Paula Vess, Author at 91�첥

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

Paula Vess — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:35:02 +0000

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Video Spotlight: May Ashe

Student Spotlight

October 14, 2026

Paula Vess

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May Ashe’s story is one of resilience, persistence, and learning to never give up on yourself.

In July 2026, May graduated from the Practical Nursing program at 91�첥 and will continue her journey to earn her Associate Degree Nursing and become an RN.

Student Spotlight

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Building America’s Next Energy Workforce

Paula Vess — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 18:56:05 +0000

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Building America’s Next Energy Workforce

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September 30, 2026

Paula Vess

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CCC has been selected as a workforce development partner in the NSF Grid Modernization Engine in the Carolinas, known as the Carolinas Grid Engine, a regional initiative that could bring more than 10,000 jobs to the Carolinas while modernizing the nation’s electric grid, strengthening domestic energy supply chains, and preparing workers for high-demand energy careers.

“As an organization dedicated to workforce excellence and economic mobility, 91�첥 is honored to be part of this transformative regional partnership,” said 91�첥 President Dr. Jason Hurst. “The Carolinas Grid Engine aligns closely with our mission of preparing students for high-demand careers while helping address one of our nation’s most significant infrastructure and energy challenges.”

As a workforce development partner, 91�첥 will help develop the skilled workforce needed to support emerging energy technologies through STEM education, career-connected learning, apprenticeships, and industry partnerships. The college’s involvement reflects its ongoing commitment to creating pathways to family-sustaining careers while supporting economic growth in Cleveland County and throughout the region.

Led by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and supported through the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines program, the Carolinas Grid Engine brings together more than 100 partners across North and South Carolina to help solve one of America’s most important infrastructure challenges while strengthening the regional economy, creating jobs, and accelerating technologies that improve U.S. competitiveness.

The Carolinas Grid Engine will receive an initial $15 million over two years, with the potential for up to $160 million over 10 years. The initiative will support the development of new technologies, strengthen domestic manufacturing and supply chains, and expand workforce development opportunities across a 36-county region in North and South Carolina.

Earlier this year, when the Carolinas Grid Engine was selected as a finalist for the Regional Innovation Engines program, Hurst participated in the NSF site visit at UNC Charlotte. The site visit represented the final stage of the NSF review process and highlighted the strength of the Engine’s cross-sector partnerships.

The Carolinas Grid Engine seeks to advance new technologies for transmission, distribution, and generation while creating a thriving domestic manufacturing ecosystem and reducing the time required to move innovative grid technologies from research to deployment. Through partnerships among universities, community colleges, K-12 school systems, industry leaders, utilities, government agencies, and economic development organizations, the initiative will position the Carolinas as a national hub for energy innovation and workforce development.

For 91�첥, participation in the Carolinas Grid Engine represents an opportunity to strengthen workforce pipelines, expand employer partnerships, and create new opportunities for students and residents across Cleveland County while supporting the nation’s energy future.

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CCC Foundation Receives $34,000 Gift to Establish Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship

Paula Vess — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 17:50:57 +0000

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CCC Foundation Receives $34,000 Gift to Establish Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship

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August 13, 2026

Paula Vess

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The 91�첥 Foundation has received a $34,000 donation from Jolly Good Samaritan Scholarship LLC to establish the Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship, supporting students enrolled in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) programs at 91�첥.

The gift includes a $30,000 endowed contribution to create the scholarship fund and an additional $4,000 in spendable funds, allowing scholarship awards to begin during the 2026-27 academic year.

The scholarship honors the life and legacy of Mary Elizabeth Jolly, a 91�첥-trained paramedic whose commitment to helping others continues to inspire her family, friends, and colleagues.

Jolly served with Gaston County Emergency Medical Services (GEMS) from 2021 until her death in 2025. Throughout her career, she was recognized for her compassion, professionalism, and dedication to serving others. She was a member of the department’s swift water rescue team and received numerous honors, including Outstanding Paramedic in 2023 and Excellence in Operational Readiness in 2025. In 2026, she was posthumously awarded the Gaston County Jaycees Distinguished Service Award, which has since been renamed the Mary Jolly Distinguished Service Award.

Jolly’s final act reflected the spirit that defined her life. While traveling in Florida, she stopped to assist a driver involved in a motor vehicle accident and suffered fatal injuries while rendering aid.

