Ricky Smith

Two Edgecombe County high school graduates will attend 91ӣ����Ƶ tuition-free after being selected as recipients of the Dr. Hartwell H. Fuller Jr. Endowed Merit Scholarship.

Gabrielle Allen of Edgecombe Early College High School and Ricky Smith of SouthWest Edgecombe High School received the scholarship, which covers the full in-state cost of an associate degree, including tuition, books and a laptop computer.

Named for former 91ӣ����Ƶ President Dr. Hartwell Fuller, who led the college from 1994 to 2004, the scholarship is awarded annually to two graduating seniors from Edgecombe County public high schools who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership and community involvement.

“I feel amazing,” Smith said after learning he had been selected. “This scholarship lifts a burden financially, and it truly blesses me.”

At SouthWest Edgecombe High School, Smith was active in academics, athletics, leadership and community service. He was a member of the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society, served as a group leader with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and volunteered as a youth leader and social media coordinator at his church.

Smith also earned certifications in CPR, automated external defibrillator (AED), first aid and first aid for opioid overdose response.

His honors include the Animal Science Award, Public Safety Achievement Trophy, Edgecombe County Schools Golden Key Award, Rocky Mount Optimist Youth Appreciation Award, Mitch Mason Influence Award in football, Honor the Game Award in basketball, Sportsmanship Award in football and the 360ENC Internship and Volunteer Award for completing more than 115 hours of service.

“I can see myself working in a hospital or radiography facility,” Smith said.

The scholarship will help him pursue that goal as he begins his studies at ECC.

Gabrielle Allen

For Allen, the scholarship removes financial concern as she works toward a career in nursing.

Allen, a Pinetops resident, said her desire to work in healthcare grew through both personal experience and hands-on training.

“My grandma’s cancer had progressed and she was put in hospice care,” Allen said. “In her final days, I became her primary caregiver. The night she passed, I thought about how fortunate I was to take care of my grandmother when she needed it most.”

Allen has already earned certification as a nursing assistant. She said caring for her grandmother reinforced her commitment to a career dedicated to helping others.

“Helping people is a passion of mine,” Allen said. “I knew that I wanted to go into nursing, and I didn’t want to stress about getting through nursing school and how I was going to pay for it.”

After ECC, Allen plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing and hopes to work as a pediatric nurse.

Her record of service and achievement includes induction into the National Honor Society during her junior year and participation in the Scholar Teacher Program. Through the program, she assisted a first-grade teacher at Martin Millennium Academy each week.

She also volunteered through ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital’s VolunTEEN Program, completed an internship at ECU Health Maynard Children’s Hospital and currently works as a certified nursing assistant at The Barclay House of Tarboro.

Applicants for the Dr. Hartwell H. Fuller Jr. Endowed Merit Scholarship must maintain a weighted grade-point average of at least 3.5 throughout high school, demonstrate active involvement in extracurricular activities and maintain at least a B average while enrolled at ECC.

Students interested in applying for the scholarship should contact their high school guidance counselor. Applications are reviewed by the ECC Scholarship Committee, and finalists participate in an on-campus interview.

Additional scholarship opportunities are available through 91ӣ����Ƶ. Information and applications can be found at edgecombe.edu/scholarships.

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Craig Woodall

Craig Woodall gets emotional when he thinks about how far he’s come. The Air Force veteran and former call center director has decided to branch out and pursue entrepreneurship. His work with the Small Business Center at 91ӣ����Ƶ, along with developing and repeatedly testing a new device, has led to his selection as one of 18 entrepreneurs statewide chosen for the first Small Business Center Network Startup Showdown, powered by the Wells Fargo Foundation.

“I was elated. I got emotional,” Woodall said of learning he had been selected for the inaugural statewide initiative launched through North Carolina’s 58 community college Small Business Centers. “I’ve been doing this, it seems like forever. Everything came full circle to, this is what you have been diligent about.”

The SBCN Startup Showdown was created to strengthen entrepreneurship pathways by combining direct coaching, structured pitch preparation and statewide visibility for aspiring business owners preparing to launch new ventures.

Led by the North Carolina Small Business Center Network, the program identifies, supports and elevates emerging business talent through a structured process of local engagement, regional review and statewide selection. The inaugural competition drew 316 applicants from across North Carolina and generated more than 1,050 hours of pre-application business counseling and technical support through local Small Business Centers. Entrepreneurs worked with counselors and directors to refine concepts, prepare submissions and advance through multiple stages of review.

Cohort participants will now begin an eight-week Pitch It! training experience designed to guide them through the steps of starting a successful business. The program includes hands-on activities that build practical knowledge, strengthen presentation skills, sharpen business messaging and prepare participants for their final pitch to Business Trailblazer program judges in August.

“Win or lose, we are all going to benefit from the process,” Woodall said of the 18 finalists. “Our pitches are going to be better, more defined or refined.”

Woodall has been working closely with Laura Brown Evans, director of ECC’s Small Business Center, to prepare for the competition.

“We have focused on refining Craig’s business plan and presentation skills,” Evans said. “Our preparation centered on building a compelling business case around his innovation, perfecting his Pitch Day delivery and helping him clearly communicate his market value.”

