bank; Brame Specialty; C&P Body Shop; Carolina Country Snacks; Stacey Carter-Coley; Dave Carver; Century 21 Country Knolls Realty, Inc.; Mack Choplin; City Tire, Inc.; Comfort Zone; Cross & Currin Attorneys; Dave and Kay Currin; Dabney Drive Animal Hospital; Encore Tech; Eddie and Debra Ferguson; Flowers Funeral Home; Frazco, Inc., Insurance – Real Estate; Fred’s Towing & Transport, Inc.; Granville County EDC; H&W Investments; Hall’s Floor Fashions, Inc.; Henderson-Vance EDC; Hight Warehouse; Hopper, Hicks, Wrenn, PLLC; Will Jakes-Edward Jones; Medical Arts Pharmacy; Morton and Sherman Implement Co., Inc.; Mosely Plumbing Company, Inc.; Marsha J. Nelson; One Source Document Solutions; Pete Smith’s Tire and Quick Lube; Phillips Dorsey Thomas Waters & Brafford, P.A.; Pino’s Italian Restaurant; Postal Plus Business Center; Professional Pharmacy; Reach Construction; Riggs-Harrod; Robco; Sherman & Boddie,Inc.; Southern Educational Systems; Southern Laundry; Sprinkle Properties; Stainback, Satterwhite & Zollicoffer, PLLC; Sunrise Biscuits of Oxford; Curtis and JoAnne Thompson; Vance Construction Company; Vance-Granville Deans; VGCC Communications Department; Whitco Bug Warriors; William L. Stark and Company; and WOW Wash on Wheels.

Other contributions were made by Ace Hardware of Oxford; ARC3 Gases; The Angus Barn; Bamboo Garden; B&R Properties & Development; Judge Henry and Mamie Banks; BB&T of Henderson; BB&T of Oxford; Jim Beck; Carolina Country Snacks; Chick-fil-A; Circuit Tech; City Tire; Cracker Barrel; Jim Crawford; Dr. Ben Currin; Dell Computer; George’s of Oxford; Joe Hamme; Harvest; Bob Hubbard; Ichibar Japanese Restaurant; Institutional Interiors Inc.; International Paper; Mako Medical Properties; John P. McConnell; Darryl Moss; Nan’s; Newton Instrument Company; The Peanut Roaster; Robinson Ferry; Schewels Furniture Company; Staffmark; Stella & Dot; Tarheel Vending and Wholesale; Ernest Thompson; Tidal Wave; Tru-Green Landscaping; US Foods; Vance Furniture; Vanco Outdoor Equipment; Variety Wholesalers/Roses Stores; VGCC Endowment Office; Mike Williams; Robert Winston and Moo Yancey.

Each year, the golf tournament is the major fundraising event for the VGCC Endowment Fund, through which more than 9,000 scholarships have been awarded to students since 1982. Scholarships have been established by individuals, industries, businesses, civic groups, churches and the college’s faculty and staff. For more information, call (252) 738-3409.

More photos: Check out VGCC’s photo album from the golf tournament on Flickr

WINNING TEAMS:

Above: The CertainTeed team of, from left, Mark Heilman, Jeff Hoffner, Bill Oncea and Andy Archer took home the “first net” trophy with a score of 54 in the morning round of the 34th Annual Vance-Granville Community College Endowment Fund Golf Tournament at the Henderson Country Club. (VGCC Photo)

Above: The AAA team of, from left, Blair Thomas, David Thomas, Kyle Holtzman and Hal Finch won “second net” with a 57 in the morning round of the 34th Annual Vance-Granville Community College Endowment Fund Golf Tournament at the Henderson Country Club. (VGCC Photo)

Above: The “first gross” trophy went to the team of, from left, Ben Bryan, Tony Murray, Mike Hill and Scott Dickerson, sponsored by Jesse Sullins, with a score of 52 in the morning round of the 34th Annual Vance-Granville Community College Endowment Fund Golf Tournament at the Henderson Country Club. (VGCC Photo)

Above: A team sponsored by Jesse Sullins, which included, from left, George Foster, Jesse Sullins, Matthew Jones and Gary Bowman, finished with the “first net” score of 55, winning on a scorecard tie-breaker in the afternoon round of the 34th Annual Vance-Granville Community College Endowment Fund Golf Tournament at the Henderson Country Club. (VGCC Photo)

Above: Runner-up in the afternoon round of the 34th Annual Vance-Granville Community College Endowment Fund Golf Tournament, winning “second net” with a score of 55, was the Charles Boyd Chevrolet team of, from left, Russell Boyd, Rusty Crocker, Mike Rainey and Jan Fletcher. (VGCC Photo)

Above: The “first gross” trophy in the afternoon went to the CenturyLink team of, from left, Chris Joyner, Steve Launder, Randy Gilmore and Mike Cook with a 52 in the afternoon round of the 34th Annual Vance-Granville Community College Endowment Fund Golf Tournament at the Henderson Country Club. (VGCC Photo)

VGCC Basic Skills Graduates Encouraged to Dream of Better Futures

May 31, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Graduates of Vance-Granville Community College’s Adult Basic Skills programs received a double dose of encouragement to dream of better futures and work to make those dreams come true at their commencement exercises on May 3.

The honorees were among those students who have completed either the Adult High School Diploma program or the High School Equivalency program in the past year.

The principal commencement speaker for the ceremony was Dr. Dorwin L. Howard, Sr., retired superintendent of Granville County Public Schools. The Oxford native followed at the podium a presentation by Jennifer Pascual of Henderson, speaking on behalf of the graduating students. A native of Vance County, Pascual completed her High School Equivalency in April after attending classes on the main campus.

Above: Retired Granville County Schools Superintendent Dr. Dorwin Howard of Oxford addresses VGCC Adult Basic Skills graduates. (VGCC photo)

“Do you have a dream?” Dr. Howard asked the graduates. “Do you have a vision of what your future could look like? If you’ve not begun to dream already, I urge you to do so right now. The truth of the matter is that you cannot afford not to dream.”

Citing his work as a school administrator, Dr. Howard recalled student-athletes who had size, speed, strength and a natural talent for athletics. Those attributes, however, were inadequate without an initiative to work, the discipline to practice and the humility to follow the guidance of coaches, he said. “Champions are not born. They are made,” Dr. Howard said, noting the process begins with a dream.

Citing Amos 6:1 from the Old Testament, Dr. Howard urged the graduates to apply themselves. “Woe unto you who will not apply yourself in order to make yourself better. Woe unto you who are looking for the easy way out,” he said.

