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From TCC to Regent Law School
Tanya Mills remembers how her mom struggled when she emigrated to the United States from Cuba.
“The process was brutal and time-consuming,” Tanya said. “But we were committed to making a fresh start in America.”
Mills was 10 years old then. Now at 44, she is a Tidewater Community College alum who recently earned a master’s in law from Regent University School of Law.
Tanya Mills in the mock courtroom at Regent Univesity Law School.
Tanya hopes to work in immigration law, helping to pave the way for other families coming to America.
“I never thought I’d earn an associate degree. I didn’t think education was for me. But then I saw I needed higher education to do what I’m called to do,” she said.
A single mother of two sons, Tanya studied business administration at TCC and took all of her classes on campus. She says that her professors were knowledgeable and hands-on. And they instilled in her a passion for learning which she has passed on to her sons.
Now grown, they’ve both taken classes at TCC. Her oldest son, Paris Blount, 22, recently earned a cyber security degree from Old Dominion University. Her youngest, Cairon Sanders, 18, started at TCC this summer and is working toward an Associate of Science in General Studies.
“When my sons wanted to quit college, I reminded them that once you have your education, it can’t be taken from you,” Tanya said.
The first-generation college student is grateful for her start at TCC because she had the freedom to learn but was also held accountable for her studies by the faculty and academic advisors. “I didn’t do well in high school and found community college to be a buffer for university,” Tanya said. “TCC has courses that can help you figure out your future and the environment is super supportive.”
Tanya in front of a replica of the US Declaration of Independence in the lobby of Regent Law School.
Tanya continued and earned a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Regent University. In 2022, she added a master’s in law to her accomplishments. She plans to use her law degree to argue cases in the U.S. Immigration Court and offer mediation and provide legal advocacy for families and individuals battling the U.S. immigration system.
“I was once told I wouldn’t amount to anything. But I pushed through all of that and I’m really proud of where I am today.”
TCC annual award winners shine inside the classroom and out
Tidewater Community College recognizes five faculty and staff members from across the college with annual special awards on Aug. 18.
Selected by their peers, the honorees will receive their awards at TCC’s 2022 Fall Convocation to be held at the college’s Chesapeake Campus.
Professor of the Year
Professor of the Year – Thomas Geary, Ph.D.
Thomas Geary, Ph.D., is the Professor of the Year, chosen by the Faculty Senate. Geary, 40, is an English professor and has been teaching at the college since 2012.
“It’s such an honor to be recognized by my peers because so many of my colleagues have shaped me and helped me develop into the teacher that I am today,” Geary said. “It also shows that what I’m doing is working for students.”
In addition, Geary was recognized with the 2022 Outstanding Faculty Award by the State Council of Higher Education and Dominion Energy. He is one of 12 recipients out of 85 nominees recognized in Virginia for the award.
“I am humbled to receive such a prestigious award and be recognized alongside an exceptional group of faculty in our state,” Geary said. “Even more so, I am thrilled that TCC shares in this honor; our incredible administration, faculty and staff work so hard every day to guide our students to be successful in their academics and as contributors to our community. I’m grateful to work alongside everyone in fulfilling our mission.”
Geary regularly teaches composition, rhetoric, technical writing, developmental writing and humanities courses. He also serves as the editor of Inquiry, the peer-reviewed journal for faculty, staff and administrators at Virginia’s Community Colleges. He is a former elected representative on the Modern Language Association Delegate Assembly and an executive committee member of the Two-Year College English Association.
Since the return of face-to-face instruction, Geary has taught online, synchronous and asynchronous classes and maintained a blend to allow for a flexible classroom for students. Students are encouraged to attend in the format that suits them best. He also uses open educational resources, keeping education affordable by cutting out the cost of textbooks.
Geary allows students to revise their work without penalties and he gives flexible deadlines. “I’m creating a learning environment where compassion and empathy take center stage in my classes. This allows me to accommodate students and ensure their success, no matter the circumstances,” he said.
Geary added, “I really want students to be able to inquire in academic issues and engage in problems that affect the community. I want to have their voices contribute to the solutions in our community, state and nation.”
Geary is a member of the Faculty Professional Development Committee and serves as a search advocate for hiring committees. He is a former member of the Faculty Senate and former chair of the President’s Advisory and Planning Council.
Geary holds a Ph.D. and a master’s in English from the University of Maryland. He also has a bachelor’s in English from Christopher Newport University.
Geary married his wife, Meredith, during the COVID-19 pandemic via a virtual ceremony. The couple has a dog, Daisy, a chihuahua mix, and two cats, Monkey and Doodle. Geary can be seen around his Virginia Beach neighborhood walking Daisy for a least an hour a day. The couple enjoys spending time with their extended family who reside in cities throughout South Hampton Roads.
Faculty Special Achievement
Faculty Special Achievement Award Winner – Stacey Forgey, Ph.D.
Staci Forgey, Ph.D., professor of biology, was honored by the Faculty Senate with the Faculty Special Achievement award for her innovative teaching and dedication to student development.
Forgey, 38, worked on two special projects last year that contributed to her nomination. Working with faculty member Lynette Hauser, Forgey collected and analyzed a large set of data that compared the final grades in science courses for non-science majors. In the research, Forgey completed logistic regression to identify factors important for student success. Forgey wrote a presentation to share the findings and noted that environmental science courses led to higher success rates than biology courses due to the breadth of the topics presented. The research revealed disparities in success based on race, age and gender.
Forgey, a Virginia Beach resident, also presented on gender inclusivity in teaching biology at TCC’s 2022 Learning Institute. Forgey completed an extensive review of literature and resources to produce a thoughtful review, as well as a list of recommendations on how to be more inclusive when teaching science courses.
“I’m very honored to be recognized so early in my teaching career,” she said. “So many students endured difficult situations during the pandemic, and I saw that my classes gave them a place to belong.”
Forgey knows firsthand the value of community college, as she is a first-generation college student. Her mom followed her to college and earned a nursing degree two years after Forgey graduated with her bachelor’s degree. In addition, two of her sisters changed the course of their careers by attending community college.
