TowneBank receives 2023 VCCS Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy

TowneBank in Hampton Roads received the annual Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. In its 17^th year, the award recognizes individuals and organizations dedicated to the mission of Virginia’s Community Colleges.

TowneBank was nominated by Tidewater Community College President Marcia Conston for its continuing support of the college.

Tidewater Community College’s Educational Foundation received a $500,000 grant from TowneBank. The funds are supporting the development of the TCC Visual Arts and Design Center in downtown Norfolk. Set to open in 2024, the Center boasts 37,000 square feet for arts programming and will include a gallery space. The donation is also supporting TCC’s Regional Automotive Center in Chesapeake.

An additional $250,000 gift from TowneBank helped with the launch and operations of the Community Feed at TCC’s campuses in 2020. By working together, the college, TowneBank and Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore are providing needed meals, staples and fresh produce for students and community members through on-site pantries on TCC’s campuses and MacArthur Center in downtown Norfolk.

“We are grateful to TowneBank for their unwavering commitment to TCC,” said President Conston. “They are a shining example of an organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities for families and individuals in our region. In addition, their financial contribution ensures that students in need have ongoing access to meals and fresh foods. We express our sincere thanks.”

TowneBank’s generosity will be marked by a named space in the new Visual Arts and Design Center in the coaching and critiquing room.

More than two dozen individuals, families, and organizations earned the 2023 Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. The awards were presented at a luncheon ceremony in Richmond on April 18, 2023. The new VCCS Chancellor Dr. David Doré was the keynote speaker.

“It is a privilege and an honor to be in the company of such an esteemed group of philanthropists,” Doré observed. “Were it not for your generosity, some of our students would have to put their hopes and dreams on hold, while others might have to abandon them altogether. Thanks to you, however, our students will be able to work in an environment that is relatively free of the kind of financial pressures that can paralyze or even derail their forward progress, and for that, we are extremely grateful.”

The annual event, hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE), honors leading philanthropists from each of Virginia’s 23 community colleges as well as the statewide foundation. Recipients are nominated for their outstanding commitment to the growth and development of Virginia’s community colleges and their respective foundations.

This year’s class of distinguished philanthropy leaders has collectively contributed $14 million dollars to Virginia’s Community Colleges.

TCC receives a $50,000 grant from Truist Foundation for workforce career planning

Tidewater Community College received a $50,000 grant from Truist Foundation for workforce career planning.

The grant will be used to provide workshops on career readiness for low- to moderate-income individuals so they can build the skills necessary to obtain positions to support their families with full-time, quality work.

TCC’s Center for Workforce Solutions will provide the training and partner with local employers and community stakeholders to connect disadvantaged workers with these programs.

“We are grateful to Truist Foundation for this grant as it will greatly impact families in our region,” said TCC President Marcia Conston. “We are unwavering in our commitment to helping individuals reskill and upskill so they can provide for their families and give back to the community.”

Truist Foundation is committed to creating sustainable wealth-building opportunities for historically excluded people that can impact future generations.

TCC President Conston and former board member Delceno C. Miles during the Truist donation event. — TCC President Marcia Conston with Truist Senior Vice President Mark Johnson and Delceno Miles, chair of TCC’s Educational Foundation.

“To build and prepare our state’s future workforce, it’s critical that we provide individuals with opportunities to be introduced to and prepare for career paths by reducing financial barriers,” said Thomas Ransom, Virginia regional president for Truist. “Our partnership with Tidewater Community College to provide workforce planning workshops illustrates our purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities, and we are proud to help create positive change.”

Truist Financial Corporation has a history of supporting TCC and provided a $75,000 grant to the college in 2019. Those funds also supported workforce development.

TCC receives $250,000 donation from Banister Automotive for scholarships and more

Tidewater Community College is the recipient of a $250,000 sponsorship and scholarship donation from Banister Automotive.

“We are thrilled to partner with Banister Automotive to provide scholarship opportunities for our students,” said TCC President Marcia Conston. “We are grateful for this contribution and look forward to a continuing partnership with Banister Automotive to support our students and community.”

The donation will also fund a new TCC Presidential Scholarship for outstanding student scholars. The scholarships may be used to cover tuition, books, fees, tools, and all other needed materials for students to be successful.

In addition, the donation will be used to develop dual enrollment programs for high school students. Dual enrollment programs provide access to college classes for high school juniors and seniors, in an effort to give them a head start on their college careers.

Banister Automotive, established in 2017, is committed to supporting the community it serves. One of their goals is to support community initiatives and propel past barriers to get students into great jobs.