“I dare you to dream tonight. Dream of entering the workplace. Envision yourself climbing the ladder of success. Dream of continuing your education to help you advance in your career. Dream of earning well. Dream of living well…. But note that dreams don’t become reality by chance. They don’t happen by luck. Dreams begin in your head and heart and become real as you work to make them come true.”

He encouraged the graduates to explore possibilities by reading about what they would like to become and do in life, to be willing to take risks to succeed and to continue to be diligent and work hard. “Dreamers make things happen,” he said.

“Like your parents, relatives and friends, like your instructors and counselors who worked with you and the administrators here at Vance-Granville Community College, I too believe in you and I believe that one day you will make your dreams come true,” he concluded.

Above: Jennifer Pascual of Henderson addresses her fellow VGCC Adult Basic Skills graduates. (VGCC photo)

Student speaker Pascual described for her fellow graduates what had not always been an easy road in life because of family and financial challenges. She described having a dream as a 12-year-old of being a pediatrician; however, that dream faded when her mother and father separated, her family faced the future without a father, her mother battled diabetes while working for 25 years in the tobacco fields, and a brother was deported.

“I gave up on my dreams. I also wanted to give up on life,” she said. “But then I had to think about my mother and what she would go through.”

“While it’s not been easy for my family, I’m glad I made it this far to get my High School Equivalency diploma. I didn’t think I would be able to graduate this year because of financial struggles,” she said. “This program got me focused on my future, a better future for myself and family…. As this program has come to an end for me, I want to make my dreams a new reality by becoming a registered nurse.”

She praised her instructors, including Glenn Alston whose teaching helped her “get the hang of math,” and the department chair for Basic Skills, Dr. Greg Nash, who encouraged her to pursue the curriculum nursing program at VGCC now.

“I now realize not to let fear stop me from pursuing my dreams,” she said. “If I can do this, you can, too. Dream big! Chase your dreams until you catch them!”

Dr. Levy Brown, VGCC’s vice president of academic affairs, announced a special incentive to the graduates to continue their education at Vance-Granville. “Commencement, as you know, does not mean an ‘ending.’ It means a ‘beginning,’ and that is especially true on this occasion tonight,” he said. “The diploma that you will receive will allow you to achieve your dreams wherever you may go.”

As an extra incentive for graduates to begin their collegiate studies, Dr. Brown announced that each graduate would receive a certificate worth free tuition and fees for one semester of courses in curriculum programs or continuing education courses at VGCC, absorbing costs not covered by federal financial aid. “This certificate for tuition and fees is our way of saying ‘congratulations’ and ‘keep going,’” he said.

In conferring diplomas to the graduates, Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the president of VGCC, praised the graduates and applauded the Basic Skills faculty for preparing students to succeed.

After Dr. Nash announced the candidates for graduation, Dr. Brown assisted Dr. Williams in presenting diplomas.

Also on the program were Tiffany Hunter and Owenwiston Raymond III, both 2018 HSE diploma graduates, who provided the welcome and introduced the student speaker, respectively; Michael Young, an instructor in Basic Skills, who introduced Dr. Howard; Dawn Michelle Tucker, dean of Continuing Education and Basic Skills, who offered remarks; and the Rev. Terry Huffines of First United Methodist Church of Henderson, who provided the invocation and benediction.

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

Video from the Ceremony: Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

VGCC Releases Names of 2018 Basic Skills Graduates

May 31, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Information courtesy Vance-Granville Community College

VGCC ADULT HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMAS

Vance County

Seion Bobbitt, Henderson

Lateria Christmas, Henderson

Jazmer Cole, Henderson

Shawn Davis, Henderson

Grethel Flores Tavera, Henderson

Sherrell Harris, Henderson

Andrew Creech, Kittrell

David Kaiser, Kittrell

Shadian Whitmore, Kittrell

Granville County

Gavin Carroll, Bullock

Leslie Collie, Creedmoor

Franklin County

Christopher Ayscue, Franklinton

Haley Briggs, Franklinton

Chy-Na Fuller, Franklinton

Jadan Puett, Franklinton

Trevor Martin, Louisburg

Patrick O’Neal, Louisburg

Sarah Wilds, Louisburg

Kathrine Herbig, Youngsville

Jacob Naegele, Youngsville

Logan Robbins, Youngsville

Warren County

Patrick McCollough, Henrico

Joshua Edwards, Littleton

Mason Keys, Littleton

Alford Brandon, Norlina

Shadae Jackson, Norlina

Chaquell Jiggetts, Norlina

Krystle Reid, Norlina

Taylor Sidden, Norlina

Delahoya Benjamin, Warrenton

Sharron Lewis-Williams, Warrenton

Juanita Mincey, Warrenton

Victoria Perry , Warrenton

Gabrielle Seward, Warrenton

Earnest Solomon, Warrenton

Imani Swinney, Warrenton

Wake County

Alexandria McKinnon, Garner

Nikayla Morgan, Raleigh

Lyndaiha Sullivan-Henry, Raleigh

Isaiah Napier, Wake Forest

Brianna Cid, Zebulon

Cynthia Leon, Zebulon

Anasia Perry, Zebulon

Other Communities

Jaime Villareal, Asheboro

Tristan Martin, Bradenton, Fla.

Jairin Shaw, Burlington

Tiffany Joyner, Carrboro

Ahjah Lewis-Rowe, Charlotte

James Shepherd, Charlotte

Dontravious Williams, Charlotte

Ebony Wilson, Charlotte

Kyle Broas, Clayton

Robert Osborne, Dallas

James Moore, Durham

Keion Evans, Enfield

Deonte Robinson, Fayetteville

Thaddeus Dozier, Greensboro

Infinity Miller, Greensboro

Jerome Ballance, Jacksonville

Kimberly Birdlow, Lake Wylie, S.C.

