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CCCC Employee of the Month!

Full-Time Employee of the Month: Leslie Oldham

"Leslie Oldham is amazing and genuine! She is one of the best instructors I know. Anytime someone (faculty or staff) is having a bad day, she always goes above and beyond to leave a note of encouragement on their desk. She is the ultimate self-esteem builder, which makes her such an amazing teacher."

"Leslie shows up for work 30 to 45 minutes early (everyday!) and always leaves late. She even works on the weekend most of the time (I have seen the emails!). If a student needs her, she is always available even after office hours."

"She has an amazing eye for detail, which explains why she is such an amazing cosmetic arts instructor. In addition to her incredible talent, you will never hear her complain. Leslie takes on projects without being asked and turns everything she touches to gold! She lives by the saying Leave it better than how you found it.' She is always organizing or re-organizing our inventory for better efficiency (she has made a night-and-day difference!)."

"Leslie is a 'go-getter'--she is the type of person that volunteers to take PD classes that are offered throughout the year (way more than the recommended hours). She flew all the way to California (expenses not covered!) to take a state-of-the-art nail course so that she could be taught by the best and in return share her knowledge with our students here at CCCC. I know that my explanation of Leslie's awesomeness does not do her justice..."

"Leslie is such a wonderful morale booster to us all. I nominate her in hopes that we can lift her up as she does us every day!"

Leslie Oldham

Cosmetology Instructor

How long have you worked for CCCC?
As an Instructor Trainee, I started substitute teaching, and as soon as I graduated I was offered an adjunct position teaching nail technology in Siler City in the fall of 2017. I was then offered a full-time position as a Cosmetology Instructor in the spring of 2018 on the LMC, which I gladly accepted.

What brought you to CCCC?
My love for Cosmetology. I've been a Realtor in Lee County now for nearly 20 years, but my childhood dream was to be a cosmetologist. One day I looked at my husband and said, "It's now or never." So, we got in the car, drove to CCCC and I enrolled in the cosmetology program. Side note: I received my Salesperson License and my Broker License from CCCC (hint).

Describe what you do for CCCC.
It's an honor to say that I am a Cosmetology Instructor. I teach theory online and teach the practical portion face-to-face. I also maintain the Cosmetology Inventory. To date, I have taught all courses offered in the Cosmetology curriculum. With that said, our students have a rigorous course load. They learn anatomy, physiology, infection control, chemistry, electricity, skin structure, nail disease and disorders, manicures, pedicures, hair color, hair lightening, chemical services, and many other course topics. So this is a good opportunity for me to give kudos to our students who work so hard for their diplomas and for the chance to work in this wonderful industry to enhance the lives of their future clientele. This industry is an act of service and these students have a heart to serve.

Where did you grow up?
Northern VA

Where do you live now?
Sanford

Educational credentials?
Associate Degree in Applied Science, Cosmetology License, Cosmetology Instructor License, Real Estate License.

Tell us about your family!
I could talk all day about my family. I tell people I am married to the greatest man I know, Jeff Oldham. We will celebrate 29 years of marriage this year. Jeff Oldham is my superhero and my biggest cheerleader. I am so proud to call him my husband and my best friend. We have two children--Crystal Stratton and Matthew Cox. Crystal, and her husband Ron, have two children. Nathan is 10-years-old and Ava Grace is 7-years-old. Matthew and his wife, Lauren, have two children. Truett is 4-years-old and Thomas Milton is 16-months. I am so proud of them. They are great parents, hardworking individuals with a heart to help others, and they are some of the nicest adults and kids you'll ever meet (not bragging)!

What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
Well, I am a worker bee, so when I am not working, I enjoy hanging out with my family. "Sleepovers" with the grandkids, taking walks with Jeff, or jumping in the truck and just driving. I also enjoy singing.

What superhero power would you most like to have?
I would like to be like Dash on the Incredibles. Dash possesses superhuman speed, agility, and stamina.

Which actor would portray you in a movie about your life?
Farrah Fawcett. When I was younger, I used to wear my hair like Farrah Fawcett. She was an incredible actress.

What is your favorite meal?
Any meal my husband cooks is my favorite meal. I would have to say, though, my favorite meal would be a Thanksgiving meal joined by family and friends.

Anything else you'd like to share with the CCCC family?
I am blessed to be here at Central Carolina Community College. My Lead Instructor, Cathy Woelfle, is a great mentor and my co-workers are super! We are family. A well-oiled machine. We work great together; sharing ideas, lesson plans, and doing what it takes to ensure the students who leave our care are well equipped to not only pass the State Board, but to succeed in this ever-changing field of Cosmetology.

