In the fall of 2024, both of Marr’s interests merged when she joined ������Ƶ’s softball team and became a full-time student at the college.   

“I decided to go to ������Ƶ to further my academic and softball career,” Marr said. “It was the best opportunity for me to follow my future goals.”    

On the field, Marr played as an infielder and helped ������Ƶ achieve a record-breaking year last season, finishing fourth in the National Junior College Athletic Association World Series. This year, she returned to help the Rhinos secure back-to-back Region and District Championships and once again return to the World Series.   

“The best part of ������Ƶ for me was being able to play softball with the best teammates I could have asked for,” Marr said.   

After contributing to two of the most successful years in ������Ƶ softball history, Marr graduated in May with an associate in science degree. She now plans to continue her education toward a four-year degree at N.C. State University, majoring in animal science.  

“Maybe I’ll become a veterinarian,” Marr said. “I am still not fully sure of what I want to do exactly, but I know that I want to work with animals in some way.”   

“������Ƶ helped me build momentum towards my career goals by providing me with an education that has truly helped me learn and come out of my comfort zone,” Marr said.

A proud first-generation college student, Servin Leon has consistently demonstrated perseverance, leadership, and academic excellence at ������Ƶ. During her time at school, Servin Leon has thrived in rigorous STEM coursework, conducted and presented original research, and committed countless volunteer hours, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She is also part of ������Ƶ’s SPARC Scholars program, a member of the Math Club and Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society, and has been on the President’s List every semester.

“When I found out I had won the scholarship, I was in shock—I kept rereading the message to make sure it was real,” said Servin Leon, scholarship recipient. “This award represents freedom: the chance to fully focus on my studies in forensic biology without the constant weight of financial stress. I am truly grateful to my family, the supportive staff at ������Ƶ, and the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation for turning hard work into opportunities for students like me.”

While nearly 80% of community college students aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree, only 16% reach that goal within six years. The scholarship makes this goal more attainable for selected students by providing last-dollar funding of up to $55,000 per year for up to three years and eases the financial burden of completing a four-year degree. Beyond funding, Cooke Scholars receive personalized advising to guide their academic and professional journeys. Scholars also gain access to a nationwide network of more than 3,400 Cooke Scholars and Alumni, along with opportunities for internships, study abroad, and graduate school support, ensuring they have every tool needed to thrive beyond community college.

“We are incredibly proud of Ms. Servin Leon for her outstanding achievement in securing this scholarship. Her dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence exemplify the values we hope to instill in all our students at ������Ƶ,” said Dr. John Hauser, President at ������Ƶ. “We look forward to seeing her continued growth and contributions to our community.”

Servin Leon was one of over 1,600 applications from community colleges across the nation. Applicants were evaluated based on their academic achievement, unmet financial need, persistence, and leadership qualities.

Meet Kelly Moore: Trailblazer in Textile Education

Kelly Moore, who returned to pursue her education after 30 years, has become ������Ƶ’s pioneer Textile Technology graduate. Her journey showcases the evolving face of textile manufacturing and the power of perseverance.

“My family was very proud of me and that made it all worth it,” Kelly shared, highlighting the personal growth this program offers.

Changing Perceptions, Opening Doors

Jasmine Cox-Wade, executive director of the Kimbrell Campus and Textile Technology program, is working hard to update outdated views of the textile industry. 

“It was like pulling teeth at first because the history of textile manufacturing in this area is kind of scarred. People have negative images of their relatives losing jobs, the industry experiencing strikes, and unsafe work environments. But that’s just not representative of our industry today.”

Cox-Wade’s mission has been to reframe the narrative, presenting textile technology as a cutting-edge field filled with career opportunities. The program’s growth from seven initial students to 20 in the current semester serves as a clear indicator of this shifting perception.

A Fresh Start in Education

Kelly’s story resonates with many adult learners seeking to enhance their careers. Her initial experience at ������Ƶ in the 1990s lacked direction, but her return as a mature student brought focus and determination.

Her experience in the program reveals the surprising breadth of the textile industry. In her words: “I always thought textiles was just T-shirts. There’s a whole lot of science involved in virtually every single part of our lives – from your vehicles to your kitchen to medical equipment.”

This realization underscores the program’s relevance in our tech-driven world. Modern textile technology encompasses advanced materials science, innovative manufacturing processes, and sustainable practices that touch nearly every facet of contemporary life.

From Classroom to Career

Kelly’s success extends beyond her graduation this past spring. Through ������Ƶ’s work-based learning program, she landed an internship with American & Efird, leading to a full-time position. “Currently my job title is Special Projects II,” Kelly said. “I was hired fullt-ime in May.”

This seamless transition from student to professional underscores the program’s alignment with industry needs and its commitment to student success.

The Future of Textile Technology

As ������Ƶ expands its Textile Technology program, it’s helping to reshape the perceptions of the industry. Kelly’s advice to potential students? “If you have high school students or young adults that are gifted in the sciences, textiles can be for you. If you’re gifted in problem-solving, textiles can be for you. It’s not just needle and thread any more.”

