Spotlights Archives - 91¿첥 /category/spotlights/ See Yourself Here Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:35:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 /wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cropped-91¿첥-icon-512x512-1-150x150.png Spotlights Archives - 91¿첥 /category/spotlights/ 32 32 Video Spotlight: May Ashe /video-spotlight-may-ashe/ Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:35:02 +0000 /?p=8007 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. Watch May’s emotional and inspiring story on 91¿첥’s...

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Video Spotlight: May Ashe

May being pinned at the practical nursing pinning ceremony.

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.

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A Second Chance, A New Future /a-second-chance-a-new-future/ Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:33:33 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6108 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...

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A Second Chance, A New Future

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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Shelby High Student Finds Her Spark at 91¿첥 /shelby-high-student-finds-her-spark-at-ccc/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 23:26:45 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6085 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...

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Shelby High Student Finds Her Spark at 91¿첥

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 /kari-lee-turns-second-chance-into-full-ride/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 02:06:13 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6282 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...

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Kari Lee Turns Second Chance Into Full Ride

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 /honoring-a-legacy-of-kindness-service-and-support/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:08:26 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6290 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...

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Honoring a Legacy of Kindness, Service and Support

Fran Musolino poses in front of the fountain on campus.

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 /fran-musolino-etires-after-seven-years-supporting-law-enforcement-training/ Wed, 24 Jun 2026 12:47:17 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/fran-musolino-etires-after-seven-years-supporting-law-enforcement-training/ 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...

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Honoring a Legacy of Kindness, Service and Support

Fran Musolino poses in front of the fountain on campus.

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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Taylor Tongel Explores Welding and What Comes Next /taylor-tongel-explores-welding-and-what-comes-next/ Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:37:32 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/taylor-tongel-explores-welding-and-what-comes-next/ When Taylor Tongel signed up for welding classes at 91¿첥, she was following her curiosity. “My school doesn’t offer any shop classes.” She wasn’t exactly sure how welding would fit into her future. She simply thought it sounded interesting. “My friends didn’t know what to think when they found...

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Taylor Tongel Explores Welding and What Comes Next

Taylor Tongle in her Pinnacle Classical Academy cap and gown.

When Taylor Tongel signed up for welding classes at 91¿첥, she was following her curiosity. “My school doesn’t offer any shop classes.”

She wasn’t exactly sure how welding would fit into her future. She simply thought it sounded interesting.

“My friends didn’t know what to think when they found out I was taking welding classes,” she said. “It wasn’t something they saw me doing, but I thought it would be really cool to be able to say that’s something I can do.”

At the time of her interview, Taylor was a senior at Pinnacle Classical Academy and was enrolled at 91¿첥 through the Career and College Promise (CCP) program. The program gives eligible high school students the opportunity to explore college classes, earn credits, and discover their interests before graduating.

For Taylor, that opportunity led to both an Associate in Arts and a Welding Technology Certificate from 91¿첥.

While there are still few girls who take welding classes, Taylor said the experience was a positive one and encourages other girls to try it.

“Honestly, it’s a power move,” she said. “It’s really fun.”

Taylor Tongle practicing her welding skills in 91¿첥's welding shop as her instructor watches.

Since her interview, Taylor has graduated from both high school and 91¿첥. This fall, she will attend Belmont Abbey College, where she plans to major in business.

Earning her associate degree through 91¿첥 means Taylor will enter Belmont Abbey with a strong head start and can complete her bachelor’s degree faster.

Taylor Tongle receiving shaking hands with and accepting her welding certificate from 91¿첥 President Dr. Jason Hurst on stage at 91¿첥's graduation ceremony.

“It is making my whole journey a little easier,” Taylor said. “I can go straight into my core classes.”

Taylor is not sure yet what role welding will play in her future, but she knows it will have a spot. She may use it in a future business, or she may keep it as a hobby.

She would like to open her own business one day, following in her mother’s footsteps. Her mother owns and runs her own business and has been a major inspiration in Taylor’s life.

“I’d like to be that strong, independent woman like she is,” Taylor said.

Looking back, Taylor is grateful she took advantage of the Career and College Promise program and chose to take classes at 91¿첥.