“I enjoy teaching at TCC because we have students from so many diverse backgrounds. Community college is the first choice for those looking for a second chance,” she said. “We do the most good at TCC because we have students who really want to be here and are making big changes in their lives.”
Forgey holds a Ph.D. in community college leadership and a master’s in biology from Old Dominion University. She earned her bachelor’s in biology from Niagara University.
During the pandemic, Forgey jumped into college governance to stay connected with her peers. She served on the Program Prioritization Committee, the PACE (Progressive Academic and Career Experience) Assessment, the General Education Assessment, the Student Success Committee and the Steering Committee for the newly formed Center for Teaching Excellence.
Forgey enjoys gardening as well as kayaking and hiking with her family. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Forgey married her husband Robert outside at the Northwest River Park in Chesapeake. The couple has two sons, Bryson and Griffin.
Outstanding Adjunct Faculty
Outstanding Adjunct Faculty – Jeffrey Acosta
Jeffrey Acosta, recipient of the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty award, is a historian with a varied background that includes thirty-eight years of military service with the US Marine Corps. He completed three combat tours and two tours of duty as a field historian. He also spent eleven years as curator for the MacArthur Memorial and thirteen years as a defense analyst for General Dynamics.
“This award is really important to me because it’s recognition from my peers,” Acosta said. “I’m grateful to be recognized for my dedication to my students and for creating a positive learning environment both in and outside the college.”
Acosta, 67, enjoys helping students look at history through different contexts. He aims with each lesson to incorporate the rich diversity of the people and events of history. This includes lessons that cover both the tragedies and triumphs of the human race.
Acosta’s courses include writing assignments that require students to practice their critical reading and writing skills. “My students quickly learn that history at the college level is more than just rote memorization of dates, famous people and events,” Acosta said. “It is about history as a discipline that is connected in some way to all the courses they take at TCC and to their lives in a general sense.”
Acosta, a Virginia Beach resident, uses a variety of teaching tools, open educational resources, and books from the library to save on the costs of textbooks. He also offers flexible classes and students can come in-person or join via Zoom if they have to stay home to care for a family member.
Part of Acosta’s success as an instructor is that he is accessible to students who need extra help. He schedules at least one extra help session weekly via Zoom or in-person. He also reaches out to students who are not performing well and develops a plan to improve their performance.
Acosta is a member of the Faculty Senate and worked to develop the TCC Adjunct Faculty Growth and Evaluation Process with Dean Jenefer Snyder. He is the Faculty Senate representative with the TCC Academic Affairs Council and a member of the national board of trustees for the Filipino American National History Historical Society.
A proud TCC alum, Acosta noted that the courses he took at TCC in English, math and science prepared him for success as an artillery officer in the Marines and as a concept development and experimentation planner for General Dynamics.
Acosta holds a master’s and bachelor’s in history from Old Dominion University and liberal arts associate degree from TCC. Acosta is a graduate of the U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College. He also completed coursework at the U.S. Naval War College and National Defense University.
When he is not teaching, Acosta enjoys spending time with his wife of 40 years, Celeste, and their children and grandchildren. They spend their summers touring the country to learn more about history through actually visiting historical sites, national monuments and museums in the United States and Europe.
Classified Employee of the Year
Classified Employee of the Year – Brad Hooker
Brad Hooker was recognized by the college’s Classified Association for his innovative leadership in overseeing TCC’s warehouse operations.
As warehouse supervisor for close to a decade, Hooker, 63, developed processes to keep the warehouse operating effectively and in support of the needs of the college community.
“Brad has brought accountability and expertise to the warehouse operations, seeing each day as his chance to contribute,” said Thomas Hutchins, director of material management and Hooker’s supervisor. “Brad was on-site every day during the pandemic shutdown and allowed our warehouse to provide uninterrupted service to the college.”
During his time at TCC, Hooker set up a system that tracks outgoing shipments and implemented load sheets and driver logs so that all items can be tracked while in transit. He organized the warehouse using a bin location process, making it easy to locate any requested item. Hooker also helped to implement Inventory Direct, the college’s electronic ordering tool for supplies.
“We are a support department and every day I do my part to make this the best and safest warehouse around. We take pride in keeping everything clean and safe,” he said.
Hooker, a Chesapeake resident, also oversees the surplus warehouse which is particularly vital when budgets are tight. “Brad answers inquiries about available items and arranges opportunities for staff to walk through to look at furniture and equipment that can be put back into use,” said Lynn Hundley, facilities project manager. “This saves resources to support the college’s mission and allows for funds to be used to purchase other items that are needed.”
Hooker has had a career dedicated to customer service, first as a trainer and manager for Farm Fresh and later as warehouse supervisor for Cavalier Telephone Co.
In his free time, Hooker teaches drums at Western Branch Music & Arts. His youngest student is six and the oldest is 68. Brad has been married for 40 years to his wife, Patricia Hooker.
“I’m very honored to receive this award and grateful for my job at TCC,” he said. “It’s rewarding to do my part to support the college and our students.”
Wage Employee of the Year
Wage Employee of the Year – Alice Robinson
Alice Robinson is TCC’s Wage Employee of the Year. As the office assistant for the Arts and Humanities Pathway, Robinson greets students and ensures that their questions are answered promptly and accurately. “I’m overwhelmed by this honor and really can’t believe it. I’ve been in a group chat with my family all week and they are tickled pink,” she said.
Robinson, a Norfolk resident, has worked at TCC for 19 years and is an alum of TCC’s Administrative Support Technology program.
“Alice welcomes everyone with a smile and goes the extra mile to ensure students’ needs are met,” said Kerry Ragno, former pathway dean for Arts and Humanities. “She also works with faculty to ensure they complete administrative tasks that affect the student experience.”
This year, Robinson handled special projects including entering summer and fall classes in the system for registration and also preparing faculty reassign time contracts for signature. She also helped the pathway become more proficient in meeting add/drop deadlines and providing access to course syllabi for students with concerns.
A self-proclaimed people person, Robinson says that her favorite thing about the job is her interactions with students, faculty and coworkers. “Every day there are new challenges and people to meet. That’s the best part of my day,” she said.
