TCC grad has cyber security career within her reach

Dasha Chaney is well on her way to a career in cyber security.

And this May, she is achieving a major milestone by graduating with an Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security.

Chaney will be a student speaker during Tidewater Community College’s Virtual Commencement to be held on May 10, celebrating her graduation and the achievement of completing her degree in just one year.

“I’ve gone from nothing to something in three semesters,” Chaney said. “I actually have the mindset for college now. I’m ready to push and meet my goals.”

Growing up, Chaney opted for Game Boy Advance instead of Barbie dolls.

“I always liked video games that were hands-on and visual. That’s what attracted me to cyber security. It’s a field that’s always advancing,” Chaney said.

The daughter of a Naval officer, Chaney said her father, Lt. Cmdr. Shelley Pulliam, has been a great influence in her life with everything technical and is an inspiration for her cyber career.

“My parents encouraged TCC early on, but I didn’t listen. I had to find my way back after a time at Old Dominion University (ODU) and a very brief enlistment in the Navy,” Chaney said.

Now Chaney’s career path is gaining clarity. She works as an Information Technology Support Services Specialist at Dollar Tree and hopes to transition to the company’s cyber team once she completes needed certifications that include Network+ and Security+.

Chaney plans to continue her education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree at ODU. Chaney credits TCC campus advisor Kita Graham with helping make the transfer process easy.

An online learner, Chaney sends a shout-out to Joel Kirch, her favorite professor. “The community at TCC is what makes learning possible. All of my professors have been supportive and engaging,” she said.

Chaney is a member of Phi Theta Kappa and holds a 3.9 GPA. She participates in the Virginia Beach Campus Cyber Security Club. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the group has been meeting virtually for games and competitions. Chaney also volunteers for TCC’s Computers for Student Success, helping to refurbish computers and provide them to students in need.

She encourages students coming after her to “trust in the process and push yourself.”

Chaney added, “Never think you can’t do it, because you always can! And if it doesn’t work out the first time, get back up and try again!”

TCC grad hopes to one day explore space

Emmanuel Abuah emigrated from Nigeria to the United States to join his parents about a year before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He set his sights on studying engineering at Virginia Tech, but quickly realized that he needed to stay closer to home and start at a more affordable school.

He applied and was accepted into Tidewater Community College’s STEM Promise program, which covers the full cost of tuition for up to four semesters.

This May, he is one of the student speakers during the virtual commencement and will talk about his journey to earning an Associate of Science in Engineering.

Emmanuel Abuah at Virginia Beach Campus.

“My growth at TCC has not just been educational. Being from a different culture, I struggled with my accent and my lack of social integration,” Abuah said. “TCC provided the cushion I needed to help me settle in and keep me on the path to my degree.”

Abuah was recently named one of 18 honorees of the inaugural Academic Excellence and Service Award, a new recognition for exemplary TCC students.

“As one of our top performing scholars, I’m impressed with Emmanuel’s drive and work ethic. Having maintained a perfect GPA every semester, he takes his course work very seriously and has a plan to tackle his academic goals,” said Jaedda Hall, the STEM Promise program advisor.

While at TCC, Abuah worked in the Engineering lab on the Virginia Beach Campus, a job that opened doors for other work in the area. He also obtained a Virginia driver’s license, an accomplishment that gave him even more options for jobs.

He made lifelong friends through the Virginia Beach Campus Engineering Club and the STEM Promise program.

“The community of TCC has been so beneficial for me. From the friends I’ve made for keeps, to the instructors and advisors who supported, encouraged and challenged me,” he said.

For other students his message is simple. “Have a plan and seek advice. Make friends and get connected,” Abuah said. “Do more than just attend class. Get involved in all TCC has to offer.”

Abuah now plans a career in aeronautics/astronautics. He would like to be an astronaut and one day explore space.

He intends to attend Virginia Tech or Stanford University to pursue a bachelor’s in aerospace engineering.

“TCC has laid the perfect runway for my ascent to the stars,” Abuah said. “As we leave TCC with our goals in view, we are proving that it’s true – from here you really can go anywhere.”

From home care worker to federal lobbyist and now college grad

Athena Jones will share a message of hope and encouragement as a student speaker during Tidewater Community College’s Virtual Commencement to be held on May 10.

“You don’t have to be defined by who you were before TCC. It’s really that simple,” Jones said.

Jones had to leave a four-year college to care for a family member and was discouraged and unsure of her future.

“Leaving school left me with a load of student debt and I felt uncertain of my future. I didn’t know what God had in store for me,” Jones said.

