IN THIS ISSUE

Cougar Champions

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

August Cougar Champion: Neil McGowan

Neil McGowan
Graphic Artist/Multimedia Specialist

How long have you worked for CCCC?
15 years this September.

What brought you to CCCC?
It has been my dream since 10th grade to work in art. CCCC has been the best place I can imagine to grow in that way! Plus my co-workers are the best!

Describe what you do for CCCC.
I promote different areas of the college upon request to help get the information into the hands of the public, but more than that I highly value CCCC students and co-workers and try to be nice to everyone.

Where were you born?
I was born in Defiance, OH, which is near Toledo, OH, and Fort Wayne, IN.

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small, modest neighborhood, on the outskirts of a town of about 30,000 people. There were about 500 students in my senior graduating class.

Where do you live now?
I live in High Point near Jamestown, which is about an hour from Lee Main Campus where I work. That's 25 minutes from my parents, so my son gets to spend time with them about once a week!

Educational credentials?
I went through a five-year program called Visual Communication Technology at Bowling Green State University in Ohio and graduated with a Bachelor of Science.

Tell us about your family!
I have a wife Lorie who is Filippino, so I get to go to a lot of Filippino parties and eat a lot of good food, but if they bring Blood Stew to the party, I skip over that.

I have a son who is seven years old and he is very bright. If you met him, he'd probably tell you right off the bat that he skipped a grade in school. I would then tell him to shush.

I have a mom, dad, two sisters, two brother-in-laws, two nephews, and a niece. They all live nearby – and holiday get-togethers are very entertaining!

What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
I enjoy percussion. I've kept up with it over the years and find it very interesting. Someday I hope to be in a cool band, but I don't have anybody to practice with right now.

I also enjoy making cosplay swords, shields, and whatnot from foam that is shaped and painted, but it's been a while since I created anything. Right now, my son and I are working on creating a board game in our spare time.

Who is one of your favorite fictional characters and why?
Superman was always one of my favorites. I was an 80s baby and my dad and I enjoyed watching Christopher Reeve.

What is your favorite meal?
Crab legs are my favorite. The only thing better than crab legs is an all-you-can-eat buffet of crab legs.

Anything else you'd like to share with the CCCC family?
Thanks to all of you for making my time at CCCC so nice! I value you all.

Part-Time Cougar Champion of the Month!

July Cougar Champion: Brad McDougald

Brad McDougald

Athletic Director and Men's Basketball Coach

What brought you to CCCC?
What brought me to CCCC was an opportunity to coach the men's basketball team back in 2015. I had just finished my second year as a high school coach, with the hopes of getting an opportunity at a higher level. With community being super important to me, I thought what a great opportunity and have been here ever since.

Where were you born?
I was born and raised here in Sanford. I've been here my entire life other than my college years and one year in the Dominican Republic. Community means a lot to me, and I have been blessed to be able to help many young people over the years with athletics. Sports are a major part of my life, and have blessed me in many ways.

What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
I enjoy playing golf, spending time with family and friends, playing softball…anything sports related.

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WOW! WHAT A TEAM!

CCCC 9/11 Commemoration Event

In partnership with CCCC's Academic and Cultural Enrichment Series, the college held a community-wide 9-11 Commemoration Educational Presentation Video screening on Sept. 11th at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center. Those in attendance included CCCC faculty and staff, CCCC students and those from area schools, as well as community members and first responders.

In seeking to broaden our understanding of the day's events, its aftermath, and reflect on where we are today, CCCC's own History Instructor Robert Barnes shared an educational presentation on the tragic day's events and its aftermath. Bianka Stumpf, CCCC's Lead Social Sciences Instructor, provided a moving closing that reminded us all to "look for the helpers." This allowed a time for many to reflect on the role of our community's first responders, veterans, and those military affiliated. Let us be committed to supporting these individuals not just at events such as this, but all throughout the year. Thank you, Mr. Barnes, Ms. Stump, and ACES for your commitment to exceptional learning for all!

