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The North Carolina Community College System recently honored the winners of the 2025 excellence awards, honoring the pinnacle of academic achievement and the highest levels of collaboration among community college students, faculty, staff, and business partners. Patrick Woodie, president and CEO of the Rural Center, presented the award to Staff Person of the Year Denise Young, director of apprenticeships at Southeastern Community College.
The 2025 winners are:
Spirit Awards
- Dallas Herring Achievement Award Winner: Mr. Kyle Harris, Vance-Granville Community College
- I.E. Ready Lifetime Achievement Award Winner: Dr. Dale McInnis, President Emeritus Richmond Community College
Faculty and Staff Awards
- Excellence in Teaching Award Winner: Dr. Lisa Smelser, Central Carolina Community College
- Staff Person of the Year Award Winner: Ms. Denise Young, Southeastern Community College
- President of the Year Award Winner: Dr. Shelley White, President of Haywood Community College
Workforce Development Pinnacle Awards
- Apprenticeship Champion: Blum, Inc. with Central Piedmont Community College
- Innovative Leadership Award Winner: GE Aerospace with Wilkes Community College
- Business of the Year (<500 Employees): Mertek Solutions with Central Carolina Community College
- Business of the Year (>500 Employees): Novo Nordisk with Johnston Community College
“These award winners represent the heart of what makes North Carolina’s community colleges so impactful,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, president of the NC Community College System. “Their dedication to student success, innovative teaching, and workforce development is instrumental in advancing our state’s economy and providing opportunities for all North Carolinians.”
Author: staff report
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