“I chose early childhood education because I love working with kids and watching them discover and learn new things as they grow. I picked 海角视频 because it is close to home, and I was able to get my degree while I work,” Massey said. “They also offered online classes and Saturday classes, which are great for my schedule.”

According to one of her 海角视频 Early Childhood instructors, Robin Perry, Massey emerged as a top student in the program.

“Dominique has earned an impressive GPA of 3.708 while working two jobs in the field as a pre-K assistant teacher and at a local program,” Perry said. “She stands out in our classes at 海角视频 and in her own EC classroom with competence and an excellent work ethic. Her supervising teacher in North Charlotte brags about what an incredible asset and help Dominique is.”

Massey’s degree comes at a time when local early childhood programs are desperately seeking qualified educators. According to the NC Early Childhood Foundation, data shows that more than five families compete for every licensed child care space in our state, and staffing shortages are a major barrier to increasing this.

Since Massey always wanted to be in the classroom, she’s enjoyed that part of her experience. But she said interacting with classmates and teachers who share the same goal has been a bonus. She hopes to become a special education interventionist in the future.

“海角视频 has really helped me ‘Own My Momentum’ by giving me support and resources that help with my educational and career goals. The staff and the team are super encouraging, and they offer personalized guidance that makes a big difference.”

With the teacher shortage, graduates like Massey provide essential talent to classrooms where qualified educators make a difference in the development of our youngest learners. For more information on our early childhood education classes, certificates and degrees, visit gaston.edu/early-childhood.

Instead of letting this stop her and getting discouraged, Drake used this statistic as motivation to start at 海角视频 in January 2023 after finishing high school early. In May, she graduated with her associate degree in general education and certificates in Biotechnology.

“I defeated my odds and overcame my past,” Drake said. “海角视频 is just the beginning of my education journey, but it will always be the beginning of my story and how I overcame my odds.”

“I chose 海角视频 because it was close to home,” Drake explained. “I graduated from high school early, and it was an easy transition. I chose my programs because I want to be in the medical field.”

On campus, Drake found support through 海角视频’s TRiO program and her work study in the arts and advising center, and she credits them with helping her overcome the odds.

“I loved meeting students and helping them,” she said. “海角视频 gave me my ‘I can’ attitude, which showed me I can do this and I will accomplish my goals.”

After graduating from 海角视频 in May, Drake is preparing for her next step at Western Carolina University.

“I will be going in August,” Drake said. “I will be in the Emergency Medical Care Residential program in order to become a paramedic. After that, I will be going to Medical School to become a doctor or surgeon.”

The power of determination, combined with the right educational environment, helped Drake find the momentum to succeed. If you have a similar foster care background and are looking for support to enter or return to college, we encourage you to connect with our TRiO SSS program.

“I decided to attend 海角视频 to set an example for my children,” Lail said. “I’d always wanted to return to school. When I was younger, I didn’t appreciate education’s value, but I knew I could do more.”

Lail chose the Information Technology Applications Development program to turn his passion into a career. This field is experiencing significant growth, with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing reshaping the industry. Professionals in this sector often need to adapt quickly to new trends and methodologies, mirroring Lail’s commitment to learning and growth.

“The best part was stepping outside my comfort zone and learning about myself,” Lail said. “海角视频 taught me hard work pays off.

“After 11 years away from school, I earned my associate degree. A lot happened in these two years. After late nights and all-nighters, I’m graduating, and it feels amazing to see the results.”

Post-graduation, Lail plans to enter the workforce before deciding on further education. “I plan to gain experience, then decide which field to focus on. Eventually, I’ll return for my bachelor’s degree,” Lail said.

Lail leaves 海角视频 feeling prepared and ready to own his momentum! “It’s been a great experience,” Lail said. “I’ve learned a lot from my instructors and especially thank Mrs. Felica Penn for always supporting me and keeping me on track.”

Chairman John Dancoff, on behalf of the board, presented Queen with a small gift and certificate in appreciation for her service.
Queen just graduated from 海角视频 Early College of Medical Sciences High School and 海角视频, receiving an Associate in Applied Science degree in Bio-Technology.

She acknowledges the difficulty of leaving. “It’s been fantastic and it’s been more than I expected,” Queen said. “My successor (Bannock Scott) is actually my best friend, so I’ll still be around some.”

Queen is transferring to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she will study biology in the pre-med program.