Robinson earned a bachelor’s in hospitality and tourism management from Norfolk State University. She is the proud mother of six children and she has 20 grandchildren.
TCC helps student build a new life
Brian Marshall is one of those people who make you smile when you meet him. He’s affable, relatable and full of joy.
And that was on the worst days of his life.
Brian came to Tidewater Community College after losing his business and his home. He was living in his car, hoping to build a new life.
He came across an online ad for TCC while looking for a job.
Brian Marshall received help on TCC’s Norfolk Campus.
“That was the day I stumbled upon the biggest blessing of my life,” he said. “God placed me with the right people at the right time.”
A trained chef with 16 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Brian selected TCC’s Hospitality Management program. He completed his first semester with a 3.8 GPA while homeless and working overnight shifts at 7-Eleven.
“Those were challenging times with very little sleep,” he said. “But the support network I had at TCC made it possible to keep going.”
“Helping students overcome barriers is what makes the job worthwhile,” Brown said. “Brian is a smart, determined student who now has the opportunity to succeed.”
The Open Door Project provides Brian with specialized support services, tutoring and keeps him accountable for his studies.
In addition, Mel at the SREC connected Brian with needed resources and even got him into transitional housing. “Ms. Mel made miracles happen. She opened so many doors and the results have been astonishing,” Brian said.
Even in the midst of the most difficult circumstances, Brian remained positive and upbeat.
Brian has a lot to smile about! He now has a new apartment and is excelling in school.
“If you have a focused mind, you can accomplish anything,” Brian said. “And you have to encourage yourself with positivity every morning whether that’s with uplifting music or listening to your favorite pastor or podcast. You have to keep your mind on higher things.”
During his TCC journey, Brian also received support and mentoring from Thomas Chatman, dean of student support services and Norfolk Campus dean.
He made connections with faculty members, including Peter Kane, the program head for Hospitality Management and Marlo Calloway, who taught his Student Development class. “I did a presentation in her class about where I want to go and what I want to be after TCC. It was very encouraging to take time to look ahead,” Brian said.
Brian is about to start classes for Fall Semester and things are looking up. He has his own apartment and a reliable job cooking in a well-established restaurant.
He hopes one day to open a restaurant venue where he can host events. He also plans to restart his catering business, Stormy Flavorz, and provide in-home chef services, as well as catering for universities and other venues. Right now, however, he is focused on school and earning his degree.
When he walks across the stage to celebrate graduation and receive his degree in 2024, Brian’s mom, Sharon Thompson, will be there to cheer him on. The duo has plans to take a cruise once that milestone is reached.
“I still have my moments when the tears come and I question everything,” he said. “But when I see the progress I’m making and doors opening, I know I’m on the right track. I do my best to learn from my past but look forward to each new day knowing that my faith in God will carry me.”
If you are a current or prospective TCC student and need support, visit the Student Resource and Empowerment Center and the Open Door Project on the TCC website for more information. For additional student support services, contact the Virtual Student Support Team at enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.
TCC has resources that actually help students thrive
Fall Semester is almost here, with classes starting on August 22. Now is the time to get ready for your next steps in school. The college offers free computers, emergency financial help, food and more. Here’s what you need to know.
Travis Johnson earned two associate degrees from TCC. An Army veteran, Travis said, “TCC helped me financially and provided meals for my family. The people at the SREC kept me on track and supported my journey every step of the way.”
TCC’s Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC), is a Single Stop site that connects students with a variety of free and comprehensive social services and financial resources to help students stay in school. The SREC also has a Career Collection on every campus, where students can pick out a free, professional outfit for that important interview, internship or leadership opportunity. Reach out to the SREC onlinefor assistance.
TCC staffers are ready to help! Shown here: Melvilyn Scott (SREC), Talesha Smith (The Community Feed), Charles Thompson (Student Center) and Crystal Kirby (Open Door Project).
Computers for school TCC’s Computer Club makes personal computers and laptops available through its Computers for Student Success program. Visit here for more information and details on how to apply.
Emergency Assistance Student Emergency Assistance is available to help students with temporary, short-term financial needs that may hinder their education. Consideration is given to students that have experienced financial hardship due to an unforeseen emergency. Funds can be used to bridge the gap when students receive less financial aid than needed for school costs and emergency living expenses.
TCC has computers for students and volunteers show new users the basics.
Meals, fresh foods and pantry staples Tidewater Community College and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore have partnered to offer The Community Feed at TCC. Through the program, students can receive meals and fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as pantry items for their families. Students can utilize the online scheduling tool to select a time to pick up pre-packaged meal kits to prepare nutritious meals at home.
The Community Feed at TCC in Norfolk.Portsmouth Campus Community Feed.
Mental health services available for students TimelyCare is a new telehealth program for students. The service provides access to 24/7 virtual mental health care from anywhere in Virginia, with no cost to visit! TimelyCare’s TalkNow is on-demand access to a mental health professional to talk about anything at any time. You can also schedule counseling sessions and receive health coaching. To learn more, visit here.
Open Door Project Open Door Project students come from disadvantaged backgrounds and are often first-generation college students. Offered on the Norfolk and Portsmouth campuses, this federally-funded program helps students with academic performance while providing support services to keep them in school. Eligible students receive academic advising, assistance with FAFSA completion, success skills workshops, career and transfer counseling, and one on one tutoring. To find out more, fill out this form.
Wi-Fi available on campus If you are equipped with a Wi-Fi-enabled portable device, you may access TCC’s network in the following campus locations. Spaces are marked “TCC Student Wi-Fi Parking.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Chesapeake Campus: Parking lot next to the Pass Building. You may park in handicapped spaces. Of the four campuses, this area has the strongest external Wi-Fi signal.
Norfolk Campus: On Granby Street in front of the Walker Building and on College Place across from the Green District Administration Building. Note that these are metered spaces with the first hour free.
Portsmouth Campus: On Freedom Avenue alongside the B Building
Virginia Beach Campus: Driveway in front of the Regional Health Professions Center. You may park in the handicapped spaces.