Alexander Ingram, Lexington

Matthew Neal, Lexington

Kashief Matos, Pinetops

Armon Davis, Plymouth

Hassan Bangura, Rocky Mount

Christopher Spruill, Tarboro

Kwon’shelya Best, Williamston

Clarissa Overton, Winston Salem

VGCC HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY

Vance County

Cameron Bollinger, Henderson

Johnathan Brooks, Henderson

Bridget Crute, Henderson

Janie Evans, Henderson

Chase Gupton, Henderson

Vernon Jenkins Jr., Henderson

Christie Matthews, Henderson

Erin McGhee, Henderson

Michael Noyce, Henderson

Jennifer Pascual, Henderson

Owenwiston Raymond III, Henderson

Leonardo Renteria, Henderson

Jeremy Roberson, Henderson

Michael Stutzman, Henderson

Taylor Walker, Henderson

Lonnie Webb Jr., Henderson

Denise Woodard, Henderson

Christopher Gaither, Kittrell

Matthew Varker, Kittrell

Rebekah Varker, Kittrell

Granville County

Travis Sizemore, Bullock

Christopher Smith, Butner

Barry Avery, Creedmoor

Danielle Blackwell, Oxford

Monica Foster, Oxford

Tiffiny Hunter, Oxford

Charles Johnson, Oxford

Karen Montalvo-Franco, Oxford

Franklin County

James Goodson, Franklinton

Michael Ray, Franklinton

Christina Tyson, Franklinton

Shakera Alston, Louisburg

Timon Bailey, Louisburg

Dorothy Bobbitt, Louisburg

Noah Corbett, Louisburg

Serenity Corbett, Louisburg

Ronald Dement Jr., Louisburg

Cathrine Forsyth, Louisburg

Rose Johnson, Louisburg

Emily Martinez, Louisburg

Eric Trammell, Louisburg

Kenneth Jeffreys, Youngsville

Warren County

Eric Alexander, Manson

Serenia Lester, Warrenton

Christopher Tharrington, Warrenton

Wake County

Benjamin Mashburn, Apex

Amanda Bridges, Wake Forest

Jesse Pendleton, Wake Forest

Other Communities

Cheyenne Irby, Roxboro

VGCC Class of 2018 Receives Encouragement from Meredith VP, SGA Leader

May 30, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Dr. Jean Jackson returned home to offer inspiration to Vance-Granville Community College’s newest graduates, encouraging the Class of 2018 to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.

“In many ways, you are Vance-Granville Community College,” the Middleburg native told members of the 49^th commencement exercises on May 11. “You are the very best advertisement of what is possible from work done here and how you apply that work as you go forward in your lives.”

Members of the class were joined by hundreds of family members and friends at the outdoor ceremony in front of the gazebo on Vance-Granville’s main campus.

“You’ve been prepared professionally,” Dr. Jackson said. “Now it’s up to you to see what will make you feel successful and be happy in life. You have all of the tools that you need, and it’s up to you to write the rest of your story.”

Currently serving as the vice president for college programs at Meredith College in Raleigh, the principal commencement speaker became a member of the English faculty at the Raleigh college in 1983 and continues to teach courses on English poetry of the Romantic Period, in addition to overseeing planning and budgeting for offices such as Academic and Career Planning, Athletics, Campus Police, the Dean of Students and Student Leadership and Service.

A 1971 graduate of what was Vance County High School, Dr. Jackson recalled the early days when VGCC was first called Vance County Technical Institute. Her family’s telephone

Above: Meredith College Vice President Dr. Jean Jackson delivers the commencement address at Vance-Granville Community College on May 11. (VGCC Photo)

number was only one digit off from that of the new college, she remarked, which led to “a lot of calls for the new college!” in apparent misdials.

“Your school work may be done, or done for now, but work will change and demand your ingenuity and skills and grit for the rest of your lives,” Dr. Jackson said. “All of us still have much to learn, even those of us who graduated long ago because the world is changing much more rapidly than are our institutions of higher learning.”

“What you have learned here — your writing and research skills, your organizational skills, your collaborative skills and dozens and dozens of other skills that we could name — will help you whatever you choose to do in your work life…. Education, inspiration and support have served you well at Vance-Granville and, if you give them the opportunity, will serve you as guides for the rest of your long, happy and successful lives.”

Also offering inspiration to the Class of 2018 was the student speaker, Sovanny “Sophie” Taylor of Louisburg, speaking on behalf of her classmates.

Above: Sovanny “Sophie” Taylor of Louisburg speaks on behalf of the graduates at Vance-Granville Community College on May 11. (VGCC photo)

VGCC, like the virtual assistant “Siri” of Apple’s phone and computer devices, can serve as a GPS, Taylor told the graduates. “We’ve made it to this day. Don’t look back and wonder what you could have done better or regret a road you didn’t take…. When we take a detour or meander away from our path, Siri says, ‘rerouting,’ and that’s what you have to do.”

“You’re a Vanguard, so I know everyone here is going to go on and do great things in their own way. Vance-Granville has prepared us for that,” she said. “Even if you miss a stepping stone, Vance-Granville will help you find your footing.”

A Franklin County Early College High School student, Taylor is only the second student from an early college program to serve as president of the VGCC Student Government Association and student member of the college’s Board of Trustees. She plans to continue her education this fall at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Following the speakers, Dr. Stelfanie Williams, president of VGCC, applauded the graduates for their achievements, announcing that 487 degrees and diplomas were being awarded to the Class of 2018. “You are to be commended for your dedication and achievement,” she told the graduates. “You are surrounded by your loved ones, family and friends and I know that they celebrate your success.”

Above: Vance-Granville Community College President Dr. Stelfanie Williams places a medallion around the neck of Academic Excellence Award recipient Andrew Lynam of Youngsville, right. (VGCC photo)

The president added that the Class of 2018 includes 65 inductees into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society and one-third of the class has been recognized as honor graduates. She noted the diversity of the class, who included not only young Early College High School students, but also “others who have attended college while taking care of families, and others who are the first in their families to earn a college degree.”

“You graduates truly reflect the living mission of Vance-Granville Community College,” Dr. Williams said.

Dr. Williams recognized Andrew Lynam, recipient of the North Carolina Community College System’s Academic Excellence Award, during her remarks. During the procession of graduates, the president paused to place a medallion on Lynam to honor his outstanding achievement. One student from each of the 58 colleges in the state system is honored with the award each year. Lynam graduated with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Welding Technology. A home-schooled student, he first enrolled at VGCC at age 16 through the college’s Career & College Promise program.

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

Above: Meredith College Vice President Dr. Jean Jackson delivers the commencement address as the students await the presentation of degrees and diplomas at Vance-Granville Community College on May 11. (VGCC Photo)

Members of this year’s class, including those predicted to graduate at the end of the summer term in July, were awarded 207 Associate in Applied Science degrees in a variety of curriculum programs, 153 Associate in Arts degrees, 60 Associate in Science degrees and 53 technical and vocational diplomas. Many students graduated with more than one credential.

SGA President Taylor led the new graduates in ceremonially turning their tassels as the ceremony concluded. Music was provided by the Vance-Granville Community Band, conducted by Brian Miller. Bearing the ceremonial mace for commencement was Science Department Chair Steve McGrady, the college’s 2017-2018 Faculty Member of the Year. The invocation was given by Deborah F. Brown and the benediction by Donald C. Seifert, Sr., both members of the Board of Trustees.

