October Cougar Champion: April Raines

April Raines
Education Navigator

How long have you worked for CCCC?
Three years.

What brought you to CCCC?
My love for adult learners.

Describe what you do for CCCC.
My role as an Education Navigator is to be a resource for students and provide guidance, listen and assist with navigating them through their academic journey. I also assist with aligning students’ academic goals with personal and career goals. My other role as a CCCC Staff Ambassador provides me an opportunity to give back to CCCC in a service-based way.

Where were you born?
North Carolina and moved two weeks later to San Diego.

Where did you grow up?
I am a military brat and so my travels run long and deep.

Where do you live now?
Harnett County.

Educational credentials?
B.A. Education, M.S. Adult and Continuing Education, M.A. Counseling.

Tell us about your family!
I am a military brat and have traveled the world. I am married to a retired Air Force veteran, two daughters, two female dogs.

What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
Feeding the homeless and reading to the blind.

Who is one of your favorite fictional characters and why?
Libby Folax from the animated TV series Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius because she represents a positive depiction of black girls and women, demonstrating their strength, confidence, and ability to succeed.

What is your favorite meal?
I love Sushi from ShabaShabu (Okinawa roll).

Anything else you'd like to share with the CCCC family?
My favorite quote, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” ― Maya Angelou

October Cougar Champion: Montserrat Hernandez-Mariscal

Montserrat Hernandez-Mariscal

How long have you worked for CCCC?
I have worked for CCCC for 11 months.

What brought you to CCCC?
What brought me to CCCC was an opening that requested a bilingual staff member. It was an opportunity to help my Hispanic community. As I personally understand the value of taking ESL classes, both of my parents took ESL classes. Afterwards, the ESL classes helped my dad in his career, and my mother felt happy that she could now help her little girls with their homework.

Describe what you do for CCCC.
My primary responsibilities include: registering new and returning ESL students and advertising the wonderful opportunities that the College and Career Readiness department offers students.

Where were you born?
I was born in Chapel Hill.

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Randolph County.

Where do you live now?
I live in Liberty.

Educational credentials?
I have an Associate Degree from Randolph County Community College.

Tell us about your family!
I have a small family that includes both of my parents, one older brother, and one younger sister.

What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of CCCC?
My hobbies include roller skating, dancing to combias, nortenas, and crafting. I also love to play board games with my friends.

Who is one of your favorite fictional characters and why (from a favorite book, tv show, movie, etc.)?
I don’t read fiction, however, my favorite book is titled The Undocumented Americans by Karla Conejo Villavicencio. I value the author’s ability to shine light on remarkable hidden stories from undocumented Americans from all over the United States.

What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is Enmoladas, which are enchiladas dipped in mole sauce and the enchiladas are filled with Mexican crumbling cheese.

Anything else you'd like to share with the CCCC family?
I would like to say thank you to everyone who nominated me. I am also thankful to all the staff members in the CCR department who have taught me a lot, and also all the wonderful staff members at SCC and WHC who I have had the pleasure of learning from, working with, and creating wonderful memories. Thank you once again for everything.

CCCC Veterans Day Observance

Here are scenes from the 2023 Veterans Day ceremony at Central Carolina Community College on Nov. 9 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center in Sanford. Keynote speaker was Dan Gurley, Deputy Chief of Staff to the N.C. Speaker of the House and U.S. Air Force veteran. Guest speaker was Jessica Gonzalez, CCCC Director of Human Resources and U.S. Army veteran. Welcome was from Dr. Lisa M. Chapman, CCCC President. Karmisha Hernandez Luciano, Assistant Director of the CCCC Veterans Upward Bound Program and U.S. Army veteran, recognized veterans. Closing remarks were by Jennifer Dillon, Director of the CCCC Veterans Upward Bound Program and Military Initiatives. Music was by vocalist Jacob Barton and members of the Lee County Community Orchestra. The Lee County High School JROTC also participated in the event.

