IN THIS ISSUE

Cougar Champions

Submit your nominations for full-time and part-time Cougar Champion of the month.

Full-Time Cougar Champion of the Month!

December Cougar Champion: Nathan Stevens

Nathan Stevens
Professional Development Coordinator

How long have you worked for CCCC?
One year and one month.

What brought you to CCCC?
Opportunity for continued growth and to be able to work with more areas of the college to promote the growth of others.

Describe what you do for CCCC.
As the Professional Development Coordinator, I work to schedule PD sessions for staff and faculty.

Where were you born?
Raleigh.

Where did you grow up?
Raleigh.

Where do you live now?
North Raleigh.

Educational credentials?
Dual B.S. in Design and Manufacturing and M.S. in Digital Communications.

Tell us about your family!
Parents live in Raleigh and are retired. Susan works as a scanner tech at Charles River Research. Noah attends CCCC in the automotive program and Samson is a junior at Enloe High School.

What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
I like growing, building and creating. We have a garden that grows all sorts of vegetables.

Who is one of your favorite fictional characters and why?
I like any character that is an anti-hero. I also like recipe books as we are always looking for new food ideas.

What is your favorite meal?
I like almost anything that is smoked. Pulled pork is my favorite.

Part-Time Cougar Champion of the Month!

December Cougar Champion: Trevor Bradian

Trevor Bradian

Adjunct Instructor - Mechanical Engineering Technology

How long have you worked for CCCC?
Since August 2016.

What brought you to CCCC?
I have taught at the middle school and high school levels and always hoped to add teaching in a community college to my list of work experiences. When the position in Computer-Aided Technology opened, I jumped at the opportunity.

Describe what you do for CCCC.
Since retiring from full-time with the college at the end of 2019, I have been primarily teaching CAD classes and filling in with other courses in the MET program as needed.

Where were you born?
Sharon, Pa.

Where did you grow up?
Sharon, Pa.

Where do you live now?
Sanford, N.C.

Educational credentials?
B.S. in Industrial Education from Appalachian State University.

Tell us about your family!
My wife, Jackie, and I have been married for 42 years. We have three adult children, two live in Sanford. The other lives in Reston, Va. We also have six grandchildren.

What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
I enjoy woodworking and play around as a wannabe maker in 3D printing. I also enjoy cooking, fly fishing, hiking (primarily the mountains), and spending time with the kids and grandkids as time allows.

BACK TO TOP

WOW! WHAT A TEAM!

Door Decor Contest

Get ready to spread new year cheer during January by participating in our Door Decor contest! Choose one of three themes and handcraft your door decorations (no Print Shop help!). The themes are:

  • Winter Wonderland
  • Happy New Year
  • Your Career Community

Doors must be decorated before Jan. 31. Email a picture of your original, handcrafted door decoration to Deana St. Peter before Jan. 31 to submit your door for judging. The winner for each theme will win a "door of the year" trophy. See flyer for more details.

BACK TO TOP

Automotive Restoration receives trailer from Jay Leno!

Thanks to American television host, writer and comedian Jay Leno and Texas Pride Trailers, the CCCC Automotive Restoration program has received a heavy duty trailer to be used to transport vehicles.

While many people may know Leno from his 22 seasons on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, he is a passionate vehicle collector and is well-known for his show Jay Leno's Garage.

Read the full story!

BACK TO TOP

Sustainable Technologies Building Honors Dr. George Lucier

CCCC has dedicated the Sustainable Technologies Building on the CCCC Chatham Main Campus in honor of Dr. George Lucier. An event to commemorate the naming took place on Wednesday, Nov. 29.

Dr. Lucier has been an active member of the CCCC Board of Trustees and the CCCC Foundation.

Read the full story!

BACK TO TOP

David S. Heesacker Featured on MoneyGeek

MoneyGeek recently published an article featuring expert advice from our own Steve Heesacker. Roman Esparrago from MoneyGeek stated, "His commentary was a huge asset to our new business insurance study!"