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WOW! WHAT A TEAM!

National Financial Literacy Month

April has been designated by Congress as National Financial Literacy Month. CCCC is promoting this annual event to increase employees' financial wellness. We invite you to attend a Finance Financial Wellness Series workshop and browse our resources for acquiring good financial habits.

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CCCC Employee & Guest Annual Golf Tournament

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U.S. Congressman Ted Budd Visit

U.S. Congressman Ted Budd (N.C. 13th Congressional District) visited the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center on Thursday, March 25, for a presentation to Lee County Health Director Heath Cain and the Lee County Health Department for their efforts in the ongoing COVID-19 vaccination clinics held weekly at the civic center. Central Carolina Community College appreciates the Lee County Health Department for its outstanding assistance in the vaccination of our employees as well as area citizens. Thanks also to the Lee County Emergency Services and the Lee County Sheriff's Office for their assistance.

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Virtual NC Problem Gambling Screening Day

CCCC will be hosting a Virtual NC Problem Gambling Screening Day on Tuesday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to noon. This will be a virtual event and students, faculty, and staff can pop in at any time to complete a free screening tool and to learn more about NC Problem Gambling Resources. If interested, click here to join virtually on Tuesday, March 30.

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2021 Student Awards Nominations

It is that time of year to get your nominations together for the 2021 Student Awards. This year instead of having a form to print, sign, and then send in, the form is now set up as a Google form.

Once your areas have decided on your students, please complete the Google form by Friday, March 26. These names will be reviewed for spelling and then students will be sent a certificate from the school along with a congratulations letter.

We appreciate you taking the time to nominate your outstanding students in your programs and we look forward to receiving these. Below you will see the details for the awards as well as the Google form link.

How to award:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IZLDEoDcsjrBuQRrc-7Pz24QKlq7jG2RZl7j198YH-A/edit?usp=sharing

Google nomination form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOMPFrE3aW1-_-cgYz5cD27c0g_1jE-gjmkmz9Y69Od8R2vQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

Thanks for all that you do for our students!

Your Go Cougars Crew,
Student Awards Committee Team

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Purchasing Deadline: April 1

Purchase requisitions for supplies, materials, and equipment must be received by the Purchasing Office on or before April 1, 2021. All requests received after this time, will be returned to the VP for the requesting division. These requests will then be re-evaluated July 1, 2021, and if still required, items will be charged to the budgets for the new fiscal year and requisition re-submitted.

Please see additional information below:

1. Departments should review recurring items that come up after the April 1 date (accreditation payments, renewals, membership dues, subscriptions, etc.) and submit a requisition for these items by the April 1 deadline. An estimated amount may be included, if an actual amount is not known at this time.

2. Please also monitor your budgets and project travel costs that will be incurred prior to June 30, 2021.

3. You also need to plan ahead to ensure that you have toner cartridges for your printers to last until the start of the new year in July.

4. All items should be received and invoices paid on or before June 8, 2021. See update above.

5. Please be sure requisitions contain part numbers, colors, etc., if required, for items being requested. Also, please confirm pricing and lead times for all items to make sure you will be able to receive them prior to the end of our fiscal year, June 30, 2021. A copy of your quote should always be attached to the e-requisition.

6. For supervisors, please make sure that you work with employees in your area, in order to meet the deadlines provided in this email.

7. **Note: (individuals working with County, Institutional or Grant Funds should have e-requisitions submitted by April 30). Requisitions received after this date make it difficult to finalize orders, receive, pay invoices, and balance before the end of our fiscal year.

In advance, thank you for your cooperation in making our year-end closing run smoothly.

If you have any questions, please contact Mike Spivey at mspivey@cccc.edu or (919) 718-7398.

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It's Game Time!

Please join us as we celebrate Campus Fund Drive! As part of our "Foundation Fridays," on April 23, we are partnering with The College Agency Entertainer & Speaker crew as they host a hilarious game of "Text Breakers" Virtual Game Show. Click to sign up now!

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College Success Center Updates

Leveraging the Power of Success Coaching

Success Coaching is a point of pride for CCCC, and research demonstrates the benefits of intrusive and appreciative advising techniques. Knowing that, how can faculty and staff leverage the power of success coaching? See the graphic below for some ideas on ways to partner with a Success Coach today!