BACK TO TOP

Culinary Thanksgiving Lunches

BACK TO TOP

Cougar Express

BACK TO TOP

Angel Tree

We are excited to announce that our 2023 Angel Tree program is now in full swing, and adoptions are officially open! This program allows us to bring joy and support to students in need during the holiday season. Here's how you can get involved:

• Adopt an Angel. You can view and adopt Angels by visiting the Angel Tree Program site or by using the Angel Tree Adoption Signup link. The adoption period will run from Nov. 6-21.
• Monetary Donations: If you'd like to help out but can't commit to a full Angel adoption, you can make monetary donations in two ways:
  • Cash or checks made out to the "CCCC Foundation Office" with "Angel Tree Program Fund" noted.
  • For credit card or online donations, please use the CCCC Foundation PayPal and specify "Angel Tree Program" in the "Special Instructions or Memory/Honor of" section to ensure proper routing.
• Volunteer Opportunities:
  • Sign up to assist with gift drop-off (Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, details to come).
  • Sign up to assist with gift pick-up or Cougar Market coverage (Dec. 11-12, details to come).

Our campus community is incredibly generous, and our students benefit from you every day. Your support, in any form, will brighten the holiday season for those in need and is greatly appreciated. Please contact angeltree@cccc.edu with any questions.

BACK TO TOP

Annual Employee Halloween and Pumpkin Carving Contest

The Foundation presented its annual Employee Costume & Pumpkin Carving Contest on Oct. 31. Categories for the costume contest included Scariest, Funniest, Cutest, Best Group, and Best Overall. Here are scenes from the event.

View all Halloween Costume images

BACK TO TOP

Trunk-or-Treat 2023

The CCCC Student Government Association and Phi Theta Kappa created a SPOOKtacular Trunk-or-Treat on Oct. 30 at the CCCC Lee Main Campus in Sanford. Students, faculty, staff, and their families were invited to stop by to trick or treat, play some games, and win some prizes.

View more Trunk-or-Treat images

BACK TO TOP

CCCC-AEOP Basket Drawing

Please join the CCCC Association of Educational Office Professionals as we raise money to support our students with student scholarships.

Pick your baskets and buy some tickets for our raffle. Tickets will be on sale from Nov. 17-Dec. 6. The drawing will be held on Dec. 8.

Every dollar benefits CCCC students. The baskets are located in Keller Health Sciences Building if you want to take a peek. Your support is invaluable. Thank you!

Below is a list of contents in each basket.

• Click on any image below to see a better view.
• Tickets are $5 each or purchase five tickets for $20.
• When ordering, after clicking on the link and logging into Paypal, please leave a note in the Special Instruction section for what basket you would like your tickets to go towards. Illustrated below.

Click here to order your raffle tickets today!

BACK TO TOP

Foundation Scholarship Luncheon

The CCCC Foundation Scholarship Luncheon was held Wednesday, Nov. 15, at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center in Sanford. Congratulations to all scholarship recipients—and thank you to all CCCC donors for your generous support!

View more Foundation Scholarship Luncheon images

BACK TO TOP

Breast Cancer Awareness Employee Walk

The Human Resources Department is thrilled to announce the success of our first Breast Cancer Awareness Employee Walk that was held on Oct. 27 at all three main campuses. Due to your participation and donations, we raised a total of $354.04 to benefit the American Cancer Society.

While our inaugural walk was a wonderful start, we are already looking forward to next year's event. Our goal is to raise even more funds for this important cause. We aim to get closer to our goal of $1000.

We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, and helped organize this event. A huge shout out to the Business Services department with their help with making the event come to life with the signs and material, as well as the Lee County Health Department for coming out and sharing their resources.

BACK TO TOP

Pumpkin Iron Course

The Health & Fitness Science students conducted a Pumpkin Iron course for students, faculty and staff on Nov. 1 at the bowl area near the Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference Center.

BACK TO TOP

Cue Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here:" ACES at Sanford's Piedmont Blues Mural

For those who missed it, legendary British rock band Pink Floyd has ties to Sanford. One of the band's namesakes, Floyd Council (1911-1976), called Sanford home and made blues and gospel music here and in the region. The City of Sanford recently unveiled a large-scale public art project in honor of Council and Pink Anderson downtown on Steele Street. The Piedmont Blues mural by artist Britt Flood can be seen here: sanfordnc.net/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=3799.

On Oct. 13, CCCC's ACES (Academic & Cultural Enrichment Series) and Music Instructor Lauren Winkens welcomed a blended cohort of community members and music, history, art, and humanities students to an onsite event about bluesmen Floyd Council and Pink Anderson and the public art now a testament to their musical contributions. Thanks to Liz Whitmore, Sanford's Historic Preservation Planner, for an informative program about music, history, and art. Whitmore also shared her education and career journey for students considering their own study and work at CCCC and beyond. Pictured are some of the community members and CCCC faculty and students who attended.