Jones immersed herself in her new role as a home healthcare worker and became a social justice advocate. She quickly joined an advocacy group for home healthcare workers. It wasn’t long before Jones became a federal lobbyist advocating for other home healthcare workers as well as people with disabilities, immigration reform, the Affordable Care Act, women’s rights and more.

“I never imagined that I’d be on Capitol Hill fighting for the rights of home healthcare workers and working people across the U.S. It was surreal,” she said.

Fast forward several years. Jones continues to work as a home healthcare worker and advocate, but she is now also a graduate of TCC, earning an Associate of Science in Social Sciences with a 4.0 GPA.

“In the midst of my advocacy work, I knew I needed to go back to school,” Jones said. “TCC was a perfect fit. I received needed support and my professors were deeply invested in my success.”

Jones joined Open Door Project while at TCC. This federally funded program gives students guidance, tutors and support for their educational journey.

Jones credits her friend Sam Foor with getting her involved in campus life by joining the Anime Club. As her campus life grew, she joined the Garden Club; Student Government Association; Mu Alpha Theta, the math honor society; the Inter-Club Council and Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year schools.

“TCC was a place where I found a community of amazing people and lifetime of friends.” Jones said.

Jones will continue her studies at Old Dominion University where she will pursue a bachelor’s in political science with a minor in psychology. She is also considering law school.

“Before TCC, I was a ‘C’ student and had college debt. Now, I have no college debt and I’m graduating from TCC with a perfect GPA,” Jones added.

“I want people to see you don’t have to be defined by your past; you can really make a difference and you absolutely need to be your own superhero.“

TCC recognizes inaugural Academic Excellence and Service Award winners

Tidewater Community College launched the Academic Excellence and Service Awards to recognize exemplary students.

A total of 18 students were honored during a virtual ceremony held on May 2, 2021.

Michelle Woodhouse, vice president for Academic Affairs and chief academic officer, led the event and added her congratulations to the honorees.

“Each of these students has demonstrated exceptional community and academic achievements while enrolled at TCC during a time filled with unprecedented challenges,” she said. “They truly understand the concept of ‘community,’ that we are all part of something larger than the individual, something powerful and deep that touches all of us every day. And for their efforts, we are grateful and proud.”

TCC alumna Rickkita Taylor shared words of encouragement with award winners. Taylor graduated from TCC in 2016 and founded Sisters Healing Sisters, a nonprofit providing help and hope for those in need.

“Selfless scholars like yourselves help to ensure that the Hampton Roads community continues to thrive,” Taylor said. “Thank you again for your commitment to your education and community. We are very proud of each of you.”

2021 Academic Excellence and Service Award winners:

Emmanuel Abuah
Jacob Chaney
Kouadio Nzi Tiffanie Marie Chantal
Jordan L Guynn
Aralee Fajardo
T’Lia Jahmeelia Miles
Shanice Mills
Vuong Nguyen
Amy L. Paris
Joanna Porter
Aspen Roadcap
Elizabeth Sanborn
Jordan Sustarsic
Tiara G. Thompson
Jaidan N. Williams
Brittany Williams
Patricia Ann Womack
Latisha Lynn Yancey

All award winners are working toward associate degrees or certificates and have earned a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher. They also have a history of exemplary service to the college and the community.

TCC grad achieves lifetime goal of a college education

Debbi Gilbert always thought about going to college and knew that one day she would. It was just a matter of time.

Gilbert has worked as a bookkeeper for 25 years and she came to Tidewater Community College to prepare for a new career.

This Monday, May 10, Gilbert will graduate from TCC with an Associate of Applied Science in Business Management. Next year she will begin work on a bachelor’s degree in human resources at the State University of New York (SUNY), thanks to a matriculation agreement between TCC and SUNY.

“I always wanted to go to college and get a degree,” Gilbert says, “But I was a B and C student in high school. However, I’ve had straight A’s at TCC—only one B!”

Gilbert credits her son Tyler’s experience at TCC as the push she needed to get started. Tyler completed an associate degree in engineering at TCC in 2016 and then transferred to Virginia Tech, earning a bachelor’s in aerospace engineering in 2019.

Convenient scheduling, easy access to four campuses for classes, and top-flight professors and advisors have made Gilberts’ experience at TCC all she could have hoped for. A personal shout-out from Gilbert goes to Angela Slaughter, professor in the Business, Computer Science and IT Pathway, who put together informal meetings for her students, giving them a forum for ideas and business-related interests.

And Gilbert knows a thing or two about business, with over two decades in the workforce and most recently as an intern in the human resources office of United States Coast Guard Community Services Command.