She is also glad she tried welding, even though it was not the most common choice. Whether she uses it in a future business or keeps it as a personal skill, Taylor knows it is something she will carry with her.

For now, she is focused on the next step: studying business, building on the foundation she started at 91¿첥, and keeping her options open.

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Showdown Finalist Turns Personal Journey into Business Concept /showdown-finalist-turns-personal-journey-into-business-concept/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:48:50 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/showdown-finalist-turns-personal-journey-into-business-concept/ Stacie Humphries, a Boiling Springs native, is one of only 17 entrepreneurs from across North Carolina selected to participate in the inaugural SBCN Startup Showdown, powered by Wells Fargo Foundation. It is a statewide entrepreneurship initiative launched through the North Carolina Community College System’s 58 community colleges’ Small Business Centers. Humphries, 91¿첥’s Small...

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Showdown Finalist Turns Personal Journey into Business Concept

Stacie Humphries

Stacie Humphries, a Boiling Springs native, is one of only 17 entrepreneurs from across North Carolina selected to participate in the inaugural SBCN Startup Showdown, powered by Wells Fargo Foundation. It is a statewide entrepreneurship initiative launched through the North Carolina Community College System’s 58 community colleges’ Small Business Centers.

Humphries, 91¿첥’s Small Business Center finalist, is developing a business concept rooted in her own life experience: a welcoming fitness studio designed to support parents, caregivers and community members through group exercise, connection and accessible wellness opportunities.

Her passion for Pilates grew out of a deeply personal journey. After the birth of her first child, while her husband was serving in the Army and they were living in Texas, far from their family support system, Humphries experienced postpartum depression. Unknown to her, she was also suffering from diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles that can occur during pregnancy and often requires specific rehabilitation.

As someone who had been active for much of her life, she tried to rebuild her strength through traditional workouts, but nothing seemed to address the core issues she was experiencing. Years later, during her third pregnancy, the diastasis recti was finally diagnosed. From her research, Humphries discovered Pilates as a safe, intentional way to heal and reconnect with her body.

“Through Pilates I was able to heal my core and connect with my body in an entirely new way,” she said. “I felt called to share that testimony with others, mothers specifically.”

Humphries earned yoga and Pilates certifications through the International Sports Sciences Association and began teaching “mommy and me” classes at The Play Place in Shelby. As she grew more confident in her teaching style, she expanded to the Ruby C. Hunt YMCA. What began as one class a week quickly grew into multiple classes and an additional location at the Dover YMCA as demand increased.

Today, Humphries continues teaching yoga and Pilates regularly at the YMCAs and in the Boiling Springs town park. Her goal is to create spaces where people feel comfortable moving their bodies, regardless of where they are in their fitness journey.

“I’m beyond thankful that people trust me to guide them through a workout,” she said. “I truly feel like I’m walking in God’s purpose when I’m able to provide a fun, safe place for people to move their bodies and exist freely.”

Her path to the Startup Showdown began through a community connection. After being invited to teach Pilates at the Boiling Springs town park, Humphries learned about free business startup support available through 91¿첥’s Small Business Center. She scheduled an appointment with Stephen Lancaster, the Small Business Center director, who has a satellite office at the Boiling Springs Town Hall.

At the time, opening her own studio was not something Humphries had seriously considered. As a mother of three who had spent much of the last seven years at home with her children, she said the idea felt exciting but far away. Still, she decided one hour of business guidance could not hurt.

Soon after, Lancaster encouraged her to apply for the SBCN Startup Showdown, a statewide competition for new business ideas. Applicants were required to submit a short pitch video, letters of recommendation and meet eligibility requirements for new ventures.

Although she was initially hesitant, Humphries decided to apply.

“I knew I would be going up against people who already own multiple businesses,” she said. “But I try my best to listen to God, and the way everything was lining up felt like a calling.”

After being selected as a finalist, she is now participating in the competition’s business training process, which includes online seminars, business planning support, mentorship and connections with other entrepreneurs from across the state.

Her business concept brings together several needs she understands personally: fitness, encouragement, community and childcare. Humphries envisions a studio offering Pilates, yoga and a variety of group exercise classes, with childcare available for parents and caregivers who want to focus on their health without worrying about who will watch their children.