Woodall, whose mother served in the Navy, said his motivation for entrepreneurship was inspired by her.

“She was always pushing to do something other than what she had to do,” said Woodall, an Anderson, Ind., native. “That kind of planted the seed, but I have always kind of felt like I wanted to do something on my own.”

That drive reflects one of the core goals of the SBCN Startup Showdown — increasing the likelihood that aspiring entrepreneurs can bring their ideas to fruition.

“This program demonstrates what is possible when North Carolina’s community colleges work together statewide to create opportunity for entrepreneurs,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, former president of the North Carolina Community College System. “The SBCN Startup Showdown is creating a new platform for identifying talent, supporting innovation and helping early-stage businesses build momentum in every region of our state.”

While it may be premature to share Woodall’s idea before the pitch, the 55-year-old said preparation and practice matter as much as the concept itself.

“If you’re worried about how you look and what the setup is going to be but then you deliver a terrible pitch, it will likely not work out,” he said. “I have to think about the whole process as a big picture. I’m tightening up the business plan, utilizing all of the sources. I’m just honestly feeling like I’m going to be prepared.”

The formal statewide awards event will be held Sept. 17. Final winners will be announced, and $60,000 in unrestricted startup funding will be awarded.

Evans said the recognition already benefits the county.

“It puts Edgecombe County on the map for economic development and shows local residents that high-level funding and statewide exposure are within reach,” she said. “Win or lose, this event proves that rural entrepreneurship can thrive and compete at the highest level.”

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ECC President Dr. Greg McLeod; Jean Bailey, ECC Foundation Board president; Eddie Stocks, vice president of member and industrial development at Edgecombe-Martin County Electric Membership Corporation; and Tameka Kenan-Norman, executive director of public information and institutional advancement

Edgecombe-Martin County Electric Membership Corporation has donated $1,000 to the 91ӣ����Ƶ Foundation to continue its annual scholarship. Two ECC students enrolled in the Engineering or Electrical Systems Technology programs will receive $500 each.

“Engineering and Electrical Systems Technology are high-demand fields, and scholarships like this help our students gain the skills they need to succeed,” said Tameka Kenan-Norman, executive director of public information and institutional advancement. “We are grateful to Edgecombe-Martin County Electric Membership Corporation for consistently supporting ECC and recognizing the importance of preparing students for careers.”

Eddie Stocks, vice president of member and industrial development at Edgecombe-Martin County Electric Membership Corporation agreed, stating, “As a member-owned electric cooperative, we believe in investing back into the communities we serve. Supporting 91ӣ����Ƶ helps strengthen local workforce development and ensures students have access to the training and opportunities needed for high-demand careers right here at home.”

Students interested in applying for the Edgecombe-Martin County Electric Membership Corporation Scholarship can visit edgecombe.edu/scholarships and complete the ECC Foundation Scholarship Application.

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A volunteer assists by selling raffle tickets at the ECC Foundation Golf Tournament

91ӣ����Ƶ is launching a new volunteer program that invites community members to meet new people, build valuable skills, and make a meaningful impact on campus and throughout Edgecombe County. Volunteer opportunities will be available year-round.

Participants will support a wide range of campus activities, including the ECC Foundation Golf Tournament, Scholarship Convocation, Fall and Spring Fests and graduation ceremonies. Volunteers may also help monitor the Wellness Center and the Student Life and Leadership Suite, serve as clients for cosmetology students, act as mock patients for nursing classes, and assist with many other hands-on learning experiences. New opportunities will be added each month.

“Participating in the volunteer program provides residents with an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their community while building connections,” said Anna Kate White, ECC’s donor and community engagement coordinator. “Our volunteer program welcomes individuals with a wide range of talents, experiences and interests. Skills such as communication, organization, event planning, mentoring, fundraising, marketing and administrative support are always valuable. Most importantly, we seek people who are dependable, compassionate, and willing to share their time and expertise.”

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, complete an application, and pass a background check. Once accepted, volunteers receive a welcome bag with ECC gear and are recognized at an annual appreciation luncheon.

For more information about ECC’s volunteer program, visit , or call 252-618-6651.

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Pictured l-r-Ann Cobb Warren, vice president of the ECC Foundation Board; Tameka Kenan-Norman, executive director; Anna Kate White, donor and community engagement coordinator; Tyler Wooten, president of Wooten Foods; and Dr. Greg McLeod, president of 91ӣ����Ƶ

A partnership between the 91ӣ����Ƶ Foundation and Jersey Mike’s in Tarboro raised $3,400 to support students.

The fundraiser, held May 5–7, featured ECC coupons that allowed customers to purchase a regular sub for just $5. Jersey Mike’s donated 100 percent of the proceeds to the ECC Foundation.

“We are grateful to Jersey Mike’s and to the faculty, staff, students and community members who purchased coupons,” Kenan-Norman said. “Their support allows the Foundation to direct all proceeds toward scholarships, internships, mission trips, emergency assistance and other programs and initiatives that benefit our students.”