For additional assistance with enrollment, advising or any other need, contact the Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111 or email enroll@tcc.edu.
Career Collection professional wear is available for students on every campus.
“I was a student in the worst of circumstances. But I had people who believed in me.” — Jamie Farris, TCC alum
TCC is proud of all of its alumni. But for Norfolk Campus staff alum Jamie Farris holds a special place in their hearts.
Jamie had a challenging childhood. He was bounced from school to school throughout his elementary and high school years due to mental health and emotional issues.
“Growing up, no one thought I could do well in an academic setting. It was something I needed to overcome to get on with my life,” Jamie said.
As an adult learner, Jamie came to TCC to confront his past and set a new course for his future. Staffer Mark Flanders saw Jamie’s desire for an education and his potential as a student. Flanders and the campus community rallied around Jamie and helped with his transition to college.
Jamie Farris is proud of his TCC degree and his certificate for financial literacy from the City of Virginia Beach.
“We worked with Jamie on career readiness skills, time management and encouraged him on the journey,” Flanders says. “Watching him overcome some pretty difficult circumstances was an inspiration to all of us.”
Despite the support while at TCC, the road was still difficult. Jamie experienced homelessness and lived at the Union Mission and later in transitional housing.
“I was a full-time student in the worst of circumstances. I had no car, no money, no home. But I did have a bus pass from TCC and people who believed in me,” Jamie said.
Jamie received support through the college’s Open Door Project (ODP), a Department of Education federal TRIO program. ODP offers free academic, career and cultural counseling to low-income, first-time college students on the Norfolk and Portsmouth campuses.
“Once I opened up about my past, my struggles, I was able to overcome those obstacles with help from Open Door,” Jamie added. “The staff made me feel like I wasn’t alone.”
Jamie also made friends through ODP, an unexpected benefit. “We took so many educational field trips and really had fun,” he added.
A turning point for Jamie was during a meeting with Thomas Chatman, currently the Dean of Norfolk Campus. Jamie recalls that he painted a vivid picture of someone graduating in a cap and gown. “He told me that even with my difficulties, I could do it and I finally believed it,” he said.
He now enjoys a stable life with his own apartment and a steady job with UPS.
“I tell everyone to not be afraid to open up about your mental health struggles,” Jamie said. “The people at TCC are there to help. This was where I built a new life.”
Accelerated degree fast tracks your education
TCC can take you from here to anywhere. But did you know that you can get there even faster with the college’s Accelerated Degree Program (ADP).
The ADP enables students to earn their associate degrees in one year. Students can then fast-track their transfer to a four-year school to complete a bachelor’s degree because they enter the university as juniors.
Current ADP student Alyssa Tellez, 19, graduated from high school in 2021 and this July is earning her associate degree from TCC.
“My favorite thing about the program is how quick it was. There was no time to get bored with classes and I could fit college into my life and around family responsibilities,” she said.
Alyssa plans to continue her education toward a bachelor’s degree in psychology or sociology. She added, “If you want to get a degree with personal advising in a fast format, this is the program for you.”
The application deadline for Fall Semester is July 29, 2022 and information to apply can be found here.
Benefits of the ADP include:
*Complete an associate degree in just one year *Save thousands by completing two years of college at TCC versus a four-year institution *Receive personalized attention with low student-to-faculty ratios and regular academic advising *Attain admission as a junior-level transfer student at most four-year colleges and universities *Begin your bachelor’s program immediately upon completing the associate degree
The program is open to new high school graduates as well as adult learners, including military-related students, who meet certain academic requirements.
To receive more information about the program use this form. Help is also available through TCC’s Virtual Student Support Team at enroll@tcc.edu or by calling 757-822-1111.
“I tell everyone looking to go to college to start at TCC” — Juanica Walker
Juanica Walker came to Tidewater Community College to train for a new career. Her goal was to be able to provide a stable life for her special needs son, Gianni.
She found her calling while working as a nurse aide and medical technician in private homes and facilities for the elderly and those with intellectual disabilities.
“As a nurse aide, I always found myself advocating for my patients and making sure they had the services they needed,” she said. “Whether that meant bringing them clothing, or a birthday cake, or connecting them with community resources.”
She added, “When I was considering a career switch, human services just made sense.”
Juanica, 32, was concerned about starting college in her late 20s, especially as a single mom with anxiety and depression. “At first, I thought I can’t do this. Then I realized if I can’t help myself, I’m not going to be able to help anyone else.”
Juanica connected with Human Services Program Lead and Professor Ivory Warren. And with hard work and persistence, she earned an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services in two years.
“Ms. Warren is one of those professors you don’t want to fail around. She makes you strive for success. She’s also a counselor and professor, offering us life advice while we learn in her classes.”
During this time, Juanica also found resources for Gianni, now four years old. With a set schedule and many doctors and therapists, he is thriving with his autism diagnosis. He will start kindergarten in the fall.
“I tell everyone who is looking to go to college to start at TCC. With the resources and helpful staff, you can start small and take steps toward your future.”
While studying at TCC, the college provided Juanica with a free laptop, Wi-Fi, financial assistance for her son’s daycare and meals through The Community Feed at TCC.
She also engaged with the community through the TCC Human Services Club and the Women Overcoming Whatever group.
Juanica is now working full-time for Jewish Family Services as a Guardian Representative. She has 30 clients that she helps connect with resources while taking care of their personal affairs and living situations.
“I recently connected one of my clients with a son that he hadn’t seen in years. It was a truly special moment when they saw each other again,” Juanica said. “Those moments make the stressful days all worth it!”
Juanica is continuing her studies at Old Dominion where she says she is well prepared. “There are no surprise moments, everything rings a bell because of my start at TCC.”
TCC summer programs help recent high school grads prepare for college and careers
Tidewater Community College has been awarded a Title III grant to provide summer programs for recent high school graduates of Norfolk and Portsmouth Public Schools.
“These programs are designed to create academic equity for students,” said Michael Summers, special assistant to the vice president of Academic Affairs. “We’re investing in the next generation by providing students with the tools they need to be successful in their higher education and career goals.”
