The Martin Messenger

A monthly newsletter for Martin Community College May 2018 MCC Celebrates its 50th Graduation

On May 4, Martin Community College (MCC) celebrated its 50th graduation ceremony in the River- side High School auditorium in Wil- liamston, NC. The capacity audi- Inside this Issue: ence cheered on more than 100 New NCCCS President 2 graduates as they crossed the stage to receive 180 degrees, di- April Trustee Meeting 4 plomas, and certificates. Sigma Six tour boat plant 5 As soon as the students processed in and were seated, gradu- PTA Pinning Ceremony 6 ate Aylonnah Woods started off Matthews at NCCCLP 7 the ceremony with a stirring rendi- Welcome Jermaine Smith 7 tion of the national anthem. Reverend Roy A. Gray, Sr., Hutchins Reception 8 Marcy Simmons Raynor, Pastor of Cedar Hill Baptist Church MCC’s 2018 Checking on Cash 9 in Williamston gave the invocation, Distinguished Graduate Name the Baby Contest 9 and MCC President Paul C. Hutchins welcomed the audience GED 2018 Graduation 10 Dr. Deryl Davis Fulmer, and introduced the commence- MCC’s 2018 PTK and ABG Induction 12 ment speaker. Commencement Cherry joins school board 13 Dr. Deryl Davis Fulmer, Ph.D., Speaker MCC’s Dean of Academic Affairs, ECSU building partnerships 13 gave the commencement speech. SGA Update 14 Fulmer, who joined MCC in July of 2017, holds a B.A. degree in Psy- Church donates GED funds 14 chology from the University of FFA and 4H at MCC 15 North Carolina-Chapel Hill, a M.S. BGCS Students Visit MCC 16 degree in Cultural Foundations of Education, and a Ph.D. in Urban Foundation Scholarships 16 Education from the University of Vet Tech moving forward 17 Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Let’s Talk About SACSCOC 18 Dr. Davis Fulmer congratulated the students for having the persis- MOXIE logo winner 18 tence, courage, and confidence to Dr. Paul Hutchins, MCC President Campus Improvements 19 earn their degree, and she remind- MCCF Golf Tournament 20 ed them that their journey is not over, but rather just beginning. Martin Memos 20 “You might be thinking, ‘I’m done. Nope. You’re not!’ You’ve closed one chapter and opened another.” She went on to cite the obsta- cles overcome by several MCC Continued on page 2… Martin Messenger May 2018

Graduation cont. from pg. 1… tion, Matthew Swain for Commer- New NCCCS students and reminded all of the cial Refrigeration Technology, President graduates, “While you may think Brandi Michelle Whitley for Cos- this a minor accomplishment, metology, Marcy Simmons Raynor you are amongst a class of for Early Childhood Education, greats!” Mitch Moore for Electrical Sys- “You, like George Lucas, tems Technology, Katlyn Noelle creator of Star Wars, attended Ward for Equine Business Tech- community college. Clint East- nology, Alexia Lynne Binns for wood, Morgan Freeman, Michael Equine Training Technology, J. Fox, Tom Hanks, Hallie Barry, Kristin H. Buck for General Occu- Steve Jobs all attended commu- pational Technology, Steve nity college…. and there are O’Neal, III for Industrial Systems more.” Technology, James Christopher Dr. Fulmer closed her com- Holliday for Information Technolo- ments by thanking the gradu- gy, Kayla Brittany Wilder for ates. “What a great honor that Medical Assisting, Iesha you chose Martin Community Roshonda Leigh for Medical Of- College to assist you in reaching fice Administration, and Kaylee your goals, where we strive to Grace Jackson for Physical Ther- build better futures. You have apist Assistant. On May 1, the State Board of helped us to live up to our mis- The Academic Excellence Community Colleges elected Peter sion!” Award was then presented to Abi- Hans to be the ninth NCCCS pres- Dr. Brian Busch, MCC’s Vice gail Spencer. In her essay, Spen- ident. President of Student Services, cer stated, “When I started at Hans’ experience with higher then presented the program MCC, I was 14 years old, a high education includes 18 years of ser- awards and recognized the Dis- school freshman, and had no idea vice on North Carolina’s two gov- tinguished Graduate for 2018. To what I wanted to do with my life. erning boards for higher education. be eligible to receive a Program At first, I didn’t want to be differ- The N.C. House of Representa- Award, a student must be a can- ent. I started out with two classes tives elected him to a six-year term didate for graduation, have a but it wasn’t enough. Soon I was on the State Board of Community minimum overall GPA of 3.00, taking extra classes and moving Colleges in 1997. He served as possess outstanding qualities in myself ahead. Here I am today, vice chair of the board and chair of cooperation and initiative, and be graduating in May of 2018 from the Policy Committee. nominated by a full-time faculty the Northeast Regional School of Hans earned a B.A. degree in member (advisor). The “Program Biotechnology and Agriscience political science from UNC-CH and Award” denotes a student’s ex- (NERSBA) and MCC at the age of a Master of Liberal Arts in Exten- cellence in a particular MCC pro- sixteen. I will be attending Camp- sion Studies from Harvard Univer- gram. bell University this fall where I will sity. The graduates receiving Pro- be majoring in Nursing.” His election occurred following gram Awards were as follows: MCC’s 2018 Distinguished a 6-month search. A 12-person Devan L. Fields for Associate in Graduate award, which is based Transition Committee reviewed Arts, Mary Renee Angeles for on scholarship, civic engagement, more than 30 candidates. Six can- Associate in General Education, and demeanor, was presented to didates were interviewed by the Katrina Rabeler Potter for Asso- Marcy Simmons Raynor. Dr. committee, and the names of three ciate in Science, Amanda Knie- Busch stated, “Marcy has demon- finalists were submitted to the full per Vick for Accounting, Byron strated exemplary leadership skills board for further review. Hans’ an- D. Horton for Automotive Sys- in and out of the classroom set- nual salary is $275,000. tems Technology, Freda Renee ting.” Harden for Business Administra- Page 2 Graduation cont. on next pg... Martin Messenger May 2018