“Education is empowering which is why I stand behind the mission of community colleges and the vision of Tidewater Community College. TCC affords students in our region with the opportunity to attend college for little to no cost and succeed with the proper support; it is an effort we support at Banister,” said Dan Banister, Owner of Banister Automotive, which includes Banister Nissan of Chesapeake, Banister Nissan of Norfolk and Banister Ford of Marlow Heights Maryland.

Banister continued, “I serve on TCC’s Educational Foundation Board to represent my wife and children. We know what it’s like to have the college dream and want to ensure that all people have those opportunities. Our board is focused on reducing college debt for graduates. Currently, 3 in 5 TCC students graduate debt free. And we have dreams to make that 5 out of 5 students. We’d like to see all students stay local and get jobs with no educational debt. That would be a massive community achievement and a level of public-private engagement that moves the needle for our citizens’ success.”

The donation will be paid over five years beginning in 2023.

The evolution of tolling with Elizabeth River Crossings

Drivers who take the Downtown or Midtown tunnels have benefited from the advanced technology of Elizabeth River Crossings (ERC), 100% build-for-cloud tolling system.

Tidewater Community College students had the opportunity to learn about tolling technology with an in-person lunch and learn event with Jim Doerflinger, ERC’s Chief of Information Technology.

Held in the college’s Advanced Technology Center in late April, Doerflinger explained the evolution of tolling technology and demonstrated how the technology has helped to reduce traffic congestion in our area.

“This event was very beneficial for our students and faculty. It was fascinating to learn how technology impacts the tolling industry from both the perspective of the end-user or those who pay the toll, as well as the technology that is used behind the scenes,” said Nancy Prather-Johnson, dean of business, computer science and information technology.

Students also gained insights about information technology internships and careers in Hampton Roads.

ERC is a long-time supporter of TCC’s STEM Promise Scholarship program, helping to provide full scholarships for 20 students each year as they earn their associate degrees in STEM-related fields.

“ERC is passionate about STEM education. Our hope is to increase STEM education overall, but especially for women and minority students,” said Doerflinger. “We’re proud to partner with TCC to provide a promising future for these students, without them having to worry about tuition expenses.”

Christopher Bryant, TCC’s vice president for Institutional Advancement added, “In addition to their engagement with academics, ERC has been an incredible partner in providing STEM scholarships to TCC students. We’re thrilled that Elizabeth River Crossings has been our pioneer scholarship supporter in the STEM fields and look forward to expanding those student opportunities with other industry partners.”

There’s still time to apply for fall scholarships at TCC

Whether you’re studying nursing, culinary arts or automotive technology, TCC has scholarships designed just for you. In fact, TCC has scholarships for dozens of program areas and a special scholarship for women in STEM fields.

Don’t miss out on free money to further your academic goals.

Applications for Tidewater Community College’s 2022 fall scholarships are being accepted now through March 31.

Thanks to the contributions of individual donors and organizations, TCC’s Educational Foundation is able to provide scholarships to support students academic studies and achievements. Awards may be used for tuition, books and fees at TCC.

Most TCC Educational Foundation scholarships are worth $500 or more. They do not need to be repaid. Depending on your unmet need, you may be awarded more than one scholarship.

Browse the list of opportunities to find your fit.

Remember, scholarships are a form of financial aid that do not need to be repaid. Most scholarships awarded by TCC are worth at least $500.

Some scholarships factor in demographics. The Betty L. Shores Memorial Scholarship, for example, gives preference to students attending the Virginia Beach Campus. The Frank Farello Scholarship seeks students who are studying Culinary Arts of Hospitality Management.

A few, including the Barnes and Noble Textbook Scholarship, offer multiple scholarships to students on each of the four campuses and have minimal requirements.

Start by completing the 2022-23 FAFSA to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Find the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. List TCC as your school of choice by using code 003712.

Use your myTCC login and password to sign into the scholarship application system. From there, browse scholarship opportunities and apply for ones that fit you best. The system will recommend scholarships that are right for you.

For more information contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu or 757-822-1080.

Interested in fall scholarships at TCC? It’s time to apply.

Whether you’re a woman studying STEM, a recent high school graduate or a military-related student returning to school, we have scholarships to help you pay for classes.

Don’t miss out on free money to further your academic goals.

Applications for Tidewater Community College’s 2021 fall scholarship cycle are being accepted now through May 1.

Thanks to the contributions of individual donors and organizations, TCC’s Educational Foundation is able to provide scholarships to support students’ academic studies and achievements. Awards may be used for tuition, books and fees at TCC.

Most TCC Educational Foundation scholarships are worth $500 or more. They do not need to be repaid. Depending on your unmet need, you may be awarded more than one scholarship.

TCC scholarship recipient Dasha Chaney was awarded the Christopher M. Garrett Memorial scholarship for $1,800 and the Barnes and Noble Textbook scholarship for $600.