Read the full article: General Liability Insurance Coverage

BACK TO TOP

First Day of Spring Classes

BACK TO TOP

Personal Training on the Lee Campus

The Health and Fitness Science program will be operating Personal Training on the Lee Campus, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11-11:50 a.m. in the Spring 2024 semester, starting Jan. 23 and ending April 25. Sessions will be conducted only in the Powell Hall gym, cardio lab and weight room.

This is a semester-long commitment to one personal trainer where you will come in and have a series of anthropometric measurements, as well as testing in muscular strength, muscular endurance and cardio fitness. Subsequently, along with your trainer, you will establish SMART goals to work on during the semester.

Many HFS programs in N.C. charge for these services in upward of $150 per week for participation by faculty and staff, however, we do not as we want invested college employees who are in it for the experience of aiding our HFS students earn their degrees while also benefiting their own wellness journey.

There are 13 slots available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Again, as this is a semester-long commitment to a student, please consult with your supervisor about their willingness to allow you to work with a student and perhaps utlizing your lunch time on those days to exercise.

Please send Dr. Carl Bryan an email at cbryan@cccc.edu to claim a spot. Thanks!

BACK TO TOP

Sonography's OB Class Volunteers Needed

Volunteers needed! If you are between 22- and 32-weeks along in a pregnancy, the Medical Sonography students at CCCC’s Keller Health Sciences building would like your help. They need volunteers so that they can develop their skills in performing ultrasounds. Participants may be able to receive pictures. Proof of having had an 18-week complete anatomy ultrasound is required. Services are offered on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and Wednesdays at noon, Jan. 24 - April 10. Details are available at (919) 718-7489.

BACK TO TOP

Central Carolina Community College 2023 Accomplishments

Download and view some of the many 2023 Accomplishments of Central Carolina Community College!

BACK TO TOP

Healthy Foods and More to Kick Off 2024

The Culinary Arts department held a professional development session on Jan. 4 to help staff kick off their New Year with healthy recipes. Staff enjoyed preparing winter kale salad with maple balsamic vinaigrette dressing, spaghetti squash, BBQ sandwich and a refreshing cranberry mocktail.

If you have an idea you want our staff to teach, please submit using our Google Form here.

BACK TO TOP

Blood Drive at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Converence Center

HR is hosting a blood drive for faculty, staff, friends, and family on Thursday, Feb. 8, from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center in Conference Room 111. We want to encourage all to sign up for a time with the link provided in the flyer.

BACK TO TOP

Women's Business Summit

The Women's Business Summit was held Jan. 16 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference Center. Event highlights included inspiring stories from successful women leaders, interactive workshops, networking opportunities, panel discussions and participation, and direct engagement with seasoned businesswomen. This dynamic event was hosted by the Central Carolina Community College Small Business Center with financial support from NC IDEA.

BACK TO TOP

Public Safety Career Panel

Thanks to the panelists—and to all who attended—the Central Carolina Community College Public Safety Career Panel on Jan. 17 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference Center in Sanford, N.C.

BACK TO TOP

Wellness Winner

Elaine Wilderson, Library Technical Services Assistant, is the winner for the Wellness Wednesday--Thanksgiving edition. During the Wellness day, Elaine did multiple activities including: a walk with her dog, decorating her house, and much more. For her commitment to her wellness, Elaine won a $25 Amazon Gift card from the Foundation. Thanks to all who participated in the challenge!

BACK TO TOP

CCCC REGULARS

WWGP Radio

Listen live to WWGP Radio

Thanks to WWGP Radio and Margaret Murchison (left) for recently hosting Dr. Carl Bryan (right), Health and Fitness Science Department Chair.

Thanks to WWGP Radio and Margaret Murchison (right) for hosting Terri Brown (left), CCCC Small Business Center Director, on Wednesday, Jan. 10.

Thanks to WWGP Radio and Margaret Murchison (right) for hosting Kelvin Hunt (left), CCCC Director of Student Outreach and Recruitment, on Wednesday, Jan. 17.

