Instructor Spotlight Archives - 91�첥

Celebrating a Career of Care

Paula Vess — Thu, 28 May 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Celebrating a Career of Care

Spotlights

May 28, 2026

Share on

After 25 years of dedicated service, Lee Ann Mayse, clinical coordinator and instructor in the Radiography program, is retiring. At the Radiography program’s pinning ceremony on May 11, graduates and colleagues honored Lee Ann and thanked her for her years of commitment to her students and the College.

It was a full circle moment for Lee Ann. A 1992 graduate of 91�첥’s Radiography program, Lee Ann began her journey in some of the same classrooms and clinical settings where she would later become an instructor and mentor for others.

Following her graduation, she spent seven years at Cleveland Regional Medical Center, where she worked as a radiographer in Radiology and Mammography. It was there, while working alongside students during their clinical rotations, that she discovered an unexpected passion for teaching.

“I never thought I’d be in education, but I grew to love it” she reflects. “When you see students come in knowing nothing and watch them grow into confident radiographers, it makes your day.”

Lee Ann joined 91�첥 as a clinical instructor and has had an active role in the program’s growth over the years. As enrollment and clinical partnerships expanded, she became the program’s first clinical coordinator. Her leadership ensured that students received high-quality, hands-on learning experiences across a variety of clinical environments.

Over the course of her career, Lee Ann has witnessed remarkable advancements in radiography technology. As a student, she learned in an era of film-based imaging, developing X-rays by hand in a darkroom. Today’s students train using digital radiography, where images are available instantly.

“It’s changed so much,” she says. “We used to take an image, go to the darkroom, and wait to see if it turned out. Now, you know immediately.” She adds that although the technology has evolved, the science and fundamentals remain the same.

Regardless of the technological advancements and changes, Lee Ann’s focus has always remained on preparing students to think critically and adapt, skills that serve students throughout their entire careers.

And that’s where she finds the greatest reward, in those breakthrough moments with students. “X-ray is hard. There are so many variables,” she explains. “But when the light bulb goes off and you see it in their face, that’s the best moment. When everything starts to click.”

She has a particular appreciation for helping students overcome early struggles, like how to move the equipment and learn the controls. “Machines at different clinical sites may look different, but they operate the same way. Watching students finally grasp how to adjust and adapt is rewarding.”

As she prepares for retirement, Lee Ann says she will miss the everyday connections that made 91�첥 feel like home. “We have the best hallway,” she says with a smile. “We talk, we laugh, we support each other. I’ll miss that, and I’ll miss the students.”

Looking ahead, Lee Ann plans to enjoy a well-earned retirement filled with travel, relaxation, and more time with her family—and Hank, her beloved dog.

Lee Ann’s years of dedication, encouragement and compassion have guided hundreds of radiography students over the years, and her impact will continue to be felt through the work of all those healthcare professionals she helped shape.

Share on

The post Celebrating a Career of Care appeared first on CCC.

Turning Up the Heat: 91�첥’s HVAC Program Enters a New Era

Paula Vess — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

News

Turning Up the Heat: 91�첥’s HVAC Program Enters a New Era

Spotlights

February 19, 2025

Paula Vess

Share on

Matthew Pasley began his journey in the HVAC field during high school in Kentucky. Although he had the option to graduate early, a school counselor suggested he take HVAC classes instead. He decided to spend his senior year learning about heating and cooling systems. Although he didn’t enter the profession immediately, he recognized that having a trade background provides a solid foundation for many career paths.

In 2010, Matthew moved to North Carolina and was working in a factory when he decided to revisit his HVAC training. He enrolled in night classes at Gaston College and earned his diploma in HVAC. Over the next decade, he built a strong foundation in the industry, working for two companies, including TRANE in Charlotte. His experience there involved gaining valuable skills in different mechanical systems, troubleshooting techniques, and programming.

Although the job at TRANE offered significant learning opportunities, it required extensive travel. Eventually, Matthew transitioned to Clearwater Paper (now Sofidel). While working there, he enrolled at 91�첥 and earned his Associate in Applied Science in Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology. At 91�첥, he met Russ Hamilton and learned about his upcoming retirement. After careful consideration, Matthew applied for the teaching role and was ultimately hired.

