Celebrating DCC’s Class of 2025: Journeys of Growth & Achievement

Lydia Davis: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Leadership

For Lydia Davis, DCC provided the perfect environment to begin her college journey before transferring to a four-year university. She enrolled in the Liberal Arts program with the goal of gaining a well-rounded education that would prepare her for the next stage of her academic career.

Lydia describes her time at DCC as deeply fulfilling, primarily because of the friendships she formed along the way. “I’ve met so many wonderful people, both students and staff, and have been able to make meaningful connections,” she said.

One of her biggest challenges was overcoming social anxiety. “When I first came to DCC, I was terrified of talking to anyone. But the kindness of the faculty, staff, and students helped me feel comfortable,” she explained. Through her involvement in student organizations, Lydia grew into a confident leader. She served as Vice President of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, was an active member of the Student Government Association, and even won the DCC Poet Laureate competition.

Lydia’s hands-on learning experiences extended beyond the classroom. From traveling to Charlottesville for a poetry competition to attending Commonwealth Conversations in Norfolk, she took full advantage of the opportunities DCC provided. Additionally, her participation in PTK and SGA events, such as bake sales and community service projects, enriched her college experience.

Looking ahead, Lydia plans to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, focusing on mental health for children and teenagers. The support and encouragement she received from DCC professors, many of whom shared their own experiences in social work, have reinforced her passion for the field.

Her advice to new students? “Get involved. It’s a lot of work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’ll make connections, gain valuable experiences, and have fun along the way.” Reflecting on her time at DCC, Lydia says, “This college opened up so many opportunities for me and helped me grow into a person I’m truly proud of.”

A’Nya Jennings: Designing a Future in Digital Creativity

For A’Nya Jennings, choosing Danville Community College was a decision rooted in both practicality and heart.

“I wanted to stay close to home and my family while taking the next big step in my life,” she said. DCC offered the convenience and supportive environment she needed to begin her college journey with confidence.

Her experience at DCC has been transformative. “It’s been nothing short of amazing,” she shared. “I’ve met incredible people, built lasting relationships, and expanded my knowledge in ways I didn’t expect.” These connections, especially the friendship she developed with her classmate Isaiah, have left a lasting mark. “That friendship has been one of the most meaningful parts of my time here.”

As a Graphic Design student, A’Nya had the opportunity to bring her creativity to life in a real-world setting. One of her most rewarding experiences was partnering with a local Danville restaurant to create a custom design. “Seeing my work make an impact in the community was exciting and validating—it really showed me what I’m capable of.”

DCC not only equipped A’Nya with the tools of the trade but also helped her feel confident in her chosen path. “The graphic design program introduced me to essential concepts and tools that broadened my perspective on the industry,” she said. “I now know that this is the career for me.”

Support from faculty played a crucial role in her success. “I faced challenges starting out, but my professors were incredibly understanding and supportive,” she said. “They took the time to get to know me and truly cared about my success.”

Looking ahead, A’Nya plans to become a digital designer and eventually build her own brand, selling creative digital products through her personal websites and platforms. “My goal is financial freedom,” she explained, “and DCC has helped lay the foundation for that dream.”

Her advice to future students is simple but powerful: “Don’t give up. It’s not always easy, especially if you’re balancing work or family, but it’s worth it. The growth and success that come from it are truly life-changing.”

Reflecting on her journey, A’Nya describes her time at DCC as “educational, inspiring, and filled with nothing but positive energy.”

Cody Phelps: From Classroom to Career in Industrial Maintenance

After moving back to Danville in the summer of 2023, Cody Phelps decided it was time to make a career change—and Danville Community College turned out to be the perfect place to start. He enrolled in the Industrial Electrical and Industrial Mechanical associate degree programs, driven by a long-standing desire to learn a trade.

“I wanted something hands-on, something real,” Cody said. “Industrial Maintenance offered just that.”

For Cody, the heart of his experience at DCC has been the camaraderie among classmates. “We’ve got a smaller, tight-knit group, and when you're working on a project together, everyone has to pull their weight,” he explained. “Teamwork is built into everything we do—it’s been that way since day one.”