BACK TO TOP

News from HR

Tickets at Work

BACK TO TOP

News From The Library

by Jessica Thomas, Lee Main Campus Library Programming Assistant

Lee and Harnett Highlights

Faculty & Staff Short Story Book Club
Time/Date: Jan. 26 at 1 p.m.
Location: Zoom

The short story for January 2024 is Ron Rash's "The Leg You Save May Be Your Own. (You'll notice that this title is a reference to Flannery O'Connor's "The Life You Save May Be Your Own," which we have read before!) Want to join the book club? Email Morgan at mpruitt@cccc.edu to receive the Google calendar invite.

Words on Wheels @ Harnett Main Campus
Time/Date: Jan. 29
Location: Harnett Main Campus

Morgan will be out and about on campus to bring the library to you! Have questions? Want Morgan to stop by your office with books? Email Morgan at mpruitt@cccc.edu. Be sure that you have your ID card so that you can check out books!

Words on Wheels @ Lee Main Campus
Time/Date: Jan. 31
Location: Lee Main Campus

Jessica and Elaine will be taking the "Words on Wheels" cart to Lee Main Campus faculty and staff offices on the last Wednesday of each month (excluding holidays). From YA and graphic novels to popular fiction and nonfiction, there's a little bit of something for everyone!

All the Buzz about Bee Hotels
Time/Date: Jan. 30 at 10 a.m.
Location: Zoom

What's all the buzz about bee hotels? Come and learn about these fascinating structures and how they help to protect bees! Join NCSU Professor Elsa Youngsteadt and Meredith Favre of the N.C. Cooperative Extension in Lee County in a discussion about what bee hotels are, what purpose they serve, and how they can help bees. To learn more about bee hotels, check out the library's guide on bees and conservation. Registration for this event is required. Email Morgan Pruitt at mpruitt@cccc.edu with any questions.

Chatham Community Library Highlights

Virtual Reality Drop-in
Time/Date: Jan. 20 from 2-4 p.m.
Location: Holmes Family Meeting Room

The UNC Center for European Studies is excited to offer EU in NC Roadshows to bring Europe to you! Come out and tour Europe with our VR headsets, learn about the relationship between U.S. and European politics, and make connections between N.C. communities and the globe. This event will take place in the Holmes Family Meeting Room. No registration necessary.

Drop-in Computer & Tech Assistance
Time/Date: Second Thursday of each month from 3-4:30 p.m.
Location: Chatham Community Library Computer Lab

Do you have a computer or technology question? Need to learn how to add page numbers in Microsoft Word, download an app, or use library eBooks? Visit Chatham Community Library's computer lab for one-on-one assistance on the second Thursday of each month, any time between 3-4:30 p.m. No registration required.

Music of the Circle with Eric Bannan
Time/Date: Feb. 10 at 10 a.m.

Led by songwriter and storyteller Eric Bannan, this workshop is for anyone interested in being more confident and connected and opening new creative pathways in their lives. Participants will playfully integrate voices, body percussion, and simple movement in a way that builds community and teaches cooperation. Based on the work of Bobby McFerrin and Brazil’s Música do Circulo collective, this judgment-free workshop welcomes beginners as well as those with experience. Registration required.

Author Event: Kianna Alexander’s “Carolina Built”
Time/Date: Feb. 17 at 10 a.m.

In recognition of Black History Month, North Carolina native Kianna Alexander discusses her novel, Carolina Built, which tells the story of Josephine N. Leary, who is determined to build a life of her own and a future for her family. When she moves to Edenton, N.C, from the plantation where she was born, she is free, newly married, and ready to follow her dreams. As the demands of life pull Josephine’s attention away, it becomes increasingly difficult for her to pursue her real estate aspirations. She finds herself immersed in deepening her marriage, mothering her daughters, and being a dutiful daughter and granddaughter. Still, she manages to teach herself to be a businesswoman, to manage her finances, and to make smart investments in the local real estate market. But with each passing year, it grows more and more difficult to focus on building her legacy from the ground up.

Library Event Calendars

Want to know what else is happening in the Lee, Harnett or Chatham Library this semester? Keep an eye on the Lee and Harnett Library Events Calendar and Chatham Events Calendar for events that interest you!

BACK TO TOP

STUDENT NEWS and EVENTS

Did you know that the Suspension Policy has changed?

See below for some highlights that might be helpful in advising students.