The scholarship was established by Jolly’s family to ensure her legacy of service continues through future generations of emergency medical professionals.

“Mary’s story is not the tragedy of how her life ended; it is the example of how she chose to live,” the family shared. “She loved being a paramedic and dedicated her life to helping people on what was often their worst day. Through this scholarship, we hope to encourage future EMS professionals to carry that same spirit of service forward.”

The scholarship will provide financial assistance to students enrolled in EMS programs at 91�첥, with preference given to those pursuing Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) and Paramedic credentials. Applicants will be asked to share, through a written statement or video, what caring for others means to them, reflecting the qualities Jolly demonstrated throughout her life and career.

“There are few professions that require the level of courage and compassion demanded of EMS personnel,” said Jason Hurst, president of 91�첥. “Mary Jolly lived those values every day and ultimately gave her life while helping someone else. The Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship is a fitting tribute to her legacy, creating opportunities for future EMS professionals who share her commitment to serving others and our community.”

CCC Foundation Executive Director Grayson Pierce said the scholarship will have a lasting impact on students and the communities they will serve.

“The 91�첥 Foundation is grateful to the Jolly family for their vision and generosity in creating the Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship,” Pierce said. “This scholarship not only honors Mary Jolly but also invests in future EMS professionals who will continue the important work of caring for and protecting our communities.”

The scholarship will be administered by the 91�첥 Foundation and awarded annually in accordance with Foundation policies and scholarship selection procedures.

About the 91�첥 Foundation

The 91�첥 Foundation supports the mission of 91�첥 by securing and managing resources that enhance educational opportunities, strengthen workforce development, and remove financial barriers for students. Through scholarships, program support, and community partnerships, the Foundation helps students achieve their educational and career goals.

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Honor Rolls – 2026 Summer Term

Paula Vess — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:02:00 +0000

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Honor Rolls – 2026 Summer Term

August 12, 2026

Paula Vess

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CCC President Dr. Jason Hurst has announced the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the Summer 2026 term.

President’s List

To be named to the President’s List, students must carry a minimum of 12 credit hours and receive a perfect 4.0 grade point average.

The following students are named to the President’s List (listed alphabetically):

Betsabe Arroyo Ramirez

Payton Beaver

Abigail Bennett

Kierra Boylston

Lynnlee Brittain

Cleveland Brown

John Byars

Karlye Clay

Lillie Dean

Gabrielle Dearman

Rebecca Diaz

Austyn Dixon

Samuel Ford

Alejandro Garcia

Ella Green

Abby Grier

Katie Gutierrez

Lila Gutierrez

Chloe Ingle

Fethiye Kandil

Morgan Lavine

Gracie Major

Riley Major

Jada Mauney

Gavin Mayhue

William McDowell

Victor McKoy

Ashley Mills

Braydon Moore

Emma Mull

Allison Noto

Siya Patel

Natalie Prior

Zoe Rempson

Anna Schroeder

Taylor Sengsavang

Amber Smith

Caroline Sparrow

Morgan Van Dyke

Emma Walker

Jordan Walker

Rebecka Walker

Brandy White

Anthony Zeiger

Dean’s List

To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must carry a minimum of 12 credit hours and achieve a grade point average of at least 3.5.

The following students are named to the Dean’s List (listed alphabetically):

Fadwa Al-Qwaider

Vickie Beam

Kambriana Blackwell

Dixie Causby

Ivory Charles

Preston Dayberry

Brian Edwards

Sarah Garland

Logan Goforth

Nate Haig

Jakiya Hansley

Rayisha Hernandez

Justin Johnson

Kayla Little

Alyssa Milam

Shyann Norris

Brittany Siler

Matthew Sipe

Nicolette Skinner

Naziyah Strong

Chloe Thongsamouth

Elijah Timson

Roseline Udoetuk

Natiki Wilson

Keyashia Woodson

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A Second Chance, A New Future

Paula Vess — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:33:33 +0000

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A Second Chance, A New Future

Spotlights

July 21, 2026

Paula Vess

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Bryan Hayes knows the value of perseverance.

After leaving high school in the ninth grade, he faced many of the challenges common to adult learners—work responsibilities, family commitments, and life circumstances that made returning to school difficult. But despite the obstacles, Bryan never gave up on his goal of completing his education.

That determination led him to 91�첥’s College and Career Readiness (CCR) program, where he found the support, encouragement, and structure he needed to take the next step forward.