More photos: Check out the VGCC Commencement 2018 album on Flickr.

Video from the Ceremony: Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

VGCC Releases Names of 2018 Curriculum Graduates

May 30, 2018/by WIZS Staff

VOCATIONAL or TECHNICAL DIPLOMA

Cosmetology

Eillah Kahmil Spivey, Bunn

Cheryl Anne Bragdon, Franklinton

Nitianndra Garryale Boyd, Henderson

Kadejah Monique Bass, Oxford

Tonisha Chandre Chavis, Oxford

Kristina Faith Graham, Raleigh

Ashley M Holden, Raleigh

Nicole Brueck, Wake Forest

Maya Elise Grimmett, Wake Forest

Electrical Systems Technology

James Otis Clark, Youngsville

Paralegal Technology

Barbara Edwards Sirucek, Louisburg

Jennifer Alondra Campos, Oxford

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE

Accounting

Ciara Shantel Lynch, Franklinton

Jennifer Marie Burton, Norlina

Associate Degree Nursing

Valerie Jade Strange, Bullock

Matthew Hartmann Grooms, Butner

Caitlin Elizabeth Moen, Cary

Tammy Lynn Emery, Creedmoor

Mary Ann Rojas-Galvan, Creedmoor

Caitlyn Brooke Smith, Creedmoor

Victoria Mawumenyo Puplampu, Durham

Stephen Mwaura Gakumo, Durham

Mujahid Yagoub, Durham

Tonya Marie Berry, Franklinton

Shakeera Monique Robinson, Franklinton

Jeannie Sheree Adcock, Henderson

William Tracey Autrey, Henderson

Kaylan Cheryl Hoyle, Henderson

Courtney Breann Moss, Henderson

Tasha Nicole Warren, Henderson

Joan Yancey Currin, Kittrell

Brittany Lynn McFarland, Kittrell

Guadalupe Fabiola Duran Maya, Louisburg

Christine Marie Kingsley, Louisburg

Rachel Christian Morton, Louisburg

Jessica Lynne White, Louisburg

Britanny Nicole Beddingfield, Oxford

Jodie Dare Carroll, Oxford

Joy Lamelca Harris, Oxford

Brittani Renae Lynch, Oxford

Latonya Renee Morton, Oxford

Laura Louise Murray, Oxford

Crystal Michelle Satterfield, Oxford

Halie Catherine Brooks, Raleigh

Shayne Dillard Gravitt, Raleigh

Ashley Nicole Drake, Stovall

Roselyne Muhimpundu, Wake Forest

Omar Rexford O’Brien, Wake Forest

Automotive System Technology

Jacob Fleming Mosley, Henderson

Dustin Ray Burrows, Norlina

Business Administration

Sara Lynn Reid, Creedmoor

Bobbie Jean Wilkerson, Creedmoor

Christy Page Valerio, Durham

Teresa Ray Pope, Durham

Sarah Jean Gabriel, Franklinton

Griselle Martinez-Garcia, Franklinton

Crystal Renee Thomerson, Franklinton

Diane Thorpe Hunt, Henderson

Dana Lee Tuck, Henderson

Jennifer Marie Burton, Norlina

Angelica Lorraine Bridges, Oxford

Tammy Lynne Brown, Oxford

Stacy Thomas Hicks, Oxford

Mary Lewis Selvidge, Raleigh

Jason Lin Thompson, Stem

Lisa Ferris Haithcock, Warrenton

Jessica Morgan Howell, Warrenton

Computer Technology Integration

Andrew Alfred Dadson Jr, Butner

Criminal Justice Technology

Travis Calvin Campbell, Creedmoor

Tiffany Rozelia Wilson, Durham

Cherall Lynnette Martin, Henderson

Rebecka Rosane Paul, Henderson

Morgan Taylor Lawhorne, Henderson

Catherine Elizabeth Crowder, Oxford

Wesley Scott Whitley, Oxford

Culinary Arts

Tyneshia Monae Brackett, Creedmoor

Niamani Faithe Dantzler-Sneed, Henderson

Sara Christmas Cheek, Louisburg

Danielle Nicole Enright, Louisburg

Ethel Christmas Fogg, Warrenton

Early Childhood Education

Maria Luiza Gutierrez, Durham

Deborah Edwards Barker, Franklinton

Anita Mann Fuller, Franklinton

Jamie Nicole Taylor, Franklinton

Amber N Gresham, Henderson

Jacquella S Jones, Henderson

Ella Hargrove Kelly, Henderson

Makala Ann West, Henderson

Summer Michelle Jessup, Louisburg

Tomekia Marie Rainey, Pinetops

Catherine Gable Jones, Raleigh

Electronics Engineering Technology

Jacob Randall Buchanan, Wake Forest

Elysse Martine Young, Wake Forest

Entrepreneurship

Austin R Lovegrove, Franklinton

Heather Ann Henkel, Sanford

Global Logistics and Distribution Management Technology

Charles Brandon Braswell, Wilson

Human Service Technology

Ana Toral-Sanchez, Franklinton

Fredesvinda Concepccion Euceda-Colindres, Creedmoor

Stalisha LaShawn Royster, Franklinton

Debra Ann Jones, Norlina

Mikala Lynn Tinsley, Oxford

Morgan Danielle Sumner, Youngsville

Human Services Technology/Gerontology

Caitlyn Marie Rudd, Franklinton

Pamela R. Campbell, Littleton

Information Technology

Nyrelle Shanay Busby, Henderson

Antoine Crudup, Henderson

Dustin L Starnes, Henderson

Graham Ellis, Oxford

Faustino Gregorio-Sanchez, Oxford

Richard Franklin Reynolds III, Stem

Mechatronics Engineering Technology

Kevin Glenn Greear, Franklinton

Charles Purdie Deese, Henderson

Medical Assisting

Melissa Carol Bridges, Creedmoor

Dajane Johnson, Henderson

Michelle Denise Beckwith, Kittrell

Melissa Barreto, Louisburg

Stephanie Marie Kearney, Louisburg

Kristy Ann Robertson, Louisburg

Kiera Shantrice Fogg, Warrenton

Mirna Lopez, Youngsville

Medical Office Administration

Cynthia Michelle Black, Bunn

Celestae Joyner Bailey, Durham

Timmara Durham Smith, Henderson

Jessica Catlett Allgood, Henderson

Tamara Francesca Glover, Henderson

Brianna Nicole Lynch, Hollister

Ashley King Bouchelle, Kittrell

Amanda Suzanne Aiken, Rougemont

Kaitlyn Ford Wilson, Roxboro

Rebecca Taylor George, Warrenton

Thomas Marshall King Jr., Wise

Office Administration

Ieshia Danielle Harris, Henderson

Katherine Lynn Mims, Warrenton

Paralegal Technology

Bratanya Kay Simmons, Henderson

Katie Scarlett Rogers, Louisburg

Paralegal Technology Caira Rose Romero Berube, Louisburg

Pharmacy Technology

Katrina Nichelle Evans, Henderson

Lesli Marisol Miranda, Henderson

Matthew Anthony Fuller, Rougemont

