Celebrating Nine Trailblazers in Community College Excellence

NC Community Colleges announce statewide winners for student, faculty, staff, and business partners of the year

RALEIGH, NC – The North Carolina Community College System, State Board, and Foundation announce the statewide winners of the 2025 excellence awards, honoring the pinnacle of academic achievement and the highest levels of collaboration among community college students, faculty, staff, and business partners.

The 2025 winners are:

Spirit Awards

• Dallas Herring Student Achievement Award Winner: Mr. Kyle Harris, Vance-Granville Community College
• I.E. Ready Lifetime Achievement Award Winner: Dr. Dale McInnis, President Emeritus Richmond Community College

Faculty and Staff Awards

• Excellence in Teaching Award Winner: Dr. Lisa Smelser, Central Carolina Community College
• Staff Person of the Year Award Winner: Ms. Denise Young, Southeastern Community College
• President of the Year Award Winner: Dr. Shelley White, President of Haywood Community College

Workforce Development Pinnacle Awards

• Apprenticeship Champion: Blum with Central Piedmont Community College
• Innovative Leadership Award Winner: GE Aerospace with Wilkes Community College
• Business of the Year (<500 Employees): Mertek Solutions with Central Carolina Community College
• Business of the Year (>500 Employees): Novo Nordisk with Johnston Community College

“These award winners represent the heart of what makes North Carolina’s community colleges so impactful,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, president of the NC Community College System. “Their dedication to student success, innovative teaching, and workforce development is instrumental in advancing our state’s economy and providing opportunities for all North Carolinians.”

SPIRIT AWARDS

Dallas Herring Student Achievement Award, Presented by Arnold Ventures

Named in honor of Dr. Dallas Herring, this award is presented to a student who best embodies his philosophy of “taking people where they are and carrying them as far as they can go.” This year, the award went to Mr. Kyle Harris, a student in the Vance-Granville Community College Automotive Systems Technology program.

Harris began his educational journey in 2022 after overcoming significant hardships as a military veteran who faced PTSD, addiction, homelessness, and incarceration after his service. With support from the Veterans Life Center in Butner, Harris connected with Vance-Granville staff, who helped him enroll in college. He excelled in his studies and secured a job with Southeastern Specialty Vehicles, allowing him to rebuild his life. 

Now a homeowner and dedicated employee, Harris actively supports fellow veterans by encouraging them to pursue education and employment. His resilience and commitment to personal and professional growth make him a role model and a testament to the transformative power of community colleges.

I.E. Ready Lifetime Achievement Award, Presented by Golden LEAF Foundation

This award honors individuals who have made significant statewide contributions to the System, demonstrating leadership and commitment to its development and impact. This year, the award goes to Dr. Dale McInnis, President Emeritus, Richmond Community College, for his outstanding leadership and transformative contributions to the North Carolina Community College System.

Over his 32-year career, McInnis has been a driving force in workforce education, funding reform, and strategic partnerships that have shaped the future of community colleges across the state. As the architect of the Propel NC funding model, he led efforts to modernize how North Carolina funds workforce training, potentially bringing the most significant financial shift to the system in decades. His leadership extended beyond his institution, chairing key committees for the NC Association of Community College Presidents and spearheading regional workforce initiatives like the Sandhills Regional Healthcare Economic Gap Analysis, which united eight colleges across 10 counties to strengthen healthcare training pipelines. 

McInnis also played a pivotal role in establishing performance-based funding models, advocating for legislative support, and expanding workforce programs in high-demand fields such as cybersecurity, electric utility substation technology, CDL training, and telecommunicator certification. His vision and dedication have not only enhanced economic mobility for thousands of students but also positioned North Carolina’s community colleges as national leaders in workforce innovation.

“His [Dr. Dale McInnis’] friendship, encouragement, and loyalty to the work, students, and community has really set an example of the values that have made the North Carolina Community College System great and will have a long-lasting legacy, that will continue, to pay dividends and return on investment for years to come,” said Dr. Mark Sorrells, President of Fayetteville Technical Community College.

FACULTY AND STAFF AWARDS

Excellence in Teaching Award, Presented by the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation

This award recognizes outstanding faculty members who exemplify the highest quality of instruction and make significant contributions to the North Carolina Community College System. This year, the award goes to Dr. Lisa Smelser, Biotechnology Chair at Central Carolina Community College, a transformative educator dedicated to student success and workforce development in biotechnology.

Smelser fosters a supportive learning environment, connecting students with industry professionals and ensuring they gain hands-on experience that translates directly into career opportunities. Through innovative teaching, including the integration of the Business and Industry Leadership Team model, Smelser aligns education with industry needs, equipping students with in-demand skills. 

Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, securing grants and partnerships that expand access to life sciences careers, particularly for underserved populations. Smelser’s efforts have strengthened professional networks, enhanced curriculum development, and provided students with clear pathways to high-paying, sustainable careers

Staff Person of the Year Award, Presented by the NC Rural Center

This award acknowledges non-teaching staff members who exemplify exceptional performance and dedication to the community college mission. This year, the award goes to Ms. Denise Young, Director of Apprenticeships at Southeastern Community College, for her outstanding leadership in workforce development and student success.

Through her innovative apprenticeship and internship programs, Young has transformed opportunities for students in Columbus County, one of North Carolina’s most economically challenged regions. Under her leadership, the College has seen a 53-percent increase in work-based learning enrollments, connecting students with industry credentials and employment pathways. Her commitment to removing barriers to education includes strategic outreach efforts, partnerships with local businesses, and securing funding to expand access to hands-on training. Young’s mentorship and dedication to student growth extend beyond the classroom, shaping Southeastern as a hub for workforce readiness and economic development.

“Denise has a drive that is energetic – a magnet. She knows how to bring people together and takes time to learn and understand people and what their challenges may be. She represents Southeastern Community College with all its glory and I’m so, so thrilled that she’s won this award,” said Dr. Chris English, President of Southeastern Community College.

President of the Year Award, Presented by the John M. Belk Endowment

This award recognizes exceptional leadership and achievements of a community college president who has significantly contributed to their institution and the broader North Carolina Community College System. This year, the award goes to Dr. Shelley White of Haywood Community College for her outstanding leadership and dedication to workforce development, innovation, and student success.

White led Haywood through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, historic flooding, and the closure of the county’s largest employer, the Pactiv Evergreen Paper Mill. Under her leadership, the College secured over $3 million in grants to expand workforce training in high-demand fields, launched new programs, and implemented cutting-edge instructional technologies. She has fostered strategic partnerships with four-year universities, businesses, and community organizations while advocating for workforce training at local, state, and federal levels. Her leadership has also driven long-range strategic planning, resulting in increased enrollment and expanded student support services.

“I feel like Dr. White supports the programs here at Haywood with her genuine authenticity and very approachable nature,” said Amy Putansu, Instructor in the Professional Crafts – Fiber program. “I’ve been teaching here for 16 years, so I’ve been through many different administrative changes and Dr. White has created a family-oriented culture on campus. At a convocation after the mill closure, she was recognizing the efforts the College had made in response, and she was visibly moved and maybe had a tear in her eye. And that meant a great deal to everyone because it was really, really heartfelt.”

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PINNACLE AWARDS

The Workforce Development Pinnacle Awards recognize exemplary employers, businesses or industry groups that have demonstrated extraordinary engagement and firm commitment to the education and professional development of its employees and/or to the development of North Carolina’s workforce through its partnership efforts with one or more of the 58 community colleges in North Carolina. This category includes four awards: Apprenticeship Champion, Innovative Leadership, Business of the Year (<500 Employees), and Business of the Year (>500 Employees).

Apprenticeship Champion, Presented by the State Employees’ Credit Union

This award recipient must demonstrate commitment to providing structured and meaningful apprenticeship experiences with creative approaches that go beyond traditional roles and responsibilities. Blum has been named the Apprenticeship Champion Award winner for its 30-year commitment to workforce development and apprenticeship training in North Carolina.

Through its Apprenticeship2000 program, Blum has trained over 140 pre-apprentices and 166 full apprentices, equipping students with critical STEM manufacturing skills and creating career pathways in mechanics and engineering for high school graduates. By partnering with Central Piedmont Community College, Blum played a pivotal role in closing workforce gaps, providing hands-on training, and ensuring a pipeline of skilled workers for the Charlotte region’s growing economy. Their high school recruitment initiatives have helped students transition directly into high-paying, sustainable careers, making the Apprenticeship2000 model a statewide success story. Blum’s innovative approach and dedication to career-focused education have made a lasting impact, solidifying their legacy as a leader in apprenticeship excellence.

Innovative Leadership Award, Presented by Lenovo

This award goes to a business that demonstrates innovative approaches or practices in partnership with community colleges. This year, GE Aerospace and Wilkes Community College have been awarded the Innovative Leadership Award for their transformative workforce partnership, which has significantly impacted North Carolina’s aviation industry and regional economy.

Since 2014, over 800 employees have received customized training through Wilkes Community College, helping GE Aerospace expand its West Jefferson facility, increase production efficiency, and strengthen its workforce pipeline. Their Lean Six Sigma initiative led to a 5.5-percent productivity improvement and secured seven new military and commercial aircraft parts for production at the site, driving $77 million in economic impact. 