Graduation Cont. from pg. 2… Raynor’s nominator, MCC’s Early Childhood Instructor Elaine Spellman stated, “When I needed a student worker for our annual KidsFest Event, Marcy was the first to sign up and volunteer. When I needed a student to work with the teachers and children in the pre-k classroom, this student participated Pictured above is Reverend Roy in our work study program. In the A. Gray, Sr., Pastor of Cedar Hill 2016-17 school year, when our Lit- Baptist Church in Williamston. erary and Creative Arts Club need- He gave the invocation and ben- ed new members, this student not ediction at MCC’s 50th gradua- only signed up to join the club, she tion. became the vice president.” The nomination letter went on to say, “When this student completed the practicum student teaching Pictured above are three of internship, she was immediately MCC’s outgoing Student Gov- hired within the Martin County ernment Association (SGA) School System. This student is the leaders. From left to right are: true definition of an early childhood Senator Kayla Wilder, President educator.” Raynor was then invited Amanda Vick, and Senator to be seated on the stage and par- Mary Angeles. This year’s SGA ticipate in the remainder of the leadership has been especially Graduation Ceremony. strong and effective. Thanks to Dr.’s Fulmer, Busch, and all of the outgoing SGA officers Hutchins were then joined by MCC and senators for their service! Trustee Board Chairman Helen Da- vis to confer 102 degrees, 39 certificates, and 8 diplomas to 124 graduates. Reverend Gray then gave the benediction, after which the gradu- MCC’s 2018 Academic Excel- ates processed out of the auditori- lence Award winner is Abigail um amid their congratulatory family Spencer. Spencer, a resident of and friends. Roper, is also a student at Five Marshalls were on hand to NERSBA (Northeast Regional help make the evening run smooth- School of Biotechnology and ly. They were Dustin Mann, Megan Agriscience) in Jamesville. Johnson, John Gurganus, Katie Harris, and Shameka Best. Mar- Pictured above, from left to shall’s are non-graduating MCC right, are the 2018 MCC Mar- students who have a cumulative shalls: Dustin Mann, Megan grade point average (GPA) of at Johnson, John Gurganus, Katie least 3.75 after completing at least Harris, and Shameka Best. Emi- 12 credit hours. Emily Spivey was ly Spivey was also eligible to be also eligible to be a Marshall but a Marshall but was unable to attend. was unable to attend. Page 3 Martin Messenger May 2018

MCC Trustees recognize Amanda Vick on April 17

The MCC Board of Trustees but Chairman Rick Cowan conducted their monthly meeting noted that an awning would on April 17 at the College’s campus be installed over the café en- in Williamston. trance this month, the elec- The business meeting got un- tronic sign is well underway, derway with a number of policy re- and the new doors should be visions ratified under the consent installed this summer. agenda.  Trustee Dwayne Baker re- Among the other topics of dis- ported that the finance Com- cussion were: mittee did not meet last  President Paul Hutchins month. However, MCC’s thanked the Trustees for their budget expenditures are on service to the College and not- target for the year. The good ed several meetings he has at- news is that MCC has ex- tended in an effort to familiarize pended 14% of its purchases himself with the area. They in- with HUB (Historically Un- clude:1) Met with Congressman derutilized Businesses). This G.K. Butterfield’s assistant, Re- is well over the state require- ginald Speight, on March 21; 2) ment of 10%. Attended the Martin County Job  SGA President Amanda Vick Fair on March 28: 3) Joined in reported that the SGA suc- on Martin County Schools’ and cessfully sponsored Spring MCC’s monthly Cooperative Fling on April 17. Aqua Mas- Leadership luncheon on March sages and chair massages 28; 4) Met with Principal Hal had been provided in room 14 Davis and toured the NERSBA from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. campus in Jamesville on April  Chairman Davis recognized 2; 5) Made a presentation to the and thanked Trustee Amanda Williamston Rotary Club on Vick for serving as the stu- April 3; 6) Attended a Volunteer dent representative on the Appreciation Dinner at BCI Board of Trustees for the past (Bertie Correctional Institute) on two terms. On behalf of the April 5; 7) Welcomed horse Board, she then presented trainer and film star Beth Gouth- Trustee Vick with a Jim Shore ro during her visit to the MCC figurine named “In Fine campus on April 9; 8) Made a Feathers.” (pictured right at presentation to the First Chris- the bottom). Chairman Davis tian Church Men’s monthly din- commended Vick on the work ner meeting on April 9; 9) she has accomplished with Attended the NCCCS Presi- the SGA. The board and the dent’s monthly meeting in Ra- audience gave Vick a stand- leigh on April 11 and 12; 10) ing ovation. Attended a Carolina Gateway  Chairman Davis encouraged Partnership meeting in Rocky the rest of the Board to join Mount on April 17. her on May 18 when she MCC’s SGA President Amanda  The Building and Grounds would introduce Dr. Hutchins Vick was recognized for her Committee did not meet in April, to the State NCCCS Board as service as a Trustee on April 17. Page 4 MCC’s 8th president. Martin Messenger May 2018