Ready to weave your own success story? You can explore the textile technology program and discover the innovative world of modern textiles at ������Ƶ’s Kimbrell Campus, which includes the Textile Technology Center and brand new state-of-the-art Fiber Innovation Center. 

In May, Celeste Scott graduated from ������Ƶ with an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in Human Services Technology. A calling to serve others, especially the elderly, led her to enroll in the program in 2021 and she now intends to advance her education in the field of social work.

“I plan to be an advocate for the elderly population,” said Celeste. “In my work-based learning placement in Pastoral Care Support, I have been able to foster deep connections with the elderly at First Baptist Church in ������Ƶia. It has affirmed that I am called to work with this population. After I graduate, I look forward to continued connections and outreach.” 

Knowing that your studies are preparing you for the career path that is right for you can often make your journey easier. However, Celeste lost her eyesight completely due to a diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy and that has been “a true struggle, academically.” She utilizes a software program called Jaws in order to have her work read to her and has had to learn the computer and shortcuts on the keyboard to make some of her work go faster. She cut back her course load to one class while she was learning the new software with the help of N.C. Services for the Blind, but, since she mastered the software, she has been successful with a heavier schedule. 

“I receive special accommodations through Accessibility Services at ������Ƶ,” said Celeste.” My professors are aware of my needs and have been very supportive. I have been able to bring my peer support specialist to my seated classes and she helps me navigate the campus.” 

Dana Rudisill, Human Services Technology program lead, has been a huge advocate for Celeste. “Celeste is a proactive learner who readily seeks assistance when necessary,” she said. “She is always eager to learn, committed to overcoming obstacles, remains determined and perseveres until she reaches her goals.” 

The TRiO Student Support Services program and the Writing Center at ������Ƶ have also provided great support and encouragement to Celeste. Overall, her experience at the College has been extremely positive. “I have met wonderful people and I have been given good resources that helped make me successful at ������Ƶ and beyond,” said Celeste. “I would give this advice to anyone who needs to hear it: Don’t let your disability stop you from achieving your dreams. It is never too late.” 

In 2022, Emilee Reynolds graduated from Lincolnton High School and, as a College Now student, she earned an associate degree from ������Ƶ the same month. At that time, she had planned to attend UNC-Charlotte and continue on to medical school to become a doctor.

However, Emilee developed a love for the field of Emergency Medical Services after completing the summer EMT certificate program at ������Ƶ in 2022, and her long-term goals changed. She began the Associate in Applied Science Paramedic program in January 2023 and graduated in May 2024. She now plans to pursue a part-time job as a paramedic while completing her four-year degree in integrated health science at Western Carolina University. 

After getting that degree, Emilee hopes to be accepted into Physician’s Assistant program and further her career as a health care provider. 

Attending ������Ƶ has consistently been a wonderful experience for Emilee, and she is especially grateful to instructors Carrie Gillilan and Chad Parlier, who have been “amazing advocates for the paramedic students’ education,” she said. 

“Emilee is an extremely bright and very dedicated student. She works hard and it shows,” said Chad Parlier. “She has been an A student during the entire paramedic program has always stepped up and helped her classmates. She has grown over the last year and is what I would consider not only a model for her other classmates, but a leader with her dedication to excel within the paramedic curriculum.” 

Gracie Brown excelled at playing softball at A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis and with Carolina Force, a fastpitch softball league based in Concord, N.C. ������Ƶ offered her an athletic scholarship and, feeling that the College could provide what she needed to succeed, Gracie joined the Rhinos in 2022.

Her experience as a student-athlete at ������Ƶ has been everything she anticipated. “While fighting a busy schedule and traveling often, I was offered lots of help and opportunities to be academically successful,” said Gracie. “I have also made lifelong friendships with teammates and coaches.”  

Gracie graduated with an associate in arts degree in May and now plans to go on to Rowan-Cabarrus Community College to study radiology with the career goal of helping children in pediatric radiology. 

Being on the roster of a strong ������Ƶ Rhinos softball team and receiving solid support on the field and in the classroom are helping Gracie own her momentum. “������Ƶ offered me a chance to continue the sport I love, close to home,” she said. “Playing college sports taught me a lot of life lessons and made me a dedicated, hard worker. With tutoring and helpful coaches, I was able to stay focused on my studies and still enjoy my sport.”  

Adalberto Rodriguez Cruz started as a dual-enrollment student in Highland School of Technology and ������Ƶ in the summer of 2022 and will graduate this summer with an associate in science degree before transferring to UNC-Charlotte for fall 2024.

Adalberto plans to major in math with the goal of being an actuary. While in high school, he wasn’t sure what career to pursue, but he knew he was good at math. “After doing some research I found out about a career that also has business applications – an actuary,” he said. “If that doesn’t work out, a math background still has various applications in almost every field out there.”  

He initially chose UNCC based on its location, but his decision to become an actuary made the school even more appealing to him. “I saw how great the school is at creating powerful graduates in that specific field,” Adalberto said. “Also, I’m trying to push my comfort zone with a larger campus. Since I grew up with a small high school and mid-sized community college, I feel that I might appreciate a new environment.” 