Veterans Upward Bound Program also had the privilege of recognizing many community and CCCC first responders, veterans, and those who are military affiliated during this year's 9-11 Commemoration. Morning refreshments were provided at the CCCC Emergency Services Training Center, the Harnett Main Campus, and the Chatham Main Campus in acknowledgment of the commitment, service, and sacrifices of this distinct population.

There will be many more opportunities to get involved in support of our first responders, veterans, and those military affiliated. If you have any questions, or would like to volunteer to assist in future events, please contact Jennifer Dillon, CCCC's Director of the Veterans Upward Bound Program and Military Initiatives, (919) 718-7561 or jdillon@cccc.edu.

CCCC Director of Veterans Upward Bound and Military Affiliated Initiatives Jennifer Dillon, said during the CCCC 9/11 Commemoration event: 'I hope we all leave learning something new and feeling connected.'

Bianka Stumpf, Central Carolina Community College Social Sciences Lead Instructor, gives her memory of Sept. 11, 2001, during the CCCC 9/11 Commemoration event.

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VUB Awards and Recognition Banquet

Veterans Upward Bound recently had the privilege of recognizing its program participants for their active participation during the 2022-2023 programming year at this year's VUB Awards and Recognition Banquet.

This year's theme was "Veteran Entrepreneurship." Program participants not only enjoyed a lovely meal provided by CCCC's own culinary department, stepped up to spin the fun prize wheel, but also gained valuable insight into the journey of business ownership and received some valuable resources available to veterans within the state of N.C. Two guest speakers from the N.C. Veterans Business Association joined us and provided the participants a plethora of information and fellowship. Many participant friendships and professional relationships were forged.

Veterans Upward Bound would like to thank CCCC's TRiO Student Support Services and the N.C. Veterans Business Association for their support. All throughout the year, there are opportunities for you to join in celebrating and honoring current and former United States military service members and their families. Your continued support and appreciation in action is vital to ensuring the success of our Veteran students, active military students, and their families. Please contact Jennifer Dillon, Director of the Veterans Upward Bound Program and Military Initiatives, (919) 718-7561 or jdillon@cccc.edu, to explore how you can get involved.

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HBCU Block Party at CCCC

The inaugural Historically Black Colleges and Universities transfer event was held Sept. 20 on the Lee Main Campus in Sanford. Thanks to Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina Central University, Saint Augustine's University, Shaw University, and Winston-Salem State University for their participation in this event.

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Staff Ambassadors at the CCCC Foundation Annual Lee Golf Classic

Images of our college staff ambassadors at the CCCC Foundation Annual Lee Golf Classic on Sept. 20.

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Carolina Meadows Award

The CCCC Department of Health and Professional Programs recently received the Excellence in Innovation Award for its partnership with Carolina Meadows and the CNA Scholars Program.

Pictured are, left to right: Kevin McLeod, CEO - Carolina Meadows; Joleen Dunson, Director of Home Care - Carolina Meadows; Jason Haskins, Director of Health and Professional Programs - CCCC; Shelli Giardino, VP of Human Resources - Carolina Meadows; Gregory Singleton, Dean Workforce and Continuing Education Programs - CCCC; Sandy Mouras, Assisted Living Administrator - Carolina Meadows; and Ben Cornthwaite, COO - Carolina Meadows. Not pictured are Beverly Brock, Nurse Aide Coordinator - CCCC, and Kristen Tarpey, Nurse Aide I Instructor - CCCC.

The Leading Age Award honors those that showcase excellence in mission-focused aging services and merit national recognition. During the recognition, Mr. Haskins spoke about how grateful he and his team are to be a part of this community partnership.

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Siler City Hispanic Heritage Fiesta

Central Carolina Community College and mascot Charlee Cougar were proud to participate in the Siler City Hispanic Heritage Fiesta on Saturday, Sept. 16.

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Pregnant 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.

Medical Sonography is in need of volunteers so that students 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 each Wednesday at 4 p.m. through Nov. 22. Details are available at (919) 718-7489.

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Dr. Phillip Price Farewell Celebration

A farewell celebration honoring Dr. Phillip Price (center) was held Tuesday, Sept. 12, at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center in Sanford. Dr. Price served Central Carolina Community College since 2013 and recently became Vice President and Chief Finance Officer of the North Carolina Community College System.