  • A student who continues to achieve below 2.0 cumulative and semester GPA after 2 consecutive semesters as noted on the official transcript will be suspended for one semester.
  • Students can be readmitted after one term of suspension by meeting with their Education Navigator. During this meeting, the Education Navigator will complete a Success Plan with the student and also schedule two additional follow-up meetings throughout the semester. They will focus on reviewing and updating the Success Plan, determining needs throughout the semester, and review their progress toward successfully completing courses.
  • Students will no longer have to meet with their Department Chair, VP of Student Services, or Dean of SOS to complete a Readmission Form.
  • Students will also receive some automated encouragement through the semester from their Advisor, and Dean.

If students reach out to you, please connect them directly to their assigned Education Navigator. Questions? Contact Adam Wade at awade@cccc.edu.

BACK TO TOP

CCANS is making a difference!

It is with excitement that we highlight the accomplishments, community involvements, and plans of the Central Carolina Association of Nursing Students (CCANS). This dedicated group of students has not only excelled academically, but has also demonstrated a strong commitment to community service and leadership in nursing.

Throughout the Fall semester, CCANS members actively participated in several community outreach initiatives. CCANS students volunteered their time, creativity, and energy at the Haven 22nd Annual No Scare Fair. They helped create a safe and enjoyable experience for the community. CCANS students also supported the CCCC Angel Tree program for 2023. Together, the students organized a fall food drive and donated to the CCCC Ruby McSwain Cougar Market. Additionally, members of the student organization volunteered with the Bread Basket of Sanford.

CCANS is gearing up for the state and national annual conventions with the North Carolina Association of Nursing Students and the National Student Nurses Association. This exciting opportunity will provide our students with valuable insights, networking and leadership opportunities, and resources to help prepare them for licensure and entrance to the workforce.

We want to take this opportunity to celebrate CCANS involvements and future opportunities. Their contributions to both our college community and our local community are a testament to their commitment to excellence, compassion, and service. We are excited to witness CCANS continued growth, success, and community partnerships. Together, let us support and celebrate the remarkable impact our nursing students are making within our college and beyond.

If you are interested in donating to the Central Carolina Association of Nursing Students, to support their community outreach efforts and attendance to state and national conventions, use this Foundation link or visit the Foundation website. Please include in the Special Instructions note "CCANS."

BACK TO TOP

New Student Orientation

Welcome2CCCC New Student Orientation were held at the CCCC Chatham, Harnett, and Lee Main Campuses. Spring classes began Jan. 8. Here are scenes from one of the orientation events.

BACK TO TOP

Student Event Calendar

We are encouraging everyone at the college to add your student events to the calendar!

BACK TO TOP

FAFSA Event

The Financial Aid Office will host a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Day from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 27, 2023, at the CCCC Academic Assistance Center (Marchant Hall), Lee Main Campus, 1105 Kelly Drive, Sanford. CCCC Financial Aid staff will assist families in completing the 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Please register for FAFSA Day as soon as possible at https://ow.ly/XtQX50Qp1hM. Read more about FAFSA Day at www.cfnc.org/pay-for-college/fafsa-day.

Students and parent(s) should complete an FSA ID application at www.studentaid.gov prior to the event. Please also be prepared and bring your 2022 tax and asset information.

For more information, call (919) 718-7229 or email finaid@cccc.edu.

BACK TO TOP

PERSONNEL NOTES

New Employees and Position Changes

Updates as of Jan. 1

Welcome!

December New Employees

  • Laura Boyles - Institutional Research Analyst
  • Tarrell Pugh - Custodian (HMC)
  • Jessica Scott - Criminal Justice Instructor
  • Jason Zimmerman - Grounds Technician (LMC)

December Position Changes

  • Karen Minter - Administrative Coordinator

Congratulations!

BACK TO TOP

Birthdays

Birthday list provided by Human Resources

Happy Birthday
to each of you!