You can learn more about the mural from the WRAL Tarheel Traveler segment..

BACK TO TOP

Help Name Our Colony Animals

The VMT Program needs YOU to help name our colony animals!

Our newly adopted furry friends need names and we need ideas. To submit a name, please stop by the VMT Building (Building 5 attached to Lett Hall) and you will see a table set up (pictured below). The table will be set-up through the remainder of the semester. Instructors are welcome to inform their students about the opportunity as well. Envelopes are available to place into the box. Include the following:

• Your name and email
• Date
• Your name idea
• $2 (per name)

**It may take some time for your name to be used, but you will be contacted when we do so. If your submitted name has already been used in the past, we will reach out to you so that you can submit a different name. Proceeds will go to the VMT Program's SCNAVTA (Student Chapter of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America).

BACK TO TOP

Education Navigators on Wheels

On Oct 25-26, Education Navigators were rolling around campus, handing out snacks and sharing with faculty, staff, and students more about the Education Navigator role. If you didn't catch them, feel free to drop by their offices to learn more and grab a snack.

BACK TO TOP

Health Science Admissions First Aid Kit

On Oct. 17, Allyson Naylor, Assistant Director of SOS at Harnett, and Amy Gustavson, Assistant Director of SOS at Chatham, led a "Health Science Admissions First Aid Kit" presentation for students.

The sessions discussed recent changes to admissions processes for health science programs, what to expect once you're admitted, and success strategies. Dean Denise Martin also spoke about the academic rigor of health science programs and answered questions. Health Science faculty and Education Navigators were available to engage with students and answer questions. The event had over 20 students in attendance.

BACK TO TOP

CCCC Volleyball

Thank you to Coach Dal Langston and the Central Carolina Community College volleyball team for your dedication during the 2023 season. Photos by Donna Boykin.

BACK TO TOP

National Vet Tech Week

Each year during the third week in October, the veterinary community recognizes National Veterinary Technician Week. Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) play a vital role in the veterinary hospital by educating clients, running anesthesia, assisting in surgeries, performing dental prophylaxis and so much more.

National Vet Tech Week for 2023 ran from Oct 15-21. The Veterinary Medical Technology Department had a great time celebrating our students and RVT faculty throughout the week. Students had visits from the North Carolina Association of Veterinary Technicians (NCAVT) and from various local clinics. They were showered with sweet treats and goodies and the first-year students even took a trip to the North Carolina State Fair to learn more about agriculture and large animals. We are very proud of our future veterinary technicians and know they will do great things after they graduate.

Be sure to thank your veterinary staff the next time you are taking your fur children to the vet!

Want to learn more about what RVTs do? Check out the Central Carolina Journal interview that Kels Brucker did with Vet Med's Justin Pedley in September 2022 at 883wuaw.com/podcasts/ccj2214.

Pictured: NCAVT's Lexi Hanson, RVT (maroon) talks with first- and second-year VMT students about how their state association helps advance the veterinary field for RVTs.

BACK TO TOP

Views From Around CCCC

Picturesque beauty on Nov. 3 near the Central Carolina Community College Veterinary Medical Technology pasture facility on the Lee Main Campus in Sanford. Photos by Kelly Klug, CCCC Director of Grants Development.

It's a beautiful fall day at the Central Carolina Community College Lee Main Campus!

Please feel free to send along any images you might snap from around all of the CCCC locations! Send them to Cris Oliver at coliver@cccc.edu. Thanks!

BACK TO TOP

EET and MET Field

The second year students from Electronic Engineering Technology and Mechanical Engineering Technology were invited to attend a ground-breaking ceremony at the Raleigh Exec Jetport in Sanford.

The ground-breaking was for the installation venture for the addition of charging stations for electric planes and wheeled vehicles. This was a great honor to be invited. It opened the students up to a new world of powering vehicles. They were able to ask questions to the companies that were there.

BACK TO TOP

Continuing Career Panels for Students

Thanks to the panelists—and to all who attended—the Central Carolina Community College Arts Career Panel on Nov. 14 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference Center in Sanford, N.C. The CCCC Arts Career Panel event—which included a Digital Content Producer, Managing Partner, Speech Language Pathologist/Owner, and Marketing Director—is available on www.4cnclive.com and click "on demand."

Thanks to the panelists—and to all who attended—the first Central Carolina Community College Applied Technologies Career Panel on Nov. 2 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference Center in Sanford.