Bringing Real-World Knowledge to the Classroom

For Matthew, teaching is more than a job; it’s a chance to share his love for learning and problem-solving.

“Understanding how HVAC systems work and why they function that way ultimately leads to effective troubleshooting,” he explains. “When you know how something should function, you can figure out how to fix it. I want to instill in my students the ability to break down complex issues.”

In addition to technical skills, Matthew aims to introduce students to the many career paths available in the HVAC industry.

“There are more opportunities than just being a technician,” he says. “HVAC can be a steppingstone to engineering, project management, and other advanced roles. People should consider the long-term possibilities.”

Matthew believes HVAC is an excellent field for those who are curious about how things work, love science, and are interested in real-world problem-solving.

“HVAC is making a significant impact in the world in many ways,” he says. “If you want to understand how things function, this is a great career path.”

With his extensive industry experience and passion for education, Matthew Pasley is poised to inspire the next generation of HVAC professionals at 91�첥.

Share on

The post Turning Up the Heat: 91�첥’s HVAC Program Enters a New Era appeared first on CCC.

A Legacy of Care and Knowledge

Paula Vess — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 18:23:54 +0000

News

A Legacy of Care and Knowledge

Spotlights

December 2, 2024

Paula Vess

Share on

After nearly five decades of dedicated service in nursing and nursing education, Avis Morrow is preparing to embrace a new chapter of life. At the end of this year, she will retire, having spent the last ten years shaping the next generation of nurses. With warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication, Avis has cared for patients and inspired countless students to enter the world of healthcare.

In 1977, Avis graduated from 91�첥 as an LPN and started working at Kings Mountain Hospital, where she cared for patients for 19 years. After working in pre-op at Cleveland Ambulatory Services for 12 years, Avis decided to return to nursing school. She attended school in the evenings and on weekends through the Foothills Nursing Consortium, graduating in 2006, at age 50, as an RN. “When I became an RN, it was like a celebratory thing for everyone who knew me,” she shares. “They wanted me to succeed, and I wanted to do it for them, too.” This pivotal moment marked a turning point, solidifying her passion for nursing and personal growth. So, in 2014, Avis returned to the Foothills Nursing Consortium as an instructor.

Avis has witnessed firsthand the evolution of healthcare, from hand-written patient charts to the digital systems used today. “I still think the hand-written chart is better,” she says. “We’ve lost some of the details about our patients. But there’s a lot to say about what we’ve come through.”

While she’s proud of her career, some of Avis’s fondest memories come from her early days at KMH. “We were like family,” she recalls. “We knew everyone’s name and their family. It was a wonderful place to work.” This sense of camaraderie and connection has followed her into her teaching career, where she found joy in guiding first-year nursing students. “When I start talking to them, they all have that deer-in-the-headlights look,” she says, smiling. “It’s my job to teach them the nursing language and the jargon. When they start using those terms and speaking them back to me, I can’t help but smile.”

The impact of her mentorship is evident. Students often return to thank Avis, crediting her guidance for their success. “The way I’ve been received, I’ve always felt like I’m in the right spot,” she says. That sense of belonging and her passion for teaching made her transition from nurse to nursing instructor natural.

As she steps into retirement, Avis looks forward to a life free from schedules and the constant push to “be productive all day.” She’s excited to spend more time with her four grandchildren—two near Greensboro and two near Brevard—and to travel. Her next dream destination? Alaska, following a milestone trip to Hawaii for her 50th wedding anniversary earlier this year. “I just want to be free to go when I want to,” she says. “It’s a freedom I’m excited to experience.”

Beyond family and travel, Avis plans to volunteer, possibly as an exam proctor in local schools. She also hopes to rekindle her love for quilting, focusing on creating cozy lap quilts.

As 91�첥 bids farewell to Avis Morrow, her legacy as a compassionate nurse and dedicated educator will remain. She leaves behind a career marked by excellence, and generations of nurses better prepared to make a difference in the world—just as she has.

Share on

The post A Legacy of Care and Knowledge appeared first on CCC.