Besides her studies at TCC, Gilbert is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year schools. She also shares her time with the Community Feed at TCC. To date, she has collected over a thousand pounds of food and a few hundred dollars in donations.

The Gilberts near their home in Norfolk.

As TCC’s commencement ceremony will stream live on YouTube on May 10 at 6 pm, Gilbert and her family will gather to witness her achievement.

President Biden and First Lady visit TCC’s Portsmouth Campus

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited Tidewater Community College’s Portsmouth Campus today to talk about the American Family Plan, a proposed initiative to help working families.

The plan would create four additional years of free public education and make preschool free for all 3- and 4-year-olds. In addition, the plan would cover at least two years of community college for all students.

“Every child has the capacity to learn,” President Biden said. “We are going to add two years of community college for everyone. For some that will mean earning the credits necessary to transfer to a four-year university. Others will prepare for a career.”

President Biden also talked about increasing Pell grant funding to help break down barriers for students including the cost of transportation and childcare.

President Marcia Conston with TCC Board Chair Cindy Free (left) and Board Vice Chair Lynn Clements. The group welcomed President Biden and Dr. Biden to the college.

TCC President Marcia Conston met with President Biden before he spoke to Virginia legislators, TCC board members and staff.

“This is a great day for TCC,” President Conston said. “I absolutely support this initiative because it’s good for our students and our community. Providing free community college education to everyone is a game-changer and will allow students to prepare for high demand careers without incurring any college debt.”

TCC student Jaidan Williams introduced the president and thanked him for helping students like her and schools like TCC.

TCC cyber security student Jaidan Williams

“TCC has equipped me to become a well-rounded professional and student,” Williams said. “My time at TCC included volunteer opportunities, internships and professional development. As a STEM Promise Scholar, I received a full scholarship, completely easing the financial burden of school.”

Williams is graduating this month with an Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security. She currently works as a civilian employee for the U.S. Coast Guard but has set her sights on a cyber career.

During their visit to TCC, the Bidens toured a heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) laboratory and watched a demonstration led by HVAC Professor and Program Head Harlan Krepcik.

Professor Krepcik with Dr. Jill Biden, President Biden and students.

Three TCC students worked with Krepcik to connect and measure electrical current through a series of parallel circuits.

“We need skilled technicians and the challenge we face is that the public views the trades as a last choice,” Krepcik said. “Many students would do well coming to community college and getting the hands-on training necessary to enter the skilled trades.”

First Lady Jill Biden, a Northern Virginia Community College English faculty member, has been teaching for more than three decades.

Speaking of Virginia’s Community Colleges, the First Lady added, “Our schools accept everyone, and we offer classes that are flexible. We train students for real-world jobs and provide a strong foundation to those who want to transfer to a four-year school.”

The Bidens leaving TCC’s Portsmouth Campus.

TCC’s new LEAP program provides recent high school graduates with free tuition, books and a new laptop

Tidewater Community College recently launched a new program designed to give recent high school graduates a head start on college. The LEAP (Learn. Explore. Accelerate. Persevere.) program is for students who will earn their high school diplomas in January – June of 2021.

Student who are looking to start college sooner, lighten the fall semester course load, or shorten the time to degree completion will benefit from TCC’s LEAP program.

Students can join Summer Session and enroll in 6-12 credits to receive free tuition, a book stipend and even a free laptop.

“Enrolling in the LEAP program will save students time and money and provide them with all the tools they need to be successful,” said Jenefer Snyder, dean of Social Sciences and Education.

Students may also apply to continue at the college for Fall Semester 2021 and complete up to an additional 12 credits using scholarship funds. Scholarships are available on a first come, first serve basis. Those who are already committed to a four-year school for the fall are eligible for transfer credits.

Summer LEAP Course options include History and Appreciation of Art, Introduction to Business, History I, Precalculus, Sociology and Networking Concepts. For a complete list, visit here.

“When enrolling in summer courses, students maintain the momentum of learning and feel a sense of accomplishment with earning college credits,” Snyder added. “They truly can LEAP ahead of other students on the journey to earning a college degree.”

Students interested in LEAP should contact info@tcc.edu or call the Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111.

“I love working with all of the clients and animals. It really is the best job”

Jane Gray has had plenty of jobs from managing a Wendy’s to working as a dog groomer.

Today, thanks to Tidewater Community College’s Veterinary Technology program, she has a career she enjoys.

“This is where I belong,” said Gray. “I tried a distance learning vet tech program, and it didn’t work for me, but I knew I was drawn to this work.”

