2023 Annual Report for Robeson Community College

2023

Robeson Community College is a great place to learn, grow, study, and train. It’s also a great place to work. In 2023, our college set many new milestones, hallmarking our achievement as a college. From graduating our largest class in history to unveiling a Veteran’s Wall of Honor to being named the host institution of the District 7 AISES Conference, 2023 was a historic year of excellence for Robeson Community College. Robeson Community College joined forces with Fayetteville Technical Community College in 2023 to offer our students an opportunity to get a competitive edge in three high-demand programs at FTCC – dental assisting, dental hygiene, and funeral services. It was also the year we started the Insurance Pre-licensing Academy through a partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield, opening new doors for students. In 2023, we hosted our 昀椀rst fall festival at our COMtech site, which drew hundreds of visitors. We have also been busy this past year with strategic planning as we look towards the future of our institution. Robeson Community College has a mission, and that mission is you. You are the reason that we exist. We are here to meet the training needs of our community, and we are able to do that through offering a variety of classes from cake decorating to welding to psychology. Robeson Community College is about lifelong learning, and no matter your age or where you are in life, we can assist you with the classes that you need for professional development or personal enrichment. As you’ll read in some of our student success stories, our students come from all walks of life. Some of our students may enroll while in high school, while others may choose to come back to school as an older adult. Some students want to seek a degree, while others just want to obtain a credential or take a class just for fun. Whether you are seeking a degree or continuing education, we welcome you to Robeson Community College. This is your home and once you step foot on our campus, you become a part of our family. Robeson Community College is a sacred place and we value you and we will do all that we can to help you succeed. Melissa Singl攀爀 Melissa Singler President

Robeson Community College’s enrollment continues to grow semester a昀琀er semester, with continuing education and short-term training that continue to 昀氀ourish and more students seeking to complete a certi昀椀cate, diploma, or degree through curriculum programs. 2023 will go down in history as one of the largest graduating classes for RCC. Robeson Community College, awarded 258 associate degrees, 48 diplomas, and 79 high school diplomas, for a total of 385 credentials conferred. Of the 385 graduates, 191 earned an associate of applied science degree, 32 completed an associate of arts, 2 were candidates for the associate of general education, 33 received the associate in science degree, 48 were awarded a diploma in a curriculum program of study, and 79 students completed the requirements for a high school diploma through Career and College Readiness. Cecilia Holden, the President and CEO of myFutureNC served as the graduation speaker for the event.

rustees of Robeson Community College, I would like to take T On behalf of the Board of students at Robeson f, a moment to note the many accolades that we have achieved in 2023. , and on a national , regionally Because of the diligence of our administration, faculty and staf Community College are making headlines and changing the world. Our students are achieving their dreams while getting recognized locally e continue to see the excellence of students as they succeed in the classroom and W level. the workforce. The quality of education received at Robeson Community College is superb and second to none. e thank those who have entrusted Robeson Community College with their higher W . education needs, and we hope to continue to live up to the expectations presented to us Robeson Community by those in the community you for choosing thank you and serve us to you for allowing Thank College. Shirley Stockton ees t n s to ru tock e T S lleg Shirley ty Co uni mm n Co beso , Ro ir a d Ch r Boa

Bo愀爀d of Trustees Shirley Stockton Kyle Chavis 吀栀ad Davis Faline Dial Audrey Hunt Chair Vice Chair Morgan Jones Virgil Hutchinson Mitchell “Bosco” Locklear Pedro “Tito” Massol, Jr. Les Noble Paul McDowell Danny Stedman Joshua Malcolm, SGA Representative Attorney Koba Bryant The Exec甀琀ive Team Melissa Singler Eric Freeman President Executive Vice President Dr. Stan Elliott Tami George Courtney Jacobs Dustin Long Dr. Johnny Smith Interim Vice President, Foundation Vice President, Business Services Executive Assistant to the President Vice President, Information Technology Vice President, Instruction

V攀琀攀爀ans Wa氀氀 Unveiled RCC hosts celebration to unveil veterans wall of honor in patriotic style 吀栀e RCC Foundation unveiled its 吀栀e ceremony began outside with event and told those gathered that Veteran’s Wall of Honor today during Retired MSG Raymond Hunt and the RCC Foundation had exceeded a special tribute featuring the Lumbee Retired CSM Gary Deese raising the all expectations in raising funds for Warriors and the Robeson County 昀氀ag representing all branches of the the newly established scholarship for Honor Guard. military. military-a昀케liated students. 吀栀e 昀氀ag was RCC President Melissa donated by “吀栀e scholarship had now been fully Singler welcomed the Lumbee endowed,” Seibles announced as everyone to the event. Warriors to applause erupted. “But this will be an the college ongoing endeavor; we still have over “We are so excited to and the 500 slots available for purchase on the see everyone come out 昀氀agpoles Veterans Wall of Honor.” today to honor our were donated Nation’s 昀椀nest,” stated by Woodman RCC Instructor and SPC Sherry Lo昀琀on RCC President Melissa Life. with the DAVA Unit 7 announced the Singler. “吀栀ank you winner of the 2022 RCC Veteran’s Day for joining us, this is a Councilman Writing Contest. great day for Robeson Eric Chavis Community College sang the “吀栀ere were so many great and for our active-duty National submissions,” Lo昀琀on said. “吀栀e DAVA military students, our veterans, and Anthem, followed by Sgt. 1st Class Eric members actually judge the writings our military families, and I am just Lo昀琀on who spoke on “what the 昀氀ag and they had a really hard time this so happy that we are able to celebrate means.” year picking a winner, so we are going the highly anticipated unveiling of the to recognize the winner and several Veterans Wall of Honor today.” Heather Seibles, the donor and honorable mentions…I was so proud to major gi昀琀 specialist, organized the get such writings from our students.”

吀栀e winner of the contest was Ellie Robeson County Honor Guard, ending 吀栀e wall features all six branches of Baker, the wife of a veteran, who wrote with the grand reveal of the Veterans government – the United States Army, the poem “Veterans’ Isolation.” Wall of Honor. United States Marine Corps, United States Navy, United States Air Force, “吀栀e family gathers, but where are “Get your cameras ready, there can United States Coast Guard, and the you, isolated in your room… isolated only be one unveiling,” Singler said United States Space Force. from your family, not a smile on your with excitement as she got ready to pull face,” Ellie read aloud. “You cannot the curtain down. Giving levels for plaques on the 昀椀nd a way to forget your plight, the Veterans Wall of Honor include $250 wall that you have, that kept your loved It only took a few seconds for for white stripes, $500 for red stripes, ones out… try to push through it, love the Veterans Wall of Honor to be $750 for middle red strips, and $1000 surrounds you every day… we are here uncovered, but once it was visible, for stars. Donors can provide text for 2 to support you, for we know how… everyone started looking for the names lines per plate, 21 characters each. isolation go away, let him have peace of loved ones. and enjoy being home.” Teddie McCain, Regina Walters, Jessica Perez-Rojas, and Roger Williams were recognized for their submissions and received a certi昀椀cate for honorable mention. MSG Walter Smith, Quartermaster with the VFW Post 8969 made a tribute to fallen soldiers, followed by a 21- gun salute and playing of Taps by the For

AISES C漀渀f攀爀ence RCC hosts District 7 AISES Conference; raises $45,000 “What else can I say but outstanding,” making it one of the highest-attended of a lifetime’ for our students would AISES Vice Chair William Tiger stated. conferences in Zone 7. 吀栀e conference not have been possible. And now Tiger is a member of the Miccosukee featured two keynote speakers, UNC with an established endowment, your Tribe in Florida. He is one of honored Chapel Hill Professor Dr. Jada Brooks contributions will help impact students during the opening ceremonies for the and Microso昀琀 Executive Zachary at Robeson Community College for recent AISES conference at Robeson Oxendine, both with Robeson County many generations to come.” Community College, which stands roots and members of the Lumbee for the American Indian Science and Tribe. 吀栀anks to an outpouring of support Engineering Society. from the region, the conference was Conference-goers had a chance to learn able to generate $45,000. 吀栀e proceeds Not realizing that one day RCC would about engineering, technology, and from the conference were used to be the host site, Tiger says he frequently more during break-out sessions from provide eight $500 scholarships to drove by the college as he made his way organizations such as NASA and ETI. students attending, and as Singler up and down I-95, traveling to take his 吀栀e conference came to a close with mentioned, establish an endowment at daughter to college. AISES Fest which included a powwow Robeson Community College. with local arts, cra昀琀s, and food vendors. “I have passed by here many times,” “吀栀e $10,000 endowment will be an Tiger said. “And here we are today, it “吀栀is was a phenomenal conference asset in providing scholarships to RCC was a beautiful opening ceremony. and an amazing opportunity for our AISES members in the future,” stated 吀栀is has been one of the best district community,” RCC President Melissa Singler. “We cannot thank our sponsors conferences I have attended. It has Singler stated. “I enjoyed seeing our enough for their overwhelming support been well organized and the attendance youth and community partake in the of the Region 7 AISES Conference at records have been shattered, job well various workshops and culturally Robeson Community College… we done Robeson Community College.” enriching activities that taught have set the bar high.” students more about the Indigenous 吀栀e AISES Region 7 conference was heritage of Robeson County and the As Vice Chair Tiger stated, “Region 7 is held in April with 250 individuals Southeast. We are so thankful to all of small but mighty.” attending, representing eight states our sponsors, without the generosity of and the District of Columbia, our community partners, this ‘chance 吀栀e AISES chapter at UNCP will be

gi昀琀ed $1000 and $500 will be Professional Services LLC, given to the NC Professional Worriax Backhoe Service, AISES chapter, as both NC Louis Stokes Alliance assisted in collaboration for Minority Participation e昀昀orts and in planning the (NCLSAMP) grant at event. 吀栀e remaining funds UNCP, State Farm – Corbin a昀琀er conference expenses Eddings, Lumbee Out昀椀tters, will be used to assist students Hunt’s Tire, Jarrod Lowery at Robeson Community – State Representative, College with travel to attend Faline Dial – County future AISES activities and Commissioner, Lumbee opportunities. Lumberton Visitors Bureau, Merck. Regional Development Turtle Sponsors: Metcon, Dominion Association (LRDA), Judy Sampson – Energy, and Lumbee Tribal Council County Commissioner, Department of 吀栀e students who received scholarships Members – Jody Bullard, Yvonne Agriculture – Florence, SC; 吀栀e Luna were: Dial, Josephine Doss, Bobby Emanuel, Tree, LLC; NC Commission of Indian • Lucas Ayers, Robeson Community Homer Fields, Gerald Goolsby, Kathy A昀昀airs; Southeast Climate Adaptation College Hunt, Kristie Hunt, Richard Jones, Science Center NC State; CQue Food/ • Dulce Sanchez Moralez, RCC Early Rudy Locklear, Wendy Moore, Billy Vending, John Cummings – County College Oxendine, Chocajuana Oxendine, Commissioner, Ginger Oxendine, • Angie Marie Cortez, RCC Early Annie Taylor, ETI – James Freeman, Fran’s Favorites, Loretta Allen, Cisco, College and Cummings Aerospace Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy Lemonade • Kenyonna Deese, UNCP Stand LLC, Phil Co Food Truck, • Jazmine Locklear, UNCP Bear Sponsors: Michael Locklear Icebreakers Snowball, Alfred Bryant, • Mackenzie Locklear, Virginia Tech – MR Electric and Security Alarms, Pine Skies Co., Candice Brooks, and • Kiara Ehle, Virginia Tech Inc, Primary Health Choice, USDA Dr. Velinda Woriax. – Florence, Chemours, Freese and 吀栀e event was spearheaded by RCC’s • Kevin Hernandez, Virginia Tech Nichols, Susan McNeill Concessions, Loretta Allen and the RCC AISES P昀椀zer, and Robin Jacobs. planning committee which included 吀栀e AISES conference was presented Deer Sponsors: Kenneth Bowen, students, faculty, and sta昀昀 from RCC by the RCC First Americans’ Pathway Sheri昀昀 Burnis Wilkins, Lumbee River – Ursula Adams, Kristy Blue, Dr. to STEM Success (FAPSS) grant, the EMC, Northeastern-Khoury College Kenneth Bowen, Jamie Collins, Valerie RCC AISES Chapter and – of Computer Science, Patterson’s Deese, Vonda Graham, William Hunt, Eagle Sponsors: Lumbee Tribe Holding, Steak and Grill, Boles Funeral Home, Megan Locklear, Scottie Locklear, Inc., Duke Energy, Jack Kent Cooke Michael Jacobs, Triangle UXPA, Kaitlyn Lyons, Stephanie McNeill, Foundation, the USDA, the United Daniell Perez, MaDukes Sweets & Derek Miller, Samantha Oxendine, States Intelligence Community, NASA, Treats, Scott Lamm, Bio Pharma Myia Reyes, and Heath Worriax.