Celebrating Al Dunkleman’s Legacy: A Journey of Second Chances and New Beginnings

Kendra Haneline — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:35:00 +0000

News

Celebrating Al Dunkleman’s Legacy: A Journey of Second Chances and New Beginnings

Spotlights

November 15, 2024

Kendra Haneline

Share on

Allen “Al” Dunkleman has spent more than two decades fostering a love for learning and encouraging students to persevere, no matter their background or challenges. A Sociology instructor at 91�첥 since 2002, he is preparing for his last day in the classroom, at least as a full-time instructor. He’s making a “vocational transition” (he doesn’t like the word retirement) at the end of this year.

Al’s story is one of resilience and determination. At 36, he found himself at a crossroads, feeling that he “didn’t have the right stuff” for college. That all changed when a retired educator from his church stepped in. The educator, not taking no for an answer, called Al one day and announced he was picking him up and driving him to Virginia Highlands Community College where the retired educator introduced Al to faculty and counselors. He ensured that Al was enrolled in his first three classes before they left. That was the spark Al needed.

Working full-time and taking night classes, Al completed his two-year degree over four years, a journey that ignited his love for learning. Over a period of about 11 years, Al earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. “Sometimes, it takes more determination than IQ,” he says, reflecting on the long journey that eventually brought him to 91�첥.

For Al, community college is not just a stepping stone—it is a place of hope. “The community college in Virginia gave me a second chance to make a first impression,” he shares.

Inspired by the mentors who supported him during his own education, Al made it his mission to do the same for his students. “I had so many instructors who helped pull me up,” he says. “That’s what I’m trying to do, reach down and pull these kids up.” He hopes to carry that philosophy forward even as he retires.

He has big plans. Among them is to build a space where he hopes to teach young people the joy of working with their hands. Using reclaimed wood and other materials, Al envisions small groups of kids learning to use their hands and build something, like birdhouses with license-plate roofs. He wants to inspire young people to find the same excitement he felt as a child making things. “I’m returning to my childhood, and I want to help kids get excited about making things,” he says with a smile.

Al has seen incredible changes over his years in education, from the rise of technology to shifting classroom dynamics. Reflecting on the challenges of modern teaching, he notes, “Keeping up with technology has been the biggest challenge.” From computers to online learning platforms like Blackboard, he has adapted, though he admits that if he could just teach without the tech, he would. He credits many of his colleagues with helping him learn new skills along the way.

One of his most cherished memories comes from the fall of 2020, when he taught a small group of high school seniors during a challenging, pandemic-era semester. Masked and socially distanced, Al developed a close bond with the class, who had been together since kindergarten. “They were some of the sweetest kids,” he recalls fondly. On the last day, all the girls hugged him, and the boys shook his hand—a simple but heartfelt gesture of appreciation that left a lasting impression. As he steps into this new chapter, Al Dunkleman leaves behind a powerful legacy at 91�첥. His story—one of second chances, resilience, and unyielding commitment to his students—will continue to inspire generations of learners. With plans to build his woodworking center and teach evening classes for adults at the Arts Council, Al’s journey in education is far from over. “It’s surreal to think it’s time,” he says of his upcoming retirement. And though he may be stepping away from the classroom, he’ll always be a teacher at heart, ready to reach down and pull up the next generation.

Share on

The post Celebrating Al Dunkleman’s Legacy: A Journey of Second Chances and New Beginnings appeared first on CCC.

Russ Hamilton Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Inspiring Students at 91�첥

Kendra Haneline — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 13:56:59 +0000

News

Russ Hamilton Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Inspiring Students at 91�첥

Spotlights

October 30, 2024

Kendra Haneline

Share on

Russ Hamilton, a long-time HVAC instructor at 91�첥, is set to retire after 22 years of impacting students’ lives.

Originally on a different career path, Russ’s journey into teaching took an unexpected route. After being discharged from the Navy, Russ worked the third shift at a local company. After 10 years working on the night shift, he was ready for a change and enrolled at 91�첥 to earn his diploma.

When he was asked to teach some basic electrical classes, Russ was initially reluctant, but once he began teaching, his interest in the profession grew. Eventually, he applied for a full-time position and made teaching his career. Over the years, he says he has enjoyed watching students who come in with very little knowledge about HVAC and seeing the change in them when things suddenly begin to make sense, and they begin to understand. But the best part, he says, “is seeing them go out, get a job, and improve their lives.”