TCC’s Vet Tech program launched in 2018 and is the only program of its kind in Hampton Roads.

Gray is in the second cohort, which started in fall of 2019. She will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology this summer.

“One of the best things about the program is that we are all in this together,” said Gray of her classmates. “We are all on a group text and we lean on each other often.”

Gray recently received a scholarship from the Virginia Association of Licensed Veterinary Technicians. She is the only student in Virginia who earned this award for 2021.

Gray is already at work in the field as a supervised assistant vet tech at a Chesapeake animal hospital.

“The work I do now I can only do because of my degree program,” Gray said.

Gray started as a receptionist and is now in the back using the skills she is learning in school on the job. She does everything from assessing animals to monitoring anesthesia to placing catheters to administering drugs and IV fluids.

An animal enthusiast, Gray found her passion for the field when her own dog got sick. “My dog Socks had heartworms and I almost lost her. A year later she got a serious infection, and it was scary. It was then that I decided I wanted to be there for other families to help educate them on conditions and treatments.”

“Our pets can’t talk, so it’s important that families are fully involved in their care,” Gray added. “I love working with all of the clients and animals. It really is the best job.”

Gray’s journey to an associate degree has been challenging due to a learning disability that affects her reading comprehension. “When we went online because of the pandemic, it was really tough for me,” Gray explained. “But my instructors and classmates rallied around me and were there whenever I had questions. The college also offered some accommodations that were really helpful.”

When Gray is not at school or work, she is still surrounded by animals on her five-acre farm in Chesapeake. She and her two children care for seven horses, a donkey, some chickens, two pot-bellied pigs, a hog and five dogs.

Gray with her horse Tucker at the farm in Chesapeake.

Gray says she learned a lot from her favorite TCC instructor Megan Taliaferro who is the program head, a licensed veterinarian, and an avid horse enthusiast.

“We both love horses and talk about them often. What could be better than that!”

TCC and the Foodbank announce the opening of the Portsmouth Campus Community Feed at TCC

Tidewater Community College and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore unveiled the Portsmouth Campus Community Feed at TCC during a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Portsmouth Campus site marks the partnership’s second location of The Community Feed — with the first opening at MacArthur Center in June 2020.

The Community Feed at TCC provides access to fresh fruits and vegetables; and as safety measures lift, will also bring individuals together to connect with one another over great food and conversation; share resources such as recipe cards, books and wellness materials; and participate in workshops and learning sessions led by strategic community partners addressing the root causes of food insecurity, which include lack of access to financial literacy, housing, employment, higher education and healthcare.

“We recognize that many of our students face food insecurity that affects not just themselves, but their family and ultimately, their studies,” said Dr. Marcia Conston, TCC President. “At TCC, we prioritize student success which includes helping our students identify and eliminate the barriers. The Community Feed at our Portsmouth Campus ensures that our students can receive meals, nonperishable foods, and fresh fruits and vegetables to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

The Community Feed at TCC program was launched with a $250,000 donation from TowneBank to the Foodbank in 2019 to establish up to four campus-based pantries that will serve TCC students. TowneBank is a long-time supporter of the Foodbank and has demonstrated a commitment to addressing community issues, including food insecurity among college students.

“The Foodbank is committed to closing the Meal Gap by 2025 and making measurable progress toward addressing the root causes of food insecurity, including limited access to higher education. We understand that education has a significant impact on an individual’s potential to earn a living wage and consistently put food on their table,” said Dr. Ruth Jones Nichols, President & CEO, Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.

TCC student Nicole Clarke visited the MacArthur location for first time this month. She was able to pick out produce, meats and some prepackaged meals. She also received a bike lock and a small piece of artwork for her home.

“I absolutely appreciate the Community Feed and I want to spread the word that there are resources out there and it’s for you,” Clarke said. “Go there and get the help you need. It’s the best feeling to be welcomed and served in this way.”

The Portsmouth Campus Community Feed at TCC is open to all TCC students with a valid student ID — with a long-term goal of opening the facility to the community. The Community Feed at TCC is currently available by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

First-time participants must register via the online enrollment form, and upon completion, utilize the online scheduling tool to select a time to pick up pre-packaged meal kits to prepare nutritious meals at home. Online reservations for pick-up are highly encouraged.

Food to Finish program

In addition, the Foodbank and TCC debuted the Food to Finish Program — an initiative to support students facing food insecurity, funded in part by a $20,000 donation from Virginia Natural Gas. The Food to Finish Program gives currently enrolled students access to fresh produce, meats and other groceries at the Community Feed at TCC locations, enabling them to save money for other necessities and to maintain their focus on academics. Students can receive up to 30 pounds of food each week. Students can apply on the online Food to Finish application form.