Ins甀爀ance Academy Begins RCC receives $242,690 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Robeson Community College is pleased inclusive salesforce that better engages President of Continuing Education to announce that it has been awarded a communities, we are moving forward and Workforce Development Eric $242,690 sponsorship from Blue Cross our mission to provide an opportunity Freeman said. “Insurance careers span an and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue for all North Carolinians to be healthier.” incredible range of skills and talents, and Cross NC) to implement an Insurance is a 昀椀eld that will continue to grow and is Pre-licensing Academy. 吀栀e Insurance Academy at Robeson in high demand.” Community College will run three times 吀栀e grant received is part of the Agent a year for three years. 吀栀e program will also include human Diversity Program, an initiative seeking resource development training. to create a more diverse talent pool of “We have already started recruiting agents, which further develops Blue for the classes,” stated Julie Baxley, “吀栀is program is a great opportunity for Cross NC’s commitment to diversity, the director of Human Resources selected individuals to start a great career equity, and inclusion, while improving Development & Workforce Solutions in the insurance industry,” stated Baxley. the health and well-being of all North at RCC. “吀栀e 昀椀rst class is scheduled to “A career in insurance can be lucrative Carolinians. Students enrolled in begin February 6.” and lead to a lifetime of success.” the academy may earn scholarship opportunities and a pathway to a As part of the grant, Robeson Students enrolled in the program will career in the insurance industry where Community College will work with have unlimited access to resources women and minorities have long been community partners to identify a such as Wi-Fi, computers, printers, and underrepresented. minimum of 10 individuals eligible and resource materials, as well as adequate willing to attend each academy. 吀栀e cost facilities for study space. “At Blue Cross NC, we recognize the associated will cover full expenses for need for a workforce that’s as diverse as 90 students, including all testing fees, an “Students will also have access to the people we serve,” said Roy Watson, electronic device, and Internet access. additional job readiness resources such Vice President of Group Segment and as our on-campus Career Closet which State Health Plan for Blue Cross NC. “If you’ve ever considered a career in provides appropriate professional attire “By taking steps to build a diverse and insurance, this is your chance,” Vice for interviewing,” Baxley said. “We will

work hard to ensure that all of our 1st Fall Festival held at Comtech campus students have what they need from the beginning of the course to the job interview. No detail will be overlooked.” All IES Insurance Pre-licensing courses will be provided online. 吀栀e students will be provided with a student kit, which includes an electronic device and internet access to allow them to complete this portion of their education remotely. “We are grateful for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina for sponsoring this program at Robeson Community College,” stated RCC President Melissa Singer. “We are thankful for the continued partnership and support from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina and we look forward to seeing the success that comes from this program for our students and the community.” Freeman adds, “We thank Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina for this opportunity to bring the academy to the people of Robeson County and surrounding areas. A career in 吀栀e 昀椀rst fall festival at RCC’s COMtech insurance can be very rewarding and location held in October was a hit! ful昀椀lling and this opportunity will More than 500 came out to attend the help transform many lives in Robeson event which featured free haircuts, free County, which is one of the most manicures, free chair massages, free diverse, culturally rich areas in North workshops such as how to make a holiday wreath and bow, free 昀氀u shots, free blood Carolina.” pressure checks along with cra昀琀 and food vendors. 吀栀e event was featured by 吀栀is new initiative garnered media WBTW and 吀栀e Robesonian. attention from WMBF News and the Robesonian, which then went viral across the county with various media outlets posting the story on their website. Some of the stations included WDBJ, KWQC, KY3, WTAP, WTVY, KWCH, KXII, and WBRC. 吀栀e story even made magazines like Business Insurance and Becker’s Payer. For more information on the program, prospective students are urged to contact Julie Baxley at (910) 272-3671 or [email protected].

RCC student Anniatha McMillan, 72, works towards degree At 72 years young, Anniatha “吀栀ere was an explosion, and I had to come out of the building,’ and every McMillan isn’t going to let anything be pulled out of the car. 吀栀ey cut the Sunday, we were faithful to the Lord.” get her down. 吀栀roughout her life, top o昀昀, somehow, I made it out alive,” she has had to overcome adversity, Anniatha said. 吀栀at’s partly how she met a farmer but she says the key to from Robeson County, “a nice success is living a life It was one of the scariest, deacon man” as she says, whom she that is well lived, no saddest experiences of her would eventually marry. matter what obstacles life, but she says her faith may lay before you. in God got her through “吀栀e Bible says a good man 昀椀ndeth the ordeal, and she along a good wife,” Anniatha said with a “Never give up, just with her sister, started laugh. “But I asked him to marry me.” pursue,” Anniatha says what she called a Teaching with a smile. “吀栀ey will and Deliverance Ministry, 吀栀e couple built a new house on the look at you like you where people could attend farmland her husband owned and lost your mind.” church on the phone and she moved to Lumberton, where she In 2005, Anniatha lost hear God’s word. says she found more peace than she her husband in a terrible horri昀椀c ever had before. accident in Onslow County that “People criticized it,” Anniatha said. almost claimed her life as well. “But when COVID broke out, God “I stay busy working in my 昀氀ower began to say ‘I’m changing things, garden,” Anniatha said. “I used to go Robeson community college Student Success Stories Prior learn credit put mclaughlin on fast-track to earning degree 吀栀roughout the day, you might 昀椀nd more and to complete the necessary those courses, saving her time and Ashley McLaughlin training new steps needed to fast-track her degree. money. tellers and customer service “She aggressively started working representatives at one of the Suddenly, towards her degree,” Martin said. 14 branches with Lumbee becoming a college “She followed through to get all the Guaranty Bank, but for the graduate didn’t documentation completed and she last year, she’s been hard at seem as far away stayed on top to pursue her career and work a昀琀er hours studying as she had always complete her degree.” to complete her degree in thought. Business Administration Diligent and determined, McLaughlin at Robeson Community “吀栀e process completed her program of study in College. was very easy,” just a year and a half, beginning in the McLaughlin said, Summer of 2022. Last year she attended “I remembered seeing her who thought she her sister’s graduation, but this year, her at graduation last year,” said would have to sister will be attending hers, becoming Sherry Martin, the Registrar start over from the the second person from her family to for RCC. “She was excited to beginning. graduate. see her sister graduate.” “I prepared a portfolio and presented “My sister has two small kids and she Martin knew McLaughlin from when it to Mr. George Pate. It included my works full-time,” McLaughlin said. “I she had previously been a student. resume and a few other pieces to show thought if she can do it, I can do it too.” McLaughlin had stopped attending to my work experience.” focus more on her career in banking. McLaughlin says that online learning Martin told her about how she might 吀栀e portfolio she presented was made it possible for her to achieve her be eligible to earn credit for prior approved, and McLaughlin received dream of becoming a college graduate. learning thanks to her work experience. credit for two classes – Principles of Without it, she would not have been McLaughlin was intrigued by this and Management and Customer Service able to attend saying, “I wouldn’t have immediately went to work to 昀椀nd out – meaning she would not have to take had time go.”

to the doctor to complain about my “You may never be encouraged to go, Anniatha says that she has enjoyed knees, joints, high blood pressure and but I needed that push,” Anniatha her classes so far and doesn’t plan on I’d go home, sit down, and got bored, said. stopping anytime soon. I thought, I got to do something, I’m just wasting away.” She started out taking developmental “I’m never going to stop,” she said. classes in English to help her get a “Writing essays has helped me, it 吀栀at’s when she decided to come back 昀椀rm foundation on writing, and her helps broaden my mind. It makes you to school to 昀椀nish her degree, one she instructor says she has 昀氀ourished. more conscious of what you say, and had started so many years ago. if you are saying it correctly, which is “Age is just a number, Anniatha important.” “I would get o昀昀 work, go to school, is such a role model to the other and then I would stop,” she said of students,” RCC instructor Angela For others thinking about going back years past. “So I thought, maybe I’m Lamb said. “It is important to her to to school, Anniatha has a message. not too old, I could still get my degree have completion. She’s a good writer and so I made up my mind to go back and a good thinker… we are excited “Try it, just take one class at a time to school.” to see her move on to the next class, like I’m doing,” Anniatha says. “Just which will be English 111.” take your time, there’s no hurry.” Her husband she says has 昀椀ve to six credentials from RCC, including “If I’ve made everyone happy, my “Whatever makes you happy, do it. degrees and certi昀椀cates, and he living will not be in vain,” Anniatha Continue on your journey, go back to recommended she start at Robeson stated. “I always loved English in high school, sit on the porch, work in your Community College. school, and I’m still in love with it. 昀氀ower garden, whatever makes you happy – that’s what you need to do.” Robeson community college Student Success Stories RCC Grad Dulce Rocha named 2023 Academic Excellence Winner Each year, Robeson Community journey to reach her goals. She was to provide a path that will allow you to College selects one special student from born and raised in Leon, Guanajuato, achieve success today and tomorrow, its graduating class to be the recipient of Mexico. As she was growing up, she living out your dreams of becoming a the Academic Excellence Award. never thought that becoming a college nurse.” graduate would 吀栀is award is given out at each of the 58 be possible due to 吀栀e oldest of three children, community colleges in North Carolina 昀椀nancial hardships Rocha says she has always felt and signi昀椀es highest academic honor and civil insecurities responsible for being a role that a student can achieve. 吀栀is award she witnessed on a model to her younger siblings honors those who have set the bar high, daily basis. and wants to be able to take achieving the highest possible goals to care of her parents. She says attain the pinnacle of academic success. However, when her that now she has completed family moved to her degree at Robeson 吀栀e RCC 2023 recipient of the America, in hopes Community College, she will award was given to Dulce Rocha, of seeking a better be able to ful昀椀ll the promises an associate degree nursing student. life, her mindset she made to her family and be Rocha was recognized during the 2023 changed and she someone that her siblings and Commencement Ceremony . began to realize that others in her community can her dreams could become a reality. look up to for inspiration. “When I applied to the nursing program in the Spring of 2021, I was “吀栀is student knew that her parents “吀栀is journey has not been an easy fresh out of high school with a strong sacri昀椀ced everything for them to have one,” Rocha said. “I always say, “It is desire for success,” Rocha said. “I have the opportunity to receive a quality not about wanting to get up and do always been very goal driven and education,” RCC President Melissa the work, but rather being dedicated becoming a nurse has been my dream Singler said as she presented Rocha to your goals and doing everything since I was a little girl.” with the award. “We are thankful you can to cross that 昀椀nish line… My Robeson Community has been able to education is opening doors for me that Rocha faced many obstacles along her be a part of your story and to be able before I could only have dreamed of.”