Chaney completed her Tidewater Community College cyber degree in just one year. “I’ve gone from nothing to something in three semesters,” she said.

Automotive student Sawyer Matthews received a $2,000 scholarship from the Hampton Roads Automobile Dealers Association. “College is expensive and every little bit helps,” he said.

Student Olivia Brichter earned the Tryntje and Norman Willcox Endowed Memorial Scholarship for $1,000 and a $600 Norfolk Campus General Scholarship.

“TCC allowed me to figure out what I want to do, without going into any student debt,” she said. “I’m really grateful.”

Start by completing the 2021-22 FAFSA to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Find the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. List TCC as your school of choice by using code 003712.

For more information, visit here. To learn about establishing a scholarship at TCC, contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu or 757-822-1080.

TCC announces new Vice President of Institutional Advancement

Stan Turbeville has been named vice president of Institutional Advancement at Tidewater Community College. He brings 25 years of leadership experience to the position, which includes the TCC Educational Foundation, public relations and marketing, grants management, alumni relations and college events.

A first-generation college student, Turbeville grew up with few resources on his family’s farm in North Carolina. Today, as a higher education professional, Turbeville is paying it forward to the next generation of students in need.

“Education changed my life,” Turbeville said. “I’m passionate about education and community college and want to be sure that students in need have the same opportunities as others.”

As the college’s lead fundraiser, Turbeville credits TCC for pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic to focus on scholarships and helping students with basic needs such as child care and technology.

“The needs have grown steadily, and we are ramping up our efforts to ensure students with few means have access to higher education,” he said.

Prior to joining TCC, Turbeville was vice president of college advancement for James Sprunt Community College in North Carolina. He also worked as director of marketing and public information for Guilford Technical Community College, where he served on the crisis communications team.

Turbeville holds a doctorate in leadership studies from North Carolina A&T State University; a master of business administration from High Point University; a master of arts in English; and a bachelor’s in human resources management from East Carolina University. He also has certifications in crisis management from Harvard University and is a Professional Certified Marketer with the American Marketing Association.

To reach Turbeville, email him at sturbeville@tcc.edu.

Interested in scholarships at TCC? There’s still time to apply.

Whether you’re studying STEM, a recent high school graduate or a military-related student returning to school, Tidewater Community College offers scholarships to help you pay for tuition and books.

The scholarship deadline for spring semester is Nov. 15. Scholarships will be awarded on a first-apply, first-award basis as long as applicants meet all the criteria.

Most TCC Educational Foundation scholarships are worth $500 or more. They do not need to be repaid. Depending on your unmet need, you may be awarded more than one scholarship.

Complete the 2020-21 FAFSA online to determine your eligibility for financial aid. List TCC as your school of choice by using code 003712.

Use your myTCC login and password to sign in to the scholarship application system. From there, browse scholarship opportunities and apply for ones that fit you best.

For more information, contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu or 757-822-1080.

Some of our recent scholarship recipients share the difference the funds made for them:

“I was extremely surprised when I was given multiple scholarships this year. I didn’t think students like me would qualify for such large scholarship awards. I think if you stay focused on your goal and push yourself, then returning to college is not as scary as people make it out to be.” — Tonia Smith, National Defense Industrial Association Scholarship. Smith is a mother of two who works a full-time job in addition to attending TCC.

Jordan Dagger, TCC scholarship recipeint — Jordan Daggers

“I am extremely grateful for this scholarship and hope to find other opportunities in the coming months to cover the cost of my education.” — Jordan Daggers, NAPA Auto Care Annual Scholarship.

Kaileen Myers, TCC scholarship recipeint. — Kaileen Myers

“I chose TCC because I’ve always heard great things about how the teachers connect with their students more and for financial reasons.” —Kaileen Myers, TCC STEM Promise Program and Don Carey REECH Foundation scholarship recipient.

“I’ve gone from nothing to something in three semesters.” — scholarship recipient Dasha Chaney

Dasha Chaney wasn’t ready for college the first time around.

Now the 23-year-old is close to completing her Tidewater Community College cyber 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.”

A TCC scholarship recipient, Chaney was awarded the Christopher M. Garrett Memorial scholarship for $1,800 and the Barnes and Noble Textbook scholarship for $600.

Chaney is grateful for the funds, as they are helping to ease the financial crunch of her final 16-credit- hour semester at the college.

A high achieving student, Chaney was delighted to be awarded an academic scholarship. “It definitely gives me a boost and peace of mind that I can and will finish my degree,” she said.

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 Navy officer, Chaney said her father, Lt. Cmdr. Shelley Pulliam, has been a great influence in her life with everything technical, and now as 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 and a very brief enlistment in the Navy,” Chaney said.