The CCCC Applied Technologies Career Panel event—which includes professionals from the Automotive Systems Technology, Building Construction, Industrial Systems Technology, Machining, Sustainable Agriculture, and Welding Technology fields—is available on www.4cnclive.com and click "on demand." Closed captioning available.

This year, the college is hosting career panel presentations for students to learn about the world of work in each of our career communities. Panels will feature people working in local business and industry in careers that use common skills.

Representatives with careers in various fields of work will be joining us to share their journeys. We encourage you to pass along the attached flyer!

BACK TO TOP

Pink Out Day

The Louise L. Tuller School of Nursing Practical Nursing held a Pink Out Day for Breast Cancer Awareness on Oct. 27. Class members are Valentina Adams, Beatriz Alvarez-Diaz, Mariam Angulo, Reyna Basurto Canceco, Heidi Benitez Cordova, Brandy Boulch, Larissa Brockington, Danielle Carlson, Marie Crane, Monica Evans, Laurita Guerrero, Sara Harrington, Sandi Hickman, Anna Hogue, Jessica Holland, Jumierra Huizinga, Ariana Jarrett, Beyonce Jones, Roshanda Lett, Kaitlyn Macon, Lizbeth Manuel, Autumn Marrett, Ellen Mckay, Marcie Molnar, Emma Neal, Tabatha Norton, Delane O'Brien, Heidi Parsons, Keilyn Perez, Jasmine Ray, Skyler Schwegman, Mariah Singletary, Desmond Smith, Janita Smythe Macaulay, Jaylyn Spitzer, Thuy Truong, Sherr'ie Blue, Rachel Cain, Tarsha Cox, Lakeya Johnson, Jasmine Jones, Jovon Lowe, Sarah Martin, Valerie Smith, Tracie Thompson, Elizabeth Toler, Jazmine Wade, and Alexius Williams. PN Faculty members are Christopher Bailey, Theresa Cebulski-Field, and Christie McDougald.

BACK TO TOP

Ombuds/Student Advocate Information

CCCC wants our students to feel seen, heard and valued on our campus. However, students may occasionally face challenging situations that they are not sure how to navigate or resolve on their own. As such, CCCC has implemented the role of an Ombuds, or Student Advocate, who provides a safe space for students to voice questions and concerns about college policies or procedures in a confidential and informal manner. The Ombuds does not resolve disputes for students, but instead provides information and communication to support students in resolving their own conflicts.

The Ombuds website is currently under construction, and we will update you when it goes live. In the meantime, we have created a new email address (ombuds@cccc.edu) to which students can be directed if they are in need of assistance and cannot find it through the established channels.

Please direct any questions about this role to Mary Schmid Carter or send an email to ombuds@cccc.edu to help us test out our new email!

BACK TO TOP

Navigate News

Navigate seeks to improve efficiency and processes using technology, ensuring clear and consistent information for students and incorporating best advising practices.

Discover the optimal use of Slate features to effectively support and connect with students through advising and communication.

Explore a variety of training and tutorials through Navigate News.

BACK TO TOP

University Transfer Day

CCCC hosted its annual University Transfer Day on Nov. 14 in the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center in Sanford. This event provided an excellent opportunity for CCCC students to engage with potential transfer institutions from across the state.

BACK TO TOP

News From The Library

by Jessica Thomas, Lee Main Campus Library Programming Assistant

WWGP Radio

Listen live to WWGP Radio

Thanks to WWGP Radio and Margaret Murchison (right) for hosting Jennifer Dillon (left), Director of Veterans Upward Bound and Military Affiliated Initiatives, on Nov. 8.

---

Thanks to WWGP Radio and Margaret Murchison (right) for hosting Vicky Wesner (left), Central Carolina Community College Dental Hygiene and Assisting Department Chair, on Oct. 27.

BACK TO TOP

From the Supply Store

Exciting news! The Supply Store is expanding its selection of office supplies, and we want your input to ensure we stock what you need. Please take a moment to complete the Supply Store Stock Request and tell us which FSI office supplies you'd like to see.

In addition, we're delighted to introduce a new website where you can browse furniture and equipment that may be useful for your workspace or classroom. Explore the Available Surplus Items to see if we have what you need before making a new purchase.

BACK TO TOP

From Institutional Research

BACK TO TOP

Featured Facilitator: Chrishinda Horton

Our Dental Program highlights one of our faculty members each semester.