Oxendine and Strickland winners of 3rd Annual Battle of the Butts 吀栀e Battle of the Butts has become wait to see what else they do when they “吀栀at’s what I wanted to hear,” Ingram an annual tradition at Robeson 昀椀nish the program. I hope they decide said. “Her sauce is really good and Community College. 吀栀e competition to go big and do great things in the Chef complex, yet simple. It has a nuance of turned fundraiser World.” 昀氀avors, it’s a classic Carolina 昀氀avor… once raises money for you try it, you want to keep eating it.” Communities in Kasey’s sauce Schools by allowing is a Carolina Harvey’s rub is smokey, and sweet and has culinary arts students and Ketchup- what Chef Ingram calls a “backend heat.” the opportunity to based sauce “My inspiration was more or less the compete for who that’s sweet way that my family has made barbeque can create the best and savory. my whole life… I have cooked it for my rub and sauce and “I thought family for many years and this is how I then use that recipe about all season it,” Harvey said. “We were told to prepare barbeque the di昀昀erent to be as creative as we wanted to be, but plates that will be barbeque, needed to keep in mind our community, served to hundreds in sauces I had so I had that in mind as well.” the community. growing up and I knew I wanted to do apple cider vinegar of course because According to Ingram, the fundraiser Kasey Oxendine and Harvey Strickland I’m in North Carolina, and everyone should raised over $12,000. were declared winners of the 3rd around here loves vinegar in their Annual Battle of the Butts competition. barbeque,” said Kasey. “All proceeds go to Communities in Schools,” stated RCC’s Chef James Kasey’s sauce will be mixed into the “What was your real inspiration?” asked Ingram. “吀栀e money will be used to barbeque, and Harvey’s rub will be used Chef Ingram during a Facebook Live help keep kids in school and help them in preparing the pork for the smokers. promotion of the event. to graduate. It’s the biggest reason we continue the competition...If this “吀栀ey both did really good for being “My real inspiration was to win,” Kasey competition helps with that, then it’s all 昀椀rst-year students,” said Ingram. “I can’t said, as she laughed. the work is well worth it.” Robeson community college Student Success Stories “Education opens doors” RCC Alum Karen White’s Journey to Success At the age of 50, Karen education in 2011, but that’s Karen started out as a substitute teacher. White can 昀椀nally say “I not where her story begins, She came to Robeson Community did it.” Just recently she nor is it where it ends. College in 2006 and completed the was named the Lead E昀昀ective Teacher Training. It’s a Kindergarten teacher at As Karen was raising her course required to become quali昀椀ed to Long Branch Elementary, children, she o昀琀en would substitute teach in North Carolina. It’s a dream come true you volunteer at her children’s o昀昀ered face-to-face, as well as completely might say, and one she school. As a parent online, at RCC. worked extremely hard to volunteer, she was a part of achieve. the School Improvement “吀栀at was a big step for me,” Karen said. Team, SIT for short. It was “It was such a great class. It provided a “As I look out at my during that time that she great foundation.” classroom, it’s just a says she was encouraged by phenomenal feeling,” Karen said. teachers to go into the education 昀椀eld. A昀琀er the completion of the course, “Teaching is so ful昀椀lling… you can look Karen found work as a long-term sub back and see what you’ve accomplished “Long Branch Elementary has always for a 2nd-grade class. She remained every day.” been very supportive, very encouraging,” in that position for six months. It was said Karen. “As I was on the SIT team, also around this time that she decided Karen is an alumnus of Robeson they gave me a push, and that’s when I to become a bus driver for the Public Community College. She graduated with decided to go back to school.” Schools of Robeson County, a job she an associate’s degree in early childhood still has to this day.

A true love story: RCC Alums Artie and Fanina Stewart Meet Artie and Fanina Stewart. 吀栀ey been married for 12 years. 吀栀ey have Artie and Fanina say that along the way both know a lot about life and the three kids, six grandchildren, and one through their academic journey, “God struggles that can come with it, but they great-grandson, and they are Nana and sent us some angels…if it had not been also know a lot about Papa to 昀椀ve foster for them, we don’t know where we faith, hope, and love, grandchildren. would be.” of which they say the greatest is love. Not long a昀琀er they “Being visually impaired, it was hard,” married, the two said Artie. “But I would say that the 吀栀e two met each other decided to go back professors and the sta昀昀 made it worth at church, a divine to school to get their my while to go through all the obstacles connection you could say. degrees. 吀栀ey chose to get my degree.” Artie had been through a to do so at Robeson divorce, and Fanina was Community College. “吀栀ey really got us through,” said Artie. a single mother who had “All of those people were key to getting never been married. 吀栀e “I got smart and us to where we needed to be.” two had all but given up realized that the best on 昀椀nding true love, both way to a four-year 吀栀e two o昀琀en took classes together. telling God if they were to ever marry, degree was by attending a community that God would have to send them their college,” Artie stated. “I had started at “吀栀at was interesting,” Fanina said as she mate. Pembroke State University back in 1979, laughed. “It was di昀케cult at times, being but I didn’t 昀椀nish… but this felt better 40 in class together and also our son was in And so, God did just that. As they say, years later than when I was 21, 22.” school at the Early College as well.” God works in mysterious ways. Fanina shares a similar story, saying “It was competitive,” Artie said. “And Artie gave his phone number to Fanina, that she too went to Pembroke State stressful…But God got us through it.” saying her face turned bright red when University as well a昀琀er high school, but he did. He didn’t expect her to call, and stopped attending. Fanina 昀椀nished her degree in 2017 and when she did, she told him she had the Artie 昀椀nished a year later, walking across wrong number. But it didn’t take him “We both stopped early… and so we the stage in 2018. 吀栀ey both received an long to call her back. decided to go back and get our degrees associate of applied science in business Fast forward to today, the two have now and 昀椀nish what we started,” Fanina said. administration. Robeson community college Student Success Stories “I hammered on to go ahead and get an “It should have taken two years, but I did feeling.” associate’s degree, and I have built upon it in one,” Karen said. my education ever since,” stated Karen. Karen is currently working on her “When my drive kicked it, I made it When she took the position of Lead master’s degree in Education at UNCP. o昀케cial…the parent consulting element is Kindergarten Teacher, she knew all those what led me to RCC and when I started, years of hard work, studying and going “When I started at RCC.. it was not easy, I was well over 30 years old, but I was in to class, had paid o昀昀, but she also knew but it is so well worth it.” it to win it.” things would be di昀昀erent, in a good way. “I found out in my experience at RCC, A昀琀er graduation, Karen found work as a “I thought, ‘Boy is that a big change,’” that you are not just another name, childcare director in Columbus County. Karen said with a smile. they knew me personally, RCC is very It was a job she loved and worked at personable,” Karen said. “If parents for 8 years, but her heart was still set “Sometimes I ask God what have I got would encourage their students to start on becoming a teacher and having a myself into,” Karen said as she laughed out small at a community college and classroom to call her own. out loud. “But He has not le昀琀 me short by then go to the university, I believe that no means.” more people would reach their goals a lot When Karen came back to PSRC, she did better.” so as a teacher assistant. “吀栀e children can be a handful sometimes, but there is so much reward “RCC will be long-standing. It has stood Karen went back to school to get her in knowing that they are learning to love the test of time now and over the years… bachelor’s degree at UNCP, earning a education from you,” Karen said. “It is a Education opens doors, no matter your degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. blessing to be a part of the beginning of age.” their education, it’s the most phenomenal

2023-2024 Grants and sponsored projects Federal Funds CARES ACT - Institutional (HVAC)......................... $5,668,399 U.S. Department of Education / HEERF CARES ACT - Minority Serving (HVAC)...................... $992,859 U.S. Department of Education / HEERF Scaling Elements - .................................................... $45,000 (NSF-ATE 190225) NSF / Northwest State Community College First Americans' Pathway to Student Success................. $1,321,243 RCC’S EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES U.S. Department of Education Native American-Serving Nontribal Institutions.......$466,455 ACHIEVES NATIONAL ACCREDITATION U.S. Department of Education / UNC-Pembroke ATE -Diversity of Cybersecurity Tech's.....................$299,792 Robeson Community College’s Emergency National Science Foundation / NSF Medical Services program has achieved Project IndigeCHOICE............................................... $259,500 national accreditation by the Commission Department of Labor / Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina on Accreditation of Allied Health NCDOT Highway Construction Trades Academy......... $88,100 North Carolina DOT Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon GEER II QPR Funding....................................................$12,500 the recommendation of the Committee on UNC System Accreditation of Educational Programs for state Funds the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP). Professional Development Services......................... $223,000 Robeson County Partnership for Children “If an organization is accredited, it Finish Line Grant........................................................ $68,553 means you are getting the best education North Carolina Community College System possible, at a national level, meeting Golden Leaf Community............................................. $42,970 national standards,” stated Kenny North Carolina Community College System C-STEP (RCC Foundation Match)...... ............................$2,000 Locklear, an assistant vice president at UNC - Chapel Hil RCC. “吀栀is allows our students to test IDD Training Program............................................... $194,000 for the National Registry, which means North Carolina Community College System they can go to work anywhere in the Construction Academies Bootcamp...........................$34,000 United States, and even in some regions North Carolina Community College System overseas.” Short-Term Workforce Development Grant................ $35,280 North Carolina Community College System 吀栀e EMS program at Robeson NC Works Career Coach.............................................$188,854 North Carolina Community College System Community College includes an array Underserved Student Outreach & Advising ................ $49,454 of programs including a bridge associate North Carolina Community College System degree in emergency medical science NCDPS - Cybersecurity Grant.....................................$94,000 and continuing education program North Carolina Department of Public Safety such as COAEMSP, EMT, AEMT Digital Navigators Project ..........................................$35,000 Initial, Paramedic-Initial, Community North Carolina Community College System Paramedic, EMT Refresher, AEMT other Funds Refresher, Paramedic Refresher, and SPARC Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust.....................$5,000 Critical Care Refresher. UNC-Pembroke “Our students train in state-of-the-art NextNC Grant..................................................................$5,000 John M. Belk Endowment facilities with cutting-edge technology, in RCC Reconnect .........................................................$125,000 a new building that just opened last year, John M. Belk Endowment it’s all that a student could want,” Locklear SECU Bridge to Career Cohort.................................... $18,000 said. “We are the only training program SECU Foundation NAAF - Accelerating Agri-Business ...........................$158,738 on the eastern seaboard with an EMS Native American Agriculture Fund simulator. We have the best equipment Swipe Out Hunger........................................................$6,000 and the best instructors, who are friendly Native American Agriculture Fund and put students 昀椀rst to ensure they get the best education possible and are well Total Current Grants: $8,736,956 prepared to go into the workforce.”