Now Chaney’s course is clear, and she is preparing to be a cyber security analyst. While at TCC she is also completing her Network+ and A+ certifications. She plans to transfer back to Old Dominion to complete her bachelor’s degree.

Chaney credits campus advisor Kita Graham with helping make the transfer process easy.

An online learner, Chaney sends a shoutout 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 participates in the Virginia Beach Campus Cyber Security Club. Because of COVID-19, 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 your 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!”

Spring scholarships are available now and most TCC students qualify. Browse the list of opportunities at tcc.edu/scholarships to find your fit.

“TCC fits into my schedule and is helping me build the life I always saw for myself”

Single mom Teosha Taylor is determined to make a difference.

Taylor, 34, is studying Human Services at Tidewater Community College. After graduating next spring, she hopes to establish a charity to help teen moms, runaways and youth who have been neglected and abused.

Taylor is passionate about being the light for youth who are the most vulnerable.

“This hits close to home for me,” she said. “I’ve been in a home where there’s abuse and some of my friends were runaways because of abuse. I saw first-hand the damage that can be done, so now I want to be part of the solution.”

She added, “I know how it is to be in certain situations, but I also know that those situations don’t have to define you.”

Taylor received two scholarships this fall, the Mary Ferrell Flickinger scholarship for $1,500 and the Barnes and Noble Textbook scholarship for $600.

“What a gift! Getting help with tuition, fees and books was tremendous!” she said. “It’s helped me keep pushing, to make it to the finish line next May.”

The mother of three concedes that balancing home life and school can be challenging.

“The best part of TCC for me is the supportive faculty, the open access to programs, and the online classes,” she said.

Taylor’s favorite professor is Melvilyn Scott because she takes the time to make sure students understand the concepts and she responds to every request for help.

Taylor is already using what she is learning at her current job as a patient care specialist at Sentara Health Systems.

“I love everything about the program, even the paper writing,” she said.

“TCC fits into my schedule and is helping me build the life I always saw for myself. What could be better than that?”

Spring scholarships are available now and most TCC students qualify for scholarships. Browse the list of opportunities at tcc.edu/scholarships to find your fit.

It’s not too early to apply for spring scholarships

Tonia Smith feared the out-of-pocket costs associated with returning to college. So in addition to applying for financial aid at Tidewater Community College, Smith browsed scholarship opportunities.

To her surprise, Smith didn’t receive just one scholarship; she was awarded several through the TCC Educational Foundation.

“I was extremely surprised when I was given multiple scholarships,” said Smith, who is working toward an associate degree in computer-aided drafting and design while holding a full-time job. “The scholarships paid for books, tuition, and even a new laptop that can handle the graphics of AutoCAD. I didn’t think students like myself would qualify for such large scholarship awards.”

Most TCC students qualify for scholarships. Browse the list of opportunities at tcc.edu/scholarships to find your fit.

The scholarship deadline for spring semester is Nov. 15. Scholarships will be awarded on a first-apply, first-award basis as long as applicants meet all the criteria.

Regional Automotive Center student Sawyer Matthews received a $2,000 scholarship.

Remember, scholarships are a form of financial aid that do not need to be repaid. Most scholarships awarded by TCC are worth at least $500.

Some scholarships factor in demographics. The Beazley Foundation Nursing Scholarship, for example, gives preference to students from Portsmouth. The George Flaherty Trust Scholarship seeks students whose home base is the Chesapeake Campus.

Others target a student’s background. The Chris R. Marcia Veterans Tribute Scholarship requires applicants to have served at least three years of active duty in the military. Some require essays, often about career and educational goals or how you will contribute to campus life at TCC.

Shanice Mills sitting on the seal in the Portsmouth Campus Student Center. — Shanice Mills has won multiple awards, including the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Student Scholarship.

A few, including the Barnes and Noble Textbook Scholarship, offer multiple scholarships to students on each of the four campuses and have minimal requirements.

TCC’s workforce education programs also offer scholarships. The Virginia Glennan Scholarship Fund, for example, requires a written recommendation by an employer.

Last fall, the TCC Educational Foundation awarded 504 student awards to 335 students.