1/19 Nathan Lindsay
1/20 Kaylen Bryan
1/22 Mary Burke
1/23 Kimberly Dresser
1/24 Richard Love
1/24 Abby Walker
1/24 Jason Ziebart
1/26 Mary Schmid Carter
1/27 Walter Creswell
1/27 Ben Falero
1/27 Tina Godbey
1/27 Mark Hall
1/27 Joshua Johnson
1/27 Laura Musselwhite
1/29 Pam McKoy
1/31 Faye Miller
2/1 Latoya Brower
2/1 Brianna Clark
2/2 Carol Johnson
2/2 Justin West
2/3 Jessica Couture
2/5 Major Best
2/5 Vicky Clark
2/5 Leslie Matthews
2/6 John Lavere
2/7 Clyde Shafer
2/8 Brandon Davis
2/9 Kristi Short
2/11 Kelly Klug
2/12 Sabine Collins
2/12 Alexandria Little
2/14 Gary Beasley
2/14 Barbara Campbell
2/14 Kaleigh Gibson
2/15 Haley Thomas
2/16 Doris Jackson
2/17 Robin Smith
2/19 Keisha Christian
2/19 Chuck Guin
2/21 Gina Jones
2/21 Elaine Wilderson
2/24 Janice Heller
2/25 Diana Brown
2/25 Heather McKenzie
2/26 Joelle Chase
2/26 Regina Minter
2/27 Sylvester King
2/28 Lisa Matthews
2/28 Chesure Tate
2/28 Lauren Winkens
2/29 Dave Malenick

If you prefer not to be listed or if your name does not appear as you'd like, please email Cris Oliver.

BACK TO TOP

Calendars 2024

Download the CCCC 2024 Pay Dates

Download the CCCC Holiday Calendar

BACK TO TOP

News From The CCCC Family

It is with sadness we announce the passing of former employee, Dr. Joseph Morgan. Dr. Morgan joined CCCC as the Associate Dean of the Evening Program. In 2000, he retired after 25 years of service to the community college system. Please read more or leave condolences at Knotts Funeral Home.

BACK TO TOP

CCCC-BAY

Things Wanted, For Sale, or For Free!

Happy New Year! CCCC-Bay will be happy to post those items you'll be clearing out! Send an email (photos are great) to Cris Oliver at coliver@cccc.edu and we'll help you clear out!

BACK TO TOP

COUGAR PETS

Cougar Pets

Cougar Pets is a local animal rescue group housed on the Lee Main Campus. As part of the Veterinary Medical Technology program, our animals help teach veterinary technician students essential skills that will help future animals. All of the animals are rescued from shelters, and all are adoptable.


Cougar Pets

Meet Alani

Fun fact, my name means "orange tree" in Hawaiian! I am a quiet girl, but when I want to play, I definitely will! Nothing beats a good catnap and a few treats. I would love to live the "island" life with you! Aloha.

Alani

Cougar Pets

Meet Spanky

When it comes to easy-going dogs, I am a hard dude to beat. I love to meet new people and can be a tiny bit timid at first, but I warm up very quickly. I really like getting attention and love from my human friends. If you come meet me, you definitely won't be disappointed!

Spanky

See all of the adoptions, or rather Happy Tails of Cougar Pets.

All adoptable dogs and cats are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on all vaccines. They have regular dental cleanings, blood work, and physical exams. We pride ourselves on the care that our cats and dogs receive during their stay. Contact www.cougarpets.org for more information on our colony dogs and available cats.

BACK TO TOP

College Salon Services

The mission of the Barbering and Cosmetic Arts Department at CCCC is to provide quality education and learning experiences for Barbering and Cosmetic Arts students.

For this reason, all services are available to faculty and staff. Services are performed exclusively by students under the supervision of Barbering or Cosmetic Arts instructors.

See all Salon services.

BACK TO TOP

CONTRIBUTE

Contribute to Cougar Bytes

Send along your Cougar Bytes contributions about our wonderful faculty and staff! We welcome your images, staff and faculty successes, events, and shout-outs in each issue. Submit your contributions to Cris Oliver in Marketing at coliver@cccc.edu.

Deadline for contributions is Friday, Feb. 16, by 5 p.m. for the next issue. Upcoming issues:

  • February 23
  • March 22
  • April 19

BACK TO TOP

The next issue of COUGAR BYTES will be published on Friday, Feb. 23.
Flashback to Dec. 2008