Radiography

Katie Ann Weary , Bullock

Brittnee Marie Orto, Creedmoor

Corinna Wray Hutton, Durham

James Dereke Bolton, Henderson

Crystal Cobb Gill, Henderson

Laurie Anne Newton, Henderson

Jan Carol Maniace, Hillsborough

Jennifer Dunn Wright, Hurdle Mills

Mark James Meinhart, Louisburg

Brittany Nicole Harmon, Norlina

Marco Antonio Carmen Vasquez, Oxford

Whitney Michelle Cox, Oxford

Gloria Maria Hudnall, Oxford

Aaron Jacob McNeill, Oxford

Johnathan Harold Williamson, Oxford

Terrance Mario Wesley, Raleigh

Ashley Michelle Rhew, Timberlake

Bethany Scarbrough Murphy, Youngsville

Welding Technology

Hernan Hernandez-Jimenez, Castalia

Cedric Jessie Rodebaugh II, Franklinton

Eduardo Ibarra Renteria, Henderson

Keodric Donte Grant, Oxford

Galen Dean Wilds, Stem

Austin Shane Holliday, Wake Forest

Andrew Michael Lynam, Youngsville

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS DEGREE

Nya Jynae Smith Allen, Butner

Marisol Galvan Romo, Butner

Jasmine Dominique Jackson, Butner

Ryan Vital Makueyi, Butner

Tiffany Martinez, Butner

Alma Liliana Ramirez Cortes, Butner

Aislinn Rea Servin, Butner

Matthew Thomas Lewis, Charlotte

Caitlyn Alexandra Good, Creedmoor

Shanika Jean Keith, Creedmoor

Mariah Rose Landis, Creedmoor

Andres-Manuel Mata Espino, Creedmoor

Aukeija Aoshane Merritt, Creedmoor

Owen Thomas Mettam, Creedmoor

Christina Angela Offenburg, Creedmoor

Samantha Jordan Shannon, Creedmoor

Tamiya Ronnae Thomas, Creedmoor

Charles Grant Wicker, Creedmoor

Malcolm J Jones, Creedmoor

Sarah Catherine Stewart, Creedmoor

Jocelyn Shantelle Williams, Durham

Tyler B Woods, Durham

Alexis Monroe Barton, Franklinton

Chloe Ava Bowman, Franklinton

Evan Taylor Dixon, Franklinton

Jeffrey Rojas, Franklinton

Abril Rosales-Martinez, Franklinton

Mya Danyel Wilson, Franklinton

Je’Ronee Mag’zheem Blackwell, Henderson

Stackia Lamondria Burwell, Henderson

Shaneisha Lorraine Eaton, Henderson

Taylor G Gregory, Henderson

Dy’quan Lugene Marrow, Henderson

Hunter Charles Antel, Henderson

Nancy Carolina Bonilla, Henderson

Mercedes Nemya Brust, Henderson

Cameron Gabriel Bullock, Henderson

Nahu Carlos, Henderson

Ke’Moni Malik Rashaad Champion, Henderson

Brooklyn Summer Davis, Henderson

Zairea Eboni Ashanaia Davis, Henderson

Zenee Toni Elajhia Davis, Henderson

Hong Dong, Henderson

Malcolm Slyvester Elam, Henderson

Nealee Ray Fisher, Henderson

Lehman Ricardo Ford, Henderson

Luke Mabry Frazier, Henderson

Allison Mahala Hines, Henderson

Brandy Nicole Hiracheta, Henderson

Brandon Joel Hughes, Henderson

Victoria Ashley Inscoe, Henderson

Nicholas Gray King, Henderson

Caroline Marie Oakley, Henderson

Brandy Lynne Patterson, Henderson

Brittney Michelle Patterson, Henderson

Jimmy Perez Ponce, Henderson

Hannah Marie Roberson, Henderson

Evan Tyler Stinson, Henderson

Latia Shonice Thomas, Henderson

Matthew Alexander White, Henderson

Suzanne Cathleen Williams, Henderson

Danielle Lorene Ayscue, Kittrell

Andrew Dylan Brame, Kittrell

Stephon Eldred Bryant, Kittrell

Amber Paige Hicks, Kittrell

Jordan Lee Rooker, Kittrell

Miranda Ann Simmons, Kittrell

Aaron Christopher Williams, Kittrell

Lillian Diane Kanouff, Kittrell

McKenzie Joy Taylor, Kittrell

Makayla Renee Williams, Littleton

Brandon Joseph Adams, Louisburg

Miles Anthony Brown, Louisburg

Matthew John Reynolds, Louisburg

Casey Marie Shellman, Louisburg

Sovanny Ruth Taylor, Louisburg

Kiah Monique Durham, Manson

Ty’ayala Ajahnae Shearin, Manson

Joshua Isaiah Jacobs, Morrisville

Timothy Lee Avent, Norlina

Dana Evans Brannock, Norlina

Maggie Rena Cabiness, Norlina

Haley Nicole Elliott, Oxford

Erica Julianne Evans, Oxford

Daisy Gomez-Palacios, Oxford

Noah Owen Hendrick, Oxford

Sarah Louise Mabe, Oxford

Amya Shanay Madison Bullock, Oxford

Dylan Anthony Newton, Oxford

Emely Kiara Ovando, Oxford

Laniya Dawn Rogers, Oxford

Diamond A’Nya Royster, Oxford

Daniel Greene Sexton, Oxford

Kimberly Michelle Spence, Oxford

Sydney Arielle Towers, Oxford

Hanna Lea Williams, Oxford

William Mitchell Beck, Raleigh

Angelina Rose Cherry, Stem

Leighana Elizabeth Dail, Stem

Osvaldo Hernandez Martinez, Stem

Nelson Sanchez Juarez, Stem

Caitlynn Ashley Taylor, Stem

Seth Norwood Moody, Townsville

Cam’ron Aqil Aiken, Wake Forest

Elizabeth Nicole Durand, Wake Forest

Brianna Marie Medina, Wake Forest

Edgar Ivan Arrieta-Reyes, Warrenton

Isaac Emmanuel Barnett, Warrenton

Aaron Michael Bender, Warrenton

Sarah Anne Boone, Warrenton

Jonathan Jesus Hernandez, Warrenton

Wen Bin Lin, Warrenton

Casey Tyler Pollock, Warrenton

Giovanni Reyes, Warrenton

Quendarius Kamarea Williams, Warrenton

Brenda Rook Whitley, Wendell

Maria Eugenia Najera, Youngsville

Brian Samuel Restrepo, Youngsville

Colton Shayne Black

Victoria Anne Dupree

Brian Thomas Van Dyke

David Clovis Williamson

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE DEGREE

Nya Jynae Smith Allen, Butner

Marisol Galvan Romo, Butner

Jasmine Dominique Jackson, Butner

Caitlyn Alexandra Good, Creedmoor

Andres-Manuel Mata Espino, Creedmoor

Iris Moriel Medrano, Creedmoor

Aukeija Aoshane Merritt, Creedmoor

Christina Angela Offenburg, Creedmoor

Tamiya Ronnae Thomas, Creedmoor

Charles Grant Wicker, Creedmoor

Gavin Cooper Hardin, Franklinton

Sadie Jesslyn Outhouse, Franklinton

Jeffrey Rojas, Franklinton

Abril Rosales-Martinez, Franklinton

Zana Roderica Townsend, Franklinton

Mya Danyel Wilson, Franklinton

Ligaya Carissa Glenn Santos Aguas, Henderson