Here’s what some of the most recent recipients had to say about their awards:

“With this scholarship, I have been able to be stress-free while focusing on my 16 credit hours for this fall semester. I was recently early discharged a year ago and wanted to obtain this goal in my life without feeling the need to go broke over it. Applying was as easy as 1-2-3. I got the email a few weeks later saying I was chosen.” — Navy veteran Dasha Chaney, recipient of the Christopher M. Garrett Memorial Scholarship

“I’ve received the Fred W. Beazley Scholarship this semester, but the one I am most honored to have received was the Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship in 2019. I never fathomed I would receive this award. I just applied, and next thing you know, I was selected and honored at the award ceremony.” — Shanice Mills, recipient of the Fred W. Beazley and the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Award

“Every little bit helps.” — Regional Automotive Center student Sawyer Matthews, recipient of the Hampton Roads Automobile Dealers Association scholarship

“Thank you so much for choosing me to receive the textbook scholarship! My education has been so thrown off by COVID, and I have been out of work for 6 months now. Having one less financial burden will allow me to continue with this semester instead of having to drop classes to support my children’s virtual learning. This is truly a blessing. — Stephanie Mortimore, recipient of the Barnes & Noble scholarship

TCC Women’s Center STEM Promise Scholarship Program receives another gift from Elizabeth River Crossings

The Tidewater Community College Women’s Center STEM Promise Scholarship Program continues to benefit from the generosity of Elizabeth River Crossings.

The college named its fourth class of STEM Promise scholars in June. These 20 students are awarded full tuition and fees for two years of study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related disciplines at TCC.

Elizabeth River Crossings donated $60,000 in support of the newest cohort, increasing its total investment to the STEM Promise Scholarship Program to $240,000 in four years.

“We deeply appreciate the continued generosity of Elizabeth River Crossings in support of TCC’s vision to diversify the Hampton Roads workforce,” said TCC President Marcia Conston. “Employers tell us they want to hire more women and minorities for the STEM fields. Our longtime partnership with Elizabeth River Crossings ensures we can continue training students for careers in those in-demand areas.”

“Elizabeth River Crossings continues to be extremely proud to partner with and support the STEM Promise Program — especially this year, when STEM education feels more vital than ever,” said Doug Wilson, ERC’s chief executive officer. “We can’t wait to see where these outstanding students are able to go with the gift of education from TCC.”

TCC’s most recent class includes students selected from a competitive pool of more than 100 applicants. Recipient Noah Boucher, aiming to complete a doctorate in electrical engineering, interned at Jefferson Lab. Zackary Kopp, who will major in Mechanical Engineering Technology at TCC, is a former IMS Gear intern. Madison Millspaugh researched, designed and built a prototype for a propeller-based bladed boat while in middle school. She plans to pursue an associate degree in engineering.

The TCC Educational Foundation started the Women’s Center STEM Promise Scholarship Program in 2017 to create a larger, more diverse STEM pipeline in Hampton Roads. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply for the scholarships, which are open to all. Applications for the 2021-22 class of STEM scholars will be open from Dec. 20 until April 1, 2021.

For more information about the program, contact Jaedda Hall, TCC’s STEM Promise Scholarship Program coordinator, at jhall@tcc.edu. To support the Women’s Center STEM Promise Scholarship Program, contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu.

Interested in fall scholarships at TCC? It’s time to apply.

Whether you’re a woman studying STEM, a recent high school graduate or a military-related student returning to school, we have scholarships to help you pay for classes.

Don’t miss out on free money to further your academic goals.

Applications for Tidewater Community College’s 2020 fall scholarship cycle are being accepted April 15 through June 5.

Most TCC Educational Foundation scholarships are worth $500 or more. They do not need to be repaid. Depending on your unmet need, you may be awarded more than one scholarship.

Student Olivia Brichter earned the Tryntje and Norman Willcox Endowed Memorial Scholarship for $1,000 and a $600 Norfolk Campus General Scholarship in 2019.

“TCC allowed me to figure out what I want to do, without going into any student debt,” she said. “I’m really grateful.”

Brichter was selected to the 2020 All-USA Academic Team and is a New Century Transfer Pathway scholar for Virginia. She will receive a total of $7,250 in scholarship funds to pursue her bachelor’s degree at her next stop.

Emeakama Favour at TCC’s Chesapeake Campus.

Emeakama Favour came to TCC to study cybersecurity. She received the Mary Ferrell Flickinger and E.C. Wareheim scholarships, both from TCC.

“These scholarships helped me experience the joy of learning,” she said. “They covered most of my tuition for one semester and helped me stay in school.”

Start by completing the 2020-21 FAFSA to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Find the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. List TCC as your school of choice by using code 003712.

Use your myTCC login and password to sign in to the scholarship application system. From there, browse scholarship opportunities and apply for ones that fit you best. The system will recommend scholarships that are right for you.

Registration is currently open for fall classes, which begin Aug. 24.

For more information, visit www.tcc.edu/scholarships. To learn about establishing a scholarship at TCC, contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu or 757-822-1080.

“TCC came through for me at the last minute.”

Growing up, Kendra Mack wasn’t pushed to go to college.