Sigma Six Students Visit Regulator Marine

In April, MCC Transition Advisor Brooke Mann was invited to participate in a tour of the Regulator Marine, Inc. plant in Edenton, NC. The tour was organized by Missy Griffin, Career De- velopment Coordinator, with Martin County Schools. The purpose of the tour was to expose the students to different industries in our area. Those in attendance saw how Regulator boats are made from start to finish. Regulator Marine, Inc. designs and manufactures deep-Vee center con- sole offshore fishing boats. The company was formed in 1988 by Joan and Owen Maxwell. Regulator boats are well known for their durability, excep- tional fit and finish, as well as their dry, soft, and comfortable ride. Seven students, representing both South Creek and Riverside High Schools, participated. These students recently completed Six Sigma Yellow Belt Training and Certification at MCC (see April edition, page 5 of the Martin Messenger). The Sigma Six training was jointly sponsored by MCC, the Martin County Economic Development Commission (EDC), and the Martin County Schools. Most of the Sigma Six students are planning to attend a 2-year college or go straight into the work force after graduation. During the tour, they dis- cussed employment opportunities and education requirements for these jobs. At the end of the tour, everyone was presented with Regulator Marine T-shirts. According to Mann, “It was an awe- some tour, and I definitely recommend it.” Information and pictures for this ar- ticle were submitted by: Brooke Mann, MCC’s Transition Advisor at South Creek High School in Robersonville. Page 5 Martin Messenger May 2018

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Pins 17 Graduates

Pictured above are the 2018 graduates of MCC’s Physical Therapist Assistant program. From left to right on the front row are: Kasey Hall, Brittany Gibson, Taylor Williams, Kendra Spruill, Sarah Flanagan, and Evan Sin- glar. In the middle row are: Jessica Beacham, Julie Askew, Lauren Lassiter, Mary Stoneburner, and Richard Rowley. On the back row are: Lisa Armstrong, Christopher Hardison, Pristina Harrell, Kaylee Jackson, and Marques Jeffreys. Evan Singlar was elected to be the class president.

MCC’s Physical Therapist As- has its roots in WWI, with the addi- Dr. Mull closed by encourag- sistant (PTA) program celebrated tion of “reconstruction aides” to the ing the graduates to emulate Gen- its fifth annual Pinning Ceremony Army’s medical personnel. Ac- eral Colin Powell by practicing on May 4 in the campus auditori- cording to the U.S. Army Medical what he calls “perpetual opti- um. A near-capacity audience of Department’s Office of Medical mism.” family, friends, staff, and faculty History, the reconstruction aides The program’s Director, Dr. were on hand to cheer them on. were “directed toward the restora- Dean McCall, then shared his per- The graduates included; Lisa tion of the wounded soldier to mili- sonal reflections about the stu- Armstrong, Julie Askew, Jessica tary duty as soon as possible, or if dents and how they impressed Beacham, Sarah Flanagan, Britta- that was not feasible, to return him him over their time at MCC. He ny Gibson, Kasey Hall, Christopher to civilian life in a physical condi- followed his remarks with the Hardison, Pristina Harrell, Kaylee tion which would enable him to presentation of the pins. Jackson, Marques Jeffreys, Lauren function in the highest degree pos- Dawn Parker, the program’s Lassiter, Clara Mosely, Richard sible consistent with his injury.” Clinical Coordinator, closed the Rowley, Evan Singlar, Kendra Dr. Mull also referred to Ste- ceremony. She noted that the Spruill, Mary Stoneburner, and phen Covey’s Book, The Seven PTA graduates have formed some Taylor Williams. Habits of Highly Effective People, life-long friendships during their The guest speaker was Dr. encouraging the graduates to “be time at MCC. She also shared a Bob Mull, a Physical Therapist at proactive, seek to understand and quote from Maya Angelou: Caswell Center in Kinston. During then to be understood, have a “People will forget what you said, his comments, Dr. Mull noted that goal (begin with the end in mind), what you did, but they will never the Physical Therapy profession think win-win (work with others).” forget how you made them feel.”

Page 6 Martin Messenger May 2018

Matthews Completes Leadership Training Jermaine Smith Joins IT Department

Kismet Matthews (pictured above and below), MCC’s Executive Assis- tant to the President and Board of Trustees / Foundation Liaison, recently graduated from the NC Community College Leadership Program (NCCCLP). She began the program on November 1 and completed it Jermaine Smith (pictured on April 27. The class met for two days, every month, for six months at above) joined the MCC family various colleges across the state. When asked how she felt about the on May 1. He is a new Infor- experience, Matthews said, “I would highly recommend it to anyone mation Technology (IT) Techni- who is in the beginning or middle of their community college career. I cian. Smith had already been know there were some future Community College Presidents in this working in the IT Department as group. I learned a lot about team building, making decisions, and de- a part time IT Tech Assistant fending them.” Only 30 students are selected for the program each since September 2017. Prior to year. Congratulations Kismet! joining MCC on a full time basis, he also worked part time at Pitt Community College (PCC). Smith earned his A.A.S. degree in Computer Information Tech- nology from PCC in 2012. Smith resides in Jamesville, NC. Wel- come aboard Jermaine!