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Car Show

The CCCC Automotive Restoration program participated in the Triple Crown Charity Car Show on Sept 9. The Porsche Club of America Hurricane Region presented a scholarship to student Mackenzie Mitchell. The CCCC class made Route 66 signs as door prizes.

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AdvanceNC

N.C. Governor Roy Cooper, N.C. Community College System President Dr. Jeff Cox, University of North Carolina System President Peter Hans, and N.C. Association of Workforce Development Boards President Rodney Carson joins with officials from 10 community colleges, two universities and six workforce development boards to celebrate the beginning of the AdvanceNC regional workforce development partnership. The event was held Thursday, Sept. 20, at CCCC's E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center in Sanford.

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Views From Around CCCC

Scene from the CCCC Student Farm!

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STUDENT ACTIVITIES and EVENTS

Psychology Majors Organization

Our first meeting is Sept. 24! If you know students who intend to transfer to a college or university after CCCC, they may wish to consider being a psychology major. Let students know they can join the Psychology Majors Organization. Students will have access to the best colleges for psychology, university contacts, how to get a scholarship, learn how to be accepted into a psychology program, and more. The group meets once a month from noon - 12:30 p.m. virtually. We have guest speakers presenting information about careers in psychology and other careers.

The following are the fall meetings:

Sept. 24, Speaker Dr. Ali, Should You Major in Psychology?
Oct. 19, Speaker Abby Reynolds, Art and Yoga Instructor
Nov. 16, Speaker Regina Teresi, Psychiatric Nurse UNC

For more information, contact Timothy Barnes at tbarn857@cccc.edu or David Malenick at dmale558@cccc.edu.

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CCCC YouthBuild News

A big SHOUT OUT to Central Carolina Community College YouthBuild - James, Lauren, Cameron, Brianna, and the YouthBuild Culinary Arts participants who are featured this month in the Central Carolina YouthBuild newsletter and social media

"Central Carolina YouthBuild Culinary students crushed their cooking final with Chef Diana! On July 27, five students cooked and displayed authentic Peruvian foods and drinks for a set panel. Thank you, Central Carolina Culinary Institute, for working with our students and helping grow them."

~ Central Carolina YouthBuild (Facebook Page)

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Future Organic Farmer Scholarship

Angelina Oliva, a student in the Central Carolina Community College Sustainable Agriculture program, won a scholarship from the CCOF Foundation and is featured in their most recent newsletter. She is also a U.S. Army veteran and is working with CCCC on a USDA project called TOPP -- Transition to Organic Production Partnership.

Read the full article.

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HFS Class - Sanford Steps Out

Ashley Szilvay, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent with the N.C. Cooperative Extension office in Lee County, spoke to the Central Carolina Community College Health & Fitness Science students Tuesday, Sept. 19, about the Sanford Steps Out campaign and their possible role with it. She also spoke about her background in sports nutrition at Virginia Tech that led to her current position -- so students were able to get some job insights, university options, as well as the opportunity to give back to the Sanford community.

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PERSONNEL NOTES

New and Changing Employees at CCCC

Updates as of Sept. 1

August New Employees

  • Marsha Himes - Administrative Assistant
  • Jason Springer - Business Technologies Instructor
  • Anozie Nebolisa - Information Technology Instructor
  • Margaret Provost - Accounting Instructor
  • Clyde Shafer - Spanish Instructor
  • Ryan Cobb - Electrical Systems Technology Instructor
  • Don Miller - Associate Dean of Academic Advising and Transfer
  • Oscar Hernandez - YEA Juntos Coordinator
  • Jessica Blanchard - AR/CR Accountant Supervisor
  • Jaclyn Mendez - Veterinary Medical Technology Instructor

August Position Changes

  • Alex Little - Student Outreach and Recruitment Coordinator
  • Jarett McLamb - Biotechnology Instructor
  • Patricia Anderson - Executive Director, Industry Services
  • Eric Butler - Maintenance Supervisor (Lee County)
  • Doug Wells - TRiO Upward Bound Assistant Director (College & Career Readiness)