A poster (left) is located in our hallway. This introduces the faculty member to all our students whether they have classes with them or just pass them in the hall. We are constantly striving to connect with our students and show them that with hard work and perseverance they can excel to be leaders in their communities as well.

This semester we are featuring Chrishinda Horton, our Clinical Manager and Instructor.

BACK TO TOP

Congratulations!

We are pleased to announce that Jason Haskins, CCCC Director of Health & Professional Programs, recently graduated from Leadership Harnett.

The program challenges graduates to apply what they've learned in serving their community and taking on greater leadership roles in the county by becoming active in a chamber of one of the county's many professional associations, civic clubs, public boards and service organizations.

Pictured are, left to right: Felicia Crittenden, CCCC Dean of Workforce Development & Continuing Education Operations; Jason Haskins; and Margaret Roberton, CCCC Vice President for Workforce Development/Chief of Staff.

Congratulations Jason!

BACK TO TOP

New Employees and Position Changes

Updates as of Nov. 1

Welcome!

October New Employees

• Diana Brown - Education Navigator
• Jessica Lujan - Education Navigator
• Sarah Shannon-Mohamed - Director of Onboarding & New Student Programs
• Karen Wilkins - EMS Administrative Assistant
• Anthony Santiago - Administrative Operations Assistant
• Chase Green - Administrative Specialist
• Ashley Iceman - Public Safety Administrative Specialist
• Todd Daubenspeck - Career Coach (Harnett County)
• Donna Holder - Custodian
• Elvira Lagunas - Custodian

Congratulations!

October Position Changes

• Verenice Soto - AR/Budget Accountant
• Alex Dowdy - Director of Community Engagement and Special Projects

BACK TO TOP

Thank You.

Elaine Wilderson, Library Assistant.
"Thank you to my CCCC friends and colleagues for the thoughtful cards and kind sentiments shared during this difficult time. The beautiful peace lily at my mother's services made me feel as if my CCCC family was there with me."

BACK TO TOP

Birthdays

Birthday list provided by Human Resources

11/18	Greg Singleton
11/18	Edwin Thomas
11/21	Kevin Coleman
11/22	Fae Goodman
11/22	Ty Stumpf
11/23	Patricia Anderson
11/26	Bianka Stumpf
11/28	Fred Staton Jr.
11/30	Jennifer Melton
11/30	Jonathan Silva
12/2	Jaime McLeod
12/3	Kelly Burton
12/5	Martin Haley
12/8	Ryan Cobb
12/8	Lauren Pickens
12/8	Kaitlyn Schlein
12/8	Zan Thornton
12/12	Gerald Hunter
12/12	Tammy Kirkman
12/14	Ginger Bartholomew
12/16	Danielle Bruner
12/16	Margaret Provost
12/18	Allyson Naylor
12/18	Karen Weaver
12/19	Wendy Craig
12/19	Liza Guzman-Ramirez
12/19	Dianne Johnson
12/19	Nick Sullivan
12/20	Chad Parrish
12/20	Brian Simpson
12/22	Crystal Sanders
12/23	Maryann Aucompaugh
12/24	Devon Woodruff
12/27	Buzz E. Wilson
12/28	Katie Hall
12/29	Seth Buchanan
12/29	Adam Wade
12/30	Darrell McLaurin

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

Holiday Calendar 2023-2024

Download the CCCC Holiday Calendar.

BACK TO TOP

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 U.S. 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.

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.

Meet Soba

My name is Soba. I may look like a chipmunk with my chubby little cheeks, but don't be fooled, I am 100% furry feline! I am a sweet boy who enjoys back scratches and I am pretty easy going. You will fall in love with my sweet face and even sweeter temperament!

Soba

Meet Pasadena

My name is Pasadena. If you are looking for a companion then look no further! Whenever I see my favorite people, I get very excited and I can't contain myself. I love to play and go for walks. I even make the PERFECT running companion. Come meet me today!

Pasadena

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

FACULTY AND STAFF ONLINE

Join the Activity on Social Media!

Do you write a blog, have a Twitter account, or Facebook page for your department or classroom? Share your link! Send to coliver@cccc.edu. And if you no longer monitor your social media account, let us know and we will remove from our list. Thank you!

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, Dec. 8, by 5 p.m. for the next issue. Upcoming issues:

• December 15
• January 19
• February 16
• March 22

BACK TO TOP