2023-2024 Grants and sponsored projects S琀爀愀琀egic In椀琀i愀琀ives RCC collaborates with myfuturenc DEGREE ATTAINMENT GOAL of all jobs in NC will demand a “With gas being near $5.00 a gallon, it’s postsecondary credential, revealing hard for some in our community,” Tito “We want every student to walk away signi昀椀cant disparities within Massol with HealthKeeperz stated. “吀栀e with some kind of credential so they historically marginalized communities. size of our county is a challenge and can earn a sustainable wage,” stated Postsecondary means anything earned transportation is a big hurdle for those RCC President Melissa Singler during once you leave high school and includes who have to commute a long way to get a recent brainstorming session with everything from commercial driver’s to RCC or UNCP… adding sidewalks myFutureNC. “吀栀at’s our goal as a licenses and OSHA certi昀椀cations to where our citizens could walk or ride college, that’s our goal as a county, and diplomas, degrees, and certi昀椀cates. their bikes safely would also be a great that’s our goal across North Carolina.” 吀栀e meeting at RCC included leaders addition.” 吀栀e Robeson County Education to from UNCP, the Public Schools of Collaboration continues to be a strong Workforce Council Commission met Robeson County, UNC Southeastern, point within Robeson County and has on Tuesday at Robeson Community the Lumbee Tribe, Robeson County proven to be an asset in meeting the College to discuss ways to implement Administration, Communities in local needs of the community. strategies to help North Carolina reach Schools, HealthKeeperz, Robeson its educational attainment goal, as County Church and Community “When Hurricane Florence hit, there passed by legislatures in House Bill 664, Center, myFutureNC, and Robeson was a huge collaboration e昀昀ort,” stated which states that “to ensure that the Community College. Kelly Blue, the Robeson County State remains economically competitive, manager. “Robeson Community the State shall ensure that by the year During the session, participants College opened the campus for 2030, 2 million 25- to 44-year olds discussed the unique challenges faced in the medical needs of those who will have completed a high-quality Robeson County and ways to overcome needed specialized care during the credential or postsecondary degree.” them, as well as the collaboration evacuations… these are the kinds of opportunities within the region. collaborations that are vital to meeting “We want to pull everyone in the county the needs of our county.” together to reach this goal,” stated Eric “We have a lot of socioeconomic Freeman, the executive vice president barriers,” Singler stated. “We have to “We are one of 17 counties in the of Robeson Community College. “We become more creative in our outreach State with a community college and a want to do everything we can to ensure and in overcoming the struggles many university,” Blue said. “吀栀at makes us we have a bright future in Robeson of our students face.” very unique and gives us an advantage County.” in becoming prepared to meet the Another group pointed out the existing new demands of the industry through It is estimated that as we reach transportation needs of the county. partnerships with RCC, UNCP, and the year 2030, approximately 67% PSRC.”

Leaders also discussed why did not earn a family-sustaining wage community with the training they communities need educational in 2021, a startling statistic that shows needed.” partnerships. why this push for this initiative is greatly needed. Leaders acknowledge there is still much “Collaborations have to be intentional,” more work to be done; however, as Dr. stated Brianna Goodwin, the executive “We want to achieve education equity Danny Stedman with Communities in director of Robeson County Church for every student regardless of race, Schools stated, “吀栀is is a great start.” and Community Center. “吀栀ey help to geographic location, or socioeconomic foster good pipelines, especially with condition,” said Locklear. “In June 2023, Locklear agreed, saying “We have a lot non-pro昀椀ts.” there were approximately 368,000 job to be proud of in Robeson County…It’s openings but 1.2 million North Carolina going to take all of us working together, Some suggestions were made for ways residents were without a postsecondary but we know together, we will achieve that RCC could motivate more young credential and many were unable to our goal of 2 million credentials by people to continue their education meet the quali昀椀cations to 昀椀ll those 2030.” a昀琀er high school, such as exposing vacancies.” youth to various occupations at an early age, hosting a special career fair RCC President Singler adds, “If we can STRATEGIC PLANNING for high school graduates, increasing get those residents trained, just imagine apprenticeship and internship what that will do for our workforce.” “Hopeful” is how attendees walked away opportunities with industry, and getting feeling from the myFutureNC meeting more success stories out on students Robeson Community College has recently held at Robeson Community who have earned postsecondary increased its adult learners by 34%, College. credentials. which is an amazing accomplishment in the higher education realm. RCC hosted myFutureNC last week for “You have to catch students earlier to get an attainment goal planning session. them to the next level,” stated Singler. “Many of those learners came back to 吀栀e State of North Carolina has set a “Students want to hear from industry complete a postsecondary credential goal of 2 million residents attaining a and forming these partnerships will or came back and completed a degree,” post-secondary degree or credential be a way to motivate students to want stated Freeman. “We increased by 2030. myFutureNC is working with to continue their education at an early accessibility to our workforce business leaders, organizations, colleges, l e v e l .” development programs when Covid and school systems on the local level, hit and we also re-examined which county-by-county, to make this goal a myFutureNC’s Dr. Robert Locklear programs were most needed and reality. shared that 43% of those living in North relevant, and we just kept working Carolina between the ages of 35 and 44 to make sure we were serving our “吀栀ank you for coming today,” RCC

President Melissa Singler told those in nursing, and nuclear medical technical get them here in Robeson County, that the meeting. “吀栀is is important work. were among the top suggestions. is what we have to stay focused on and What you are doing here today is all the great things happening in our going to help us map out not only the Employability was the top choice for education system with our three major direction for the college, because we are how community stakeholders de昀椀ne partners, the public schools, community in our strategic planning process, but student success at Robeson Community college, and university…. 吀栀at’s how it is also going to help us, help the state College, which resonated with the you get those businesses to come when reach that attainment goal of 2 million purpose of the meeting, to get more you get that education to where it needs adults by 2030.” people back in the workforce and more to be, they want to move in and that’s credentials in the hands of people to the direction we are headed in.” During the meeting, RCC leaders led become gainfully employed. the group in participating in a word During Locklear’s presentation, he said cloud initiative that would help the “We all know there is a labor shortage there are 2373 jobs that are open up college in its strategic planning, as and there is a skills gap that we are now in Robeson County based on the Eric Freeman, the Vice President of tasked with making up and everyone in job report from April. Workforce Development, Continuing this room, whether you are in business Education, and Institutional Services and industry, government, we all have “We have the jobs available,” Locklear called it, “an interactive piece built a part to play in that,” Singler said. “If said. “We just need the capacity; we into the presentation to get back good you’re non-pro昀椀t, with an agency, your need to make sure they have the skills.” feedback.” involvement in this is critical, we cannot do this without you.” “It is a marathon, not a sprint,” Locklear “Who should RCC be collaborating said. “It’s going to take time… we still with regionally?” asked Dr. Johnny “吀栀e work that we are talking about have a lot of work to do in the next Smith, the Vice President of Instruction today is what we do every day for seven years.” and Student Support Services. workforce development,” stated Patricia Hammonds, director of the As members of the meeting typed a Lumber River Workforce Development word into their phones, it was quickly Board. “吀栀is is very important to us, discovered that PSRC was the top myFutureNC is a big deal and we do choice. Industry, other community the work every day to make sure we are colleges, and employers were other providing the resources our students recommendations. and our community needs with “List a career, technical or short-term everything they are trying to do.” health career program that RCC should So, what can Robeson Community consider o昀昀ering that we don’t already,” College and Robeson County do to was another question asked. reach the goal set by myFutureNC? 吀栀e screen lit up with responses, which “North Carolina is the leader when included dental assistant, peer support it comes to businesses and industry,” specialist AI, home healthcare and stated Dr. Robert Locklear. “How do we

RCC RECEIVES $25,000 FROM JULIAN T. PIERCE ENDOWMENT P愀爀tn攀爀ship = Opportun椀琀ies NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH FTCC EQUALS NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR RCC STUDENTS A new partnership formed between “We are just really excited for this “吀栀ere are many general education Fayetteville Technical Community opportunity,” stated RCC President classes available during these two College and Robeson Community Melissa Singler. “We know this is going sessions,” Lowery adds. “So, if you come College means new opportunities for to be a perfect 昀椀t for our college, it out to RCC and register for 12 or the students in Robeson County. will allow students to stay local while 8-week classes, you could potentially be completing core curriculum courses, eligible to apply to FTCC at the end of 吀栀e new agreement was signed in and we believe this will provide many the Spring term if you attend full-time, early August and gives RCC students opportunities for our students in the and be well on your way to completing a competitive advantage when seeking future. your degree in dental hygiene, dental to apply to the dental assisting, dental assisting, or funeral services and be hygiene, and funeral services programs “吀栀is is also a great opportunity for completed by Spring 2025.” at Fayetteville Tech. Robeson Community College to meet the needs of our local workforce,” Students seeking to enter FayTech “吀栀ese programs are very competitive stated Eric Freeman, the vice through the agreement must still meet at FTCC,” stated Dr. LaRonda Lowery, president of continuing education and program application requirements and assistant vice president of instructional workforce development. “吀栀rough this be admitted into the program. services. “吀栀is partnership levels partnership, more RCC students will the playing 昀椀eld as there will be six have an opportunity to be admitted “It all begins with completing the RCC seats reserved in the dental assisting into these programs and become application, which can be done online program and four seats reserved in employable in their respective 昀椀elds as at www.robeson.edu/apply-now or the dental hygiene program for RCC they come back to work in Robeson you can visit us on the main campus students.” County a昀琀er they graduate.” in Lumberton and speak with o昀케cials in our Admissions O昀케ce located in So, how does the partnership work? Lowery agrees and hopes students Building 13,” Lowery stated. interested in the dental programs or Students will complete general funeral service education will try to get For more information on the new education credits at Robeson a jumpstart on earning their degree this partnership between Robeson Community College and then will fall. Community College and Fayetteville transfer to FTCC to complete the Technical Community College, please program speci昀椀c classes required for “吀栀e time is now to get started on visit our website https://www.robeson. the associate degree in dental assisting, your degree,” Lowery said. “We have edu/academics/dental-hygiene-dental- dental hygiene or funeral services several opportunities in the near future assisting-funeral-services. education, upon being accepted into including 12-week classes that begin the program chosen. September 12th and 8-week classes that begin on October 12.”

