(l-r) Laura Brown Evans, Araminta Burns, Tameka Kenan-Norman

Laura Brown Evans, Small Business Center director; Araminta Burns, administrative assistant II; and Tameka Kenan-Norman, executive director of public information and institutional advancement, joined more than 200 professionals at the Women’s Leadership Conference in Rocky Mount, organized by the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce. Held March 19 at the Rocky Mount Event Center, the conference featured keynote speaker Jess Ekstrom.

The theme at this year’s conference was “Get’cha Head in the Game.” The event also included a leadership panel and breakout sessions. Attendees heard messages that emphasized empowerment, community connection, professional growth, balancing work and home priorities and more. Many panelists also shared insights from their leadership journeys.

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Faculty members began their spring semester in an informative way. Professional Development Day for Curriculum was held Friday, Jan. 2 in the Fleming Building on the Tarboro campus. Traditionally, the annual event includes an educational message from a keynote speaker on strategies to enhance student success. This year, after participants were treated to snacks and a welcome from ECC President, Dr. Greg McLeod, they had the opportunity to “choose their own adventure.”

Johanna Owens, instructor and team lead of the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, said the organizers created this platform to encourage professional conversation and collaboration.

“We thought about what some of our initiatives are at the college–advising support, future-ready workforce skills, student aid, onboarding and meeting new faculty, the one-college model, accreditation, active learning strategies—and created a space to learn from each other, to ask questions, and to provide input,” said Owens. “Hearing from our very own subject matter experts launched a dialogue we hope will continue throughout the semester and beyond.”

Repeating breakout sessions focused on a variety of topics, and faculty learned more about the areas that interested or impacted them. Topics ranged from Future Ready Workforce Skills and Partnerships, to Financial Aid, Scholarships and the ECC Foundation.

Sherlock McDougald, ECC’s dean for financial aid, spoke with faculty about last date of attendance (LDA), as well as grants, scholarships and institutional aid available for students.

“LDA, or the last academically related activity, is one of the most critical data points we collect in financial aid,” shared McDougald. “It determines the student’s aid eligibility and how much financial aid students are eligible to receive.” McDougald also stressed that accurate LDA reporting prevents student debt and institutional liability.

Tameka Kenan-Norman, executive director of public information and institutional advancement, said that students may apply for scholarships from the ECC Foundation.

“There are currently five annual scholarships and 77 endowments available through the Foundation,” said Kenan-Norman. “Scholarships range from $100 to $3,500.”

The additional 25-minute sessions also offered updates, information that can be shared with students, and initiatives that are on the horizon.

Other topics included:

• Accessibility, Active Learning and Moodle 
• New Programs, People and Onboarding   
• Strategic Plan
• One College Model at ECC
• Gen Ed Advising, Math and Course Timing

For Owens, the day was a chance to also gain additional details that will assist faculty in being even better ambassadors for the college.

Owens stated, “I’ve been trying to talk up some of our initiatives—the Construction Academy, Customized Training and the Small Business Center—when the opportunity arises with community members who might benefit from an employer or potential employee standpoint.”

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Christine Nicodemus, dean of Arts and Sciences at 91ӣ����Ƶ, recently attended and presented at the Capture the Journey First-Year Experience Conference hosted by Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and Western Piedmont Community College.

The purpose of the conference, held on the campus of Rowan-Cabarrus, was to share ideas focused on strengthening the first-year student experience. The revised ACA 122 College, Transfer, & Career Success course was also a focus.

According to a description provided by Rowan-Cabarrus, upon completion of the ACA course, “students will be able to identify the community college program that matches their transfer and career goals, navigate transfer policies and processes, use transfer guides, develop an academic plan for future success, and create professional application materials.”

At ECC, Dr. Tracy Hayes, English/Humanities instructor, will serve as one of the leads for the ACA 122 redesign, working with faculty and staff to ensure proper implementation.

The conference also included collaboration among faculty and staff from NC community colleges on best practices for supporting first year-students. Additionally, the conference underscored the significance of student engagement, retention strategies, and innovative teaching approaches through workshops.