Page 7 Martin Messenger May 2018 Hutchins formally welcomed to MCC Dr. Paul C. Hutchins and his wife Tina were formally welcomed to Martin County on May 3. Several local and regional leaders attended the event and enjoyed light refreshments in room 14. Dr. Hutchins also met with MCC’s faculty and staff on April 19. He told MCC’s employees that, “It is an honor to be here, and excited to have this opportunity.” He shared three primary goals for MCC in the year to come: “1) SACSCOC Reaffirmation 2) Self Service implementation 3) Community in- Dr. Paul Hutchins chatting with State Representative volvement with schools, business leaders, Bertie Shelley Willingham as Bear Grass Mayor and MCC Foundation President Charlotte Griffin looks on. county, etc.” He also noted that, “MCC is an economic engine for the community it serves.” Dr. Hutchins also shared his primary goals as MCC’s President; “1) To meet every full time em- ployee. 2) To strengthen the MCC Foundation - starting with a campus fund drive in the near future. 3) To promote a positive outlook among the MCC employees and creating an atmosphere for team work. 4) To host student lunches with the President.” He concluded his remarks by saying, “Every day we have to be working toward excellence.”

Sally Surface, Director of CADA (Choanoke Area Development Association)

Pictured from left to right are Martin County Commissioner Dempsey Bond, MCC Foundation Board member Jackie Gillam, and Martin County MCC President Dr. Paul C. Hutchins speaking School member Barbara Council. with the faculty and staff on April 19. Page 8 Martin Messenger May 2018 Checking on Cash! Still waiting on Ritzi! The cameras are rolling in Ritzi’s stall in preparation of the birth of her first foal. She is now entering her twelfth month of gestation. Once again this year, MCC’s Student Government Association (SGA) is spon- soring a “Name the Baby” contest for the new foal’s barn name or registered name. The winner will receive a $25 gift certificate in the Cash at 1 day old and 70 pounds. MCC Café. The voting will commence immediately after the foal’s birth. A picture will be taken and distributed across campus. Most horses have a barn name and a show name. The show name is typically a com- bination of the parents’ names which is used on their paperwork. The barn name is their day-to-day name. Fre- Pictured above is Ritzi, a 16-year quently, barn names refer- -old mare in the MCC herd. She ence the registered name. is expecting her first foal any day Ritzi’s name reflects her reg- now. Chubbs, pictured below, is istered name “Zips Ritz n the sire. MCC’s SGA is sponsor- Roll.” The sire’s barn name is ing a “Name the Baby” contest Chubbs and his registered for their foal. Enter the contest in Cash at 1 year old and 785 pounds. name is “Certainly a Vision.” the Library. The creator of the As we await the impending birth of With this naming protocol winning name will win a $25 gift Ritzi’s foal and Cash prepares to in mind, let your creative juic- certificate in the Campus Café. spend the next 11 months in the es flow and think of a name field, we will see less of Cash in the for the soon-to-be-newest Martin Messenger. Cash will be member of the MCC herd. busy learning to be a horse from Entry ballots will be located in the rest of the MCC herd. When he the MCC library. Just drop resumes his training with humans your entry in the designated next spring, we’ll see him again box. Members of the Equine and keep up with his progress. Club and Equine Technology When his training resumes, he will Faculty will select the winner. be taking riding lessons - but he The winner will be announced will be the one being ridden. We in the Martin Messenger. The look forward to seeing Cash start contest is open to all MCC students, faculty, and staff! school next year! Page 9 Martin Messenger May 2018

Pictured above are 14 of the 15 students who participated in MCC’s annual GED® (High School Equiv- alency) graduation ceremony on May 3 in the MCC auditorium. Receiving their GED® diploma from left to right on the back row are: William Jones, Jonathan Avila, Anthony Rodriguez, William Green, Damon Shawhan, Radarryl Pugh, Christopher Canfield, and Demetrius Faison. Seated on the front row are Ashley Gainor, Barbara Azuaje, Ashley James, Selena Sherrod, Danielle Thompson, and Brista Napier. Willie Davis is not pictured above but was in the ceremony. They were among 77 GED® graduates receiving their credentials from MCC during the current academic year. Avila, Davis, Gainor, Jones, Shawhan, and Sherrod are from Williamston. Canfield, Pugh, Rodriguez, and Thompson reside in Robersonville. Azuaje and Napier live in Windsor, and James is from Plymouth. MCC’s GED® Ceremony held on May 3