Motivated by a desire to set an example for his children, Bryan returned to the classroom while working full-time. He attended in-person classes, completed online preparation for the GED and HiSET, and remained focused on achieving the milestone he had put on hold for years.

At the same time, Bryan enrolled in the Basic Skills Plus program and began training in HVAC, building both academic and technical skills for a stronger future.

His hard work and commitment did not go unnoticed. In 2026, Bryan was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society, an honor that recognizes his academic achievement, strong work ethic, and dedication to personal growth.

“The CCR instructors and staff felt like family to me,” Bryan said. “They pushed me, supported me, and the day I finished, they were just as proud as I was.”

On July 16, 2026 Bryan walked across the stage at the College and Career Readiness graduation ceremony. He had completed his original goal.

Now, he is setting new goals. Bryan is continuing his HVAC training and is working toward an Associate in Applied Science degree.

Taking that first step, coming to the College and Career Readiness program, is opening new doors of opportunity.

Congratulations, Bryan! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.

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$1.7 Million Grant to Expand Healthcare Workforce Training

Paula Vess — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 18:06:00 +0000

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$1.7 Million Grant to Expand Healthcare Workforce Training

News Releases

July 20, 2026

Paula Vess

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CCC has been awarded a $1.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to support the expansion and renovation of the Bailey Allied Health and Science Center, increasing the college’s capacity to train the next generation of healthcare professionals.

“This grant is an investment in the students, healthcare providers, and communities we serve,” said Dr. Jason Hurst, President of 91�첥. “Our health sciences programs have experienced strong enrollment growth as demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise. This expansion will allow us to educate and train more students in our existing programs while maintaining the high-quality, hands-on learning experiences that prepare graduates to enter the workforce and make an immediate impact in healthcare settings throughout our region.”

The grant will fund the renovation of approximately 10,000 square feet within the Bailey Center, a three-story facility built in 2009 that houses the college’s health sciences programs, including Nursing, Medical Assisting, Radiography, Surgical Technology, Medical Sonography, and Medical Laboratory Technology.

A key component of the project is the renovation of the two-story space that formerly housed 91�첥’s public access television channel, C19. The station’s relocation to the Jack Hunt Campus Center has made the space available for renovation and expansion, including the addition of a second floor, to provide much-needed workforce training and instructional space.

The Bailey Center currently serves students enrolled in some of the College’s most in-demand healthcare programs. As enrollment in these programs continues to grow, additional instructional and laboratory space is needed to accommodate more students and expand hands-on training opportunities.

The project received strong support from regional healthcare partners, including Atrium Health Cleveland and the Cleveland County Health Department, both of which provided letters of support as part of the grant application. In their letters, the organizations highlighted the need for additional healthcare professionals and the importance of expanding 91�첥’s capacity to prepare these skilled workers.

“Partnerships with healthcare providers and public health agencies are critical to our success,” Hurst said. “Their support underscores the important role 91�첥 plays in developing a skilled healthcare workforce and meeting the growing needs of employers across our region.”

The project aligns with the EDA’s mission to support economic development through strategic investments that strengthen local economies and create pathways to high-demand careers. By expanding training capacity, the renovated facility will help ensure that healthcare employers throughout Cleveland County and surrounding communities have access to a steady pipeline of qualified professionals.

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Shelby High Student Finds Her Spark at 91�첥

Paula Vess — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 23:26:45 +0000

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Shelby High Student Finds Her Spark at 91�첥

Spotlights

July 16, 2026

Paula Vess

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When Bryanna Veliz signed up for 91�첥’s Careers Electric Summer Electrical Academy, she wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. She knew she wanted to challenge herself and explore a possible career path. Just a few weeks later, she’s found something much bigger: confidence, purpose and a clear vision for her future.

The rising Shelby High School senior spends her days learning the ins and outs of electrical systems, reading blueprints and gaining hands-on experience that many students don’t encounter until much later in their careers. And she couldn’t be happier about it.

“I wanted to do the academy for the experience and to eventually get my license,” Veliz said. “I wanted to see if this was really what I wanted to do, and it definitely is.”

Veliz is one of 18 students participating in 91�첥’s eight-week Summer Electrical Academy, a program made possible through the Siemens Foundation’s Careers Electric™ initiative. Students earn college credit, complete a registered pre-apprenticeship and gain real-world experience while exploring careers in one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing industries.