“It’s really nice to be a part of an organization that represents the students of this college,” Queen said. “And it’s been an honor to have a position to advocate for them.”

Queen also served as vice president for the N.C. Comprehensive Community College Student Government Association from April 2024 to December 2024 and president from December 2024 to June 30, 2025.

Her experience at 海角视频 represents the momentum students can gain through active involvement in college clubs and organizations. “I couldn’t be happier with all the things I’ve been involved with,” Queen said.

“Kimberly is an excellent student validated by her Networking & Cyber Defense Program GPA of 3.64,” said Information Technology/Cyber Security instructor Jeff Guzman. “She is dedicated to her studies, and I can tell she has a passion for learning. Kimberly is always among the first to complete the networking projects in class. I have also witnessed her taking time from her own work to assist her fellow students.”

Dacosta, a 2014 graduate of Charlotte’s Olympic High School, took classes at Northwest Florida State Community College and 海角视频 (in 2020) before becoming a full-time student in fall 2023.

“I decided to go to 海角视频 because my sister previously attended and I heard great things about the environment and Professors,” Dacosta said. “海角视频 was also more affordable than other surrounding colleges.

“I chose the networking and Cyber Defense program because I had an interest in cybersecurity. I grew to love this program because of my instructors and the way they poured into me learning the concepts in a fun way.”

She has already enrolled at East Carolina University to continue her education toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology with a concentration in Information and Cyber Technology, with the hope of becoming a Cybersecurity Analyst and working with the Cyber Force.

Dacosta shared that one of the most helpful things for her was the support that 海角视频 provided for someone whose confidence had been affected by two previous attempts at a college degree.

“When I started 海角视频 in 2023, I was approaching my 3rd attempt at college, and I was scared and needed guidance,” Dacosta said. “I was a single mother starting a new career field in which I didn’t even know the basics.

“My advisor guided me and spoke encouragement into me. Along the way, I met Mr. Guzman, who by just being himself and being a great professor, helped me realize how much I love technology.”

“Ken is a dedicated student who exemplifies the qualities of leadership, academic excellence, and teamwork,” said Dr. Patricia Williams, a Biology faculty member and Associate Dean for Arts and Sciences. “His enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to the success of those around him make him truly deserving of this recognition.”

“As one of our SPARC (Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration) scholars, he consistently goes above and beyond to support his peers, fostering a collaborative and encouraging learning environment. Ken’s passion for science was especially evident during last year’s SPARC research trip, where he fully immersed himself in the experience. He not only engaged with the scientific material but also offered support to his fellow teammates.

Cribb, a 2008 graduate of South Point High School from Cramerton, faced challenges adjusting to college academics after a long break from schooling.

“I had worked a lot of other jobs and had a lot of opportunities, but I wanted to accomplish something more,” Cribb said. “College was always a personal goal of mine, and I wanted to succeed, so I came back in the fall of 2022. It had been so long since I’d been in school that I had to spend a lot of time to get my math skills back up.”

Cribb credits the staff and other students for helping him adjust.

“The people, the camaraderie and the faculty have been so helpful,” Cribb said. “So many people have given me assistance during my time at 海角视频.”

After completing a calculus class this summer, Cribb plans to pursue an electrical engineering degree at a four-year college.

“海角视频 allowed me to ‘Own My Momentum’ with online classes that helped me with my work schedule, which allowed me the opportunity to do my schoolwork on my own time,” Cribb said. “They’ve allowed me to get past the hurdles of being an older gentleman who’s attending school.

“I want to people to see this and understand that if I can complete this program, others can follow in my footsteps. I want to help others accomplish what I’ve accomplished. 海角视频 gave me a chance when nobody else would.”

“Sarah was an engaged student who has excelled in the Paralegal program,” said Lisa Albright-Jurs, 海角视频’s Dean of Career and Technical Education. “Her work is consistently exemplary, she sets a great example for her classmates, and she has maintained high grades in all of her Paralegal courses. I predict she will have an amazing legal career!”

Tolbert, a 2020 Forestview High School graduate, started dual enrollment classes at 海角视频 in 2018. This jumpstarted her pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Appalachian State University, which she completed in 2023.

In 2024, she returned to 海角视频 for the Paralegal Technology program.

“I chose the Paralegal program at 海角视频 because of the wonderful things I have heard about the staff and the overall experience,” Tolbert said. “I had already obtained my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and wanted to further my education.