Nicodemus had the opportunity to present her own unique approach at the conference with Chuck Bowling, dean of Arts and Sciences at McDowell Technical Community College. Nicodemus and Bowling’s topic was Using Self-Service for academic planning to promote FYE success.

Nicodemus’ biggest takeaway from the conference was that simply distributing information to students is not enough. “Rather, important information should be shared in ways that invite students to reflect, process and apply it,” she explains. “When faculty and staff do this in a way that fosters a sense of community, that is tailored to each student’s unique needs, and that creates opportunities for active learning and meaningful reflection, it can have an even more powerful effect on our first-year and continuing students.”

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Dr. LaShawnda Washington

Dr. LaShawnda Washington, director of college and career readiness at 91ӣ����Ƶ, has been selected to represent the Division of College and Career Readiness at the state level. Washington was elected by her colleagues at the North Carolina Community College Adult Educators Association (NCCCAEA) Conference, held in September, after speaking about her education, community service and advocacy roles.

The NCCCAEA is a statewide professional organization dedicated to supporting and advancing adult education across North Carolina’s community colleges. Each year, the association brings together educators and leaders to collaborate, learn, and shape the future of adult education programs.

In her new role, Washington will advocate for adult educators and students, serving as the voice for college and career readiness on the NCCCAEA Board, across the state and in Washington, DC. She will be the primary contact for the NCCCAEA national conference, and will also serve as the liaison for the Coalition on Adult Basic Education.

“I’m honored that my peers have entrusted me to serve in this role,” said Washington. “I will work hard to ensure that the voices of adult educators and the students we serve across North Carolina are heard.”

Washington brings over 20 years of experience to this new role, having dedicated her career to helping adult learners succeed in education, work and life.

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Paige Ashman

Paige Ashman, a six-year employee of the college, received the 2025 ECC Staff Award. The award is given annually to an ECC employee who displays initiative, innovation and leadership in the workplace; and shows commitment and contribution to the mission of the institution and the North Carolina Community College System. Among other criteria, the nominee must also demonstrate efficient use of time, money, technology and/or other resources for the benefit of the institution, its students and the community.

“I’m extremely honored to be named the recipient of ECC’s 2025 Staff Award,” said Ashman. “This award is a reflection of the continuous support I receive from administration and my colleagues in the Continuing Education Department. Congratulations to all the nominees, who are all very deserving and great people to work with.”

Ashman is a member of the ECC Foundation board and has played a key role in leading the Steps4Growth initiative, as well as developing continuing education classes and summer camps.

“As part of her work (Steps4Growth), she has been instrumental in establishing pre-apprenticeship opportunities with a local industry partner, Astemo,” reads Ashman’s nomination form. “These opportunities provide a valuable pathway for participants, many of whom are offered full-time employment upon completion, resulting in positive outcomes for both students and the college’s business and industry partners.”

The ECC Foundation also presented the Eagle Pride Department of Excellence Award to the Division of Health Sciences during the kickoff event. Only in its third year, the award is given annually to a department or team that demonstrates a high degree of excellence in teamwork and collaboration with other groups or departments.

ECC Division of Health Sciences

“Receiving the department award at our fall semester kickoff is truly a special moment,” stated Nacole Everette, dean of the Division of Health Sciences. “It highlights the dedication, teamwork and passion our faculty and staff bring to the college every day. This recognition not only celebrates what we’ve accomplished together, but also strengthens our commitment to empowering students, advancing health education, and making a meaningful impact in the community we serve.”

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Lorrie Coltraine

Lorrie Coltraine became slightly emotional after her name was called during 91ӣ����Ƶ’s fall semester kickoff. The English and humanities instructor was presented with the Astemo Endowed Faculty Chair Award, rewarding excellence in teaching.

Coltraine’s emotions prevented her from speaking much during the Aug. 11th event, but afterwards, the 10-year ECC employee stated, “I am honored to be amongst faculty that have received this award. I thank everyone that has helped me during my 10 years at ECC. This college consists of some of the best people I have been blessed to be around. I look forward to the 2025-2026 school year at 91ӣ����Ƶ, and I strive to be the one that is deserving of such an honor.”