While at ������Ƶ, Adalberto participated in the SPARC program and in 49erNext, a transfer admission guarantee program that makes the transition from ������Ƶ to UNCC easy and provides many benefits to UNCC-bound students. He found both programs to be excellent sources of support and help. 

SPARC prepares aspiring STEM professionals for success by providing scholarships, mentoring and advising, and other opportunities for immersive experiences in their chosen field. “Not only was I able to receive a scholarship that eased the financial burden of going to college,” said Adalberto, “but I uncovered even more resources that enriched my journey. If it weren’t for SPARC, I would have most likely not pushed myself to connect with professors and work on extracurricular research projects.” 

The 49erNext program allowed Adalberto to determine what course plan he needed to follow and to connect with UNCC faculty before the transferring process. “It truly was a weight off my shoulders as a first-gen student to have people who know the process guide me,” he said. 

Adalberto is looking forward to starting his career after he earns his bachelor’s degree. “Ideally, an education from UNCC will prepare me to have a couple of actuarial exams down and start working for a corporate firm,” he said. “I have no idea what the next steps beyond that will be, but I am excited to find out. What I may end up doing is going ahead to obtain a master’s from UNCC in the same field, since they still offer those crucial courses necessary to be a highly successful actuary.” 

Alyson Jordan, lead academic advisor at ������Ƶ, has been continually impressed with Adalberto. “He’s very conscientious, kind and motivated,” she said. Adalberto, in turn, has been impressed with ������Ƶ. “I really enjoyed the way that all our professors here at ������Ƶ really strive to do the best for their students, including holding one-on-one office hours to help us understand concepts or dive into research opportunities,” he said. “There is always some resource out there to ensure your success.” 

Madison Blanton Preston began the Career and College Promise (or College Now) program at ������Ƶ when she was a junior at East ������Ƶ High School in 2021. Through College Now, she was admitted to the Associate Degree Nursing program in the spring of her senior year and started taking nursing classes the fall after she graduated from high school in 2022.

She wanted to participate in College Now because she knew that she wanted to go straight into nursing school, and so it was important to get classes started as soon as possible to lighten the load during nursing school. Madison chose the ADN program because, she said, “I knew I wanted a career where I could finish my day feeling fulfilled and like I did something bigger than myself. Nursing is one career that I felt I could achieve these goals.” 

Through College Now, Madison was able to get all but two of her prerequisite/corequisite courses completed prior to starting nursing school. “This made my course load throughout the program lighter, and I feel played a big role in my success throughout the program,” she said. “I was able to truly put all my focus into my main courses.” College Now enabled Madison to complete the nursing program just two years after graduating from high school. Ordinarily, the program takes three years at the minimum. 

Madison plans to continue her education by pursuing her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing after graduating from ������Ƶ, and then possibly going further by earning her nurse practitioner license with a focus on women’s health. Her current career plans include working in the emergency department as a new graduate nurse and gaining new skills daily while working toward certifications in her field.  

“The College Now program is an awesome route for students to take whether you are sure of your career path or not,” said Madison. “I am thankful for my high school counselors and counselors at ������Ƶ that encouraged me to get involved in this program that has ultimately led to my success as a ������Ƶ graduate!” 

Kayla Hicks graduated from ������Ƶ last week with an associate degree in business administration. A dual enrollment student, she will earn her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Arizona State University in December. This is an impressive achievement on its own, but the fact that Kayla is also a wife, the mother of two young children, the primary caretaker for a sister with disabilities, and works from home as an account development representative, makes it even more remarkable.

Kayla struggled with determining a career path, so she reached out to the advisors at ������Ƶ who helped her narrow down the options and she took their recommendation to enroll in the Business Administration/Human Resources pathway. “This was especially appealing to me,” said Kayla. “It is a very broad program that can be used in various careers, including team leadership roles, management, payroll, account manager, etc.” 

Within a month after starting at ������Ƶ in summer 2022, Kayla discovered she was pregnant with her second child. She did not let that stop her and she grew to love the program she was in because she wanted to achieve a degree that ensured her career options were open. 

After graduating from both colleges, she intends to continue at ASU to get her master’s degree and expects to determine her ultimate career goals through her studies or as she begins working in various capacities.  

Juggling her personal, school and work commitments and overcoming obstacles she has faced has been a challenge, but courses that she has taken helped teach Kayla how to succeed. “Life is tough, and I certainly have experienced that,” she said. “Through communication courses, I learned to communicate more effectively and that has helped me resolve conflicts that may arise. I also learned how to manage my time more effectively and compartmentalize my life.” 

From helping her choose the program of study that was a good fit for her to working with her when her high-risk pregnancy interfered with the on-time completion of course assignments, ������Ƶ has supported Kayla all the way. “I have had excellent teachers who have helped me when life went off-track and who have gone above and beyond for me,” said Kayla. 

Kayla has learned that, no matter how busy or difficult life can get, just one college course a semester can make a difference. And when she hears her 8-year-old son say that he wants to be a college student just like his mom, all the effort and struggles are worth it.  

The 59th Commencement ceremony for ������Ƶ was held on Friday, May 10, 2024, at CaroMont Health Park in ������Ƶia, North Carolina.