After graduating from Ocean Lakes High School in 2004, she worked a trio of low-wage jobs.

Aspirations?

“My family never talked about that,” Mack says.

In a few weeks, Mack will graduate with an Associate of Science in Science from Tidewater Community College. She’ll walk at TCC’s 69th Commencement Exercises on Dec. 16 – a milestone, she says, that will signify all she’s had to overcome to reach a goal she set for herself.

Her three children ages 6, 4 and 3 will be in attendance along with husband Hershel, also a TCC student.

“It will symbolize the first step of completing something,” says Mack, who is the first from her family of four to graduate. “It hit me when I had my daughter three years ago that I have to show her she can do anything no matter what.”

So much could have derailed Mack’s progress. Right before fall semester, she wasn’t sure how she would find the funds to pay for her final 16 credits. A last dollar scholarship from the TCC Educational Foundation took care of $413 in outstanding tuition due.

“TCC came through for me at the last minute,” Mack says. “I wouldn’t be able to graduate otherwise. My whole time here I haven’t had to pay for anything except for my books.”

Her introduction to the college dates back to 2007 when Mack completed the Nurse Aide Training program paid for by her employer, Atlantic Shores Retirement Center. She worked there for six years, cherishing the relationships she formed that extended to the families of her patients.

“It fueled my drive to work toward becoming a nurse,” Mack says.

But motherhood interrupted her studies and then tragedy. A self-inflicted gunshot wound took the life of her father, a former Marine, who, after seven tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome. Reflecting on his memory nearly five years after the loss brings fresh tears.

“I closed off and became a shell of a mom for three years,” she says.

When daughter Aaliyah was born, Mack realized she needed to move forward to be an example for her children. She became an avid runner, losing 70 pounds, hearing her father’s encouraging voice urging her on before every finish line.

She also realized she had put her education on hold long enough. A year and a half ago, Mack returned to TCC full time, balancing childcare with homework, both with the support of Hershel. Her next step will be a bachelor’s in nursing.

Mack, 35, knows her father would be proud of her last four semesters on the TCC President’s List.

What would he say?

Mack smiles in thinking of the response. “I knew you had it in you, baby girl, the whole time.”

It’s time to apply for your spring scholarship to TCC

Applications for TCC scholarships are being accepted now through Nov. 15.

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a military-related student returning to school, Tidewater Community College offers scholarships that can help you pay for classes. Don’t miss out on free money to further your academic goals.

TCC’s Educational Foundation provides scholarships to support students’ academic studies and achievement. Awards may be used for tuition, books and fees at TCC.

Most TCC Educational Foundation scholarships are worth $500 or more. They do not need to be repaid. Depending on your unmet need, you may be awarded more than one scholarship.

Emeakama Favour in the Chesapeake Academic Building — Emeakama Favour at the Chesapeake Campus.

Nigerian student Emeakama Favour came to TCC to study cyber security and get a head start on her future. Two scholarships, the Mary Ferrell Flickinger and E.C. Wareheim scholarships, helped pave her way. “These scholarships helped me experience the joy of learning. They covered most of my tuition for one semester and helped me stay in school,” she said.

TCC donor Sarah “Tata” White Kellam and student Dawn Johns — TCC alumna Dawn Johns and donor Sarah “Tata” White Kellam.

Dawn Johns, recipient of the Sarah “Tata” White Kellam Scholarship, searched for all the awards she was eligible to receive in Academic Works. “Some of them don’t even require an essay – you’re just completing the form,” she said. “I take so much pride in being the recipient of a scholarship. Every semester after I received that award, I was a 4.0 student.”

Start by completing the 2019-20 FAFSA, which determines your eligibility for financial aid. Find the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

List TCC as your school of choice by using the code 003712.

Sign into the scholarship application system using your myTCC log-in and password. From there, it’s just a matter of browsing scholarship opportunities and applying for ones that fit you best.

Spring classes start Jan. 13.

For more information about scholarships, visit www.tcc.edu/scholarships. To learn about establishing a scholarship at TCC, contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu or 757-822-1080.

TCC awarded SunTrust Foundation 2019 Lighting the Way Award & $75,000 grant

Tidewater Community College’s Educational Foundation is the recipient of a $75,000 grant from the SunTrust Foundation.

The 2019 Lighting the Way Award recognizes select nonprofit organizations that work to build self-sufficient families and more financially confident communities through financial education, financial consulting, career readiness/workforce development and small business/entrepreneurship.

“We are thrilled and honored to be recognized by the SunTrust Foundation for our workforce training programs,” said Steven Jones, executive director of TCC’s Educational Foundation. “The foundation’s gift will have a significant impact helping hundreds of students better afford skilled trades training programs that will fundamentally transform the lives of these students and their families.”