Student Resource and Empowerment Centers are now on every campus

TCC also launched the Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC), a Single Stop site that connects students with a variety of free and comprehensive social services and financial resources to help them stay focused on their academic goals. The college-wide initiative includes case managers on every TCC campus.

The Clothes Closet is just one offering in the new center.

These programs and resources are designed to work together to holistically address the needs of students, ultimately cultivating an environment in which students can focus on their studies and personal development.

“This resource center is the direct result of what happens when the staff dreams and rallies together around a shared vision of engaging our students in their own success and providing the support they need to get there,” said Jeanne Natali, director of the SREC. “Building on the strong foundation of the Women’s Center, this center opens its door today to help students navigate the complex web of campus and community resources.”

SREC case managers Melvilyn Scott and Sophia Tolliver.

More information about The Community Feed at TCC is available at www.FoodbankOnline.org/TheCommunityFeed. TCC students can receive help by emailing Chuck Thomas at cthomas@tcc.edu.

Additional information about the Student Resource and Empowerment Center is available by emailing Jeanne Natali at jnatali@tcc.edu.

State Board for Community Colleges to Consider 2021-22 Fees at May Meeting

In accordance with Section 23.1-307 (D) of the Code of Virginia, the State Board for Community Colleges provides notice that it will consider tuition and mandatory fee increases for Virginia’s Community Colleges, effective fall 2021, at 9 a.m. on May 20, 2021, via a virtual meeting.

The State Board will consider mandatory fee increases of between 0 percent and 1.2 percent for all undergraduate students, subject to provisions of the 2021 session of the General Assembly. The maximum potential increase equates to a tuition rate of $158.84 per credit-hour for in-state students and would result in a net annual increase of $55.20 for a student enrolling in 30 credit-hours during the academic year. The community colleges will use revenue generated from any increase in mandatory fees to pay for mandatory cost increases, contractual obligations, debt service, and proposed adjustments to student fees.

Written comments from the public will be accepted through May 19 and will be made available to the Board before action on tuition is taken. Written comments may be sent to Rose Marie Owen, Executive Assistant to the Chancellor, at rmowen@vccs.edu, or they may be mailed to the attention of Rose Marie Owen at:

Office of the Chancellor
Virginia Community College System
300 Arboretum Parkway
Richmond, Virginia 23236.

50th Annual Student Art & Design Exhibition goes virtual for a second year

Tidewater Community College Visual Arts Center students are showcasing their work during the 50th Annual Student Art & Design Exhibition that has gone virtual for a second year.

The event features more than 150 works, including studio arts, photography, graphic design, ceramics and glassblowing, created by students for art classes since last March.

The judge for the event was Solomon Isekeije, professor of fine arts and

program coordinator, division of fine arts at Norfolk State University.

Top award winners include:

President’s Award: Brydi Lynn Heebner, Percolator Sam, mixed media
$100 cash award sponsored by TCC President Marcia Conston • $75 museum membership sponsored by the Chrysler Museum of Art

Vice-President’s Award: Tim Pike, Simple Man, photograph
$100 cash award sponsored by Michelle Woodhouse, vice-president for academic affairs & chief academic officer • $50 gift certificate sponsored by the Coffee Shoppe

Dean’s Award: Sharla Cotton, Black and Gray Tea Jar, clay
$200 cash award sponsored by Kerry Ragno, pathway dean, arts & humanities

Purchase Award: Alyson Miller, Eye on the Sparrow, photograph
$500 cash award sponsored by Deborah M. DiCroce • $75 museum membership sponsored by the Chrysler Museum of Art

For a complete list of award winners visit here.

The student exhibition includes a talk from invited speaker Benjamin Gaydos, chair and professor of design, University of Michigan–Flint. The illustrated lecture will take place via Zoom on April 22 at 12:30 p.m. The meeting password is 23501.

For more information, or to inquire about sales, please contact Shelley Brooks at sbrooks@tcc.edu.

From TCC to head chef at Aldo’s in Virginia Beach

Steven Dunbar remembers a time when he was playing a pick-up game of basketball near Old Dominion University. Between shots, the guys he was with were talking about their college classes.

“That day is still so clear because I always wanted to go to college and there I was being reminded again,” Dunbar said.

Soon after, the 51-year-old enrolled at Tidewater Community College to pursue his Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts.

“I was on cloud nine when I started at TCC. I loved school all the way down to my book bag,” he said with a laugh.