Nancy Carolina Bonilla, Henderson

Morgan Taylor Daniels, Henderson

Brooklyn Summer Davis, Henderson

Malcolm Slyvester Elam, Henderson

Nealee Ray Fisher, Henderson

Lucas Reid Hamrick, Henderson

Victoria Ashley Inscoe, Henderson

Joelle Lane Pernell, Henderson

Lindsey Rebecca Perry, Henderson

Matthew Alexander White, Henderson

Alexander Nathan Long, Kittrell

Madison Dawn Waddle, Kittrell

Aaron Christopher Williams, Kittrell

McKenzie Joy Taylor, Kittrell

Nubia C Lockett, Louisburg

Matthew John Reynolds, Louisburg

Sovanny Ruth Taylor, Louisburg

Kiah Monique Durham, Manson

Hannah Rose Arneth, Oxford

Andrew Eugene Ayers, Oxford

Kierra Michelle Crews, Oxford

Daisy Gomez-Palacios, Oxford

Sarah Louise Mabe, Oxford

Laniya Dawn Rogers, Oxford

Daniel Greene Sexton, Oxford

Hailey Thomas Woodlief, Oxford

Osvaldo Hernandez Martinez, Stem

Caitlynn Ashley Taylor, Stem

Edgar Ivan Arrieta-Reyes, Warrenton

Isaac Emmanuel Barnett, Warrenton

Raina Amaya Mills, Warrenton

Casey Tyler Pollock, Warrenton

Giovanni Reyes, Warrenton

Stephen Dale Byrns, Youngsville

Christian Matthew Helsel, Youngsville

Alexis Mionna McSears, Youngsville

Brian Samuel Restrepo, Youngsville

Victoria Anne Dupree

VGCC Department Chair McGrady Recognized for National Faculty Award

May 23, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College honored Steve McGrady, chair of the college’s Science Department and an instructor, for his recent receipt of the inaugural Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty recognition by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

In a session with the VGCC Board of Trustees on Monday, May 21, Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the college president, recognized the long-time member of the college faculty for the honor.

“This great honor reflects your long-term commitment to academic excellence, teaching and learning, and student success at Vance-Granville Community College as a faculty member,” Dr. Williams said. “Your dedication has been recognized at the national level.”

McGrady, who is a resident of Durham, was named last fall as the VGCC Faculty Member of the Year for 2017-2018, one of three of the college’s Glen Raven Excellence in Teaching and Leadership Awards. Glen Raven Inc., the manufacturer with a site in Norlina, is a longtime VGCC supporter and partner.

Above: Dr. Stelfanie Williams, VGCC president, left, presents a congratulatory letter to Steve McGrady, honoring the Science Department chair for his Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty recognition by the American Association of Community Colleges. (VGCC photo)

McGrady, a full-time VGCC instructor since 1990 and leader of the Science department since 1992, is a graduate of Wake Forest University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree, and of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his master’s degree in biology. He teaches courses in biology, chemistry and geology for Vance-Granville. Prior to joining the faculty at VGCC, he taught at Richmond Community College in Hamlet, N.C.

McGrady was the recipient of the VGCC President’s Leadership Award in 2006 after helping to lead a “Global Studies” initiative that took a group of faculty and students on an educational trip to Costa Rica.

McGrady and now-retired instructor Button Brady coordinated the VGCC Science Camp for middle school students from its inception in 2011, and he has overseen the camp on his own for the last two summers. This year’s camp is scheduled for June 11-15 on the Main Campus.

He served as co-chair of the VGCC Endowment Fund Faculty & Staff Drive from 2010 through 2012 and is a graduate of the VGCC Leadership Institute of 2005-06. McGrady has been involved in the college’s Male Mentoring program as a mentor and has served as chair of the college’s Academic Affairs Committee.

The AACC is the primary advocacy organization for the nation’s community colleges, representing nearly 1,200 two-year, associate degree-granting institutions and more than 12 million students. The award received by McGrady is named in honor of former AACC President and CEO Dale P. Parnell. The designation was established to recognize individuals making a difference in the classroom. The AACC said recipients are chosen for demonstrating passion for students and the classroom; showing a willingness to support students, inside and outside of the classroom; participation in college committees; and going above and beyond what is required to ensure that students are successful in their academic endeavors.

VGCC Trustees Expand Pharmacy Tech Programs with Certificates

May 23, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College’s Board of Trustees approved the addition of new certificates in the Pharmacy Technology curriculum program and the College and Career Promise (CCP) Pathways at the bimonthly meeting on the college’s Main Campus on Monday, May 21.

The Pharmacy Technology certificates, which will be available this fall, expand opportunities in a program that already offers an associate’s degree and a diploma providing qualified students with the skills and knowledge needed to practice in a variety of pharmacy settings. The suggested course sequence for the 13-hour certificate program, which can be completed in one semester, offers courses in Introduction to Pharmacy, Pharmacy Practice, Pharmacy Calculations (including a lab), and Trends in Pharmacy.