RCC RECEIVES $25,000 FROM JULIAN T. PIERCE ENDOWMENT Jeremiah Locklear and 吀栀e RCC Foundation received a $25,000 dinner fundraiser as a way to honor the Angel Santiago place 2nd gi昀琀 from the Julian T. Pierce Memorial man whom many attest had made such a in National SkillsUSA Initiative today, bringing the all-time to- di昀昀erence in his community. Two recent graduates have helped to put tal to $160,000 in scholarship funds over Robeson Community College’s Mechatron- the last ten years. “I’m very thankful to the people who ics program on the map. contributed to this,” Godwin stated. “All Jeremiah Locklear and Angel Santiago “We are truly grateful for the support the people who bought art or bought a brought home silver from the National from the Julian T. Pierce Memorial Initia- sponsorship or even purchased a tick- SkillsUSA competition held in Atlanta, tive,” stated RCC President Melissa Sin- et, they are the ones who are making a Georgia in June, placing second in Mecha- gler. “吀栀is money received will continue di昀昀erence.” tronics with a high score of 95.8. 吀栀e duo to honor the legacy of this remarkable competed against students from across man, to “keep the vision” in supporting “Julian would be proud to know the dif- the country and were 昀椀nalists again teams education and equality for all people.” ference he has made and how his life has from Tennessee, who took 昀椀rst place, and helped change the trajectory of so many Georgia, which placed third. Pierce was a lawyer and civil rights activ- lives over the years,” stated Lisa Hunt, the 吀栀e team was led by RCC Mechatronics ist, 昀椀ghting for equality for the Lumbee director of grants and sponsored pro- Instructors Joseph Nation and Heath Wor- Tribe of which he was a member, and for grams at RCC. “It is wonderful to see the riax, who attended the competition with all individuals. In 1988, he ran for Supe- growing support from the community for the students. rior Court Judge, a new judgeship created this initiative and we are so thankful for by the North Carolina General Assembly everyone who has helped to make this At the North Carolina SkillsUSA compe- for Robeson County. In March 1988, just possible.” tition in Greensboro, RCC competed in a few weeks before the election, Pierce three separate competitions – Mechatron- was tragically killed in his home. Ironi- As Hunt stated, the memorial dinner ics, Electrical Systems, and Cosmetology. cally, Pierce won the election that year, does indeed continue to grow each year, RCC had several teams in the mechatron- posthumously by more than 2000 votes. something that continues to make God- ics competition, taking 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and win and others excited about the future 4th place, ensuring a seat at the national 吀栀e money was raised during the 10th of the Julian T. Pierce Initiative. competition in Atlanta. In the electrical Annual Julian T. Pierce Memorial Art systems category, Robeson Community Dinner held earlier this year. 吀栀e event “We are close to the $100,000 event,” College was represented in two categories, raised more than $94,000. 吀栀e University Godwin said. “In the future, I believe taking 4th, 5th, and 6th place. Several cosmetology students created ‘fantasy of North Carolina at Pembroke, where this is going to expand to the point that displays’ to showcase their talent in hair Pierce received his bachelor’s degree, we’re able to support programs for our and makeup artistry. RCC took 4th and 5th and the institution where he studied law, communities… indigenous people, pov- place in the cosmetology category. North Carolina Central University, also erty, food insecurities and have a bigger both received a donation of $25,000. impact… we’re going to be able to move “吀栀is is the happy part of it, where the into those areas in the future.” work pays o昀昀, where you’re able to pres- Pierce was instrumental in integrating ent these checks to three institutions that the Robeson County schools into one Julian was involved in,” stated Harvey school system to provide quality educa- Godwin, the former Lumbee Tribal tion for all. He also founded the Lumbee Chairman and owner of Two Hawk Em- River Legal Services and the Robeson ployment Service. County Health Care Corporation, two organizations that still exist to this day Godwin served as the campaign manager and are in operation to help those in for Pierce during his run for Superior need. Court Judge. He started the memorial

the RCC Foundation recently was the recipient of a $30,000 gi昀琀. 吀栀e gi昀琀 is from the Robert P. Holding Foundation and was presented to the college by First Citizens Bank to create the First Citizens Bank Endowed Scholarship. “吀栀e Foundation supports the programs of the North Carolina Community College System, and the gi昀琀 is to endow scholar- ships,” said Hank Dunbar, Manager of Charitable and Philanthropy Services at First Citizens. “First Citizens Bank and the Rob- ert P. Holding Foundation are proud of the relationship they have with many of the North Carolina Community Colleges.” Dunbar continued by saying, “吀栀e Foundation sees this gi昀琀 as the token of appreciation for all that the North Carolina Com- munity Colleges do to promote the education and welfare of the people of North Carolina.” Resilient & End甀爀ing 3RD NATIVE AMERICAN CELEBRATION DRAWS HUNDREDS TO RCC CAMPUS “Resilient and Enduring – We are still cal locations.” “Who were the 昀椀rst scientists?” Lomboy here.” asked the audience. “Native Americans, 吀栀e event drew hundreds of visitors, we were the 昀椀rst scientists, we were the 吀栀at’s the message that organizers of including school children from across ones who understand the soil from the Robeson Community College’s 3rd An- the region – some from as far away as way we touch it, we understand the wa- nual Native American Heritage Month Scotland County. ter, we understand the stars, we navigat- Celebration tried to convey to those ed and lived on this land for thousands attending the cultural exhibition held on In the opening ceremony, the Lumbee of years because of our connection to its campus today. Warriors presented the 昀氀ags as the what is now called STEM, but to the National Anthem was sung by Mariah Earth, and how we take that and apply “It is up to us to keep who we are alive,” Graham, a student at RCC. A poem i t .” stated John Oxendine with the Lumbee written by Amanda Bullard was read Tribe as he gave the ceremonial blessing. during the ceremony, which aimed to “STEM is not just us moving one “We respect the fact that God made us raise awareness of missing indigenous generation towards science, technology, Native and that’s why we do this. He women in tribal communities. engineering and mathematics, it’s about made us Native, so we still do Native moving all of our generations towards things to keep our culture alive. We re- 吀栀e poem “Red Hand Campaign” that,” Lomboy said. “It’s about how we spect that we are Native, and it’s our way read in part – “吀栀at is not just a feath- are honoring our tribal history and how to honor God and say thank you.” er 昀氀owing in the wind, it is a Native we honor our elders… that part has Woman’s soul in someone else’s hands… been very important to us.” Heritage, Oxendine says is important, not able to be free or own her own land not just for Native people, but for every- or I should say reservation, unable to Guests were also treated to a special one. depend on justice in this nation. Red powwow in the a昀琀ernoon, which Hand Campaign, please look it up… featured song and dance by the Lumbee “I know there are a lot of non-native On reservations, 84% will experience Ambassadors and the Lumbee Drum people here today,” Oxendine told the violence in their lifetime… that’s 4 out Group, with rich storytelling and history audience. “Everyone has a culture; ev- of 5…Missing indigenous women is an lessons. eryone has a heritage and everyone has epidemic… 5,295 lost in one year, that is something where they came from and a new trail of tears…” “I would like to thank you for allowing it is up to you 昀椀nd out what that is and us to come today and to give back to where you come from…吀栀e Lumbee Ashley Lomboy, the global information who we are as Native people,” Oxendine Tribe is a tribe that banded together, security manager for Corning Optical said in closing. meaning we are made up of many tribes, Fiber and Cable served as the guest we are named a昀琀er the Lumbee River, speaker for the event, speaking on the 吀栀is event was sponsored by the RCC which is now called Lumber River… Waccamaw Siouan STEM Studio. FAPSS Grant, which stands for First many tribes are named a昀琀er geographi- American Pathways to STEM success.

Resilient & End甀爀ing

the RCC Foundation recently was the recipient of a $30,000 gi昀琀. 吀栀e gi昀琀 is from the Robert P. Holding Foundation and was presented to the college by First Citizens Bank to create the First Citizens Bank Endowed Scholarship. “吀栀e Foundation supports the programs of the North Carolina Community College System, and the gi昀琀 is to endow scholar- ships,” said Hank Dunbar, Manager of Charitable and Philanthropy Services at First Citizens. “First Citizens Bank and the Rob- ert P. Holding Foundation are proud of the relationship they have with many of the North Carolina Community Colleges.” Dunbar continued by saying, “吀栀e Foundation sees this gi昀琀 as the token of appreciation for all that the North Carolina Com- munity Colleges do to promote the education and welfare of the people of North Carolina.” Legisl愀琀ive Lunche漀渀 Robeson Community College was “At present, we are 4% higher than we “Due to his e昀昀orts, we were gi昀琀ed the honored to welcome North Carolina were during the 2021-2022 school year,” trucks and trailers that launched our Senator Danny Britt, and North Car- she said. very successful Truck Driver Training olina House Representatives Brendan program,” Singler stated. Jones and Jarrod Lowery, to its campus But Singler told those attending the in March. event that it’s not just about enrollment Senator Britt spoke brie昀氀y, thanking numbers, but student success. President Singler for her leadership on “吀栀is is our 昀椀rst legislative luncheon helping to make the career and technical since COVID and we are excited to “We have declared this the year of building happen. share the State of Robeson Community student success,” Singler said. “We know College with you,” said RCC President growth without student success is still “I thank all the people who worked with Melissa Singler as she welcomed the failure.” me on it, all of the Board Members, to North Carolina legislators and other make it happen,” Britt said. “I want to invited guests to campus. “Without your 吀栀e college is focusing on student reten- continue to bring back dollars to Robe- support and partnership, there would be tion, quality instruction and enhancing son County and Robeson Community no Robeson Community College.” instruction through on-going training College, I’m glad to be a part of the President Singler shared information on for faculty. process.” enrollment and growth happening at the Singler thanked Senator Britt and Rep- “I am a community college graduate,” college during her address. resentative Jones for “answering the call” Britt added. “吀栀ere are a lot of students in providing funding for a career and who will take that path, and if we can get “During the height of the pandemic, the technical building on RCC’s campus. them on that path in 8th and 9th grade, North Carolina Community College and hold on to them in high school for a System saw a 14% drop in enrollment in “In order to continue to grow and pros- little bit longer, then we might get some- the 2021-2022 school year compared to per, our students needed space designed thing done on our dropout rate, that’s 2018-2019. RCC’s enrollment jumped for today’s ever-advancing industry, what’s critical.” 17% during the same time frame,” along with areas to continue to upskill Singler said. “I attribute this to the hard our workforce in the tried-and-true “We recognize the bene昀椀t of quality work and dedication of our faculty and trades,” Singler said. “吀栀at building is education and the bene昀椀t of a quality sta昀昀, our willingness to think outside the now in the design phase.” workforce and what Robeson Com- box, and the continued support of our munity College does to help Robeson partners both in local and state govern- Although Representative Lowery is County,” said Britt. “It’s not just the col- ment and in business and industry.” newly elected to the House, President lege transfer programs, but the technical Singler reminded everyone that he is no programs as well.” Singler also announced that enrollment stranger to partnering with RCC. at RCC continues to grow. President Singler’s e昀昀orts were met with

the RCC Foundation recently was the recipient of a $30,000 gi昀琀. 吀栀e gi昀琀 is from the Robert P. Holding Foundation and was presented to the college by First Citizens Bank to create the First Citizens Bank Endowed Scholarship. praise and appreciation by Jones and said, “And, I know that you will be here and this delegation will work hard to Lowery. to lead the charge.” make sure that you have the funding “吀栀e Foundation supports the programs of the North Carolina Community College System, and the gi昀琀 is to endow scholar- and the programs that you need.” ships,” said Hank Dunbar, Manager of Charitable and Philanthropy Services at First Citizens. “First Citizens Bank and the Rob- “I think we need to give a round of ap- Lowery touched on how critical com- plause to Madame President,” said Rep- munity colleges are to the future of President Singler thanked the delegation ert P. Holding Foundation are proud of the relationship they have with many of the North Carolina Community Colleges.” resentative Jones. “吀栀e President does a North Carolina. and guests for their support during her great job advocating for you guys.” closing remarks. Dunbar continued by saying, “吀栀e Foundation sees this gi昀琀 as the token of appreciation for all that the North Carolina Com- “Being able to have a partner at RCC is munity Colleges do to promote the education and welfare of the people of North Carolina.” Representative Lowery echoed those awesome,” said Lowery. “吀栀e company “We are extremely grateful to Senator sentiments, saying, “We have an awe- I work for works because of the gradu- Danny Britt, Representative Brenden some president here. It cannot be over- ates right here at RCC…that story could Jones, and Representative Jarrod Lowery stated how great of an institution this is be told thousands of times across North for their continued support of Robeson and the leadership that it has.” Carolina because it’s our community Community College and the entire colleges that train people and educate Great 58,” Singler said. “We are equally “Economic development starts right people that truly keeps North Carolina appreciative to every one of you for your here,” said Jones. “Education is the key running.” continued support and we look forward to economic development.” to working with you, partnering with “So, Madame President, thank you for you, on future initiatives that will keep “Just look at what’s happening in Robe- what you do,” Lowery said with admi- Robeson County thriving for years to son County right now, in 10 years it will ration. “Community colleges are critical c o me.” be unrecognizable,” as he predicted the and I understand how critical they are future growth of the region. “吀栀e trans- across the state.” 吀栀e event was catered by RCC Culinary formation that this county will see, and students, who created a St. Patrick’s Day the task that the people of this county “It is very critical to making sure that menu, complete with salad, sauteed Legisl愀琀ive Lunche漀渀 will have… just imagine what this cam- we not only have a workforce today but vegetables, roasted potatoes, chicken pus will look like in 10 years.” a workforce tomorrow,” Lowery said. marsala, beef brisket, rolls, and for des- “RCC will be the way to make sure we sert, key lime pie. Looking over at President Singler he have that workforce training available,