Steven Dunbar at work at Aldo’s Ristorante.

Dunbar is no stranger to commercial kitchens, as he has worked at Aldo’s Ristorante, a well-known Virginia Beach restaurant, for close to three decades. He started at the bottom and has worked every job in the kitchen.

“The culinary side of my education let me know that even with all my years of experience, there was a ton I didn’t know,” Dunbar said. “The chefs at TCC shared their professional experiences and made sure we learned every skill and concept.”

Dunbar says he looked at other culinary schools but found TCC to be the most economical option with the same accredited curriculum.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, learning continued with at-home and in-person labs.

“Learning that you can meet deadlines is pretty gratifying and looking back and saying, ‘Yes! I did that,’ just feels so good,” Dunbar said. “If I could speak to students coming after me, my message is finish what you start. It’s never too late to accomplish your goals.”

This May, Dunbar’s earns his associate degree and his perseverance will be celebrated during TCC’s virtual commencement to be held on May 10 at 6 p.m. He is one of the selected students to share words of encouragement with classmates during the ceremony.

Thanks in part to his degree, Dunbar was recently made head chef at Aldo’s. He now gives back by inviting TCC students to complete required externship hours in his kitchen.

“There were times in my math and computer classes when I didn’t think I was going to make it,” he said. “But here I stand. A more well-rounded individual with the degree I always wanted. I couldn’t be prouder to be a TCC grad!”

TCC’s May 2021 grads can still buy regalia through the Virginia Beach Campus and MacArthur Center Barnes and Noble at TCC. Family, friends and community supporters are encouraged to share messages with graduates at socialmedia@tcc.edu.

Swashbuckling adventure on tap for TCC Theatre radio show

Tidewater Community College presents Quarantine Radio Theatre: “A Princess of Mars” on April 16 for two shows at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

The performance is free and open to the public and will be streamed via Facebook on the TCC Theatre Livestreams page.

“The virtual radio format gives us an unlimited canvas with which to tell the types of stories we usually couldn’t,” said director Logan Bennett. “I think it will be something new and exciting that the audience will not be expecting.”

The live radio play will be performed in the Black Box Theater on the Chesapeake Campus. The approximate running time is 85 minutes.

“A Princess of Mars” tells the tale of John Carter, a civil war veteran mysteriously transported to the planet Mars. On this dying, warlike planet he meets a bevy of bizarre creatures, falls in love with a beautiful princess, fights in epic battles, and sacrifices all to save the planet from final annihilation. This swashbuckling adventure, written by Edgar Rice Burroughs in 1912, showcases Carter, the original superhero that inspired Superman, Star Wars, Flash Gordon, and Avatar.

“While we miss performing for a live audience, we see benefits to the radio format as actors learn to convey all the information and physicality through voice alone,” added Bennett. “The audience isn’t limited by a single set or lighting design. They fill in the world with their own imagination. They become an active collaborator in the story. It will be a unique and individual experience, and that can be difficult to achieve in a normal live performance.”

For more information about the play or TCC Theatre, email Assistant Professor Matt Gorris at mgorris@tcc.edu.

TCC to provide tuition-free education through Gov. Northam’s “G3” program

Tidewater Community College will offer tuition-free education to low- and middle-income students through Gov. Ralph Northam’s “Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back” initiative, or “G3” program, which was signed into legislation on March 29, 2021.

The “G3” program includes $36 million to cover tuition, fees, and books and provide wraparound support for eligible students at the Commonwealth’s two-year public institutions.

“This is a phenomenal day for TCC and the students we serve,” said Dr. Michelle Woodhouse, interim vice president of academics and chief academic officer. “This program will help many students retrain for new careers in high-demand industries and expand the pipeline of talent for Virginia’s businesses.”

The “G3” program connects students with training and resources so they can secure jobs in high-demand fields and support their families without incurring high levels of student loan debt.

“G3” program areas include health care, information technology and computer science, manufacturing and skilled trades, public safety, and early childhood education. On average, students in these high-demand degree programs increase their wages by 60 percent upon program completion.

TCC alum Marcus Moody teaches welding at the Portsmouth Campus.

TCC alum Marcus Moody teaches welding on the Portsmouth Campus, which is home to the area’s largest welding lab. He came to TCC in 2012 to retrain for a new career after being laid off from a job in the banking industry. “A program like this would have been helpful to me. I would not have been able to improve myself and learn a new skill without the financial aid and the lower tuition rates at TCC,” Moody said.