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Birthdays

Birthday list provided by Human Resources

9/22Stormy Mascitelli
9/21 Donald Miller
9/23 April Hammonds
9/23 Junious Surles
9/23 Ben R. Thomas Jr.
9/24 John Ainsworth
9/24 David Baker
9/24 Joel Oldham
9/24 Sarah Tart
9/25 Liz Wicker
9/26 Kelly Brucker
9/26 Denise Martin
9/27 Lora Long
9/27 Cesar Villalta
9/28 Julie Francis
9/29 Christopher Brewer
9/30 Emma Belcher
9/30 Jason Springer
10/1 Felicia Crittenden
10/1 Kris Rixon
10/2 Daniel Tomita
10/2 Amber Werkheiser
10/3 Lantz Lackey
10/5 Deana St. Peter
10/5 Nutan Varma
10/6 Timothy Barnes
10/6 Oscar Hernandez
10/7 James Dalrymple
10/7 Randy Foxx
10/7 Danny Furr
10/8 Jalen Cheek
10/8 David Haire
10/9 Chester Holder
10/9 Summerlin Webb
10/10 Leslie Oldham
10/10 Marlon Wellington
10/11 Kevin Whitley
10/13 Charlie W. Bell, II
10/13 Jesse Jasso
10/14 Brian Godfrey
10/14 Farrell Moose
10/16 David Barron
10/16 Nicole Lofton
10/17 Anna Hoel
10/21 Craig Ciliberto
10/22 Jim Johnson
10/23 David Foster
10/24 John Thomas
10/25 Falecia Simmons
10/27 Samantha Lane
10/30 Anozie Nebolisa
10/30 Amy Whitmer
10/31 Crystal Smith
10/31 James Thomas

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

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Holiday Calendar 2023-2024

Download the CCCC Holiday Calendar.

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News From The CCCC Family

It is with sincerest sympathy that we let you know that Pamela White Hunter, 72, of Sanford, passed away on Sept. 6, surrounded by family. Pamela was an English teacher at Central Carolina Community College. Learn more about Pamela and leave condolences at Rogers-Pickard Funeral Home website. Please keep her family in your thoughts.

It is with deep regret that we announce that Genease Ann (Babb) Fields, 84, of Sanford, passed away on Sept. 6, surrounded by family. Genease was a director with the Central Carolina Community College Foundation for over 27 years and served as Treasurer. Learn more about Genease and leave condolences for the family at to Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home. Please keep her family in your prayers.

It is with heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Cris Oliver's mom, Judy Lewandowski, 82, of Apex, on Aug. 24, surrounded by family. Please keep Cris and family in your prayers. Learn more about Judy and leave condolences for the family at Apex Funeral Home.

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CCCC-BAY

Things Wanted, For Sale, or For Free!

Casa di Carter!

If you ever need a place to store your in-laws when they come to visit, check out this gem!

Casa di Carter sleeps 12 and is located in Carthage, about a 30-minute drive from campus. The house offers historic charm while the town itself has several options for dining and shopping; we even have a brewery opening soon! Golfers- we're booking now for the US Open next summer! Contact Mary Schmid Carter at mschmid@cccc.edu with any questions.

View at: www.airbnb.com/h/casadicarter

This is a great time of year to sell some things! CCCC-Bay is happy to post your items in Cougar Bytes. Send an email (photos would be great) to Cris Oliver at coliver@cccc.edu and we'll feature in the next publication.

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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 Comic Sans

My name is Comic Sans. I am a super cuddly guy who loves head-scratches. You can just call me every 4th grader's favorite cat! I am very pleasant and well-rounded.

Comic Sans

Cougar Pets

Meet Radar

My name is Radar. I am a social little guy who can be a little nervous at first, but I become very excited when I realize that I have just made a new friend! After a nice walk, I like to relax under the shade of a tree.

Radar

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.

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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.

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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, Oct. 13, by 5 p.m. for the next issue. Upcoming issues:

  • October 20
  • November 17
  • December 15

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