Martin Community College liam Jones, Brista Napier, Radarryl from Anthony Rodriguez. Rodri- (MCC) celebrated its 42nd annual Pugh, Anthony Rodriguez, Damon guez, a first generation American, GED® graduation on May 3, in a Shawhan, Selena Sherrod, and gave his remarks in both English ceremony held for a near-capacity Danielle Thompson. and Spanish to demonstrate his audience in the MCC Auditorium. Not all of MCC’s seventy-seven pride in both cultures. Family, friends, staff, and faculty GED® graduates were able to at- Rodriquez shared how he felt were on hand to cheer on the gradu- tend the ceremony. Many of the overwhelmed in high school and ates and congratulate them on their graduates have obtained jobs or decided, much to the dismay of his achievement. MCC’s GED® pro- moved away since their successful family and friends, to drop out in the gram is administered through the completion of the program. Fifty- 11th grade. Basic Skills department in the Divi- seven of the GED® graduates After many months of struggling sion of Continuing Education. completed their course work and with his inner demons, Rodriguez The graduates who chose to tests at the Bertie Correctional In- “was in his room alone and began participate in the ceremony were: stitution (BCI) in Windsor. to cry and pray,” and came to the Jonathan Avila, Barbara Azuaje, After an invocation from MCC’s revelation, “It ends here–all of the Christopher Canfield, Willie Davis, Vice President Dr. Brian Busch, negative thoughts and doubts about Demetrius Faison, Ashley Gainor, and a welcome from College Presi- myself–I will put a stop to it.” The William Green, Ashley James, Wil- dent, Dr. Paul Hutchins, the audi- next week he signed up for GED® Page 10 ence was treated to a testimonial Continued on next page… Martin Messenger May 2018

Continued from pg.10… Michael J. Fox, and Cyndi Lauper make it in life… Boy was I wrong. I classes and re-committed himself to are just a few examples. had been settling.” making his parents proud and to Charlotte Griffin, President of Jones’ essay highlighted how being a good example for his three the MCC Foundation board, then the loss of his job in October of younger brothers. announced the recipients of the 2017 jarred him into the reality that Rodriguez noted that it wasn’t Foundation scholarships for GED® “Finding a job in today’s society is easy to return to his education. “By graduates. William Jones, Selena tough and it’s even tougher without that time I had started working in a Sherrod, and Anthony Rodriguez an education. There are many jobs heating and air company, getting off were each awarded a $500 schol- you cannot even apply for without a late and then studying for hours. It arship to attend MCC in the 2018- high school diploma or a GED®.” was stressful but I was determined 2019 academic year. These schol- Jones went on to describe how to do it and finish it. Giving up and arships were awarded based on “MCC was very encouraging, from saying ‘I can’t’ wasn’t an option for essays written by the candidates testing all the way to graduation.” me anymore.” and will assist them with their tui- He was able to earn his GED® Rodriguez added, “If it wasn’t tion and books as they become quickly and already has a new job for God, I wouldn’t be who I am to- college students. where there is room for advance- day or have made it this far. He’s Jones is planning to pursue his ment, great benefits, and day shift the one I owe it all to.” lifelong desire for a career in law hours Monday through Friday. Now that Rodriguez has earned enforcement. Sherrod will begin Jones noted that he had never had his GED®, he will return to MCC MCC’s Business Administration a job like this. It has enabled him to this fall and enter the Dental Assis- program this fall. She hopes to spend more time with his family and tant program. Once he completes open her own community center make plans in advance. this training, he plans to transfer to for young people. Rodriguez, as In addition to the three essay- a university with a dental school noted in his testimonial, is planning based scholarships, the Foundation and become a dentist. The audi- to become a dentist. also provides each of the GED® ence gave Rodriguez a standing Sherrod noted in her essay, graduates with an MCC tuition ovation at the end of his remarks. “For a long time, my attitude was ‘I scholarship for two curriculum clas- The commencement address have a job, I don’t need a GED®.’ I ses (up to six credit hours) in the was given by Mr. Joe Phipps, a thought that any job would help me upcoming academic year. Basic Skill Instructor for MCC. “Mr. Joe” as he is fondly known by many of his students, began his remarks with the statement, “I am a proud GED® graduate.” Phipps noted that for a variety of reasons he dropped out of Jack- sonville High School, but returned 15 years later, to accept a position as a faculty member. He was hired by the same principal who was there when he dropped out. Phipps offered this as an example of why it is important to keep pushing forward and taking the next step. “It doesn’t matter if your next step is the military or college, it’s just important to keep moving forward. You simply can’t afford to shut your- Pictured above right is Charlotte Griffin, President of the Martin Commu- self off. You have to avoid the nega- nity College (MCC) Foundation Board of Directors, with the 2018 recipi- tive voices in your head.” ents of the Foundation’s annual scholarships for MCC’s GED® gradu- Phipps went on to recognize ates. Pictured from left to right with Griffin are: Anthony Rodriguez, Wil- liam Jones, and Selena Sherrod. They were each awarded a $500 schol- several famous people who earned arship based on essays they submitted. The Foundation is also making GED’s. Jim Carrey, Christian Slater, available to each of this year’s GED® graduates a scholarship in the form 50 Cent, Eminem, Nicolas Cage, of six credit hours of tuition at MCC in the upcoming academic year. Page 11 Martin Messenger May 2018 PTK and ABG Accept 21 MCC Students

Pictured above are MCC’s 2018 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) inductees. PTK is an honor society for students attending two-year colleges.

