SANFORD -- Anna Burby, of Olivia, is Central Carolina Community College's nominee for the Dallas Herring Achievement Award.

The award is established by the North Carolina Community College System to honor the late Dr. Dallas Herring, whose philosophy of "taking people where they are and carrying them as far as they can go" is the guiding principle of the system. The award is given annually to a current or former community college student who best embodies Dr. Herring's philosophy.

Burby has received two degrees from CCCC - an Associate in Science degree in May 2013 and an Associate in Arts degree in December 2013.

"CCCC gave me opportunities I would not have had at other four-year institutions. Without the flexibility of my course schedule, I would not have been able to work part time to put myself through school," said Burby. "When I first arrived at the college and was looking for work, my Chemistry instructor told me about the tutoring positions in the Academic Assistance Center, where I worked for the remainder of my career at CCCC."

She currently is a student at N.C. State University, where she is majoring in natural resources with a concentration of ecosystem assessment.

Burby notes that she would like to obtain her master's degree - and perhaps become an instructor at the community college level.

"There is no telling which career path I would have chosen if I had not been fortunate enough to attend Central Carolina Community College and gain much support from faculty and staff members," said Burby. "I can only hope that one day I can give students as much help and support as my community college gave to me. CCCC truly took me from where I was - and continues to carry me as far as I can go."

Scott Byington, CCCC's Math, Science, and Wellness Chair, said Burby in many ways embodies the philosophy behind the Dallas Herring Award. "She has been able to utilize her community college experiences to not only advance her education but to transform herself and refocus her dreams," said Byington. "Through her experiences at CCCC, Anna identified new goals and is working toward them at N.C. State. Anna has made the most of her experience at CCCC and, as a result, she is most prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Anna is a talented, motivated young woman who has inspired students and faculty who have worked with her."

Anna is the daughter of Rhonda Cox and William Burby, both of Harnett County.

For more information on Central Carolina Community College, visit www.cccc.edu.