For more information on how you can support students at 91ӣ����Ƶ, visit .

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Pictured are siblings Trishonda Roberson (center), Hanks M. Roberson (back) and Latasha Roberson Manley (right)

Trishonda Roberson remembers her father, the late Hanks Roberson, as a man who never hesitated to help others. A self-taught and highly respected mechanic, he built a reputation not only for his skill but for his generosity.

“We saw our dad work hard,” Trishonda recalls. “He worked on cars for people who couldn’t afford to pay him. He was always about helping, about community, and about making sure people learned the trade.”

That care inspired Trishonda, her mother Gladys and her siblings to establish the Roberson Auto Repair Legacy Scholarship at 91ӣ����Ƶ. Their $500 gift will support a full-time student in the Automotive Systems Technology program. (The family plans to increase this amount at a later date). Applicants will submit a one-page essay describing their passion for automotive work, why they chose the field, and how the scholarship will shape their future.

“My dad always wanted to teach others the trades,” Trishonda says. “This scholarship is a way to support someone who shares that same interest.”

The family chose ECC not only because of its strong automotive program, but also because of Trishonda’s personal connection to the college. A Rocky Mount native, she completed several health sciences programs at ECC, including certified nursing assistant, licensed practical nurse and registered nursing.

“I wanted this scholarship at the school that shaped so much of my career,” she explains. “It was an easy decision.”

Today, Trishonda serves as a staff pastor at Word Tabernacle overseeing the Center of Community Transformation and Outreach. She also leads SHE Empowers, a nonprofit focused on the spiritual and emotional development of women and supporting women entrepreneurs. Reflecting her passion for women’s empowerment, she hopes the scholarship will encourage more women to enter the automotive field.

“A lot of my work centers on empowering women,” she says. “We see many men in auto mechanics, but not nearly as many women.”

For more information about the Roberson Auto Repair Legacy Scholarship, visit , or call (252) 618-6526. Males are encouraged to apply as well.

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The Rocky Mount Rotary Club is gearing up for the annual Tackle the Tar 5K Obstacle Course Race on Saturday, May 16, 2026 — and we need YOUR help to make one of the biggest community events in Eastern North Carolina happen!

It takes nearly 200 volunteers to pull off this incredible Rocky Mount community fundraiser that helps provide scholarships for students attending Nash Community College, 91ӣ����Ƶ and NC Wesleyan University. Race day would NOT happen without our amazing volunteers!

We are currently looking for help with:

1. Course Marshals
2. Registration & Check-In
3. Water Stations
4. Obstacle Assistance
5. Event Set-Up & Breakdown Crews

It’s all happening at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Whether you’re a student needing volunteer hours, a local business wanting to give back, a civic group, church group, sports team or just someone who loves supporting the Rocky Mount community — we would LOVE to have you join us!

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ECC’s Barbering program was proudly represented at Rocky Mount High School’s Career Day held recently. Our students engaged with attendees, shared program information, and spoke with those interested in pursuing barbering as a career path. Participating students, pictured left to right, were Samerah Taylor‑Dodd, Jabaria Bowser, Jacob Pindea and Daniel Bridgers.

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(l-r) Eddie Stocks, Tarboro Rotary Club president, presents a check to Bernie Taylor, director of BLET, and ECC President Dr. Greg McLeod

Bernie Taylor, director of Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) at 91ӣ����Ƶ, recently spoke to members of the Tarboro Rotary Club and accepted a $4,000 donation in support of the BLET and Emergency Medical Services programs.

The BLET Academy is a 22-week program that prepares students for entry-level employment as law enforcement officers with state, county or municipal agencies. Taylor highlighted the academy’s recent success, including its largest entering and graduating class in 2025. Thirty-six cadets began the academy, and 32 completed the program.

Cadets complete extensive training, including shotgun and rifle instruction, firearms qualification, driver training, as well as certifications in baton, pepper spray, tasers and crisis intervention. Participants must complete 1,000 hours of training, an increase from previous state requirements. The current 17th BLET Academy began January 16 with 28 cadets; 22 remain enrolled.

The $4,000 donation from the Tarboro Rotary Club will be split evenly between the BLET and EMS programs to support students who experience emergencies that could otherwise prevent them from completing their training.

Adam Culbertson, ECC’s director of public services, was unable to attend the meeting but expressed his appreciation for the club’s continued support. “This funding is used to help students in need who want to begin their career in EMS,” Culbertson said. “I appreciate the Tarboro Rotary Club for their commitment to assisting ECC’s Public Safety programs in providing quality education to our community.”

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Other presenters were Kim Barnes who taught fork lift and scissor lift. Krisopher House presented on electrical and lockout/tagout, a safety procedure followed so that equipment can’t start while an individual is maintaining or repairing it. Ivette Mercado provided an overview about safety practices at the Tarboro plant.

The Safety Seminar also featured a Local Industry Safety Panel. Panelists were Charles Gilmore, Sara Lee HR training generalist; Matthew Dempster, Sara Lee health and safety manager; Danisha Lowe, Astemo health, safety and environment administrator; and Mercado, LS Cable Systems environmental health & safety manager.

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