Bring it on Finals: Test-Taking Strategies Workshop

With final exams around the corner, The College Success Center is offering a special workshop for your students based in the development of test-taking skills. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to be exposed to new test taking strategies that can help them achieve academic success. Students will meet virtually with the Success Coach team to discuss keys to test preparation, how to strategically approach different kinds of exam questions, and learn effective ways to manage testing anxiety. If you know of a student that could benefit from attending this workshop, please encourage your students to RSVP to attend the Thursday, April 15, workshop.

Got Questions?
If you are interested in learning more about success coaching here at CCCC and how to begin working with the Success Coach team, please reach out to the College Success Center at success@cccc.edu. We are ready to meet your needs and look forward to continued partnerships in student success!

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Spring at Biltmore!

Take advantage of this wonderful savings opportunity for CCCC employees! Beginning April 1 through Sept. 30, Biltmore is offering CCCC employees the Biltmore Enhanced Experience. This experience provides a more immersive opportunity for guests to learn about the lives of the Vanderbilt family, their guests, and the employees who worked in the home, as well as a closer look at the architectural marvels of Biltmore House and the collection of antiques, fine art, and elegant furnishings throughout America's Largest Home(R).

Save when you purchase your tickets at biltmore.com/corporateperk

using our promo code: cccc (case sensitive)

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PERSONNEL NOTES

Welcome New Employees!

New employees as of Feb. 28

    Christina Piard, Director of Corporate Outreach

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Thank You

Thank you CCCC family and friends for the flowers, cards, food, visits, and expressions of sympathy during the passing of my grandmother. Your thoughtfulness and kindness will always be remembered.

Nicole Crissman

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2021 Pay Dates

MONTHDUE DATEPAY DATE
March March 10, 2021 March 31, 2021
April April 9, 2021 April 30, 2021
May May 10, 2021 May 28, 2021
June June 3, 2021 * June 30, 2021
July July 8, 2021 July 30, 2021
August Aug. 10, 2021 Aug. 31, 2021
September Sept. 10, 2021 Sept. 30, 2021
October Oct. 8, 2021 Oct. 29, 2021
November Nov. 10, 2021 Nov. 30, 2021
December Dec. 2, 2021** Dec. 21, 2021

* Payroll is due EARLIER due to fiscal year end
** Payroll is due EARLIER due to early pay date in December

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Miles for Wellness Challenge 23

by Human Resources

Miles for Wellness Challenge 23: Traversing the Southern Capitols of the United States runs from March 15 - May 9 and encourages state employees to stay active and connect online with teammates while completing a virtual trek to 16 state capitols. Each location is rich in both history and contemporary stories, and features beautiful and unique architecture.

The Challenge 23 virtual trail begins at the North Carolina State Capitol and travels across the southern United States before finishing up back home in North Carolina at the State Legislative Building. Along the way, participants can make virtual stops in locations from Virginia to Arizona, all while promoting a healthy lifestyle and interacting with others.

For more information and registration, visit the Miles for Wellness Challenge 23. For questions, please contact milesforwellness@nc.gov.

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Birthdays

Birthday list provided by Human Resources

3/25 Billie Thompson
3/26 Peggy Cotten
3/26 Ken Hoyle
3/26 Michelle Sroka
3/27 Martha Wilkie
3/28 Erin Blakeley
3/28 Karen Brown
3/28 Bill Freeman
3/28 Christopher McNeill
3/30 Percy Crutchfield
3/30 Fernanda Perry
3/30 Lorraine Whitaker
4/1 Robert Barnes
4/1 James Smith
4/2 Greg Hamm
4/2 Lisa Knight
4/2 Ashley Stevens
4/4 Dawn Gregory
4/4 Cristy Holmes
4/5 Juan Gonzalez-Venegas
4/5 Latasha McIver
4/5 Sara Newcomb
4/5 Thomas Price Jr.
4/6 Shatea McNeill
4/8 Jamie Ferguson
4/8 Denise Johnson
4/9 Armintrus Downey
4/9 Lillian Hatton
4/9 Justin Pedley
4/12 De-Ven Atkinson
4/12 Kelly Baird
4/12 Vanessa Csch
4/13 Corey Niles
4/14 Stanley Taylor
4/17 Rodney Boykin
4/17 Charity Turner
4/18 Ashley Riley
4/20 Kasey Patterson
4/20 Crystal Way
4/21 Kassandra Lyles
4/21 Lisa Smelser
4/22 Isaac Smith
4/24 Toni Williams
4/25 Wendy Cotten
4/25 Tyra Johnson
4/25 Jack Oglesbee
4/26 MontE Christman
4/26 Jessica Ingram
4/27 Clarissa Miller
4/28 Teresa Brown
4/30 Pam Byrd

If you would prefer not to be listed or if your name does not appear as you'd like, please email marketing@cccc.edu and let us know!

