SANFORD, N.C. - Donors and scholarship recipients were recognized during the Central Carolina Community College Foundation Scholarship Luncheon on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center.

The Master of Ceremonies for the event was Bishop Charles Mellette, Senior Pastor of the Christian Provision Ministries and CCCC advocate. The theme of the event was "Building a New Future" - a celebration of the transformative power of scholarships in supporting education and bright futures for our students.

Mellette acknowledged special guests and supporters who have helped make scholarships possible.

Mellette, in his closing remarks, said: "I want to extend our deepest thanks to every donor, supporter, and partner who has made these scholarships possible. You are not just providing funds; you are providing opportunities, hope, and a foundation for students to build a new future."

Ebony Cole (Health Information Technology), Scholarship recipient of the Cherri Erford Turbeville Scholarship, noted: "As a single parent, returning to school has been challenging financially, mentally, and physically. Applying for the Foundation scholarship was a leap of faith, and when I learned I had been chosen, it was one of the happiest moments of my life. This scholarship has lifted a tremendous burden from my shoulders, allowing me to focus on my studies and move closer to my dreams."

She thanked the giver of the scholarship, Dr. Stan Turbeville, saying that his support has made this journey possible. "You have given me more than just financial assistance -- you have given me hope, encouragement, and the opportunity to create a better future for my family," said Cole. "To the Foundation, thank you for believing in me and for all you do to uplift students in our community. To my fellow recipients, congratulations -- may we continue striving toward our goals and making a difference."

Meghan Brown, CCCC Vice President of Advancement, Operations, and Government Relations, read a prepared statement from Olivia Jaimes (Cosmetology), scholarship recipient of the James French Dreamkeeper Fund, who was unable to attend. Jaimes noted the variety of jobs that she has held - but noted that she found her passion in cosmetology. "This field allows me to connect with people, helping them feel better about themselves and, hopefully, making their day a little brighter. The beauty industry has an amazing power to touch lives, and it's a privilege to train for a career that I believe can make a real difference in people's lives."

She added, "This scholarship has been a beacon of hope, a reminder that people out there believe in me and my future. ... To all the donors here tonight, thank you for making scholarships like this possible. Your generosity has a profound impact on students like me -- students who have a dream to build a better future not only for themselves but for their families and communities. Because of your support, I am closer to my goal of finishing my degree and, one day, opening a salon where I can provide jobs and help others on their journeys. Thank you so much for this opportunity, for your belief in our dreams, and for helping us build a brighter future."

Brown, in her closing remarks, expressed her gratitude for those attending. She said that the generous scholarship donors were fueling dreams and transforming lives.

Dr. Emily C. Hare, CCCC Foundation Executive Director, provided welcoming remarks. "Today, we come together to celebrate generosity, perseverance, and the power of education to transform lives," said Hare.

"To our donors, thank you for your unwavering support. Your commitment to our students and to the mission of this institution is truly inspiring. Because of your generosity, countless dreams have been realized, and so many lives have been changed for the better," said Hare. "This event is about more than just scholarships -- it's about the impact your kindness has on our students, who are the future leaders, innovators, and changemakers of our community. Your belief in them fuels their potential and creates opportunities where there might have been none.

"To our scholarship recipients, congratulations on your achievements. Today, we honor your hard work, dedication, and resilience. You inspire all of us with your determination to overcome challenges and strive for excellence," said Hare.

Invocation was by Tana Boerger, CCCC Foundation Board Chair.

The meal was provided by CCCC's Central Carolina Culinary Institute.

For downloadable photos from the event, visit: www.cccc.edu/foundation/photo-galleries/galleries/20241120-Scholarship-Lunch.

The CCCC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization affiliated with, but independent of, Central Carolina Community College. It receives donations of money and equipment on behalf of CCCC and uses them to promote the educational mission of the college and assist students through scholarships and grants.

For information on giving to the Foundation or its fund-raising events, contact Dr. Emily C. Hare, Executive Director of the CCCC Foundation, 919-718-7230 or ehare@cccc.edu.