The college has space for 50 students in each of the two programs being offered by TCC. High school graduates will spend two weeks on TCC’s Norfolk and Portsmouth Campuses and prepare for their next steps to college and careers.
The Excellence Institute on Norfolk Campus will be held July 18-28. The Summer Bridge program on Portsmouth Campus will be offered August 8-18. The full-day programs include catered lunches daily.
The Excellence Institute on Norfolk Campus is designed for students who are unsure about going to college, do not feel ready to start college, or are afraid that their current professional footprint will not help them obtain the career they desire.
“It only takes one decision to change the trajectory of a student’s academic and professional career,” said Khadijah Peak-Brown, TCC’s Connect2TCC coordinator on the Norfolk Campus. “Let this be one of those good decisions. It is my firm belief that joining the Excellence Institute this summer will catapult students’ academic and professional efficacy.”
Excellence Institute program benefits include:
Individualized personal development. If students do not feel college ready, we can help with that.
Career mentorship to help with career selection and motivation.
Connections with working professionals ranging from government officials to restaurant owners and everything in between. We match students’ career focus and desires with those in the industry doing what they want to do.
Hands-on support with technology. By doing it now, students skip the technology learning curve later.
Develop college algebra and writing skills to increase students’ preparation for entry writing and math exams. We make these foundational courses fun and meaningful.
Obtain high school to college transitional support including FASFA, applications, major selection and more.
The Summer Bridge program is for students who are nervous about attending college, want help succeeding in college and wish they had a personal mentor.
“This new program aims to increase the success, college retention and graduation rates of Portsmouth High School students,” said Jabari Colon, Connect2TCC coordinator on Portsmouth Campus. “During a pre-college program, participants engage in evidence-based intensive psychosocial and personal development programming. Participating students will build knowledge and skills to increase their individual and cultural strengths and improve family relationships.”
Summer Bridge program benefits include:
Connection with a personal mentor.
Learn skills that will help students get the jobs they really want.
Engage in group sessions that will push personal development, helping students reach their greatest potential.
Participate in team games and personal fitness activities.
Connect with other first-year students and key support staff at the college.
Receive guidance on financial aid and student and life resources available at TCC.
Learn creatively in academic strengthening workshops.
Train on how to navigate campus systems.
And while these programs are designed for recent high school graduates from Norfolk and Portsmouth Public Schools, all are welcome to apply to attend. Contact Khadijah Peak-Brown on Norfolk Campus by emailing kpeak-brown@tcc.edu or calling (757) 822-1321. On Portsmouth Campus, reach out to Jabari Colon at jcolon@tcc.edu or by calling 757-822-2413.
TCC commemorates Juneteenth holiday with student trip to the National Museum of African American History and Culture and more
Tidewater Community College will commemorate Juneteenth with celebrations throughout June.
Juneteenth became a federal holiday in the United States on June 17, 2021. The holiday commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans. Juneteenth is celebrated annually on June 19 to mark the date in 1865 when the last enslaved African-Americans in Texas, the last state of the Confederacy with institutionalized slavery, were notified of their freedom following the Civil War.
A highlight of the Juneteenth commemoration at TCC is a bus trip for current students to Washington, D.C. Students will visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture, a Smithsonian Institution Museum located on the National Mall. It was established in December 2003 and opened its permanent home in September 2016. The day-long bus trip is set for June 17 and current students can sign up here.
The college is also hosting a “Miss Juneteenth” movie watch and share gathering at the Norfolk Campus Student Center on June 15 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to participate in a discussion following the film showing.
“Miss Juneteenth” is a critically acclaimed American film that follows a single mom and former teen beauty queen as she enters her daughter into the local Miss Juneteenth pageant. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2020, and was released via video on June 19, 2020, coinciding with the 155th anniversary of the Juneteenth holiday.
Additional student events can be found at the Virtual Student Center including a Juneteenth trivia game on June 9.
The college will be closed on Monday, June 20, to commemorate the Juneteenth holiday.
TCC’s in-person summer camps are back on all campuses
Are you looking for summer fun with a purpose for your kids? Check out Tidewater Community College’s in-person summer camps with offerings for budding engineers, entrepreneurs, outdoor enthusiasts, computer wizards and more.
TCC’s has more than 80 camps, offered over eight weeks, geared for youth ages 8-15.
New Black Rocket Computer camps include YouTube Content Creators, Cyber Spies and Video Game Animation. Other new offerings include Beekeeping, Backpacking and Social Equality camps.
Spark your child’s imagination with interactive and fun programs tailored to their interests and age.
TCC’s week-long programs are affordable and conveniently located on the Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach campuses, and at the Center for Workforce Solutions in Suffolk. Limited enrollment size ensures students receive personalized attention.
Camps begin June 21 and run through the week of Aug. 8.
For a complete listing and to register, visit tcc.edu/camps.
Registration is now open. To receive a $5 discount per camp, register by May 31.
For more information call Emily Richardson at 757-871-7871 or call TCC’s Workforce Solutions Center at 757-822-1234 or email summercamps@tcc.edu.
Connect2TCC coordinator selected for global Emerging Leaders program
Tidewater Community College Coordinator Khadijah Peak-Brown was selected for the 2022-2024 Class of Emerging Leaders by NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising. Peak-Brown is one of ten advising professionals selected from an international pool of candidates.
The two-year Emerging Leaders program enables participants to work closely with mentors to enhance their skills and knowledge and will prepare them for leadership positions within higher education. Mentors and participants develop individualized plans based on the mentee’s interests, expertise and goals for the future.
“This is a well-deserved honor for Khadijah,” said Michael Summers, Special Assistant to the Vice President of Academics. “Her work this summer is important as it will impact the next generation of scholars by creating academic equity for students.”
Peak-Brown, TCC’s Connect2TCC coordinator, is developing a summer program for Norfolk Public School high school seniors called the Excellence Institute. A total of 50 students will engage in activities that build their academic and professional efficacy and, in turn, increase their persistence in their higher education pursuits.