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: Joey hinson – faculty of the year Patient. Kind. Genuine. Respectful. “Mr. Hinson is a superb teacher to move students to the next level,” the Awesome. Best Teacher Ever. inside and outside of the classroom,” nomination reads. his nominator for faculty of the year 吀栀ese are words students used to wrote. “He is kind and compassionate. “吀栀e fact that I was nominated by my describe the RCC Instructor of the Year, He leads by example peers, means more to me Joey Hinson. Hinson is a psychology and his open- than winning,” Hinson instructor at Robeson Community door policy allows said. “I’m just trying College, a position he has held for ten students to frequently to do my job, I have years. communicate with him. never wanted to be in Inside the classroom, the spotlight, I take the Prior to coming to RCC, Hinson taught he engages students responsibility of teaching for several years at Bladen Community and ensures they have a students seriously, but College and also taught while in graduate clear understanding of the recognition is much school at Appalachian State University the material.” appreciated.” for Caldwell Community College. Hinson was a bit shocked “Between mentoring and in disbelief when it 吀栀roughout his career, it is evident that students by being an advising coach, was announced he was selected as faculty Hinson has made an impact on his Mr. Hinson assists students and pushes of the year, saying that there were others students. them to succeed. He is an encourager who were just as deserving. and motivator. Mr. Hinson works hard Robeson community college Faculty / staff highlights Departments spread christmas cheer to community COSMETOLOGY some love to the Glena Flora residents.” Locklear, the senior director of 吀栀e cosmetology department at continuing education. “Our sta昀昀 in Robeson Community College recently Photos of the visit were shared on continuing education collected toys, visited Glena Flora Assisted Living in Facebook and were met with praise and bikes, and other gi昀琀s to help make the Lumberton as part of a community gratitude. holidays brighter for these children.” service project. 吀栀e department made gi昀琀 bags for each of the residents and “Just to see the glow on their faces made 吀栀e sta昀昀 collected enough gi昀琀s to 昀椀ll visited me rejoice in tears,” stated Christine two vans from the Robeson County with them, Elliott, an instructor in the cosmetology DSS o昀케ce. spreading program. “It was such a beautiful holiday experience.” Victor Dial and Blain Sealy picked up cheer and the gi昀琀s from Robeson Community Christmas CONTINUING EDUCATION College and were grateful for the joy support. throughout Santa’s elves at Robeson Community the facility. College worked hard to ensure that “We loved being able to do this,” stated children in need were not without Locklear. “It brings joy to our hearts “We wanted this holiday season. Employees in the to know that we were able to make a to do continuing education division worked di昀昀erence.” something for the residents to show together with the Department of Social them they were not forgotten during Services to collect toys for children, the holidays,” said Mary Ransom, the some of which are in foster care. program director of cosmetology. “It was an honor for our students, “We wanted to do this for the children department and administration to show in need in our area,” stated Christy

“I am humbled, grateful, and shocked,” “It’s why we do this,” Hinson said. “I’ve Hinson serves as an advisor for the Hinson said. “I always thought I did an seen students come through my classes Minority Male Success Initiative and okay job, it’s nice to get recognized for and really 昀氀ourish, that is truly the for the C3 Partnership with NC State what you do, but I had no idea that this reward, and it doesn’t get much better University, he is a member of the was coming. I want to use this as an than that…it’s amazing to see what curriculum advising committee for opportunity to re昀氀ect well on RCC.” some of our students are doing, and to RCC’s Cosmetology program and To have been named the Instructor know the sacri昀椀ces that some of them also a member of the North Carolina of the Year in 2023 has an even more are making just to go school and earn a Community College Sociology and special meaning for Hinson. degree.” Psychology Association, and he serves as the assistant editor for the North “It has been a tough year,” Hinson said. Hinson says that teaching is a rewarding Carolina Community College Journal of “My father has cancer, and I have spent career. Many of his students – now Teaching Innovation. a lot of time at UNC, going back and graduates – have gone on to become forth and doing a lot of teaching from nurses, owners of salons, and business In his spare time, Hinson says he loves a hospital room… so this has been an executives, and some have even become music and playing his guitar. emotional time for me, at times I felt his co-workers. like I was hanging by a thread… so to “I have played in a few di昀昀erent bands get that recognition this year is just very “I wanted to make a di昀昀erence,” over the years, but now I mainly jam special to me.” Hinson said. “I like helping people and with some of my friends from time to motivating them, and teaching allows t i m e .” Seeing students succeed inside and me to do that… it’s something that I outside of the classroom is what Hinson l o v e .” calls “the reward.” Robeson community college Faculty / staff highlights Locklear appointed to Campbell becomes an Dr. Johnny Smith named assistant vice president academic dean Vice President Kenny Locklear, Cassidy Dr. Johnny Smith who has been Campbell, was was named as the selected to recently named Vice President of lead facilities, the Dean of Instruction and contractual Public Service Student Support services and and Applied Services and emergency Technology. serves as the Chief medical services “I am excited Academic O昀케cer at the college. and I am looking for the college. forward to “I’m really working with “I have a love for the community excited, I hope that I can make a big all the faculty and sta昀昀 at RCC,” di昀昀erence,” stated Locklear. “I look Campbell said. “吀栀ere is a lot of college system and I really wanted forward to helping to improve our potential growth in this area and to give back and support student campus, make it more user-friendly, there are many opportunities success,” stated Smith. “I have seen and more inviting for our students, for expansion through our 昀椀rsthand the impact that education faculty, sta昀昀 and visitors.” online o昀昀erings and regional and that community college has had partnerships.” Campbell will oversee all law on the lives of students and families As Assistant Vice President, he enforcement programs, EMS, and I want to be a part of that… I’m will also be focused on keeping the cosmetology, and the Industrial looking to add value to people, I’m college facilities up-to-date and Technologies division. looking for meaning… at this point discovering how to make it even in my life, meaning and adding value more state-of-the-art for students, Cassidy also teaches in the criminal to people’s lives is true wealth for faculty, and sta昀昀 to enjoy. justice program. me.” “Community College gives you a sustainable pathway, at least I know it did for me,” Freeman added.

Staff SPOTLIGHT: Cheryl Hemric – Staff of the year From winning international design mission of Robeson Community advertising and graphic design, an competitions to having an opportunity College…. She has strived for associate of arts in general studies, to photograph a sitting President on excellence, success, and an associate of arts in the campaign trail to breaking stories and results from business education. She also on the living conditions of students students, faculty, earned several certi昀椀cates a昀琀er the wrath of Hurricane Florence, and sta昀昀 by the in photography, computer Cheryl Hemric’s career in the North e昀昀orts she puts into graphics, and project Carolina Community College system promoting each and management. has been one journey a昀琀er another. every program that RCC o昀昀ers.” “GTCC was where I went Hemric was recently named the to school and working there Sta昀昀 Person of the Year at Robeson Hemric started allowed me to learn so much, Community College. her career as a not just about marketing, but graphic designer at Guilford Technical about education and the community According to her nominator, Hemric Community College, which is where college system,” Hemric said. “I who serves as the Public Information she earned three associate degrees stayed there for 17 years, it was a great O昀케cer, “is a living example of the – an associate of applied science in opportunity.” Robeson community college Faculty / staff highlights RCC’S CHRISTY LOCKLEAR SHARES LOVE OF BEEKEEPING WITH CHILDREN “Without honey bees we would the Queen, what were the odds of that were learning in class. Long Branch not exist,” Christy Locklear told happening? But it was just meant to Elementary was teaching about elementary students at Long Branch be, the kids were so excited to see the pollinators because it was Spring time. Elementary during a special Queen Bee… so we presentation she gave “For the children to be able to see the on pollination. bees in person with the observation hive, it helped bring what they were Christy serves as learning to life,” Christy said. “You the interim dean could just feel the excitement in the of continuing class, the kids had a million questions, education at Robeson they were very inquisitive.” Community College. Some of the children have already Part of her passion for decided they want to become beekeeping is sharing beekeepers too. her knowledge with others. She currently “吀栀ere are no age limits, you can learn teaches a continuing the trade at any time,” Christy said. education class at “It’s up to the parents if they would like RCC “In Business with Beekeeping” had a contest, that whomever found their children to discover more about and now she has set out to teach the the Queen Bee 昀椀rst, got a sticker.” beekeeping.” next generation about the importance of bees. “吀栀e kids thought it was neat to see If you or your children are interested how the other bees take care of her, in learning more about Beekeeping, “I taught 7 classes on Friday from 8am they loved it,” Christy said. please contact Christy Locklear at 910- – 12pm at Long Branch,” Christy told. 272-3609 or [email protected]. “I was in a hurry and had accidentally 吀栀e presentation went along with pulled out the frame of bees that had lessons the elementary students