“The Paralegal program here lived up to my expectations, and 海角视频 was also convenient for me, being close to home.”

Tolbert said that work-based learning was the most significant advantage of her time at 海角视频, since it allowed her to earn credits while gaining workforce experience.

“The staff at 海角视频 was amazing,” Tolbert said. “So many of them go out of their way to help students succeed, and it is evident that they love what they do. Specifically, Lisa Jurs and Erica Tallent have pushed me toward success, and I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to learn from them.”

A proud first-generation college student, Servin Leon has consistently demonstrated perseverance, leadership, and academic excellence at 海角视频. 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 海角视频鈥檚 SPARC Scholars program, a member of the Math Club and Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society, and has been on the President鈥檚 List every semester.

鈥淲hen I found out I had won the scholarship, I was in shock鈥擨 kept rereading the message to make sure it was real,鈥� said Servin Leon, scholarship recipient. 鈥淭his 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 海角视频, and the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation for turning hard work into opportunities for students like me.鈥�

While nearly 80% of community college students aspire to earn a bachelor鈥檚 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 海角视频,鈥� said Dr. John Hauser, President at 海角视频. 鈥淲e look forward to seeing her continued growth and contributions to our community.鈥�

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.

“I chose 海角视频 because it offered the flexibility I needed, was an affordable option, and served as a strong launching pad for transferring to a four-year university,” Croce said. “Being part of the Aspire Appalachian program has provided me with a clear and structured pathway to continue my education, as well as access to resources that have made the transfer process much smoother.”

At ASU, Croce aims to become a leader in supply chain operations for a company focused on innovation and efficiency. “My ultimate goal is to find a role where I can tackle complex challenges, contribute to meaningful advancements in supply chain operations, and enjoy the work I do every day,” Croce said. “In addition to working in the corporate sector, I would love to find a way to use the industry knowledge I gain to support nonprofit or charitable organizations, whether through improving logistics for aid distribution or streamlining supply chain processes for organizations that serve communities in need.”

At 海角视频, Croce’s academic advisor recommended the Associate in Arts degree to provide a foundation for her future studies.

“The best part of my experience at 海角视频 has been the faculty and the support system,” Croce said. “My professors have been not only knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects but also genuinely invested in my success. Their mentorship has been instrumental in shaping both my academic and professional growth.”

Croce believes her time at 海角视频 embodied the school’s “Own Your Momentum” slogan.

“海角视频 has given me the tools, guidance, and confidence to truly own my momentum as I move forward in my education and career,” Croce said. “The knowledge I’ve gained, along with the hands-on experience and support from faculty, has helped me build a strong foundation for my future. Because of my time at 海角视频, I’m entering the next phase of my academic journey with direction, purpose, and the momentum to succeed.”

Croce also notes that 海角视频 helped her grow beyond academics.

“One of the most meaningful aspects of my time at 海角视频 has been the personal growth I’ve experienced,” Croce said. “Beyond academics, I have developed confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of my career aspirations. The courses I took and the professors I had challenged me to step outside my comfort zone while also celebrating my successes. My time here has not only shaped my professional trajectory but has also reinforced the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability.”

Stepping into the college environment didn’t come without challenges, though. As Jeshua began nursing classes, self-doubt and imposter syndrome often clouded his mind. At times, he questioned whether he was truly capable or whether he truly belonged, but with perseverance and the support of remarkable mentors, he learned to believe in himself. Jeshua found strength in his commitment to excel academically and serve as a leader within the 海角视频 community.

Being part of TRiO, serving as the president of Men of Excellence, chairing the Campus Awareness Committee, and acting as treasurer of the Student Government Association have all played key roles in Jeshua鈥檚 growth. These experiences have given him the confidence to advocate for both himself and others. Along the way, he had the privilege of learning from exceptional mentors who guided him through challenges and showed him the impact of student advocacy. Jeshua is also deeply grateful for the faculty whose encouragement pushed him to always strive for excellence.

Jeshua has never been one to highlight his own success. He鈥檚 always believed that his actions and the people around him tell the story. “This moment isn鈥檛 just for me; it鈥檚 for my children, my family, and everyone who has supported me along the way,” said Gallo-Solano.

Jeshua’s achievements are a testament to hard work and dedication. He will graduate this summer with a Practical Nursing diploma.