“This is not just a job for me, but a call to action,” Peak-Brown said. “The Covid-19 pandemic stripped high school students of so many opportunities to build their academic and professional efficacy. They simply did not have the chance to experience milestones that are traditionally had during their high school years. They lost opportunities that organically happen in the classroom which through navigating those challenges, boosts academic and professional efficacy. Something should be done to address that.”
Peak-Brown describes her work as creating academic equity, by working on the social and emotional part of the equation and equipping students with the tools to succeed academically and professionally.
“This work is important and will have a monumental impact on those we serve,” Peak-Brown said. “All the research around efficacy and academic success affirms that high academic efficacy leads to academic success. I’m excited to build opportunities to improve efficacy for students and provide urgent support that will aid in their success.”
Peak-Brown joined TCC this year, having served at institutions ranging from private Christian universities to public historically Black colleges and universities. Her expertise is in at-risk retention and prevention efforts. Peak-Brown holds an Educational Specialists Degree in Educational Psychology and is in pursuit of her Ph.D.
Learn about everything TCC offers at two open houses, May 21 and June 25
Find your future at Tidewater Community College.
Learn about the gamut of TCC’s programs, including cybersecurity, culinary arts, health sciences, maritime technologies and the many other potential career paths and transfer opportunities the college offers.
Take the next step by visiting one of TCC’s open houses on May 21 and June 25 between 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
On May 21, visit TCC’s Virginia Beach or Portsmouth Campuses.
On June 25, visit the Norfolk Campus, Chesapeake Campus and the Regional Automotive Center.
To learn about the academic programs to be represented at each campus visit here. Visit our website for a complete listing of programs.
There is plenty of time to enroll for fall classes, which begin on Aug. 22.
All are invited, especially:
2022 high school graduates and their families;
adults who want to start or finish a degree, learn a new field, or advance in their careers;
active-duty military and veterans, their spouses and dependents.
You will be able to apply to TCC; learn about financial aid, grants and scholarships; explore academic options; tour campuses; and learn about campus life at all locations.
If you have an eye on a four-year college, TCC can help get you there, too. Transfer agreements allow a student to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree at TCC and gain guaranteed admission to most Virginia colleges and universities.
Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made by May 19 and June 23, to the Office of Educational Accessibility by emailing oea@tcc.edu or calling 757-822-7751.
“It’s easy to think it’s too late and you’ve missed your opportunity. But it’s never too late.” – Angi Wood, TCC student
Angela “Angi” Wood says the most important thing she’s learned at TCC is how to be a compassionate nurse.
She credits her nursing skills instructor, Catina Davis, with inspiring her to be an excellent nurse, while also teaching her the nursing process and critical thinking on the job.
Angi is an adult learner who returned to TCC to earn her nursing degree, after spending more than a decade as a stay-at-home mom with her daughter, Adelaide, who is now her biggest cheerleader.
“I hear my daughter telling her friends that I’m in nursing school and she’s really proud,” Angi said. “It’s easy to think it’s too late and you’ve missed the opportunity. But it’s never too late.”
Angi, 41, selected TCC’s nursing program because of its strong reputation in the community and the resources available for students.
“I like the challenge and rigor of the program,” she said. “And TCC has the equipment and simulators to help you gain the skills needed to be a great nurse,” she added.
Angi says that at one point the pressure of adding school to her already busy life was really challenging. “I was dealing with family demands, the pandemic, along with school and work. When I heard about the mental health counseling offered at TCC, I jumped at the opportunity.”
She signed up through TimelyCare, a service provided through Virginia’s Community Colleges. “I worked with my counselor on interventions for stress management and coping skills. At first, we met weekly and now we talk every other week. It’s made a big difference,” she said.
TCC’s nursing program includes clinical rotations in area hospitals, and that’s where Angi found her fit in the Intensive Care Unit. She hopes to land a full-time position after graduation and when she becomes a registered nurse. “It takes a lot of skill to care for critical care patients, and TCC’s program has prepared me well for the task ahead,” she said.
Angi is on track to earn her Associate of Science in Nursing in December 2022. She is earning her bachelor’s in nursing from Old Dominion University concurrently.
Angi’s family, including her husband Randall, and their daughter Adelaide, will be there to cheer her on when she graduates from TCC.
“I got a great education at TCC that’s going to translate into a rewarding career,” Angi said. “I’m ready for the work and looking forward to serving my community.”
For more information on TimelyCare and the other student support services available through the Student Resource and Empowerment Center, visit here.
TCC Norfolk Campus welcomes the Visual Arts Center
Tidewater Community College is moving all of its visual arts programming to Norfolk Campus.
For more than 25 years, 340 High Street has served as more than a building to TCC. For many students, faculty and staff, the Visual Arts Center (VAC) became a second home. The building held a growing community and provided many students with the opportunity to explore various art forms, find their own voice and express themselves.
As part of the next evolution of arts education at TCC, and to allow for growth and expansion of services to the community, the VAC has moved to the college’s Norfolk Campus.
Due to the move, there are currently fewer summer course offerings. However, regular course offerings will be available for Fall Semester.
Faculty and staff offices have been moved to the Martin and Roper buildings on Norfolk Campus.
This summer, the following classes and resources will be offered in these locations:
Library Martin Building, Second Floor
Printmaking Roper 4306
Drawing Roper 4117
Graphic Design Martin Building 2202
Portfolio Prep Martin 2314
Students with questions regarding course offerings are encouraged to contact Academic Advisor Jennifer Barnes by emailing jcbarnes@tcc.edu or calling 757-822-1820.
The effective date for the Portsmouth location closing is June 30, 2021.
Join TCC for Open House on all campuses, May 15
Recent high school grad? Transitioning military? Looking for a promotion? Discover all that community college offers.
Tidewater Community College is opening its doors on all campuses for Open House on May 15 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Advisors will be on hand to help students choose a pathway, apply for admission, get financial aid help and tour the campuses.
Whether you plan to take a full load or just one class, TCC offers a range of options to prepare you for the next step.
Students who are attending college for the first time or recent high school graduates are eligible to receive a free laptop when they enroll and pay for classes.
Tidewater Community College offers 150-plus programs ranging from engineering to the visual and culinary arts to cybersecurity to a plethora of options in computer science.