This partnership has not only created high-paying jobs but also retained and upskilled workers, ensuring the long-term sustainability of advanced manufacturing in North Carolina’s High Country. Through innovative training solutions and strategic workforce development, GE Aerospace and Wilkes Community College have set a statewide model for industry-education collaboration.

Business of the Year (<500 Employees) Award, Presented by Wells Fargo

This award goes to Mertek Solutions for its outstanding partnership with Central Carolina Community College in workforce development and advanced manufacturing. As a primary employer of Central Carolina graduates, Mertek provides work-based learning and apprenticeships through the Mertek Academy, equipping students with essential hands-on skills. 

Mertek President Jerry Pedley’s commitment extends beyond hiring—he has donated FANUC robots and a truck to enhance the College’s training programs and has championed Manufacturing Day, now attracting 1,400+ students and 30+ industries annually. Mertek’s dedication to inclusivity ensures opportunities for veterans, individuals with disabilities, and dislocated workers, fostering economic resilience. Through strategic industry partnerships and advocacy, Mertek has played a vital role in regional economic development, solidifying North Carolina as a leader in advanced manufacturing.

“Jerry engages very closely on several advisory board committees, so he understands what we need in terms of, content and subject matter experts, but he also knows what we need in terms of equipment, and he’s very generous with that.” said Dr. Lisa Chapman, President of Central Carolina Community College. “Jerry and Mertek have donated robots for our manufacturing center and a truck in our CDL building. This allows us to not only continue to provide direct instruction on site, but also, to go out into the community and engage with recruits for programs.”

Business of the Year (>500 Employees) Award, Presented by the North Carolina Biotechnology Center

The award goes to Novo Nordisk for its transformative partnership with Johnston Community College in workforce development and biotechnology training. Through its support of the Workforce Development Center, Novo Nordisk has helped create a state-of-the-art simulated work environment, equipping students with hands-on training in bioprocessing and biotechnology. In 2024, Novo Nordisk expanded its impact by introducing BioWork classes in all eight Johnston County high schools, enrolling 88 students and fostering early career exploration. 

Their commitment to regional economic growth is evident in a $4.1 billion expansion in Clayton, expected to create 1,000 new jobs. Additionally, through initiatives like JOCO WORKS, which introduces 3,500+ eighth graders to STEM careers annually, Novo Nordisk is ensuring a strong talent pipeline for North Carolina’s growing biopharma sector. Their longstanding investment in education, job creation, and economic development makes Novo Nordisk a model for industry-college collaboration.

Jason Batten, a Process Professional at Novo Nordisk, began his journey in biotechnology as a BioWorks graduate from Johnston. He later returned to earn his associate degree and steadily advanced through the ranks at Novo. His dedication to the field led him back to the classroom, where he now teaches BioWorks, helping to shape the next generation of industry professionals.

“Novo wants to see you progress and as long as you’re willing to put the work in, you can do that. There’s always more you can do at Novo, you are your own ceiling,” Batton said. “I’m a Johnson County kid who grew up in this area. I like that I can stay in the community where I grew up and still have a good career.”

All winners will be honored at the NC Community Colleges Awards Dinner and Celebration on the evening of April 3 at The Umstead Hotel in Cary.

The North Carolina Community College System is only public organization in North Carolina dedicated to providing affordable college access to anyone in the state, the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) is focused on delivering a diverse, highly skilled talent pipeline aligned to the labor market. Through its efforts, NCCCS supports economic mobility that creates transformational generational change, and sets the national standard for innovation in higher education and workforce development.

The State Board of Community Colleges is the policy-making arm of the NC Community College System. The Board consists of 22 members, who have either been assigned by the Governor, the State House or the State Senate. The Lieutenant Governor, State Treasurer, Labor Commissioner, and President of N4CSGA (Student Government Association) also serve on the board.

The North Carolina Community Colleges Foundation (the Foundation) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization founded in 1986 to support the mission of the NC Community College System. The Foundation is governed by a diverse board of directors who, together with the executive director, steward the endowment; raise awareness and funds to develop and advance the System; manage several scholarship and award programs that honor excellence, and support public-private partnership programs that foster innovation. Going forward, the Foundation will lead a national campaign to drive more student, college, employer, and system success; and deliver more community, economic, and workforce development value for the state. To engage with the Foundation, visit www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/foundation

MEDIA CONTACT
Nathan Hardin
hardinn@nccommunitycolleges.edu
919.807.6994