Looking back, one of Russ’s fondest memories involves helping a student who suffered a severe stroke toward the end of the fall semester. He worked with the student to ensure he graduated on time. This student’s achievement was especially significant to Russ because he was the first HVAC associate degree program graduate. Expanding the HVAC program to include an associate degree was one of Russ’s favorite accomplishments.

Russ has witnessed considerable changes in the HVAC field, especially in technology. Equipment has evolved from analog to computer-controlled systems, requiring more advanced skills and an understanding of digital controls. The constant evolution of technology means that even as an instructor, learning never ends. “You have to keep learning to stay one step in front of your students.”

One of the most significant changes Russ has enjoyed seeing in recent years is making the program available to high school students through the busing option with Cleveland County Schools. “Watching them learn about HVAC, even though they may not go into the field is a pleasure,” he says, “and I do get to see some of them go out into the field or continue their education.”

Russ goes on to say that he believes “that is the way of the future for recruiting technicians, getting the high school students into these programs.”

Russ and his wife, who is also retired, are looking forward to this next chapter of their lives. They plan to travel, particularly to revisit England and see what has changed since they lived there while Russ was in the Navy. They’ve already enjoyed road trips out West and plan to explore the New England states and spend more time with their daughters, who live in Raleigh. Russ also plans to stay active in his community by volunteering at his church and doing maintenance projects there.

Reflecting on his time at 91�첥, Russ says, “I have enjoyed working here greatly. I’ve made a lot of friends over the 22 years that I’ve worked here.”

Russ will finish his final semester as a full-time instructor at 91�첥 in December. We wish him well. Happy Retirement Russ!

Share on

The post Russ Hamilton Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Inspiring Students at 91�첥 appeared first on CCC.

Office Administration Program, Stepping Stone to Success

Paula Vess — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000

News

Office Administration Program, Stepping Stone to Success

Spotlights

February 29, 2024

Paula Vess

Share on

Frances Kniceley is the Department Chair for the Office Administration program at 91�첥. She has worked at the College since 2005, but before she became an employee, Frances was a student. She says deciding to enroll at 91�첥 was the turning point in her work life, setting her on a path to a career she loves. Below is her story.

My story begins back in the 1980s when I was working in a lighting plant soldering electrical outlets, among other things. I decided that I wanted to do a different type of work. I wanted a professional position in an office setting, so I enrolled at 91�첥 and chose the office administration program.

Once I began taking classes, I was fully engaged with the coursework and the instructors while I was still working full-time at the electrical plant. One day, one of my instructors told me about an available office job at a local company. I hadn’t completed the program yet, but my instructor suggested I apply for the job. I was hired the same day I went for an interview.

Immediately, I became aware of the difference in the atmosphere and the people who worked there. These people were professionals and acted their part. This was the type of work environment I wanted, so I worked hard.

The opportunity to advance in my new position happened quickly. I was hired part-time, but within a month, I was asked if I wanted a full-time position. I accepted it and worked in that position for six months. Then, I was asked if I was interested in further on-the-job training for a different position.

That opportunity took me in a slightly different direction than office administration, and eventually, it led me back to 91�첥 and the opportunity to teach others the skills that helped open doors for me. I went back to school because I wanted to work in an office. I had no idea that choice would give me the opportunity to move into a totally different career that I hadn’t even considered but now absolutely love.

Today, I have a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. I have been at 91�첥 for almost 19 years and truly love teaching. The best part is being able to help my students the way my instructor helped me when local companies call looking for good office employees.

Sometimes, I tell this story to my students to help them understand that starting out in an office administration position does not limit them. The skills learned in the office administration program are a great foundation for many career paths. Office administration jobs are often entry-level positions but can provide a path to higher-level jobs. For those willing to work hard, an office administration position is a stepping stone and sometimes it can even lead to a totally different career, like it did for me.

Find out more about the Office Administration program at 91�첥 and discover the possibilities for your future.

Share on

The post Office Administration Program, Stepping Stone to Success appeared first on CCC.

Meet Vincent Mates, Instructor

Paula Vess — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 17:24:50 +0000

News

Meet Vincent Mates, Instructor

Spotlights

March 2, 2023

Paula Vess

Share on

Vincent Mates has been a part-time instructor at 91�첥 for six years. He typically teaches courses in electronics, electrical and automation technology.