For Veliz, the journey started years ago at home.

Growing up, she watched her father work in construction, remodeling and renovation through his own business. Before long, she was helping alongside him.

“I’ve watched and worked with my dad in his business,” she said. “He’s my biggest inspiration.”

While those early experiences sparked her interest, her father encouraged her to build on that foundation through education. Through Career & College Promise classes at 91�첥, Veliz enrolled in electrical courses and quickly discovered she had found something she truly enjoyed.

“Once I started taking electrical classes, I knew this is what I wanted to do as a career,” she said.

Today, the academy is helping her turn that interest into expertise.

She especially enjoys the variety the field offers.

“I love being able to get into a bunch of different things,” Veliz said. “I really enjoy learning how to read blueprints and getting into the residential side—learning how to wire and figuring out the safest and easiest ways to do things.”

The program introduces students to residential wiring, electrical systems and industry-recognized skills while providing a glimpse into the many career opportunities available in the electrical trade.

Like many students stepping into something new, Veliz admits she felt nervous about applying.

“I was nervous because my grades weren’t great,” she said. “But I know hands-on learning is what works best for me, and this was an opportunity I didn’t want to miss.”

Taking that leap has opened doors she never imagined. During a recent visit to the academy, Governor Josh Stein met with students and learned firsthand how programs like Careers Electric are helping prepare North Carolina’s next generation of skilled workers.

As for Veliz, she already knows what’s next.

This fall, she’ll continue taking classes at 91�첥 while finishing her senior year at Shelby High School. After graduation, she plans to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Electrical Systems Technology, obtain her electrician’s license and continue building her future in the field she loves.

Her ultimate goal brings everything full circle.

“I want to help expand my dad’s business, and when he’s ready to retire, take over,” she said. “It’s really cool to be able to work with him in the meantime.”

Along the way, local industry partners have helped enrich the academy experience. Students have toured Duke Energy’s training facility and Greenheck Group’s TAP plant, explored career opportunities with Day & Zimmermann, heard from Fountain Electric professionals and connected with organizations such as NCWorks, the State Employees Credit Union and the NC Board of Electrical Contractors.

For Veliz, those experiences have reinforced what she already suspected when she first signed up for the academy: she’s found the path she wants to follow.

And thanks to the opportunities available through 91�첥, she’s already well on her way.

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Kari Lee Turns Second Chance Into Full Ride

Paula Vess — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 02:06:13 +0000

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Kari Lee Turns Second Chance Into Full Ride

Spotlights

July 8, 2026

Paula Vess

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When Kari Lee finished high school at Crest, she thought her basketball career had come to an end.

After missing her senior season, she didn’t think that she would play again. Then, 91�첥 Women’s Basketball Coach Ford “Scooter” Lawrence reached out.

“He contacted me and asked if I wanted to come play,” she said. “I was going to stop playing, but I got the opportunity and I took it.”

That decision changed her path.

Kari found a new basketball family and became a standout player and an integral part of the 91�첥 women’s basketball program. She also earned the opportunity to continue her education and athletic career at Fayetteville State University on a full scholarship.

For Kari, choosing 91�첥 meant more than staying close to home. It gave her the chance to keep playing the sport she loved while growing as a student, athlete and person.

She admits that when in high school, she thought she wanted to go away to school. Looking back, she’s grateful she stayed.

“I’m glad I decided to stay,” Kari said. “I have a lot of friends who went away, but a lot of them have come back.”

At 91�첥, Kari found the close-knit environment she needed. As a student-athlete, she said the support from teammates, coaches, faculty and staff made a lasting difference.

“It felt like a family,” she said. “My teammates would joke that they wished this was a four-year school so they could stay all four years.”

That family feeling stretched beyond the basketball court. Kari said teammates from her first year at 91�첥 are still her friends, and the whole college became a place where she felt supported. “The staff and faculty were always there for us.”

As she prepares for the next level, Kari says 91�첥 helped prepare her both in the classroom and on the court. As a student, she learned how to manage her time and take responsibility for her work. As an athlete, she learned the importance of showing up every day and continuing to improve.

“We had this thing we said all season,” Kari said. “Come into the gym and be 1% better every day.”

That mindset will go with her to Fayetteville State University, where she is excited to join a larger campus community and become part of the HBCU experience. Kari had several offers, but Fayetteville State felt right.