Thanks to DCC’s flexible academic pathways, Cody has pursued both of his degrees in just five semesters, often overloading his schedule to move faster toward his goals. The real-world impact of his training became evident early on—by his second semester, Cody was already working in the field.

“DCC gave me the skills and the opportunity to be hired as an apprentice before I even finished my degrees,” he said. “There aren’t many degree programs where you can earn while you learn.”

Balancing school and work hasn’t always been easy, but Cody credits the support of his professors—especially Mr. Dalton—for making it manageable. “Mr. Dalton has been a mentor since day one. He believed in me, recommended me to companies, and gave me the foundation I needed to succeed,” Cody said.

Through apprenticeship roles with Innofa in Eden, NC, and currently with Japan Tobacco International, Cody has gained real-world experience in industrial electrical work and welding. His academic program has offered a unique blend of hands-on blue-collar training and the foundational skills necessary for future leadership in the industry. “This pathway gives you the tools to start on the floor and work your way up,” he explained. “It’s the best of both worlds.”

Looking ahead, Cody hopes to continue growing within the industrial sector—always grounded in his roots. “I want to promote within industry, be a servant leader, and stay true to where I started—as a blue-collar tradesman,” he said. His advice for future students? “Show up, give 100%, and do your assignments. Your professors will meet you halfway if they see the effort.”

Reflecting on his journey, Cody added, “It was worth every late night writing a paper, studying for an exam, and getting my hands dirty in every lab.”

Carol Betts: Building a Future in Business and Community Care

For Carol Betts, the decision to enroll at DCC came after a friend encouraged her to pursue an associate degree instead of continuing as a Personal Care Aide.

Choosing Small Business as a major, she later expanded her studies to include Business Administration with encouragement from Professor Michael Howard.

Reflecting on her experience, Carol found great joy in learning. “I have truly enjoyed studying—learning ways to achieve a goal without being terminally frustrated. My time here has been rewarding and motivating to achieve whatever I set my mind on. I give all praise to God for any accomplishments that I have made.”

DCC’s Learning Resource Center played a crucial role in her academic journey. The support of tutors, librarians, and faculty members helped her stay on pace with her studies. “I had wonderful support from Rachel Olp in math, Ben Goodman in tutoring, Jennifer Walz in the library, and many more,” she shared. “Ron Ross in the Math Lab encouraged me when I thought about giving up.”

Her journey was not without challenges, but the consistent support from DCC’s faculty and staff, especially Dean Dr. Paul Fox, helped her navigate obstacles with confidence. “Dr. Fox always told me that if I had any questions, he was there to answer them.”

With aspirations to establish an Adult Center offering plant-based food, arts and crafts, games, exercise, and overnight care services for caregivers in need of respite, Carol credits DCC for helping her shape her vision. “DCC has made me feel younger,” she shared. “To God be the glory!”

Koda Thompson: Finding Confidence and Community

Koda Thompson’s journey at DCC began in an unexpected way. After hearing a professor speak at his GED graduation ceremony, he was inspired to enroll the very next day.

Choosing to study Liberal Arts, Koda appreciated the flexibility of the program, which allowed him to explore his interests while building a strong academic foundation.

Reflecting on his time at DCC, Koda describes it as liberating. “It’s the first time I have really dedicated my time to something,” he said. “I have made so many friends here, which is something I never experienced before.”

Koda credits DCC’s faculty and staff for their unwavering support. “The professors here are fantastic. I haven’t had a single one that I didn’t enjoy learning from,” he shared. Beyond the classroom, DCC also helped Koda develop his confidence through student events and a work-study program that connected him to the campus community.

One of Koda’s most memorable experiences was a trip with the Student Government Association to Roanoke, where he had the opportunity to network with hundreds of students from other community colleges. Additionally, his hands-on experience in chemistry labs reinforced his passion for learning. “The instructor gave us the freedom to mess up and learn from our mistakes,” he recalled.

With plans to move to Massachusetts to continue his education in psychology, Koda believes DCC played a crucial role in shaping his future. “DCC showed me how to be my own person and grow into a model student leader.” His advice to incoming students? “This education is worth it. Take the opportunity to experiment and find what excites you.”