She also hopes to create a space where children can learn the importance of movement from an early age, while parents gain peace of mind and support.

“My most important goal is providing a space where people can come together and sweat it out without wondering who will watch their children or worrying they don’t know what to do to get a workout in,” she said.

For Humphries, the opportunity also brings her story full circle with 91¿첥. As a high school student, she took classes through 91¿첥 and graduated in 2014 with an early childhood education certificate, which she later used while working in childcare settings.

Now, 91¿첥’s Small Business Center is helping her take the next step as an entrepreneur.

“I would like my community to know how deeply I care,” Humphries said. “I care about your injured shoulder and your postpartum baby blues. I care if you don’t feel comfortable in your own skin. I care if you feel alone.”

Through the SBCN Startup Showdown, finalists will continue developing their business plans and pitches. Those who advance will present their concepts in a “Shark Tank”-style pitch event, with winners receiving startup funding to help bring their ideas to life.

Regardless of the final outcome, Humphries said she is grateful for the experience, the education and the support she has received.

“The town hall and my business mentor Stephen have been so supportive of this journey and have helped me every step of the way so far,” she said. “It feels so nice to have people rooting for you, and I’m so grateful.”

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The Power of Starting Over /the-power-of-starting-over/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/the-power-of-starting-over/ Turning Life’s Detours into Opportunities When Dandria Bradley enrolled at 91¿첥 in the fall of 2006, she wasn’t just choosing a college; she was choosing a new beginning. At 26, Dandria was a single mother navigating job loss and uncertainty, determined to create a better future for herself and her young daughter. Living...

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The Power of Starting Over

Turning Life’s Detours into Opportunities

When Dandria Bradley enrolled at 91¿첥 in the fall of 2006, she wasn’t just choosing a college; she was choosing a new beginning.

At 26, Dandria was a single mother navigating job loss and uncertainty, determined to create a better future for herself and her young daughter. Living roughly the same distance from Gaston College and 91¿첥, she made a deliberate choice.

“I didn’t know anyone here,” she said. “I didn’t want those distractions. I wanted to focus.”

That decision would change everything.

Finding Confidence and a Community

From her very first semester, Dandria discovered something she hadn’t expected: a strong sense of belonging. Faculty members like English instructor Laura Cherry and algebra instructor Michael Sisk helped her feel comfortable and capable, even as a nontraditional student returning to the classroom.

“They made me feel at home,” she said, “and I embraced student life.”

Initially, Dandria planned to earn an Associate in Applied Science in Community Spanish Interpreter and enter the workforce. But encouragement from faculty expanded her vision beyond a single degree.

She threw herself into campus life, joining the Student Government Association, attending events and excelling academically. Her hard work earned her induction into the honor society and, more importantly, a new sense of confidence.

“I started thinking like a student,” she said. “I remember telling one of my instructors that I wished I had learned from someone like her in high school. She made everything so easy to understand.”

Academic Growth Beyond the Classroom

A defining moment came during her second semester, when instructor B.J. Zamora encouraged Dandria to submit a research paper to an academic conference, something she had never imagined doing.

Her paper, which examined the evolution of the vampire from Bram Stoker’s Dracula to modern pop culture, was accepted. With 91¿첥’s support, she attended the conference and presented her work.

“I was surrounded by people with advanced degrees,” she said. “It was intimidating, but empowering. I was the first 91¿첥 student to do something like that, and the college supported me completely.”

Experiences like this helped Dandria sharpen her skills in writing, critical thinking and time management, tools that would prove essential in her next chapter.

From Cleveland to Chapel Hill and Beyond

In 2008, Dandria was selected as the student speaker for 91¿첥’s commencement, capping off a transformative college experience. She transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a degree in journalism.

Dandria Bradley speaking at her 91¿첥 graduation.

With support from her mother, who cared for her daughter during the week, Dandria lived on campus and returned home on weekends. Years later, her daughter would follow in her footsteps, graduating from UNC in 2022.