Mates is originally from Chicago, Illinois, but moved with his family to Georgia when he was eight. He now lives in Kings Mountain.

He graduated from York Technical College in Rock Hill, South Carolina, with an associate degree in Electronics Engineering and has several additional certifications. He’s worked in the technology sector for more than 25 years, mostly in electronics and industrial and commercial training. When an opportunity to teach at 91�첥 presented itself, he said it seemed like a good fit. “I somehow always became the go-to guy when the company needed an instructor for training sessions.”

“My favorite thing about teaching,” he continued, “is knowing that I have played some role in helping other people better their lives. I love to convey information that students have not been exposed to, and I enjoy the feeling I get when I see their lightbulbs come on. I admit that I teach for these very selfish reasons. I think I get as much out of the experience as the students.”

From personal experience, Mates also understands how the skills his students are learning may impact other people. He was a field engineer for a communications company when 9-11 happened. A few days later, he volunteered to help keep all communication lines open at ground zero. “I spent days walking on what was dubbed ‘the Pile’ with emergency workers as they looked for survivors, and sadly, those who did not survive,” said Mates. He received an award for his service during that time, and although he was honored, he said it was bittersweet.

Share on

The post Meet Vincent Mates, Instructor appeared first on CCC.

Dr. Fealita Prunty

Paula Vess — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 18:58:02 +0000

News

Dr. Fealita Prunty

Spotlights

February 16, 2023

Paula Vess

Share on

Spotlight

Meet Dr. Fealita Prunty, Criminal Justice Instructor

Dr. Fealita Prunty joined the 91�첥 family about six months ago. Although she has extensive experience, this is her first year teaching Criminal Justice. She has worked as a training supervisor for Piedmont Airlines, a tutor and a substitute teacher.

Her credentials include two bachelor’s degrees, one from The University of Virginia’s College at Wise and one from Liberty University. She has two master’s degrees in criminal justice, one from Liberty University and one from Walden University, and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice and Higher Education from Walden University.

Originally from Virginia, Dr. Prunty now lives in Gastonia with her mom, her daughter and several pets, including a Goldendoodle named Rose.

Share on

The post Dr. Fealita Prunty appeared first on CCC.

Meet Nicholas Inman, Math Instructor

Paula Vess — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:30:00 +0000

News

Meet Nicholas Inman, Math Instructor

Spotlights

September 30, 2022

Paula Vess

Share on

Nicholas Inman joined 91�첥’s faculty in 2022 as a math instructor. Originally from Michigan, Inman moved to Cleveland County to teach math at Kings Mountain High School, after graduating from Saginaw Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education. In 2018, he earned a Master of Science in Mathematics from UNC Charlotte.

“I had never heard of Cleveland County before I moved to the area in 2011 as a 22-year-old new teacher,” said Inman. “All I knew was that it was relatively close to Charlotte, not too far from Asheville, and that KMHS was going to give me a chance as a math teacher. That decision to move has turned out to be the right one. I gained some amazing friends, taught/coached some fantastic student-athletes, continued my education, and met my amazing wife. I have enjoyed becoming a part of the community and am excited to now be a Yeti!”

Share on

The post Meet Nicholas Inman, Math Instructor appeared first on CCC.

Instructor Spotlight Archives - 91�첥

Celebrating a Career of Care

Celebrating a Career of Care

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Turning Up the Heat: 91�첥’s HVAC Program Enters a New Era

Turning Up the Heat: 91�첥’s HVAC Program Enters a New Era

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

A Legacy of Care and Knowledge

A Legacy of Care and Knowledge

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Celebrating Al Dunkleman’s Legacy: A Journey of Second Chances and New Beginnings

Celebrating Al Dunkleman’s Legacy: A Journey of Second Chances and New Beginnings

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Russ Hamilton Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Inspiring Students at 91�첥

Russ Hamilton Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Inspiring Students at 91�첥

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Office Administration Program, Stepping Stone to Success

Office Administration Program, Stepping Stone to Success

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Meet Vincent Mates, Instructor

Meet Vincent Mates, Instructor

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Dr. Fealita Prunty

Dr. Fealita Prunty

Spotlight

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Meet Nicholas Inman, Math Instructor

Meet Nicholas Inman, Math Instructor

Related Posts

Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future