Certificate coursework applies towards completion of a diploma or an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. The CCP Pathway offers qualified high school students the opportunity to earn college credit for free while enrolled in high school.

Above: Trustee Board Chair Danny Wright, left, and VGCC President Dr. Stelfanie Williams, right, present a plaque to Sovanny “Sophie” Taylor of Louisburg, honoring her for her service as Student Trustee for the Board of Trustees in 2017-2018. Taylor, who graduated this year from both the Franklin County Early College High School and VGCC, was president of the VGCC Student Government Association. She plans to continue her education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill this fall. (VGCC photo)

Graduates of the Pharmacy Technology curriculum are eligible for employment in hospitals, nursing homes, private and chain drug stores, research laboratories, wholesale drug companies, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and pharmacy benefit management call centers. Graduates are also prepared to take the National Certification Examination developed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). VGCC’s program has also become an Advocate Educator through the PTCB Educator Program.

The action came after a recommendation from the trustees’ Curriculum Committee, chaired by Trustee Barbara Cates Harris. In other action from the committee, the trustees voted to close a curriculum certificate program in Sustainable Electrical Energies, effective in the fall, because current trends in the workforce no longer support the demand for the certificate. Upon committee recommendation, too, the board approved the offering of an Occupational Extension course in Food Service Management to Captive/Co-opted Groups at Polk Correctional Institution in Butner.

Capital Projects

In an update on the college’s Capital Projects, Trustee Donald C. Seifert, Sr., noted that the structural renovation and restoration of masonry at the Main Campus will be placed out for bid this summer after the competition of the final assessment fieldwork.

The bidding process for fire alarm replacement work on the Main Campus has been delayed up to two months by reviews in the State Construction Office, he said.

In addition, he noted that design development and construction documents are scheduled to be completed later this month for renovations to Building 10, with bids going out in June, and Welding Laboratory renovations at the Franklin Campus have been inspected and accepted after being completed earlier this spring.

Quality Enhancement Plan

Jeffrey Allen, dean of enrollment and outreach for VGCC, gave the board an update on the college’s Quality Enhancement Program, designed to streamline the college’s advising process with more emphasis on student success.

Labeled as “Advising in 3D — Dream, Design and Discover,” the QEP has three goals: (1) Students will develop a rapport/relationship with an advisor; (2) Students will know the steps to completion of their academic and career goals; and (3) Students will become responsible, independent and empowered for their education.

Among the various steps being taken to meet those goals, advising and orientation are now mandatory; academic and career planning courses require students to identify their programs of study, review courses completed, and plan semester-by-semester for completing course requirements for graduation; and an emphasis is being placed on career services, the Academic Skills Center, financial aid and other resources to help ensure student success.

“We are pleased with the progress we’ve made for our students through the QEP,” noted Dr. Stelfanie Williams, president of VGCC, “and we see many opportunities for student success going forward.”

SGA President

The board recognized the Student Government Association president, Sovanny “Sophie” Taylor, who finished her term as a Student Trustee.

Taylor, who is a graduate of Franklin County Early College High School as well as Vance-Granville Community College, said that she found her academic experience at VGCC “refreshing” because of the support and care demonstrated by staff and faculty.

Taylor will enter Honors College at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a junior this fall, she told the board. She plans to study molecular genetics.

Other Action

In other action:

The trustees approved student, patron, child care and facility rental fees for the 2018-2019 academic year, recommended by the Budget Committee, chaired by Trustee Abdul Rasheed.
Trustee Sara Wester, chair of the Personnel Committee, reported on new employees, retirements and resignations.
The Investment Committee, chaired by Trustee L. Opie Frazier, Jr., reported on growth in the college’s investments.
Board Chair Danny Wright appointed a nominating committee composed of Frazier, Wester and Harris to prepare a list of nominees for officers for the Board of Trustees for 2018-2019.

The next meeting of the VGCC Board of Trustees will be held on Monday, July 16, at the Main Campus.

VGCC President Williams Resigns To Take VP Position At Duke

May 21, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the president of Vance-Granville Community College, announced today that she has accepted the position of Vice President for Durham Affairs at Duke University, effective Aug. 13, 2018.

“It has been an honor and joy to lead and serve at Vance-Granville Community College,” Dr. Williams said. “I am proud of the success over these years, and I am confident that, with the fine faculty and staff and community support, the best is yet to come for the college.”

The announcement came today after the VGCC Board of Trustees voted to accept the resignation. “Dr. Williams has provided outstanding leadership for Vance-Granville Community College,” said Danny W. Wright, board chair. “Her vision and intellect, passion for student success, and commitment to community engagement will be assets to Duke University, and she will be missed dearly at VGCC and the surrounding communities we serve. Stelfanie is very deserving of this opportunity, and we are heartened to know that she will continue her great work and contributions in higher education.”

In an e-mail to VGCC trustees, faculty and staff members, noting their contributions to the college’s success, Dr. Williams wrote, “You all are an amazing group of professionals! Thank you for your commitment and great achievements over these years.”

Dr. Williams succeeded Randy Parker as the sixth president in the history of the college on Feb. 1, 2012. She came to VGCC from Central Carolina Community College where she last served as the vice president of economic and community development. A graduate of Duke University, she began her community college career at CCCC as an instructor for Basic Skills and progressed through several positions on the faculty and in administration at community colleges in North Carolina.

Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the president of Vance-Granville Community College, announced that she has accepted the position of Vice President for Durham Affairs at Duke University, effective Aug. 13, 2018. Photo courtesy VGCC.

In her new position at her alma mater, Dr. Williams will lead and coordinate Duke’s diverse and innovative community efforts in areas such as economic development, affordable housing, early childhood, K-12 and workforce education, student engagement, neighborhood relations and community health, according to a press release from Duke. She will also continue building connections between Duke and Durham Public Schools, Durham Technical Community College and North Carolina Central University. She succeeds Phail Wynn, former president of Durham Tech, who is leaving after 10 years in the position.

“Duke’s commitment to public service and the unique attributes of the Durham community excite me about the bright opportunities ahead for thoughtful collaboration,” Dr. Williams is quoted as saying in the Duke release.

Among local and regional boards and commissions, Dr. Williams currently serves on North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper’s Commission on Sound, Basic Education and the MyFutureNC commission created to get more North Carolinians better educated.

Dr. Williams was named “President of the Year” by the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges earlier this year. In 2014, she received the I.E. Ready Distinguished Leadership Award, named for the first president of the North Carolina Community College System, by North Carolina State University.