Hemric’s artwork and designs have Stories on Robeson Community “I o昀琀en hear our students at RCC been seen all over the state – from College have also gone viral and have share experiences similar to mine as billboards along I-85, I-95, I-74, I-73, been picked up by local stations across I interact with them and share their and I-40 to ads in magazines such the United States including a昀케liates story of how community college has as BusinessNC and Our State, to in Hawaii, California, Texas, Missouri, changed their life,” Hemric said. “Our commercials broadcast in Lumberton, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Kansas, faculty and sta昀昀 at RCC are dedicated, Greensboro, Jacksonville, Greenville, Florida, Oregon, Virginia, Ohio, they care about our students, and they Wilmington, Myrtle Beach, and Indiana, Illinois, and Alabama to name love what they do. Our students are the Florence. a few. mission and that’s how every employee feels on our campus.” 吀栀e stories that Hemric has written “I love telling people that I am a have been shared around the globe product of the community college “吀栀at’s why I love what I do,” Hemric countless times, and her press releases system,” Hemric stated. “I would not said. “I love promoting community have been reported on by various be where I am today if I had not started college and all that you can achieve news outlets across the country at a community college. 吀栀e skills and with a two-year degree. My goal including 吀栀e Robesonian, WRAL, hands-on training that I received while as a graphic designer and now as a WECT, WWAY, WITN, WCTI, getting my degree in advertising and marketing director has always been to WNCT, and WNCN, Spectrum News, graphic design 25 years ago, I still use make community college look as good, WMBF, WFXB, WBTW, WPDE, to this day.” if not better than any 4-year institution EducationNC, CNN, MSNBC, and Al because I truly believe in our mission Jazeera News. and all that we do.” Robeson community college Faculty / staff highlights Coleman Reappointed to LOCKLEAR EARNS NATIONAL George Pate presents at leadership committee CODING CERTIFICATION national conference Raetta Coleman, Scottie Locklear George Pate, the the program became a lead instructor for director CPC in 2023, the Accounting of surgical which stands and Finance technology, for Certi昀椀ed program, gave was recently Professional a presentation re-appointed to Coder. at the 2023 another 2-year 吀栀e Certi昀椀ed TACTYC term to the Professional (Teachers of State Assembly Coder Accounting Leadership Certi昀椀cation at Two-Year Committee for the Association of (CPC) is considered the gold Colleges) National Conference in Surgical Technologists. standard in the medical coding Portland, OR. profession and is highly sought a昀琀er by employers in the healthcare His presentation was on Coleman is also the site evaluator industry. “Communication and feedback for the Accreditation Review “It was a 4-hour exam with 100 with students requires peanuts and Council on Education in Surgical questions…You had to know coding gorilla tape.” Part of the inspiration Technology and Surgical Assisting. for any kind of medical procedure,” from this topic, he says lies in how “It makes me feel good because I Locklear said, who passed the exam higher education has transformed am going in to review programs with 昀氀ying colors. “I worked hard to over the last four years with regard to make sure they are doing get those initials behind my name, to online learning. but it was a big bene昀椀t because now everything correctly,,” Coleman I know what to prepare our students “In this new age, it’s time we learn said. “It is an honor to serve on the for and let them know what they can how to better communicate with board.” expect.” our students,” stated Pate.

Ad搀爀essing 琀栀e Elec琀爀ician Shortage RCC’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS THE GUIDING LIGHT TO SUCCESS Electrical systems technology might a lot of jobs opening from Baby getting to know them, and doing all be one of Robeson Communi- Boomers retiring. 吀栀e average age you can to help them be successful. ty College’s best-kept secrets, but of electricians in the workforce is it shouldn’t be. Graduates of this 57, so we need to 昀椀ll the gap,” said “I come with a hands-on approach program leave making $40 an hour, McKnight. “If you can graduate from with these students, we try to show and in some instances make more this program, you are automatically them exactly what they are going to than $100,000 in their 昀椀rst year with going to get hired.” be working within industry… once overtime pay, making it a sure昀椀re we get them trained, they have the way to change the trajectory of one’s 吀栀e electrical systems program ability to go to any industry in the life and the future of one’s family for enrolls approximately 58-80 students county or beyond to get a job and generations to come. a year and graduates 60-70 students. make a living wage… that’s our goal,” It was the program with the highest McKnight said. “We push through 吀栀e current need for skilled elec- retention rate at RCC in 2022 with the simple things and students are tricians is great, and the money is 73% of students completing the more apt to keep going if they get a good, so why aren’t more people program. push, the success from the program becoming electricians? is very rewarding.” “McKnight and I are very encourag- “A lot of people are afraid of elec- ing instructors who try to get stu- McKnight adds, “吀栀is program has tricity,” Levinson said. “But it’s a less dents to stick it out,” said Levinson. been around for a while. It’s a solid strenuous job – electricians have far “吀栀e reward is so great at the end of program and our students know better working conditions, and when the tunnel, we have the concept that what to expect from day one and they start their career, they usually we are not going to leave any student they know there are good jobs wait- stay in the 昀椀eld.” behind, we work with them to get ing for them.” them to graduate, and that’s why our Safety is a concern for anyone deal- retention rates are so high.” McKnight and Levinson showed ing with high voltage circuits, but as some examples to students of jobs Matthew McKnight tells his students Levinson adds, “Our students know available highlighting Good Year in constantly – “Remember – safety that 100% of our graduates are work- Fayetteville. 昀椀rst, safety last, safety always.” ing, even the ones who don’t want to work are employed because the “吀栀ey are about 50 positions short,” McKnight along with Levinson are money is so great.” said Levinson. “吀栀e workforce is lead instructors for the electrical retiring, and a lot of people don’t systems program at RCC. McKnight agrees and says it’s all know of the need and they are not “吀栀ere is a huge skills gap. We have about working with the students, applying for these jobs.”

“We do not have a lot of people that that message has been getting across “Everyone has to prove themselves have the skills to perform a lot of to more and more women who have in this program,” McKnight said. these jobs,” McKnight said. “So every decided to enter the profession like “We run a tight ship and if you get industrial facility around here is Corrine Bryant, Meagan Locklear, out of here you will have the ability hiring at least 10-15 people…吀栀ese and Katrina Locklear. to feed your family for a lifetime and companies are behind and they are that’s our goal.” trying to get their maintenance sta昀昀 “I chose this 昀椀eld because I know we and industrial sta昀昀 back full.” will make a lot of money for sure,” “Let us get you to the money,” Levin- said Bryant. “It’s also really interest- son adds. Pulling up Indeed.com, McKnight ing… I think I’m going to be ready showed one job posting from Good for this type of job when I get out. I 吀栀e electrical systems program cov- Year for an Industrial Electrician. have some good instructors for sure, ers a wide variety of topics including they make sure we know everything resident wiring, commercial wiring, “Immediately hiring today, at $37.31 we are supposed to know.” industrial wiring, programmable per hour,” McKnight read out loud. logic controllers, and solar powered “吀栀eir preferred quali昀椀cations are an “I know I’m just as smart as the next arrays. In addition to an associate Industrial Electrician Journeyman person, if not smarter,” Bryant said. degree, the program o昀昀ers several card or an AAS degree in Electrical certi昀椀cate programs as well. 吀栀e Technology, which is what we o昀昀er For Meagan Locklear, she loves the program is taught in state-of-the-art right here at Robeson Community instructors and the program, saying labs, which include a frame house College. We set our students up for she’s not at all intimidated, “If a man within a classroom to teach residen- jobs like this on a daily basis.” can do it, I can do it.” tial wiring and solar panel arrays which are taught in an outdoor If students are looking to continue Katrina Locklear encourages other setting. their education, the program has women interested to register stating, many 2+2 agreements that allow for “I think you would enjoy this curric- If you’re interested in learning more transfer to universities. Many stu- ulum from RCC if you enrolled.” about the Electrical Systems pro- dents go on to earn their bachelor’s gram at RCC, please contact Michael degree, master’s degree, and even a “I’m happy that I chose electrical Levinson at 910-272-3471, mlevin- doctorate degree. because it is interesting and it’s not [email protected] or Matthew McK- just a man’s job, you can have nails night at 910-272-3477, mmcknight@ “I know a lot about it because I went to do it, but I love my instructors, robeson.edu. through it,” said Levinson. “I got my they make it fun, they make learn- associate degree here at RCC, and ing fun,” stated Katrina Locklear. I decided I wanted to further my “吀栀ere’s never a boring day here and education and I transferred to East obviously it’s good money.” Carolina. You can transfer to East Carolina, NC State, UNC Charlotte, and A&T just to name a few places.” “Getting your bachelor’s degree will open up a lot more job opportunities and even more pay. I know $37 per hour is a lot of money, but you can make even more, but you can start right here at RCC,” Levinson said. “We want to make sure everyone knows about that.” Levinson says the workforce needs more people. 吀栀e opportunities are there in plain sight. And, recently

Curriculum Programs Academic Year 2023-2024 Curriculum Academic Year 2021-2022 MINORITY SERVING 2565 AVERAGE INSTITUTION ENROLLMENT STUDENTTO MINORITY SERVING 12:1 BLACK FACULTY RATIO AVERAGE INSTITUTION BLACK STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO 20% 21% OTHER ENROLLMENT NATIVE OTHER 15:1 NA AMERICAN

RCC Foundation receives surprise gift of $25000 It was quite a surprise for the RCC oversees the RCC Foundation, as he Bank, during an interview in 2021. Foundation, a phone call that said accepted the check. “We are so grateful “First Citizens Bank and the Robert 1708 5058 & Caribbean island nation OF JAMAICA a major gi昀琀 was on the way, in and appreciative to the Robert P. P. Holding Foundation are proud of fact a $25,000 gi昀琀. But the timing Holding Foundation and First Citizens the relationship they have with many CONTINUING EDUCATION Academic Year 2021-2022 EXECUTIVE TEAM couldn’t have been better, as the RCC Bank for this amazing donation of the North Carolina Community Foundation had already ENROLLMENT Colleges…吀栀e Foundation INTERNATIONAL REACH Melissa Singler scheduled a luncheon for sees this gi昀琀 as the token of COUNTRIES & TERRITORIES SERVED 8200 President its Board members that day AVERAGE appreciation for all that the AGE OTHERNO RESPONSE at Outback Steakhouse,

2022-2023 Finance REPORT 2% Salaries and Benefits ................................................................... 17,213,491.60 5% Supplies and Services ..................................................................... 7,208,356.36 Scholarships and Fellowships ...................................................... 4,904,335.93 16% 54% Utilities ................................................................................................. 527,637.69 Depreciation ..................................................................................... 1,713,819.45 Other Nonoperating Expenses ............................................................. 75,054.46 EXPENSES Total Expenses – $31,642,695.49 23%