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News From The CCCC Family

Please read the full obituary in the College's staff announcements.

We sadly want to inform everyone of the passing of Mr. Victor Lee Davis, age 71, of Lillington, who passed away March 8. He was the husband of one of our retiree's, Vivian Davis who worked in the bookstore. A private funeral service was held at Antioch Baptist Church. Memorials may be made to Antioch Baptist Church, P.O. Box 525, Mamers, N.C. 27552. Let's keep Vivian and her family in our thoughts and prayers.

We sadly want to inform everyone of the passing of John Dalrymple, former Vice President for Administrative Services from 1990-1998, who passed away on March 3. John worked at CCCC for over thirty years beginning as a Business Administrative and Accounting instructor. He was a dedicated employee who was recognized by his peers when he was chosen for an Employee of the Year award. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.andrewsmortuary.com.

Please join the college in sending our deepest condolences to Sandra Castonguay, Electronics Engineering Technology Lead Instructor, who lost her stepmother, Kathleen Dennis McWaters. Online condolensces can be expressed on the Smith Funeral Home website. Please keep Sandra and family in your prayers.

We sadly want to inform everyone of the passing of Chef Minter's mother, Ms. MInnie Regina Minter, age 60, of Sanford, who transitioned into eternal rest on Sunday, Feb. 28. The service was held at Lee Memory Gardens in Sanford. Let's keep Chef Minter and her family in our thoughts and prayers.

We sadly want to inform everyone that Jimmie Boggs' sister, Mrs. Geneva Boggs Griffin, age 75, of Mamers, N.C, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 28. A private family service was held. Please keep Jimmie and his family in your thoughts.

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Cougar Kudos

We love recognizing our peers in our college family! In addition to our Annual Awards and Employee of the Month program, don't forget about Cougar Kudos.

Cougar Kudos is a quick and anonymous way to send a note of appreciation or a pat on the back directly to a colleague. You can find the link on the CAE homepage. A little note of appreciation goes a long way!

*Your name and email address will be kept confidential and not sent with your message.

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FACULTY AND STAFF ONLINE

COUGAR PETS

Cougar Pets News

Cougar Pets are proceeding with adoptions for all of our animals who are already spayed/neutered. If the animal hasn't been spayed and neutered, then we notify the applicant that we will hold them until PPE resources become more readily available, and we can get the animal into surgery or we can suggest alternative pets that may have similar qualities for what they are looking for.

We are not able to host any meet-and-greets right now, so we are doing adoption trials in home with pets that we think might be compatible. If they aren't a good fit for the household, then we can pick them up.

Meet Kelly


Cougar Pets

Kelly

My name is Kelly and I'm 10-months-old. Things I enjoy include playing with my kitty friends and chasing toys around the room. I'm a big cuddle bug and I will give you lots of love. I hope to find my perfect home soon.

Kelly is available for adoption!

Meet Jude Paw

Cougar Pets

Jude Paw

My name is Jude Paw. I am 1-year-old, and I am so much fun! I love to go on walks and play with both my furry friends and human friends! Squeaky toys are my favorite. After a long day of playing and learning need tricks and commands, I love to cuddle up and snooze. I cannot wait to find my furever home.

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

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CCCC-BAY

Things Wanted, For Sale, or For Free!

CCCC-Bay is happy to post your unneeded, unwanted, or unused items in Cougar Bytes! Send an email (photos would be great) to Marketing at marketing@cccc.edu and we will feature in next month's publication.

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CONTRIBUTE

Contribute to Cougar Bytes

Send along your Cougar Bytes contributions!

Our monthly Cougar Bytes newsletter focuses on staff and faculty. We welcome your images of the campuses, staff and faculty successes, events, and shout-outs in each issue. Please submit your contributions to marketing@cccc.edu with any questions or suggestions.

The deadline for contributions is April 21 for the April issue. Upcoming issues:

April 23
May 28
June 25
July 23
Aug 27

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The next issue of COUGAR BYTES will be published on Friday, April 23, 2021.