After college, Dandria began her career in television news but soon realized that the demanding schedule wasn’t aligned with her priorities. Mother and daughter needed more time together, so Dandria pivoted to the corporate sector, working in customer service for nearly seven years. During that time, she returned to school, this time pursuing a master’s degree in communications with a concentration in corporate and government communications.

“Trying to be a full-time employee, full-time mom and a student was hard,” she said. “Every semester, I was quitting.”

But she didn’t quit. Dandria earned her master’s degree in 2014.

Leading Through Connection and Service

Seeking a more community-focused role, Dandria transitioned to the Gastonia Public Library as a program coordinator. There, she expanded her civic involvement and joined the Friends of the Gaston County Public Library board.

She was hosting literary-related events at the library but wanted to do something on a larger scale. She approached the city’s events planner with an idea for a multicultural festival. Together, they launched an event that has grown into a thriving annual celebration in Gastonia.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dandria’s leadership and communication skills led to a transition into city communications. In December 2020, she became deputy communications director.

Four years later, she was promoted to director of communications and marketing for the city of Gastonia, where she continues to build connections and serve her community.

“It All Started Here”

Nearly two decades after first stepping onto campus, Dandria still credits 91¿첥 as the foundation of her success. Her recent return to campus brought back a wave of memories. “I walked back in the door, and the memories came flooding back,” she said. “It all started here.”

While talking about those memories, it became clear that the people impacted her most. The education she received was important, but it was the faculty, staff and friends she made who sustained her and pushed her forward.

Dandria’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with determination, support and the courage to start over. From the classroom to city leadership, her path reflects the lasting impact of one decision and the ripple effect it can have for years to come.

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A Head Start on Success /a-head-start-on-success/ Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:29:04 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/a-head-start-on-success/ Lillianna Scott’s Career and College Promise Experience Lillianna Scott is an intelligent, poised and well-spoken young woman whose college journey began as a high school student.  Encouraged by friends who spoke highly of the Career and College Promise (CCP) program, Lillianna saw an opportunity she couldn’t pass up. “I wanted to...

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A Head Start on Success

Lillianna Scott's senior portrait

Lillianna Scott’s Career and College Promise Experience

Lillianna Scott is an intelligent, poised and well-spoken young woman whose college journey began as a high school student.  Encouraged by friends who spoke highly of the Career and College Promise (CCP) program, Lillianna saw an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.

“I wanted to further my education for free,” she said. “I knew it would be challenging, and I wanted to push myself.”

Therefore, while a student at Shelby High School, Lillianna enrolled in college-level classes, taught by 91¿첥 instructors, onsite at her high school. Other classes she took online.

“I love the 91¿첥 classes,” she said. “The professors are so caring, and they make learning fun.”

Through the CCP program, Lillianna earned her Associate in Science, and a Basic Healthcare Certificate, before graduating from high school. She participated in 91¿첥’s commencement ceremony on May 14, marking the completion of her college credentials. Just weeks later, on May 29, she graduated from Shelby High School.

Lillianna Scott walks across the stage at 91¿첥's commencement ceremony.

Now, she’s preparing for the next phase of her educational journey.

This fall, Lillianna will attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a recipient of the prestigious Morehead-Cain Scholarship, where she plans to major in biology and eventually pursue dental school. Her long-term goal is clear: to become a dentist and one day own her own practice.

By enrolling in CCP classes Lillianna knew she was getting a head start on the college credits she needs to achieve her ultimate goal but got much more than she expected. In addition to learning the subject matter, she learned good study habits and time management. She also overcame challenges and gained confidence.

Among Lillianna’s most meaningful experiences was her progression in Spanish coursework. By her senior year, she was taking her third college-level Spanish class, and the final exam required a live Zoom interview conducted entirely in Spanish.

“When I first started the class, I thought, ‘I can’t do that.’” But by the end of the course, she surprised herself. Her Spanish instructor, Rebecca Sisk, played a significant role in that growth, helping her develop both skill and confidence in the language. During the final, she said, “I felt confident, and when my instructor told me how well I did, I felt really proud.”

As Lillianna prepares for the next chapter, she carries with her the knowledge, experience, and confidence gained through the Career and College Promise program. With a strong foundation and a clear sense of direction, she is ready to continue pursuing her goals.

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