TCC is a great option for students looking to transfer to the four-year school of their dreams and want to get those general education requirements out of the way without accruing loads of student debt. Transitioning military and career changers can also learn more about program options.
Open house will be at the following locations:
Chesapeake Campus: 1428 Cedar Road
Norfolk Campus: 300 Granby St.
Portsmouth Campus: 120 Campus Drive
Virginia Beach Campus: Advanced Technology Center, 1800 College Crescent
Hope-U Foundation donates computers to help TCC students in need
Hope-U Foundation is helping Tidewater Community College students stay in school by proving laptops for those who don’t have access to needed technology for remote learning.
“We have many students who are below the poverty level and this pandemic has magnified their needs,” said Thomas Chatman Jr., coordinator for First Year Success at the Norfolk Campus. “Many of these students didn’t have computers, so the transition to remote learning put them at a huge disadvantage.”
Hope-U is a nonprofit organization formed for the sole purpose of helping youth in the Hampton Roads area.
When Nick Gabriel started the organization, his goal was to help disconnected youth between the ages of 16-24, which includes transitioning foster youth, homeless or underemployed youth.
When COVID-19 hit, Hope-U donated 26 Chromebooks to students at TCC’s Norfolk Campus.
The computer donation is part of an overall effort to reach youth in need. Hope-U works to end homelessness, hunger and unemployment for young people in Hampton Roads. Gabriel’s goal is to help clients achieve independence and sustainable employment through a reliable support system.
“We can do our part to mitigate the damage and level the playing field for those who are trying to get ahead,” Gabriel said. “Increasing earning potential is key to rising out of poverty. We can’t let COVID stop that.”
TCC students sent shoutouts to Hope-U for the help.
Randell Barkley with his new laptop from Hope U Foundation.
“Before I received the laptop, I was struggling with completing my photography class. With the laptop, I was able to pass the class with a B. I can do graphics, Photoshop and Zoom calls with ease,” said student Randell Barkley. “The director came out on a rainy day, and it was such a blessing!”
Student Alexander Reap added, “Given the pandemic, it became even harder to complete assignments, as my access to technology was limited, and I was doing my work on my phone. But now, with my computer, I completed the semester with a 4.0 GPA.”
“It takes a village to make a change,” Gabriel said. “We are that village.”
TCC and the Foodbank partner to open The Community Feed at TCC
Step inside The Community Feed at Tidewater Community College and you’ll see artfully designed spaces that promote healthy eating. On display in the farmer’s market are an assortment of fresh vegetables —tomatoes, carrots, peppers, asparagus, greens, potatoes, apples and even bulbs of garlic.
A front counter features a colorful sign to welcome TCC students, as they pick-up pre-ordered meal kits that will feed a family of four.
Participating in the ceremonial snip are (left-right) Jim Walker, general manager, MacArthur Center; Emanuel Chestnut, provost, TCC’s Norfolk Campus; TCC President Marcia Conston; Foodbank President Ruth Jones Nichols; Kevin Jones, board chair of the Foodbank; and John Baiocco, president of TowneBank Norfolk.
“This is wonderful. This is really a president’s dream!” said TCC President Marcia Conston at the ribbon-cutting event on June 29 for the Community Feed at TCC, the first food pantry to open thanks to the partnership between Tidewater Community College and The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and The Eastern Shore.
The pantry, made possible due to a $250,000 donation from TowneBank, is located across from the Apple Store on the second level of Norfolk’s MacArthur Center.
“We are prioritizing student success at TCC because, simply put, if students are hungry, they can’t succeed,” President Conston said.
President Conston with Ruth Jones Nichois inside The Community Feed at TCC.
In the fall of 2019, Glenn Dubois, chancellor of Virginia’s Community Colleges, urged community college leaders to address food insecurity among students.
Data released by the Hope Center for College, Community and Justice estimates that 48 percent of community college students face food insecurity. The survey was sent to 1.5 million students and 86,000 responded.
The Community Feed at TCC will begin distributing meal kits to students with TCC ID cards on June 30; they must be ordered in advance online. Student can select two meal kits, each designed to feed a family of four. Three options are available each week including a vegetarian dish. To ensure the safety of all students due to COVID -19, employees and volunteers, social distancing will be followed.
The overall vision of The Community Feed at TCC incorporates:
Connecting people with one another over quality food and conversation
Sharing resources that include recipe cards, books and wellness materials
Providing access to fresh fruits and vegetables
Workshops and learning sessions led by community partners on topics related to the root causes of food insecurity
The Campus-Based Pantry and Food Scholarship Program began last fall with pop-up pantries on the Norfolk and Portsmouth campuses. These quickly became a lifeline for many students.
“The food always seemed to come right on time, and I was grateful to have the resource right on campus,” said student Renee Robinson. “There were meals and other produce items available every time. One week I was able to make eggplant parmesan, and it was really good. I also make all kinds of salads with the fresh greens, onions, peppers, carrots and corn.”
Robinson added, “I appreciate that this service is here for us. We talk about it a lot among ourselves and are so grateful for the assistance. My family is eating good, quality food. What could be better than that?”
The Farmer’s Market inside The Community Feed at TCC.
“For many students, access to healthy food is a building block for successfully completing their education and moving toward living wage positions,” said Ruth Jones Nichols, president and CEO of the local Foodbank. “We know that even before the COVID-19 pandemic, 37 percent of households were choosing between food and educational expenses. The Foodbank is committed to working with strategic partners like TCC to leverage food security as a foundation upon which to build a more transformational model for creating multiple pathways to success in life.”
The Community Feed at TCC — open to all TCC students with a valid student ID — has a long-term goal of opening to the community. For now, the pantry is available by appointment two days a week. As Virginia continues its phased approach to re-opening following the COVID-19 pandemic, The Community Feed at TCC will extend hours of operation to accommodate more students.
“Building stronger communities is a cornerstone of TowneBank’s philosophy, and this partnership with the Foodbank and TCC strategically aligns with our commitment to serving and enriching the lives of others,” said John Baiocco, president of TowneBank Norfolk.
