On June 26, Danville Community College (DCC) had the privilege of hosting Ms. Terri Thompson, Vice Chair of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) State Board. Ms. Thompson's visit was a testament to DCC's commitment to providing quality education and strengthening community partnerships. Throughout her visit, she engaged in a series of events that highlighted the college's achievements and its dedication to in-demand educational programs.
“We are incredibly honored to have had the opportunity to welcome Ms. Thompson to Danville Community College,” said Dr. Jerry Wallace. “It is always a privilege to be able to showcase what our amazing faculty and staff are working on and how it is impacting our students and the community.”
CDL Simulator Unveiling at RCATT
One of the highlights of Ms. Thompson's visit was the unveiling of the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Simulator at the Regional Center for Advanced Technology and Training (RCATT). This cutting-edge simulator provides students with a realistic training experience, preparing them for successful careers in the transportation industry. Generously funded by the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County, the CDL Simulator will allow individuals to obtain experience driving in a variety of weather and terrain conditions.
DCC Advisory Board Meeting
Following the CDL Simulator unveiling, Ms. Thompson participated in a DCC advisory board meeting. The meeting was an in-depth display of all initiatives being undertaken by the college, including upcoming new projects and programs. Dr. Jerry Wallace, President of DCC, expressed his gratitude for Ms. Thompson's attendance, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between VCCS colleges and their state board representation. He stated, "Ms. Thompson's presence here today highlights the emphasis that our Chancellor, Dr. David Dore, is putting on collaboration between the system office and the individual colleges.”
Breakfast with Dr. Jerry Wallace and Shannon Hair
The next morning, Ms. Thompson joined Dr. Jerry Wallace, President of DCC, and Shannon Hair, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Development, as well as Executive Director of the DCC Educational Foundation, for a productive breakfast meeting. Over a cup of coffee, they discussed the college's ongoing initiatives, challenges, and plans for future growth.
Community Tour and DCC Campus Visit
Following breakfast, Ms. Thompson embarked on a comprehensive community tour and visited various academic departments on the DCC campus, led by Dr. Cornelius Johnson, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Services. The tour included stops at the early childhood education center, precision machining lab, cosmetology lab, and graphic imaging lab. The visit provided Ms. Thompson with firsthand insight into DCC's array of educational offerings and their impact on students' career readiness.
“It was pleasure to take Ms. Thompson on a tour of the DCC campus to learn more about our great programs, and our dedicated faculty who all bring it to life” said Dr. Johnson. “What better way to become acquainted with our campus culture, and the many pathways we offer in assisting students in fulfilling their career aspirations at DCC.”
During her visit to the early childhood education program, Ms. Thompson witnessed the college's commitment to training future educators. She even received a warm welcome from the children attending day care at the childcare center. In the precision machining lab, Ms. Thompson observed the college's state-of-the-art equipment and industry-aligned curriculum that allows students to depart the program fully prepared for a career in machining. At the cosmetology lab, she marveled at the creativity and talent displayed by the students. During her visit to the graphic imaging lab, Ms. Thompson witnessed the intersection of technology and creativity.
“This visit was absolutely amazing. I was blown away with the great work DCC is doing for the students and the community,” said Ms. Thompson. “Dr. Wallace has certainly made a positive impact within the community and at DCC. His strategic and creative leadership vision for DCC is impressive and his passion is contagious. The DCC leadership team have created a welcoming and engaging culture that fosters success for students. As a State Board member, I am grateful for the opportunity to directly experience the culture, develop relationships and gain more insight into the programs that are meeting the needs of the community,” continued Ms. Thompson. “It is clear that DCC is the heart and soul of Danville. I look forward to building a stronger connection with DCC and I am definitely a fan!”
Ms. Terri Thompson's visit to Danville Community College was a resounding success, highlighting the college's commitment to excellence in education and fostering strong community partnerships. Through the CDL Simulator unveiling, advisory board meeting, campus tour, and engaging discussions with college leaders, Ms. Thompson gained valuable insights into DCC's achievements and ongoing efforts to prepare students for successful careers. As a result of her visit, DCC and the VCCS system continue to build bridges that will empower students and strengthen the region's workforce, ultimately contributing to the overall prosperity of the community.
To learn more about Danville Community College, visit www.danville.edu
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