“The vibe at FSU was similar to 91�첥,” she said. “It had that family vibe, and the coach reminded me of Scooter.”

At FSU, Kari hopes to help her team win while continuing to learn the game from a new perspective. One of her goals is to find an opportunity to work as a coaching assistant while she’s a student.

Long term, Kari sees herself staying connected to basketball. She also plans to become a real estate agent in the Raleigh area. No matter where her career takes her, giving back remains part of her vision.

Kari currently works at a Boys & Girls Club, and one day she would like to own one.

“I want to give back to kids from here,” she said. “I want to give back to the city that helped shape who I am.”

From nearly walking away from basketball to earning a full scholarship, Kari’s journey shows what can happen when opportunity, hard work and the right support system come together. At 91�첥, she found all three.

“91�첥 got me exactly where I want to be,” Kari said. “I really appreciate Scooter and 91�첥 for that.”

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Honoring a Legacy of Kindness, Service and Support

Paula Vess — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:08:26 +0000

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Honoring a Legacy of Kindness, Service and Support

Spotlights

June 24, 2026

Paula Vess

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When Fran Musolino moved to Cleveland County in 2014, she brought with her 27 years of professional experience from IBM, a strong work ethic and a willingness to embrace a new chapter. What she did not have at the time was a college degree, and finding a job in a new community proved more difficult than expected.

So, Fran did what lifelong learners do: she invested in herself.

In 2016, she enrolled at 91�첥 to complete the Associate in Applied Science in Office Administration. It did not take long for Fran to make an impression. Shortly after enrolling, she was hired as a part-time receptionist and assistant in the Advising Center, where her professionalism, warmth and commitment to helping others quickly stood out.

Fran graduated in 2018, and soon after accepted a full-time position as the Law Enforcement Training Specialist. The full-time position was new at the time, giving Fran the opportunity to help shape the role from the ground up.

For the past seven years, Fran has worked closely with Basic Law Enforcement Training Program Coordinator Aaron Vassey, supporting students as they move through a challenging and important training program.

“I have really enjoyed the job,” Fran said. “I love challenges and assisting students achieve their goals, starting from the application process to cheering them on at graduation and beyond.”

That encouragement and support have become hallmarks of Fran’s work. Whether assisting students, helping coordinate training needs or offering a steady presence behind the scenes, Fran has played an important role in the success of 91�첥’s law enforcement training efforts.

Fran’s decision to retire at the end of June was not an easy one. Her husband recently retired, and with grandchildren in two states, along with other family she wants to visit more often, Fran is looking forward to having more flexibility to travel and spend time with loved ones.

Still, retirement does not mean stepping away from purpose. Fran knows she will continue giving back to the community in some way.

CCC congratulates Fran Musolino on her upcoming retirement and thanks her for her dedication, kindness and service to the College, our students and the law enforcement training community. Her impact will be felt long after her final day on campus.

We wish her well in her next chapter. It is sure to be filled with the same energy, heart and connection she brought to 91�첥.

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Honoring a Legacy of Kindness, Service and Support

Paula Vess — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 12:47:17 +0000

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Honoring a Legacy of Kindness, Service and Support

Spotlights

June 24, 2026

Paula Vess

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So, Fran did what lifelong learners do: she invested in herself.

“I have really enjoyed the job,” Fran said. “I love challenges and assisting students achieve their goals, starting from the application process to cheering them on at graduation and beyond.”

Still, retirement does not mean stepping away from purpose. Fran knows she will continue giving back to the community in some way.

We wish her well in her next chapter. It is sure to be filled with the same energy, heart and connection she brought to 91�첥.

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Paula Vess, Author at 91�첥

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

Related Posts

A Second Chance, A New Future

Shelby High Student Finds Her Spark at 91�첥

Building America’s Next Energy Workforce

Building America’s Next Energy Workforce

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CCC Foundation Receives $34,000 Gift to Establish Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship

$1.7 Million Grant to Expand Healthcare Workforce Training

CCC Foundation Receives $34,000 Gift to Establish Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship

CCC Foundation Receives $34,000 Gift to Establish Jolly Good Samaritan Endowed Scholarship

About the 91�첥 Foundation

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$1.7 Million Grant to Expand Healthcare Workforce Training

Honor Rolls – 2026 Summer Term

Honor Rolls – 2026 Summer Term

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