On April 12, eight MCC business students were inducted into MCC’s Chapter of Alpha Beta Gamma, and thirteen students from a wide array of MCC programs were added to Phi Theta Kappa chapter. The ABG inductees included: Jasmine Bond, Freda Renee Harden, Elizabeth Hernandez, Crystal Holliday, James Holliday, Iesha Leigh, Kayla Wilder, and Nichole Williams. Dr. Deborah Wy- man is the ABG Advisor. Those inducted into PTK were: Zaria Brown-Williams, Brinson Edmondson, Sydney Gainey, Freda Renee Harden, Lauren Hardi- son, George Holliday, Alex Hooten, Caleigh Mason, Anthony Ras- Proud parents, Fred and Maria Wilson coe, Kendra Spruill, Amanda Whitehurst, Nichole Williams, and of Washington, flank their son Thom- Thomas Wilson. Mary Carson is MCC’s PTK Advisor. as after his induction into PTK. Thom- Dr. Deryl Davis Fulmer was the guest speaker for the ceremo- as, who is also a NERSBA graduate, ny. Congratulations to these hard working students! has been accepted to NCSU.

Pictured above are MCC’s 2018 Alpha Beta Gamma (ABG) inductees. ABG is an honor society for business students attending two-year colleges.

Page 12 Martin Messenger May 2018

Cherry to fill Bertie ECSU seeks CC partnerships! School Board Seat Several representatives from Elizabeth City State Uni- versity (ECSU) visited the MCC campus on April 20 to meet with leaders from nu- merous Community Colleges in the region to discuss po- tential partnerships. Among the community Colleges in attendance were: Martin Community College, College of the Albemarle, Pictured above are Dr. Vann Newkirk Halifax Community College, ECSU Provost and Dr. Evonne Carter Roanoke-Chowan Communi- from College of the Albemarle (COA). ty College, Carteret Commu- nity College, Edgecombe Community College, Nash Community College, and Beaufort County Community MCC’s Director of the College. Windsor campus, Mr. Norman ECSU is one of four uni- Cherry, has been selected to fill versities in North Carolina the unexpired term of Barry that will offer the North Caro- McGlone on the Bertie County lina Promise Tuition Plan. Board of Education. McGlone This plan, recently passed by had represented District 4 until the NC legislature, allows un- his untimely death on March 4. dergraduates enrolling at He was in his first term and ECSU, UNC Pembroke, or Pictured above from left to right above are ECSU representatives; Luann Rid- served as Vice Chairman of the Western Carolina University board. Elected four years ago, dick, Dr. Geraldine Hill and Dr. Brenda to pay only $500 for in-state Norman. McGlone was up for re-election per semester. The remaining this winter. cost of education will be cov- The Bertie County Board of ered through NC Promise. Education elected Cherry to fill This unique opportunity will the seat at their Tuesday, April certainly be attractive to stu- 17 regularly scheduled meeting. dents throughout the state, Cherry was one of four candi- and ECSU is anticipating a dates considered as a replace- significant increase in fresh- ment. man enrollment this fall. Cherry brings considerable In an effort to manage expertise to the School Board. this increased enrollment and He is a former educator, retired to ensure that students trans- principal of Bertie County High ferring from Community Col- Pictured above, from left to right are; School, and a former county leges make a smooth transi- MCC’s Dean of Academics Dr. Deryl Commissioner. tion, ECSU is planning to al- Fulmer, Dr. Bruce Bugsby Halifax Com- Cherry earned his M.A.Ed. locate recruiters on the cam- munity College and Dr. Tracy Mancini From ECU and his B.S. degree puses of its partnering com- from Carteret Community College. from ECSU. munity colleges. Page 13 Martin Messenger May 2018

SGA Update REAL Crisis Intervention REAL Crisis Intervention, Inc. MCC’s SGA elections were is a non-profit agency offering held in March, and the results will free 24/7 counseling and an be announced at the beginning of extensive referral service. RE- the fall semester. AL provides: Counseling, In- The new SGA president will formation & Referral, Sexual be sworn in as an ex-officio Assault Services, Advocacy, (nonvoting) MCC Trustee at the Suicide Intervention/ August meeting and will begin Prevention, Pitt Resource their duties as a board member at Connection, Dial-A-Teen, that meeting. Bertie Church Community Resource Connec- tion and Outreach/Education. Also, the SGA voted in March Donates Funds They are located at 1011 An- to allow high school students to derson Street, in Greenville, run for any of the elected officer NC. You may contact REAL in In March, a church in Bertie positions-except president. Thus, the following ways; by phone the positions of Vice President, County made an anonymous gift at 252-758-4357, by email at Secretary, Treasurer, and Publici- of $796 to MCC to assist GED® [email protected], ty Officer are now available to high students from Bertie County with or on the web at school students. their test taking fees. Currently, www.realcrisis.org Eligible SGA candidates must the entire battery of GED® tests be enrolled in an MCC curriculum costs $104, which often brings a program, maintain a minimum cu- GED® student’s hard work to a mulative 2.5 GPA during service futile end. This gift will make it as an officer, maintain a minimum possible for several Bertie County 6 credit hour schedule while in of- students to achieve their goal. fice, have been enrolled at MCC In addition to this tremendous for at least one semester, commit- assistance, the MCC Foundation ted to fulfilling the responsibilities has also earmarked funds for eve- of the office, are willing to hold of- ry GED® graduate to receive a fice for at least one academic year scholarship for up to six credit or two semesters, and submit an hours of curriculum classes at appropriate headshot with the ap- MCC. It should also be noted that plication. nearly 80% of MCC’s student’s are The new SGA officers will start eligible for financial aid. their official duties during the 2018 Thanks to the tremendous Fall Semester. The SGA budget is generosity of others, a College generated by student fees. degree is now more attainable If you are interested in serving than ever! on the SGA’s governing board as If you, or your church, or civic a senator (a non-elected position), club, would like to support this ef- please contact the SGA Advisor, fort as well, please contact Kismet Kanon Nixon, in room 1-22 or Matthews, MCC’s Foundation online at ka- manager, at 252-789-0223 or via [email protected]. email at kis- [email protected] . The Foundation also manages a number of endowed scholarships (see page 16). Page 14 Martin Messenger May 2018