She was born in New York City, raised in Sanford and attended The Asheville School in Asheville, N.C. She attended Duke University, where she received bachelor’s degrees in Public Policy and Spanish, and Western Carolina University, where she earned a master’s degree in Project Management. In 2011, Williams completed her doctorate, an Ed.D. in Adult and Higher Education, from NCSU.

For the selection process leading to Dr. Williams being named as VGCC’s president in December 2011, the college’s Board of Trustees appointed a Presidential Search Committee and a nationwide search was conducted. The board was assisted in that process by a search consultant from the North Carolina Association of Community College Trustees.

Trustees Chair Wright added, “We will miss Dr. Williams, but we wish her the very best as she moves on to another opportunity for educational leadership at Duke University…. Over the next several weeks, she will be working with the board, college personnel, and community partners to prepare the institution for future growth.”

VGCC Plans Science Camp for Middle School Students

May 16, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Registration ends on Friday, May 18, for the 2018 edition of Vance-Granville Community College’s Science Camp for local middle school students. The camp will be held Monday through Friday, June 11-15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day on the college’s Main Campus in Vance County.

Rising sixth, seventh and eighth-graders from Franklin, Granville, Vance and Warren counties are invited to participate in the week-long camp, now in its eighth year.

Sessions will be taught by faculty members from the VGCC Science Department and other college programs.

Above: Middle School students who attended the 2017 Science Camp work with VGCC Science Department Chair Steve McGrady to conduct an experiment using red cabbage during a session on chemistry. (VGCC photo)

“We encourage young people in our service area to take advantage of this great opportunity to explore the world of science,” said VGCC Science Department Chair Steve McGrady. “We will have fun, hands-on activities that involve various sciences and allow campers to explore STEM career fields such as biotechnology, electronics and pharmacy. Our outstanding VGCC faculty members collaborate each year to make this a learning experience that is unlike anything available in our four-county area.”

The cost to attend the camp is $125, which includes lunch each day and a camp T-shirt.

Parents can now register their campers online at www.vgcc.edu/camps. For more information, contact Steve McGrady at (252) 738-3339 or mcgradys@vgcc.edu.

VGCC Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Inducts 65 Students

May 14, 2018/by WIZS Staff

-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College recognized 65 students who were inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for students of two-year colleges, on April 17 in the Civic Center on the college’s Main Campus.

VGCC students honored with induction into Phi Theta Kappa must have a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.5 (3.75 for part-time students) in associate degree curriculum programs and have completed at least 12 credit hours toward their degrees.

PTK advisor Maureen Walters (left) presents VGCC student Pamela Campbell (right) with the chapter’s first-ever Excellence in Leadership Award.

Also honored at the ceremony were Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the college president, and Dr. Levy Brown, VGCC’s vice president of academic affairs, who were awarded honorary memberships for their roles in the success of the chapter, and Pamela Campbell, a student who is graduating with her degree in Human Services Technology in Gerontology in May, who received the chapter’s first-ever Excellence in Leadership Award.

As advisors for VGCC’s PTK chapter, instructors Maureen Walters, Isaac Talley and Karen Feezor conducted the ceremony. Walters, the head advisor, told the new inductees and their families and friends in attendance that since VGCC’s chapter of PTK, “Alpha Sigma Chi,” was chartered in 1991, more than 2,040 students have been selected for induction. She said that while scholarship is the first aim of PTK, the society also encourages fellowship, leadership development and service to others, and she noted that the letters Phi Theta Kappa stand for the Greek words for “Wisdom,” “Aspiration” and “Purity.”

Dr. Levy Brown, vice president of academic affairs at VGCC, addresses the crowd at the Phi Theta Kappa ceremony

Dr. Brown served as the guest speaker for the event. “When I think about everything that college students need to navigate in order to experience academic success, I am reminded that it takes a village to help students be successful,” Dr. Brown said. “In many ways, our families and college campus are the village supporting you as you have experienced success both academically and personally.”

Noting that the inductees were selected because of the significant amount of time they have spent attending class, studying, working and managing various circumstances in life, he encouraged the honorees to “keep on moving,” citing the lyrics from a song by Soul to Soul. “Keep progressing and moving forward,” he said. “Do not lose momentum. Keep on moving, and do not forget about that village. Help pull others up academically and in other ways.”

Campbell, who introduced Dr. Brown on the program, was given the Excellence in Leadership Award for being “the driving force behind many of our successful projects in the last year,” said Walters. “She is an individual who I have had the privilege to watch grow during her time in Phi Theta Kappa into a successful leader. Even though she says she doesn’t like speaking in front of people, she was quick to ask if there was some way she might speak at the induction ceremony today since she was working on that skill. In addition to helping in many different groups on campus, she also finds her passion in helping our aging population.”

Certificates were awarded by VGCC President Dr. Stelfanie Williams with assistance from Walters and Feezor.

This year’s inductees into the Alpha Sigma Chi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa are:

From Vance County:

Sonya Barnes, Jessica Bolton, Zenee Davis, Nealee Fisher, Tamara Glover, Cassidy Grissom, Kaitlyn Harris, Fatima Hawter, Wesley Hight, Brandon Hughes, Tim Jiang, Wendy Jordan, Evan O’Geary, Amal Saleh, Timmara Smith, Dustin Starnes, Raini Williams, and Kianna Wills of Henderson; and

Lastacey Burwell and Tara Burwell, both of Kittrell.

From Granville County:

Courtney Crute and Andrew Tinsley, both of Bullock;

Matthew Grooms of Butner;

Tyneshia Brackett, Delaney Edwards, and Iris Medrano, all of Creedmoor;

Monica Botros, Savannah Brogden, Brittney Darnell, Aivy Derry, Ker’Telian Fields, Penny Glover, Alyssa Gupton, Isom Hodges, Frances Wheeler, and Hanna Williams, all of Oxford.

From Franklin County:

Alexis Barton, Robert Davis, Caitlin Harris, Michelle Medina, Grace Ohlandt, Amanda Ramos and Caitlyn Rudd, all of Franklinton;

Sara Cheek, Trina Leapley, Rachel Munson and Shalinda White, all of Louisburg; and

Michelle Harris-Evans, Allison Thurkill and Megan Whitman, all of Youngsville.

From Warren County:

Sherese Hicks of Macon;

Shimeka Kearney of Norlina;

Edgar Arrieta-Reyes, Isaac Barnett, Heidy Labra, Kimberly Labra-Franco and Giovanni Reyes, all of Warrenton; and

Thomas King of Wise.

From Wake County

Robert Hill of Raleigh; and

Jessica Baker, Kynleigh Holley, and Lorie Shepherd, all of Wake Forest.