The space at MacArthur Center was designed by TCC alumna Leisa Arrington.
The Community Feed at TCC was designed by Leisa Arrington, a TCC interior design alumna. Arrington also has a business degree from the college and owns and manages her firm, Proverbial Interior Design Solutions, LLC.
The space includes areas to gather for good food and conversations.
Criminal Justice professor encourages students to follow their dreams
Antonio “Tony” Passaro Jr. spent the first fifteen years of his career working as a state trooper. He was later assigned to high-tech computer crimes for the Virginia State Police and held a cross-designation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a federal agency.
“I enjoyed my time in law enforcement, but I like what I’m doing now because I get to encourage students,” Passaro said. “Learning is a choice and it is my goal to mold aspiring minds.”
Passaro says his passion for criminal justice and law enforcement stems from his extensive training and police background, and his education. He holds a master’s in criminal justice with an emphasis in management and planning.
To get students interested in the subjects he’s teaching, Passaro conducts mock scenarios and gets students to answer pertinent questions. “I encourage them to think critically about what we’re learning and then share their conclusions. This creates a great dialogue in the classroom and that’s what students will ultimately remember,” Passaro said.
The Criminal Justice program is offered on all four of TCC’s campuses and online. “Working with faculty on the other campuses is definitely a highlight,” he said.
To remain pertinent to the curriculum, Passaro does plenty of research. “In the classroom, we look at everything from controversial issues like the legalization of marijuana, to the ever-changing traffic laws,” he said. “I tell my students that knowledge is power and the more you know, the better prepared you will be for your future department.”
“In every class I teach, I encourage students to go beyond their comfort zones and expand their critical thinking to help them become better investigators,” Passaro said. “I want them to find work they love and not let anyone stand in their way, and believe by faith that everything will work out.”
In his free time, Passaro uses his investigative experience to act in true crime shows on the Investigative Discovery channel, making appearances in “Wicked Attraction,” “Ice Cold Killers,” and “Last Moment of Clarity.”
Passaro is at work on a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership with an emphasis in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Old Dominion University. He will complete the program in December 2020.
He is also a member of the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators and serves with the NASA Federal Law Enforcement agency at Langley Research Center having successfully completed training at the NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
TCC to freeze tuition and fees for Fall Semester 2020
Tidewater Community College will freeze tuition and fees for the 2020 Fall Semester thanks to a unanimous decision announced Thursday by the State Board for Community Colleges.
This marks the second year in a row that the board has voted to hold tuition and fees steady for the coming fall for all 23 of Virginia’s Community Colleges.
The State Board’s decision means TCC’s in-state tuition and mandatory fees will remain at $185.35 per credit hour. Community college tuition and mandatory fees are approximately one-third of the comparable costs of attending Virginia’s public four-year universities.
“The decision by the State Board to freeze tuition and fees for the Fall Semester reaffirms our commitment to ensuring access and affordability for our students and their families,” said TCC President Marcia Conston. “While that is always a priority, it is especially significant during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Glenn DuBois, chancellor of Virginia’s Community Colleges, said, “We are doing everything we can to be an affordable, accessible resource for Virginians. Some people find themselves unexpectedly out of work. Others are looking for safer, convenient options to pursue their college aspirations. We want to be there for them.”
He added, “We’d like to maintain that rate beyond the fall, if the state funding exists to help us do that responsibly.”
Further, the State Board maintained the existing tuition rate for out-of-state students, which for TCC is $385.45 per credit hour.
Navy’s director of Tropical Medicine considers TCC her springboard
Standing by her bedroom window, Nehkonti Adams didn’t know why.
Later, the 11-year-old realized it was to avoid getting shot due to the civil unrest that had erupted in her home, Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia.
It wasn’t long before a new chapter started for Adams, which included immigrating to the United States with her family and joining the U.S. Navy, where she’s risen to lieutenant commander. Tidewater Community College played a role, too, for the doctor of infectious disease.
That’s where Adams found the confidence and the academic success in science classes that had eluded her in the past.
“TCC ended up being the springboard for my career,” said Adams, today the Navy’s director of Tropical Medicine in Okinawa, Japan. “In the beginning, I was very insecure about how I would perform in college. I made the right choice in TCC.”
Her family left Liberia for Chicago, home to her paternal grandfather, and Adams spent her teen years in Minnesota. She made an abrupt decision to join the Navy after a recruiter visited her high school cafeteria. At 18, she enlisted, stationed at the Navy’s base in Little Creek and aboard the USS Ashland.
Deployment took the ship to Brazil, and in Rio, she listened to the experiences of a Liberian refugee, an experience that fueled her interest in medicine. “I decided I wanted to work with displaced people and refugees,” she said.
Adams remembers returning to Norfolk and heading for Barnes & Noble, where she visited the college section to leaf through books detailing nursing school requirements. She continued in the Naval reserves and enrolled in classes at the Norfolk Campus, immediately bonding with Professor Fred Farris. He reminded her of her father, a physician and anatomy and physiology college professor.
“In Professor Farris, I saw what people saw in my father,” she said. “He taught biology, and I got an A in his class. He took the time to help us and was so kind.”
Graduating with a 4.0 GPA from TCC with an Associate of Science in Science, Adams transferred to Trinity College in Washington, D.C. Among her closest friends there, another TCC graduate who had also received a scholarship to Trinity.
“Uncanny,” she said.
Because of the support system left over from her TCC days, Adams chose to return to active duty and this area to attend Eastern Virginia Medical School. Infectious disease was an obvious choice given her roots in Liberia.
“Being from Liberia, things like malaria, I knew about even at 10 years old,” said Adams, whose parents ran a family practice clinic there. “And there’s some other parasitic diseases people get there. Because I saw illnesses like that firsthand and because of my love for traveling, infectious disease was a natural fit.”
Adams will live in Japan until the fall of 2021. She provides key policy support working with the Naval hospital there and the Marines. Her recent efforts are focused on COVID-19 and keeping U.S. military personnel safe.
“My parents inspired me when I was younger, and the Navy gave me the opportunity to be a great doctor,” she said. “And TCC, that’s where the story began.”