FFA and 4H Students Compete at MCC in April

On April 14, more than 300 col- that can be used in a logical, sys- lective members of 4H and FFA tematic way to defend placings and (Future Farmers of America) descend- will help participants gain confi- ed on the MCC campus for a day-long dence in their ability and use of the equine judging event. English language by giving oral rea- According to the 4H website, “The sons to a judge while learning to Horse Judging Contest is designed to speak clearly, decisively, and con- teach participants good conformation vincingly through the use of oral (structural correctness, balance, and reasons.” muscling), breed character, and per- After viewing the horses in the formance ideals in different breeds of MCC arena, the students gathered horses. Additionally, the Horse Judg- in building 1 to defend their selec- ing contest teaches participants how tions. MCC’s equine students and to evaluate horses based on faculty assisted in showing horses knowledge and fact, make a decision, and managing the facilities that day. and defend it. The contest also teach- It was a great way to show off es participants horsemanship terms MCC’s equine program!

Page 15 Martin Messenger May 2018 BGCS students tour MCC Campus

On April 17, several students from Bear Grass Charter School (pictured above in the MCC Automotive Department) toured the MCC campus. The event was organized by MCC’s Director of High School Programs and Advising, Michelle Griffin. While on campus, the students viewed a PowerPoint presentation about MCC, followed by visits to: the Registrar’s office, Industrial Systems/Welding lab, Cos- metology labs, Bookstore, Campus Café, Business Office, Counselor offices, Library, Medical Assist- ing labs, HVAC classrooms, Arts and Sciences labs and classrooms, and the Automotive Department. Instructors were on hand to answer questions and provide general information about their programs. Each student received a gift bag and folder of information. Several students won door prizes.

Apply now for MCC Foundation Scholarships

The MCC Foundation has re- handicapped and enrolled in the The application form for any of cently announced that students PTA program these scholarships is available on may now apply for a number of the MCC website or in building 1, scholarships that will be available AB Ayers - endowed for a first office 1. The application requires a during the 2018-19 academic year. year student who has earned a 300 to 500 word essay. The dead- The endowed scholarships and High School Equivalency/GED at line to apply is June 30. their applicant criteria are available MCC and has applied for a voca- as follows: tional education program

Leman Barnhill - established for a MCC Equine - annual Rodeo second year MCC student who re- proceeds fund a scholarship for a sides in Martin County and main- second year MCC equine student tains a 3.0 GPA who maintains a 2.5 GPA

Jerry Bembridge - designed for a HVAC/Commercial Refrigera- second year, economically disad- tion - provided for a second year vantaged MCC student who re- MCC HVAC or Commercial Re- sides in Martin or Bertie County, frigeration student who maintains maintains a 2.5 GPA and/or is a 2.5 GPA

PagePage 1616 Martin Messenger May 2018

NCC tours MCC SECU offers ‘People Minges Scholarship Equine Facilities Helping People’ Scholarships On April 18, several representatives from Nash Community Col- The NC State Employees lege visited the MCC campus to Credit Union (SECU) 2018 tour the equine facilities. The ‘People Helping People’ Scholar- MCC’s Financial Aid Director group, comprised of NCC faculty, ships are now open for applica- Terri Leggett, has announced the staff, and Trustees, are partner- tion. These significant scholar- availability of the Thomas E. Ming- ing with MCC in offering a Vet ships of $5,000 each are distribut- es Memorial/Pepsi Scholarship Tech program. MCC will provide ed in $1,250 increments per se- application. The Minges Bottling the facilities and training for large mester for a total of four semes- Group is providing MCC with two animals. Pictured below is NCC ters. Every NC Community Col- $1,500 scholarships. The deadline President Dr. William Carver ad- lege is allocated two SECU schol- to apply is August 2, 2018. dressing the group during an in- arships. The deadline to apply is These scholarships are made formal lunch meeting prior to the June 25, 2018. possible by the Minges family and tour. Below is MCC’s Equine These scholarships are made the Minges Bottling Group based Technology Program Director possible by the SECU Foundation in New Bern. Tammi Thurston describing the which is supported by all SECU All eligible recipients must facilities. members. meet the following require- All eligible recipients must ments: meet the following require- * Must be a US citizen residing ments: in Martin, Bertie, Washington, * Must be a United States citi- Beaufort, Pitt, Hyde, Tyrrell, Pamli- zen and resident of North Caroli- co, Craven, Lenoir, Greene, Cra- na; ven, Jones, Carteret, or Onslow * Must be attending one of the counties; 58 North Carolina Community * Must be enrolled as a full Colleges; time student at MCC; * Must be an applicant or full- * Must have a cumulative GPA time student who is a high school of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale; NCC President Dr. William Carver graduate (or has completed the * Demonstrate a commitment GED program, enrolled in an as- to academic achievement through sociate degree, diploma or certifi- special awards, job experience cate program); and community activities; * Must have demonstrated * Applicants must have a high scholastic achievement with a 2.5 school diploma or GED certificate; or higher unweighted GPA; * Must be able to demonstrate * Must have demonstrated unmet need. leadership, excellence of charac- Applications are available in ter, integrity and community in- the MCC Financial Aid Office or volvement. may be downloaded from the Fi- Applications are available in nancial Aid page on the MCC web the MCC Financial Aid Office or site. For more information, visit the may be downloaded from the Fi- Financial Aid office in Building 1, MCC’s Equine Technology nancial Aid page on the MCC web room 204. Director site. For more information, visit Applications will be reviewed Tammi Thurston the Financial Aid office in Building by a committee appointed by the 1, room 204. Financial Aid Director. Page 17 Martin Messenger May 2018