“I encourage anyone to take advantage of the opportunities at TCC, including the skilled trades. I talk with my students about the options for welders, from working at the shipyard to owning your own business. Once you learn the skill, it’s yours for life.”

The “G3” program is one of the first in the nation to provide wraparound financial assistance to help students at the lowest income levels with expenses such as food, transportation, and childcare. Students who qualify for a full federal Pell grant and enroll full-time will receive student- support incentive grants on a semester basis. These grants will be in an amount up to $900 per semester and up to $450 per summer term.

Students interested in “G3” programs at TCC should call the Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111 or email info@tcc.edu.

TCC selected as Best Value School for Human Services

Tidewater Community College received top honors from Best Value Schools for its Human Services program. The program ranked 11 out of 25 selected schools.

Best Value Schools considers factors like cost of attendance, faculty experience, student feedback, the number of online offerings, student resources, graduation rate, job placement and total enrollment.

Graduates from TCC’s Human Services provide support for teens in crisis, families, the elderly and others in need. Students learn basic counseling skills, crisis intervention, the management principles of human and social service, and the skills needed to address the needs of patients and clients. Taught by practicing human services professionals, the program includes two hands-on internships.

For information about TCC’s programs, email enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

TCC ranked a top school for three programs by Intelligent.com

Tidewater Community College was named a top school by Intelligent.com for three programs: fire science, interior design and small business management.

Intelligent.com ranks colleges and programs across the country using aggregated publicly available data.

TCC was named “Best Community College” for the Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science. The program ranked 13 out of 38 schools listed by the site. TCC’s two-year degree in fire science includes a general principles class in addition to classes in building construction, fire investigation, hazardous materials, occupational safety and health, and fire dynamics.

TCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Interior Design was among the “Best Online” programs. TCC’s interior design program is the only accredited program in South Hampton Roads, preparing students for work designing commercial and residential spaces by developing skills in visual presentation, spatial and lighting design, color coordination, material selection, estimating and contract planning. The program also includes certificates in Green Design and Kitchen and Bath Design. The program was ranked 20 out of 28 listed schools.

Also, TCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Small Business Management & Entrepreneurship was listed as “Best Associate’s in the Southeast.” Offered on-campus and online, the program prepares students to launch or expand a small business. The degree includes classes in accounting, business law, finance, and marketing with special course work in entrepreneurship and business planning—as well as a cooperative internship. The program was ranked 17 out of 43 schools selected.

For information about TCC’s programs, email enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

TCC part of new Community College Workforce Cooperative

Tidewater Community College is part of a new collaboration among three community colleges in Hampton Roads designed to meet the large-scale job training needs of the region’s businesses and industries. The new Community College Workforce Cooperative (CCWC) will create a single point of contact to access the workforce training resources of TCC, Camp and Thomas Nelson community colleges which together serve 11 cities and four counties through 10 college locations.

“In my first year as college president, I quickly learned how limiting the artificial boundaries of our college service regions can be to the work we do,” said TCC President Marcia Conston. “This is an important step for us to take to ensure that boundaries that were mapped out in the 1960s don’t stop us from addressing Hampton Roads’ many training needs.”

The CCWC will direct and coordinate the job training resources, leveraging facilities, labs and additional training resources of all three community colleges to address the sizeable training needs that exist today in industries like shipbuilding and ship repair. That centralized coordination means those needs will be addressed faster and more cost-effectively. The CCWC will also ensure that the colleges are better prepared to meet emerging trends in the region, like the growing alternative energy industry.

“By working together, we can build an even stronger and more vibrant workforce,” said Tamara Williams, interim vice president of TCC’s Center for Workforce Solutions. “This collaboration positions us to help advance the region’s economic development priorities, filling workforce gaps, and making community college training even more accessible to large employers.”

The CCWC welcomed new Executive Director Todd Estes with the Virginia Community College System. The group held its first meeting this winter and included the presidents of each of the three community colleges, as well as representatives of their workforce development centers.

TCC to offer first plumbing program

Tidewater Community College is offering its first plumbing program. The program is designed to quickly train students for careers in the field and is suited for transitioning military or anyone interested in the skilled trades.

The 204-hour hands-on program is being offered at TCC’s Skilled Trades Academy and when completed, students will receive an industry-recognized credential through National Center for Construction Education and Research, along with 20 continuing education units awarded from TCC.

“Plumbing is an essential job,” said instructor Cody Whitlock. “We currently don’t have enough skilled workers, so companies are always looking for trained and competent people. This program will help build a pipeline of skilled workers.”