TCC’s Skilled Trades Academy opened last December in Portsmouth, coinciding with a critical workforce shortage in Hampton Roads, which anticipates 68 percent more job openings in skilled trades over the next five years than workers trained to fill them. The academy offers a wide range of high-demand skilled trades training in marine coating, pipefitting, pipe laying, welding, framing, electrical, HVAC, roofing and sheet metal.

“The SunTrust Foundation is proud to recognize and support our local nonprofit partners that empower and strengthen the communities they serve,” said Stan Little, president of the SunTrust Foundation. “TCC is making a meaningful impact with their programs to improve the financial wellbeing of the people who need it most.”

The SunTrust Foundation will present the award to the college on Sept. 5 at a reception at the TCC Perry Glass Wheel Arts Center.

The SunTrust Foundation awarded a total of $2.7 million in grants to 36 nonprofits.

TCC receives grant from TowneBank that will benefit visual, culinary, hospitality and automotive program expansion

The Tidewater Community College Educational Foundation is a recipient of a $500,000 grant from TowneBank. The funds will support the development of the TCC Perry Center for Visual & Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management and the expansion of the Regional Automotive Center (RAC).

The 47,000-square-foot TCC Perry Center will be located in the NEON District at the former site of the Greyhound bus station at Brambleton and Monticello avenues. It will expand TCC’s visual arts education program and train the next generation of chefs by expanding the college’s culinary arts program, including housing a program in restaurant management in Norfolk.

“For 20 years TowneBank has been a gold standard for what a true community leader should strive to be, investing in a wide range of organizations that have helped grow our region’s economy and enhance cultural opportunities,” said TCC President Gregory DeCinque. “We are honored by TowneBank’s incredibly generous gift to TCC and are humbled by their confidence as we work together to build the next generation in the workforce and educational training opportunities for our local community.”

TCC also recently received a grant of $500,000 over the next five years from the Hampton Roads Community Foundation in support of the new building slated to open in the fall of 2021.

The TowneBank grant will be used to provide challenge grant funds to encourage area automobile dealers to help build the expansion of the RAC, Hampton Roads’ lone high-tech education facility for the automotive, marine and diesel industries.

“Since 1968, Tidewater Community College has been a vital part of the Hampton Roads community. TowneBank is honored to support TCC in its ongoing efforts to provide quality education. We are excited to be a part of TCC’s bright future,” said Morgan Davis, TowneBank president and CEO.

The expansion of the TCC Perry Center and the RAC will largely be funded through private donations raised through Go Further! TCC’s Campaign for a Competitive Workforce. For information about donating, contact Steven Jones, executive director of the TCC Educational Foundation, at smjones@tcc.edu.

Stanley Black & Decker receives Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy

Stanley Black & Decker has been honored for its support of Tidewater Community College’s new Skilled Trades Academy.

The Standard and Poor’s 500 company, a diversified global provider of hand tools, power tools and related accessories, received the Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy during the 14th annual awards ceremony last month in Richmond.

Stanley Black & Decker donated $275,000 in new industry tools and equipment to the TCC Educational Foundation for the Skilled Trades Academy, which provides short-term training for in-demand construction and maritime trades, including marine coating, pipefitting, welding, sheet metal, pipelaying, roofing, framing and electrical.

The company is also giving students access to a library of instructional videos. The donation is the company’s biggest in-kind investment in Virginia and among the largest nationwide.

“Stanley Black & Decker is honored to have had the opportunity to donate to the new Skilled Trades Academy,” said Pam Martin, sales leader for the company. “We recognize the skills taught and developed in these programs not only enhance the community but contribute to our national defense. We are humbled by the work done by those that use our products and are proud to be a small part of the building of tomorrow’s workforce.”

In recognition of the contributions, Chancellor Glenn DuBois announced at the awards ceremony that the Virginia Community College System will provide a one-year scholarship in honor of Stanley Black and Decker to a TCC student this fall.

Corey McCray, TCC vice president for Workforce Solutions, said the college is appreciative of the investment for the 20,000-square-foot learning center that opened at 3303 Airline Blvd., in Portsmouth in December.

“These generous gifts strengthen our commitment to helping our students gain the skills and expertise needed to fill many of the in-demand jobs in the construction and maritime trades,” he said.

More than two dozen individuals, families, businesses and foundations from around Virginia were honored at the 2019 Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. TCC President Gregory DeCinque and Steven Jones, executive director of the TCC Educational Foundation, were in attendance.

Hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education, the annual event recognizes leading philanthropists from each of Virginia’s 23 community colleges as well as the statewide foundation.