Industrial Students earn OSHA-10 Salaries and Benefits ................................................................... 17,213,491.60 Certification Supplies and Services ..................................................................... 7,208,356.36 Scholarships and Fellowships ...................................................... 4,904,335.93 Utilities ................................................................................................. 527,637.69 Several students enrolled in the Industrial Safety Depreciation ..................................................................................... 1,713,819.45 course at Robeson Community College recently Other Nonoperating Expenses ............................................................. 75,054.46 achieved the OSHA 10-hour safety certi昀椀cation. Total Expenses – $31,642,695.49 Julio Cesar Bello, Je昀昀rey Allen Boggess, Daniel RCC’S CULINARY ARTS TAKES 1ST PLACE IN De Jesus Bravo, David Jimenez Campos, Calista Mackenzie Dial, Bryan Kelly Hammonds, LUMBEE WING WARRIOR COMPETITION Chance Lakota Hunt, Christopher Clayton Strickland, and Lydia Caillou Woods all recently Robeson Community College is excited to tor and student support services, who says he passed the exam. announce that its Culinary Arts program enjoyed more than his fair share of culinary’s “A lot of employers are looking to hire people took 昀椀rst place in the First Annual LRDA delicious, mouthwatering wings. “I am very with an OSHA 10 card,” said Heath Worriax, Wing Warrior Competition held on July 1 proud of our students and de昀椀nitely proud who taught the class. “Most employers in the during the 2023 Lumbee Homecoming. of our Program Director James Ingram industry will ask for this or they will require you and Chef Instructor Jordan Oxendine. I to pass it on-the-job, so these nine students are “It feels great to win, the team worked hard congratulate them on a job well done, they ahead of the game.” on the recipes and the way we wanted to represented Robeson Community College cook the wings so it was great to win, the very well… our sta昀昀 and our students did an For Calista Dial, earning the certi昀椀cation and hard work to pay o昀昀,” stated RCC Program outstanding job.” being enrolled in the welding program makes Director Chef James Ingram. “I don’t think her feel more empowered. I can truly put into words how proud of the 吀栀e RCC Culinary Arts Department was students I am, they did a phenomenal job I given $500 cash and was presented with a “I feel like a leader for women,” Dial said. “I’m couldn’t have ask for a better group to do the check for $875 by Scott Tire Pro’s, but our glad that I got the certi昀椀cation, I know job sites competition with.” guess is that earning the bragging rights for are looking for it.” mastering the recipe for the best wings in 吀栀e team along with winners from the Na- Robeson County was by far the best reward “Safety is important,” she said. tional SkillsUSA contest will be treated to an our students could have asked for and what ice cream social on campus this Wednesday will what they remember most about the Welding student Christopher Strickland agrees to celebrate their success. cook-o昀昀 challenge. and says that the certi昀椀cation was de昀椀nitely “Congratulations to our culinary students, “I think more than anything we wanted to worth earning. as well as our faculty members Program be a part of the community and show we “It puts me one more step closer to my career,” Director James Ingram and Chef Instructor are there for them for their needs,” stated Strickland said. Jordan Oxendine,” stated RCC President Ingram. “Winning was just proof to Chef Melissa Singler. “吀栀is is an amazing accom- Jordan and I that we are doing a good job plishment of the program. 吀栀e competition with the students.” they faced was 昀椀erce, but in the end, it proves that our students are becoming experts in 吀栀e event was sponsored by LRDA, Scott’s the food and hospitality industry and shows Tire Pro’s, RayRay’s Hog Pit, and Mountaire they are achieving greatness in and out of the Farms, who generously donated the chicken classroom.” wings. 吀栀ose in the competition were judged on ap- To learn more about the culinary arts pearance, taste, moisture, tenderness/texture, program at Robeson Community College, and overall impression. please contact our Admissions O昀케ce at 910- 272-3342, [email protected] or visit “Our wings they were right on,” stated Dr. https://www.robeson.edu/public-service/ Johnny Smith, the vice president of instruc- cularts. Continuing Education Students Chosen as Ambassadors for NC Association Taking just one continuing education class at recently selected through a highly competi- Robeson Community College could change tive process to serve as ambassadors for the your life forever as four students recently North Carolina Community Health Worker discovered, a昀琀er completing the community Association (NCCHWA). health worker training. In total 6 individuals from across the state 吀栀e four – Jose Chavez, Melissa Elliott, were named ambassadors. Charissa Smith, and Ashley Owens – were

Melissa Singl攀爀 The Face of Robeson Community College, leads growth by Sarah Nagem, published by the Border Belt Independent As Melissa Singler tells it, her story is typical has heard from countless people who asked workers, carpenters, plumbers and other of many community college students: why there was no truck-driver training pro- tradespeople, according to Freeman. Dropped out of high school and got her gram at RCC, which serves a rural county GED. Flunked out of a four-year university. in southeastern North Carolina where the Such training involves learning about the Got married young and started a family. economy relies heavily on Interstate 95. newest technology. Freeman said RCC Decided later on to 昀椀nish her education and recently tailored a course to the needs of the pursue her dreams. With help from industry partners, including Lumbee Native American tribe, which has donated trucks from Mountaire Farms, the its headquarters in Pembroke and is in the Now 56, Singler roams the campus of Robe- school started a truck-driving program in midst of a home-building spree for tribal son Community College – as the school’s July. Fi昀琀y-four people have graduated so far, members. president. and now there’s a waiting list. Construction crews hired by the tribe “I am our students,” she said in a recent “We could not have done it without them,” weren’t using technology to their advantage, interview inside the administrative o昀케ces at Singler said of local businesses. “吀栀ey need- o昀琀en drawing sketches by hand instead of RCC’s Lumberton campus. “I get it.” ed truck drivers. We needed equipment.” uploading photos into Photoshop, Free- Singler said RCC focuses on training stu- man said. 吀栀roughout the course, workers Singler says she leans on her own experi- dents for good-paying jobs. 吀栀e average base learned about everything from Microso昀琀 ences as she guides Robeson Community salary for truck drivers in North Carolina is Word to the tribe’s digital payment process- College through a growth spurt that de- about $82,300 a year, according to the jobs ing so昀琀ware. 昀椀es statewide trends. 吀栀e North Carolina website Indeed. ‘Epic failure’ who de昀椀ed the odds Community College System saw a 14% drop in enrollment in the 2021-2022 school year One of the poorest counties in the state, compared to 2018-2019. But RCC’s enroll- Robeson had a median household income of Singler was raised in the Buckhead commu- ment jumped 17% during the same span. about $36,700 in 2021. nity in Columbus County by her mother, a member of the Coharie tribe, and her father, 吀栀e coronavirus pandemic played a major “It will support a family and provide a livable a member of the Waccamaw Siouan tribe. role in the declining number of students en- wage. And that’s what we’re trying to do – rolled at community colleges and four-year we’re trying to put people into industries that She said she was a good student, but she institutions across the country. In addition, they can earn a livable wage and help their dropped out of school a昀琀er her father, who higher wages and the availability of jobs are families grow and excel,” Singler said. “吀栀at’s worked as a carpenter, was in a car accident. likely keeping some people out of classrooms what it’s all about.” and in the labor market. “I felt like I needed to get a job and contrib- Singler attributes much of RCC’s growth, RCC is one of 10 schools getting $35,000 ute to the family,” she said, adding that she particularly in continuing education and from the State Board of Community Col- got hired at a fast-food restaurant. career and college readiness programs, to leges to launch an eight-week construction the school’s willingness to adapt to the needs academy, said Eric Freeman, vice presi- When it quickly became clear that her family of local industries. 吀栀e campus had about dent of workforce development. Ten to 12 was going to be OK 昀椀nancially, Singler ob- 4,500 curriculum students and 8,200 con- students in the program will learn how to tained her GED and at age 17 followed her tinuing education students last school year. build a house “from foundation to shingles,” friend about 100 miles north to Campbell he said. University. Knowing nothing about FAFSA, Since she was hired in 2019, Singler said she Robeson County needs more construction student loans and grants, she simply showed

up the 昀椀rst day. Someone in the registration forced to adjust to remote learning. 吀栀e time A昀琀er graduation in May, Dial hopes to work o昀케ce told her, “Honey, you have to pay for away from classrooms led to learning losses in the intensive care unit at UNC Health college.” in North Carolina. Southeastern in Lumberton. Singler got a job at Hardee’s but struggled 吀栀e e昀昀ects were particularly profound in 吀栀anks to students like Jones and Dial – with self-discipline and 昀椀nding a sense of districts like Robeson, where student per- mostly non-traditional enrollees with an eye community. Halfway through her second formance already lagged behind statewide on a particular career or a desire to be their semester, she stopped going to classes. scores. During the 2021-2022 school year, own boss – community college enrollment 73% of Robeson County students were not is on the rise again in North Carolina. “I was an epic failure at Campbell University pro昀椀cient in math or reading, compared to Statewide enrollment jumped by 8% last fall – probably the worst student they ever had,” 50% and 52%, respectively, across the state. compared to the previous spring semester. she said. (Robeson Community College saw a nearly Two hurricanes – Matthew in 2016 and Flor- 7% drop during that time.) Singler got married at 19 and had a son the ence in 2018 – also kept Robeson County following year. Back home in Columbus students out of 昀氀ood-damaged schools for Rebounding enrollment is welcome news for County, she got a job at United Carolina months. Many families are still displaced by the state’s economy, according to Neil Har- Bank, where she was responsible for re- the storms. rington, a data analyst at the N.C. Depart- possessing cars from people who stopped ment of Commerce. making payments. She worked her way up At Robeson Community College, it’s im- in the banking industry and became a vice portant to recognize the triple whammy of It’s understandable why some would-be president at First Citizens Bank in White- trauma that students have endured, Singler college students have opted instead to take ville. Her family expanded as she and her said. less-desirable jobs with desperate-to-hire husband welcomed their daughter. companies o昀昀ering increased wages, Har- “吀栀is group of students who went through rington said. But making that choice now But, Singler said, “吀栀ere was always this Florence, Matthew and the pandemic – don’t could a昀昀ect workers’ lifetime earnings. feeling of un昀椀nished business” when it came stand in their way,” she said. “Don’t count to her education. those kids out. Imagine their tenacity and Plus, Harrington said, “吀栀at could potential- their ability to survive.” ly be dangerous in the long term by making So she enrolled at Southeastern Community workers less economically resilient. General- College in Whiteville. Daisher Jones, 23, isn’t counting herself out. ly, people who have had more education are better able to weather economic downturns.” Singler had lost touch with her friend from Jones was eight months pregnant with her Campbell, but they ended up in the same second son when she enrolled in the cos- As a former banking executive who oversees keyboarding class at SCC. She, too, had metology program at Robeson Community RCC’s annual budget of about $35 million, decided to return to school. 吀栀ey both ended College in January 2022. To ensure she got Singler knows all about what it takes to be up at the University of North Carolina at the required number of training hours, she “recession-proof” and prepare for the future. Wilmington, where they earned bachelor’s arrived 30 minutes early and le昀琀 30 minutes degrees and then master’s degrees in public late each day. Like many community college leaders, she school administration. faces a challenge in recruiting instructors. Working with students to create 昀氀exible Welders and plumbers, for example, can “吀栀is time,” Singler said, “it worked out schedules is key to their success, Singler said. make a lot more money working than teach- great.” ing courses. 吀栀ree days a昀琀er giving birth, Jones was back While working at the former Acme Delco on campus. Eventually, she hopes to become Limited access to high-speed internet in Middle School in Columbus County, Singler a nurse so she can both “take care of people Robeson County is also a major concern, for realized that many of her students’ parents and make people beautiful.” students and sta昀昀. Singler’s executive assis- didn’t have the educational background tant, Courtney Jacobs, lives only 15 minutes needed to help their kids with homework. In Mostly, she said, she wants to be a positive from campus but cannot get online at home. response, she started a GED class, which she role model for her children. “I feel like you also taught at Southeastern Community Col- set the standard for your kids when you go to To help students navigate such barriers, RCC lege and at the tribal grounds in Buckhead. college.” set up a system in 2021 to assign an adviser to work with each student from registration Singler took a job at Cape Fear Community Alex Dial has had a similar experience at to graduation. College in Wilmington in 2006, eventually RCC. She started classes in the school’s nurs- serving as executive vice president, before ing program a week a昀琀er having a baby. Singler said she wants her students to be she arrived at Robeson Community College more prepared than she was when she 13 years later. Dial, 26, said she earned a bachelor’s degree arrived that 昀椀rst day of college – not just in biology at the University of North Caro- for 昀椀nancial aid, but also for connecting to Undoubtedly, Singler de昀椀ed odds to get lina at Pembroke. But when she decided to tutors and 昀椀nding a sense of community. where she is today. But so have her current pursue a degree in nursing, she was drawn 吀栀at way, she said, students will be less likely students, she says – “and many of them with to the community college’s small setting that to drop out. a lot more hurdles.” allows instructors to work one-on-one with More challenges ahead students. “We’re putting those services in place before it’s too late,” she said. “And that seems to be “With it being a smaller class,” Dial said, working well for us.” Many college students were in high school at “we’re able to get much more hands on.” the start of the pandemic in 2020 and were

Lumberton High School RCC signs transfer agreement with UNCW visits Culinary Arts RCC hosts suicide prevention awareness event RCC hosts 2023 Veteran’s Day Event with the laying of the wreath by the flagpoles National IT Professionals Day President Singler celebrates employees with “Grits & Gratitude”