Students will learn the basics of plumbing, as well as safety, tools of the trade, and how to use plumbing math and drawings. Students will work with plastic, copper and cast-iron pipes, specific fittings, and drain, waste, and vent systems, to name a few.

Students will learn in this training “house,” newly built in TCC’s Skilled Trades Academy.

“This is the first plumbing class TCC has ever had,” added Whitlock. “To facilitate learning, we’ve built a mock house where we will teach students the hands-on techniques used when working with pipes and fittings.”

The first class starts on April 12 and ends August 17. The class will meet Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. The registration deadline is April 9.

“Learning plumbing is something no one can take from you,” Whitlock added. “You can take it anywhere and everyone needs it.”

For more information, call TCC’s Center for Workforce Solutions at 822-1234 or email workforce@tcc.edu.

Mother and daughter both got their start at TCC

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit a year ago, Tidewater Community College alumna Marguerite Bates-Frier was working to keep goods moving from the Port of Virginia to retailers nationwide.

As regional vice president of intermodal drayage for XPO Logistics, Inc., Bates-Frier and her regional fleet of more than 500 owner/operator truck drivers work to move cargo from large shipping containers to import and export distribution centers locally and over the roads.

“Truck drivers move America and are often taken for granted, as most people don’t know the critical role they play in America’s supply chain. Without them the shelves are empty,” she said. “With record freight volumes, lack of storage space and vessel delays, it has been a delicate dance to keep this all moving.”

Bates-Frier got her start at TCC when she was a stay-at-home mom with her infant daughter Nadia. Today mother and daughter are both TCC alumni, earning general studies associate degrees.

“It’s not something I reflect on often, but I owe a lot to TCC and appreciate the start I got there,” she said.

“I learned a lot at TCC and was quick to turn there once again when it was time to start looking at options for Nadia such as dual enrollment,” Bates-Frier said. “TCC provided the educational building blocks and played a pivotal role in the success of my future education and my career.”

After TCC, Bates-Frier went to work for local shipping company, Maersk, as a dispatcher. It was there that she was introduced to the maritime industry and her passion for the field ignited.

Bates-Frier worked her way up the ladder from dispatcher to regional vice president in ten years. She utilizes this knowledge to give back to the community by advising academic graduates and supporting maritime and supply chain needs — locally, regionally, and nationally.

“I absolutely love what I do. The days are fast-paced and rewarding. I encourage others to look at the field as the opportunities are endless,” she said.

Bates-Frier went on to earn her Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies from University of Virginia (UVA) and a Master of Engineering Management from Old Dominion University (ODU).

She is on the board for the Virginia Maritime Association, is the past president of Tidewater Motor Truck Association and serves on the Old Dominion Maritime and Supply Chain Advisory Council.

“My TCC education was absolutely the springboard that got me here,” Bates-Frier added. “I’m confident in business and proud to be on an executive team.”

As for daughter Nadia Frier, the 18-year-old earned her high school diploma and associate degree in 2020. As a dual enrolled student, she completed the first two years of a bachelor’s degree at TCC and now has her sights set on completing her four-year degree at University of Vermont or UVA.

“It felt good to have something to do during the pandemic and to work hard to get my general education classes done,” Frier said.

Frier spent the winter working at Wintergreen Resort, honing her customer service skills.

“My time at TCC helped me gain confidence and independence,” she said.

Frier is back in class at TCC, taking summer courses that will prepare her for what is certain to be a successful academic career.

“It’s always been my dream to go to college and I’m grateful to have my first degree at 18. And even though I probably won’t use statistics and bio in my daily life, having that knowledge and getting through those exams just makes me feel more prepared for what comes next.”

TCC to hold its 72nd Commencement Exercises virtually

Tidewater Community College will hold its 72nd Commencement Exercises virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On May 10 at 6 p.m., the college will recognize the achievements of its graduates with an online ceremony that will include messages from President Marcia Conston, student speakers, faculty and staff, and community leaders.

To participate, students need to apply for graduation by March 22.

Graduates will have the opportunity to see their photos and names displayed during the virtual ceremony. Photos should be submitted by March 26 by using this form.

Parents, family, faculty, alumni and community supporters are also encouraged to send greetings to graduates. The deadline is April 2.

Also, all May graduates will receive celebratory items for the day including their diploma case, a letter from President Conston, commencement program and alumni pin.

The exercises will be available as a recording afterward.

The decision to conduct this ceremony online honors guidelines announced by Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam and is in line with CDC regulations for social distancing to deter the spread of COVID-19.

TCC’s May graduates should visit this page for more information about graduation regalia (if desired), yard signs and to join TCC’s alumni community.