Let’s Talk about SACS! And the winner is...

Martin Online eXcellence in Education Part of the campus-wide pro- On the way to the SACSCOC Small College Initiative in Atlanta, Maureen Green, third from right, had the opportunity to meet the cast of ject involved in the SACSCOC The Color Purple. The cast had just wrapped up their performance at reaffirmation process is the the DPAC and were flying to the next location on their national tour. QEP which stands for Quality Enhancement Plan. This cy- Submitted by Maureen Green each went to two of the work- cle’s QEP is called MOXIE On April 10, Maureen Green, shops in order to attend each (Martin Online eXcellence In Director of Institutional Research & workshop offered. Education). It will be focused Effectiveness and SACSCOC liai- On the reaffirmation front, on improving retention and son, and Dr. Deryl Davis Fulmer, the SACSCOC Vice President success in online classes. The Dean of Academic Affairs, attended responsible for MCC, Dr. Linda QEP committee recently spon- the thirteenth annual SACSCOC Thomas-Glover, will be visiting sored a campus-wide election Small College Initiative in Atlanta, campus on June 4th and 5th to to select the best logo for Georgia. help us prepare for our October MOXIE. The voting was open to students, faculty and staff. The theme of this year’s initia- visit. She will help us prepare our One hundred and nine votes tive was “Educational Quality in a focused report, which is the re- were cast and the photo finish Time of Uncertainty.” The invitation sponse to the off-site committee’s winner was the above design -only event is intended to provide evaluation of our compliance, and by three votes! This logo will small colleges with an informative she will give us advice on our be used on a variety of promo- and hands-on program to help Quality Enhancement Plan tional items, like T-shirts, as them to continue to provide high- (QEP). The QEP is a project that well as screen savers in the quality education with fewer re- MCC will work on to help stu- computer labs. Since the sources than larger colleges have. dents. We have chosen improving SACSCOC review team will be There were workshops offered success and retention online edu- asking us about our QEP dur- in four areas: finance, student cation as our focus. ing their visit this fall, it is im- achievement and learning, main- MCC seeks continuous important for everyone to be- taining educational quality, and fac- provement in order to help stu- come familiar with it. More ulty. Ms. Green and Dr. Fulmer dents build better futures! about MOXIE will be covered during the fall convocation! Page 18 Martin Messenger May 2018

MCC Campus continues to get better every day! The Campus Café’s new canvas awning (pictured below on the left) was installed on May 3. It immediately made an improvement to the appearance of building 1 and prompted the removal of the “old school” antenna attached to the edge of the building. It is also inspiring the administration to con- sider painting the green roof trim the same color as the awning. Paint colors are currently under consideration. Once selected, MCC’s equine barns will be painted the same color. The ceiling in Tammy Bailey’s office has been replaced and new lighting installed. Pictured right is MCC Mainte- nance Worker, Jerry Wilson, installing the new lighting. MCC has saved several thousands of dollars by converting to LED lighting. Steve Taylor reports that he plans to convert all of the campus lighting to LED. A grant from Dominion Power spurred the conversion. The bases for MCC’s new electronic signs (pictured below left) have been built and are awaiting the arrival of the screens and lettering. The contractor has adjusted the completion date to late May.

Page 19 The Martin Messenger May 2018

Rain date is May 24!

Martin Memos

May 7 - Summer schedule begins for MCC employees (closed on Fridays) May 21 thru Aug. 16 - Fall Semester registration continues May 16 - Summer Semester begins May 17 - MCC Foundation Golf Tournament (see above for details) June 25 - Deadline to apply for SECU Scholarships (see pg. 17) June 30 - Application Deadline for MCC Foundation Scholarships (see pg. 16) July 24 - New session of Basic Law Enforcement Training begins Aug. 2 - Deadline to apply Thomas E. Minges Memorial/Pepsi Scholarship Aug. 13 - Convocation Aug. 16 - Fall Semester begins

Page 20 MCC is an equal opportunity employment institution.