Donald Graham, keynote speaker and chairman of the board at Graham Holdings Company and co-founder of TheDream.US, spoke about the importance of Virginia’s Community Colleges and the ways that the philanthropists have contributed to the commonwealth.

“We are in this room today to tell you, whether you work for one of the colleges or have given to one of the colleges, that what you are doing is absolutely right,” Graham said during his remarks. “I am so proud of this crowd for what you’re doing, and I hope you are proud of yourselves and your fellow donors and of the leaders and teachers at the community colleges you serve.”

To learn how you can support TCC programs, visit the TCC Educational Foundation website or call 757-822-1080.

New TCC scholarship is a powerful living tribute to lifelong educator

Del Karlsen, 68, believed education was key to giving people a hand in life. His estate gift of $125,000 will ensure that continues to happen.

The TCC alumnus, who died on Dec. 9, 2017, had a career at the college that spanned more than 30 years. His donation of $125,000 will establish the Ejner Emil “Karl” Karlsen Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of Karlsen’s late father who emigrated from Denmark.

Karlsen was initially a counselor and associate professor, and later a counselor for Veterans Affairs at the Virginia Beach Campus. He spent many years as faculty advisor to both the Student Government Association and Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year colleges.

For him, being part of a community college meant being part of an institution that exists to serve the students. The Suffolk native and Navy veteran graduated from TCC in 1972. That same year, he was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa.

From there, he went to Old Dominion University, where he earned an undergraduate degree in secondary education, a master’s in education and a certificate of advanced studies in guidance and counseling.

In a previous interview with TCC, Karlsen noted that seeing so many students who often start with very little and achieve so much was the most gratifying part of working at the college. His best memories were of students who transferred to University of Virginia, the College of William & Mary and MIT, where they continued to thrive.

“I’d like to think that we [the counselors] have everything to do with that kind of success,” Karlsen said, “but you have to give a lot of credit to the students themselves.”

Karlsen’s laid back good humor coupled with his strong organizational skills made him a favorite among students.

Once formally established, the scholarship will cover tuition, fees and books for recipients. Eligible students need to demonstrate financial need, live in Virginia and hold an active membership in Phi Theta Kappa at TCC.

For more information about available scholarships at TCC, visit www.tcc.edu/scholarships. To learn more about establishing a scholarship at TCC, contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu or 757-822-1080.

Wells Fargo donates $10,000 to TCC for STEM scholarships

The Tidewater Community College Educational Foundation received a $10,000 donation from Wells Fargo in support of its scholarship program geared toward encouraging female and minority students to pursue careers in the science, technology, education and mathematics fields.

The TCC Women’s Center STEM Promise Program awards 20 scholarships annually to qualifying students. The scholarship pays tuition and fees for two full academic years at TCC.

“Women and minorities have historically been underrepresented in STEM,” said TCC President Gregory DeCinque at a ceremony held Oct. 26 on the Virginia Beach Campus. “TCC isn’t just making a promise to change that trend – we’re making a commitment.”

STEM educators and employers agree that a diverse talent pool is vital to create the technologies necessary to improve lives, ensure national security and better the economy. Yet, 84 percent of the STEM workforce is Caucasian or Asian male.

U.S. colleges are working to create a larger, more diverse STEM workforce pipeline. TCC established the Women’s Center STEM Promise Scholarship Program two years ago and will graduate its first class in May 2019.

George Ball, senior vice president at Wells Fargo, selected the scholarship program for a grant because it aligned with a growing need for STEM workers. “Math and science go hand-in-hand with the banking industry,” Ball said. “If we want to keep up with the rest of the world, we need to team up to train new engineers and cybersecurity specialists in Hampton Roads and then keep them here.”

STEM scholarship recipients, Courtney Carr, Christian McClenney, and Zachary Fuge talked about their educational goals and how the scholarship program has supported their academic endeavors.

“My passion is biomedical engineering,” McClenney said, “I’m enrolled as an engineering student. But I just signed up for the pharmacy technician program, too, so I can start exploring that side of medicine.”

“The TCC Educational Foundation is thrilled by Wells Fargo’s support for our STEM Promise program,” said Steven Jones, chief development officer for the foundation. “Our partnership with them will allow us to expand our program to better train students for the in-demand job skills of a 21^st century workforce. Dedicated community partners such as Wells Fargo are critical as we come together as a region to empower students and build the local economy.”

To learn more about supporting TCC through the Educational Foundation, visit advancement.tcc.edu, call 757-822-1080 or email foundation@tcc.edu.

For information on the STEM Promise Scholarship Program, visit tcc.edu/STEMPromise or contact Jaedda Hall, STEM Promise program coordinator at jhall@tcc.edu or 757-822-7324.