The Astemo Endowed Faculty Chair Award is the highest distinction the college can bestow on a member of its faculty. Winners receive $2,500 and a chair with an engraved brass nameplate. Coltraine was selected by a committee of ECC personnel from a pool of several nominees who submitted a performance portfolio, an essay and a philosophy of teaching.

Coltraine’s philosophy of teaching read, in part, “my personal objective in my courses is to implore students to use their voice. We all have something of value to say, but many do not feel that they are included in that statement. I want my students to genuinely feel and own their social importance, and they are required to use that voice in the classroom and in writing.

In addition to working as an instructor for ECC, Coltraine has served as a founding member of the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE), a co-host with Lynn Huff of a professional reading series at CTLE, as well as a member of the Distance Education Committee and the Faculty Leave Committee.

Coltraine received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in English, both from East Carolina University.

Coltraine is the eighteenth Astemo Endowed Faculty Chair Award winner at ECC.

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Teresa Howell, department chair for English/Humanities at 91ӣ����Ƶ, recently donated two Lincoln Electric welding machines to the welding technology program. These weren’t just any machines. Valued at approximately $550, the donation was of sentimental value, honoring Howell’s father and meant to further other students’ passions for welding.

“My father passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Dec. 26, 2024,” said Howell. “My father was a ‘jack of all trades,’ but he really was a master of them. He knew how to do much with his hands.”

Howell’s father knew how to repair cars, assemble picnic tables and swing sets, and he loved making barrel grills. The grills, known for their barrel-shaped design, are typically made using different welding tools and metal fabrication techniques. As an owner of welding machines, metals and other materials, Howell’s father built and sold his grills.

“He was so successful selling his grills that he made enough money to pay for my first car when I began college,” recalled Howell.

Raphael CiConta, ECC welding instructor, said the machines will be useful in teaching his backyard welding class.

“I thought it was cool that she donated something that belonged to her father that will be used to teach the next generation,” said CiConta.

The 91ӣ����Ƶ Foundation welcomes non-monetary donations that support teaching and learning. Prior to acceptance, the gift is reviewed to ensure that it meets college needs. To donate an in-kind gift, please complete the In-Kind Donation (Materials and Equipment) form found here: edgecombe.edu/gifts.

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Pictured l-r are Dr. Jacquline Wilson,Terry Chapman, Dr. LaShawnda Washington and Desmond Sykes.

Written by Dr. LaShawnda Washington

In a major stride toward advancing digital equity and instructional innovation, five employees from 91ӣ����Ƶ’s Division of College and Career Readiness have earned certifications from the prestigious Digital Resilience in the American Workforce (DRAW) initiative. This national program, designed to strengthen the digital skills of adult educators and workforce staff, equips educators to lead 21st-century learners with confidence, creativity and compassion.

The certification recipients include Dr. LaShawnda Washington, director of college and career readiness, along with division instructors Dr. Jacqueline Wilson, Desmond Sykes, Terry Chapman and Varnell Kinnin. Each participant successfully completed rigorous training, an individual Capstone project, collaborated on a team-based Capstone project, and explored emerging technologies that enhance learning and workforce development outcomes.

DRAW, a federally supported initiative led by the EdTech Center at World Education and powered by the U.S. Department of Education, is focused on integrating digital literacy into adult education and workforce programs. The initiative addresses disparities in technology access, supports innovation in teaching, and prepares learners for success in an increasingly digital society.

“This certification reflects our commitment to being forward-thinking educators,” said Washington. “As technology evolves, so must our instructional methods. We must remain on the leading edge of educational technology and instructional design to ensure our adult learners are not left behind. This certification ensures that our instructors are not just teaching with technology—they are teaching through it.”

Throughout the program, participants examined best practices in digital instruction, assessed digital tools for learning environments, and tackled real-world challenges that affect adult learners—particularly in rural and underserved communities.

