As I reflect on the recent flurry of activities within our community, I am reminded of the profound impact that collaboration and innovation can have in fostering growth, education, and progress. Each event, meeting, and initiative represents a thread in the vibrant tapestry of our shared journey toward a brighter future for Danville and beyond.
On February 29th, Danville Community College donated 50 copies of ‘Ace the Mighty Conquers Knight School’ to the Riverview Rotary Book Drive to be distributed to children across the state - a testament to the power of literacy and community involvement. We are grateful to Riverview Rotary for partnering with us to boost the reach of our exciting K-12 literacy project.
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Also on February 29th, I was proud to have been invited to attend the unveiling of the new City of Danville logo, branding, and tagline, further exemplifying our collective regional commitment to revitalizing our identity and fostering civic pride. On March 4th, I had the distinct privilege of paying a visit to our 2nd cohort of short-term cybersecurity training students. Through innovative approaches and generous support from various stakeholders, including the Fast Forward initiative, scholarships, and grants, we are able to offer invaluable opportunities for learning and skill development to our students at little to no out-of-pocket cost, ensuring their success in an increasingly digital world. Equally noteworthy is the development DCC IT apprenticeship program, which not only provides hands-on experience but also serves as a model for cultivating talent and addressing workforce needs within our organization and beyond.
Our engagement extends beyond the confines of our campus, as demonstrated by our involvement in many community events. On March 9, I participated in a video shoot for Danville Regional Airport to discuss upcoming developments in aviation in our region.
On March 12, members of DCC's Executive Council and Executive Cabinet volunteered to paint the inside of a Habitat for Humanity home in an effort to give back and support these critical agencies in our community. These endeavors underscore our commitment to serving as active participants in the betterment of our community.
On March 15th, I attended Averett University's Aviation Day celebration which served as a poignant reminder of the rich history and promising future of aviation in our region, symbolized by the inauguration of a new aircraft and the honoring of trailblazers like Ed Vance, Averett’s Inaugural Chief Flight Instructor.
DCC hosted its annual 'Idea Fair' on March 20th, encouraging DCC students, as well as students from local high schools, to present their best entrepreneurial ideas to our panel of judges. Winners will be announced on April 18 during the Idea Fair Award Ceremony held in Oliver Hall on the DCC Campus.
On March 21, I attended the Averett University 'Art-in-Action' Lecture Series which focused on the topic: 'The Graphic Novel as an Agent of Social Change'. Chair of the MFA Visual Arts program at Boston University, Joel Christian and American comics writer, Andrew Aydin delivered an excellent, informative program.
During the month of March, DCC highlighted Women's History Month with many activities and events, culminating in an insightful panel discussion on the topic of 'Women in Leadership' on March 22. Dr. Angela Hairston, Superintendent of Danville Public Schools; Dr. Tiffany Franks, President of Averett University; and Shelby Irving, Division Chief of the Danville Fire Department served as panelists and shared their unique experiences as women in leadership roles in our community.
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During our Women in Leadership Panel, we also took the opportunity to recognize the women leaders in our own organization. Belinda Stockton, AVP of Human Resources and Faith O'Neil, Director of Public Relations & Marketing were recognized by their peers for their leadership at the Executive Cabinet level.
Allyson, Kennedy and I spent an exciting weekend exploring all that the City of Danville has to offer. Our stops included Ntended for Kids, Mama’s Attic, Lizzy Lou, Crema & Vine, and River District Golf & Social. Imagine - vintage records, fashionable baby clothes, spring attire and a round of golf (with great food!) - all in walking distance! We love our life in the River District!
On March 25th, I attended the River District Association Annual Meeting. It was a lively celebration and recognition of all the transformation in the Danville River District. As a resident of the River District, I have nothing but positive things to say about the incredible events, venues, and improvements going on in our neighborhood!
The Danville Development Council Meeting was held on March 26th and it is always a pleasure to hear about new initiatives coming to the area. Serving on this committee allows me to learn about the exciting developments around town and engage with leaders from our region.
On March 27, I attended the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC) in South Boston. Upon the public announcement of her upcoming retirement, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Betty Adams for her service to our region and for working closely with me to improve DCC's relationship with SVHEC. Dr. Adams and her team were among the first to officially welcome me to the region and to work with me to improve workforce development in South Boston.
DCC held its annual Career Fair on March 28 with more than 40 employers attending. Students stopped by Oliver Hall to explore employment opportunities and resources available in our region. I want to thank Student Services for the hard work and dedication that they demonstrate every year as they plan and execute this large scale event.
As always, I want to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to the faculty and staff at Danville Community College. Our team goes above and beyond to ensure the success and support of each and every student who walks through our doors. I look forward to seeing the growth of DCC, the City of Danville, and our service region in the coming months.
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