“In rural areas like ours, access to reliable technology and broadband internet is still a challenge,” said Sykes. “This training gave me strategies to help bridge those gaps for our students.”

Chapman emphasized the importance of professional development in this area. “To bridge the digital divide, we must first bridge the instructional divide. Many of our students are eager to learn, but we have to be just as eager to grow as educators. DRAW has given us the tools to meet learners where they are and move them forward.”

With their new certifications in hand, the college and career readiness team are already implementing strategies from DRAW into classrooms, community programs and student support services—empowering learners to thrive in the modern workforce.

The achievement marks not only a milestone for individual educators, but also a step forward for the entire region’s workforce development efforts. As Washington notes, “This is about more than digital skills—it’s about resilience, opportunity and a future that includes everyone.”

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Courtney Baggett, a counselor at 91ӣ����Ƶ, recently completed the NC Community College Leadership Program

For Courtney Baggett, opening the door to new possibilities wasn’t easy, but it was rewarding. Baggett, a counselor at 91ӣ����Ƶ, recently completed the NC Community College Leadership Program. According to the NC State University website, the program allows participants to “develop and enhance essential skills to support their current and future leadership roles in the NC Community College System.” The Martin County native graduated from the program May 16.

“It feels great,” said Baggett. “I think there’s really something cool about committing to something that’s not easy, putting in the work, and then looking back and saying, ‘oh wow, I did that.’”

Baggett’s participation included a six-month long commitment, comprised of two in-person sessions in Raleigh, one virtual session, and two in-person sessions in Charlotte. Team members also met virtually between scheduled sessions in order to complete a team project.

“We were assigned a population, county and a community to serve,” recalled Baggett. “We had to define who we served, how we served them, and how we would structure the college around their needs.”

Organizers would often throw in deviations, like financial issues, that the group would have to manage in order to complete the project.

Aside from the project, the Greenville resident also learned about best practices in Artificial Intelligence, Emotional Intelligence, Full-Time Equivalent (FTE), and reviewed data from the system office.

“My favorite part of learning in this sort of setting is hearing new ideas and different perspectives from others,” acknowledged Baggett. “That kind of brainstorming, where you start thinking about how those ideas could relate back to your own college, that was one of my biggest takeaways.”

Those takeaways almost didn’t happen for the counselor. Although Baggett shared her interest in the program with Samanthia Phillips, vice president of student services, and retired dean of students and director of the Rocky Mount campus, Tony Rook, she was unsure of whether or not she should move forward. With a required letter of approval from Dr. Greg McLeod, ECC president, Baggett was still undecided on if she should go for it.

“The real push came when I was talking to Dean Rook about the program,” said Baggett. “He looked at me and simply said, ‘why not now?’ Those three words were all I needed. I submitted the application, completed all the paperwork, and got the approval. I don’t regret any of it.”

While the program wasn’t easy, Baggett says she was able to complete it thanks to the support of Phillips, Rook, McLeod and her colleagues. She was one of the 33 graduates from 24 community colleges across the state to graduate from the NC Community College Leadership Program’s Spring 2025 class.

To future potential participants, Baggett said, “If you love the work we do, if you believe in the mission of community colleges, and if you’re someone who’s trying to do the right things for the right reasons, like I was, then this program is for you. It gives you the chance to learn more, grow, and keep doing good work with more clarity and purpose.”

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During the 91ӣ����Ƶ’s “Party with a Purpose,” employees played Bingo for prizes and enjoyed line dancing.

The 91ӣ����Ƶ Foundation recently treated employees on the Tarboro campus to lunch for their support of the Foundation’s annual Campus Giving Campaign. During the campaign, employees are encouraged to give. The most recent campaign was held Oct. 21, 2024 through Jan. 14, 2025. The campaign is always a friendly competition between employees based on the Rocky Mount and Tarboro campuses.

The Campus Campaign raised $11,398 to support scholarships, various initiatives, and the overall operations of the ECC Foundation. During the “Party with a Purpose,” employees on the Tarboro campus played Bingo for prizes and enjoyed line dancing.

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