Forging Futures: SVCC Alum Turns Entrepreneurial Dreams into Reality | |
When Zack McKinney enrolled in classes at SVCC, he thought he was taking his first steps toward a career in geology. Little did he know, his time at SVCC would lead him down an entirely different path—one that would ultimately culminate in the founding of his own thriving
business.
Today, Zack owns Zachary McKinney Technology, a company he started in 2013. Originally offering web design services, it has grown to incorporate computer sales and repair, networking solutions, audio/visual support, and more. In 2021, the company added a retail location in downtown Keysville.
Zack's dedication to his craft and his unwavering entrepreneurial spirit continue to propel Zachary McKinney Technology to new heights. Through hard work, determination, and the invaluable foundation laid at SVCC, Zach has transformed his passion for technology into a thriving business, serving as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs throughout Southside Virginia and beyond.
Zach is just one example among numerous small business owners who have benefited from the solid educational groundwork provided by SVCC. The college takes great pride in its role in nurturing these entrepreneurial spirits as they strive to establish and grow their businesses.
| |
Microsoft touring the Data Center at
Lake Country Advanced Knowledge Center
| |
On 2/28/24, Tech Spark leaders toured the CITE program at SVCC's Lake Country Advanced Knowledge Center. Microsoft has provided equipment, experience, and funding to support programs designed to increase technology skills within the college's service area. The group consisted of Microsoft Tech Sparks from different areas of the country and Mexico including J.J. Childress, Matt Adamcyzk, Michelle Schuler, Mike Egan, Lisa Karstetter, Shannon Suda, Kolleen Lambert, Omar Saucedo, Jeremy Satterfield, and from SVCC, Dr. Chad Patton.
To learn more about the Tech Spark program, follow this link: https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/2023/02/15/microsoft-techspark-expansion-fellows/
| Brunswick 15 & Robert Russa Moton Museum | |
|
In celebration of Black History Month SVCC hosted two "Lunch and Learn" events highlighting the Brunswick 15 and the Robert Russa Moton Museum.
In 1964, fifteen African American students desegregated Brunswick High School. Five of the fifteen, Queen Birchette, Sandra Jackson, Florence Stith-Jackson, Elvertha Dee Gillis and Marvin Jones were in attendance for the event and gave their accounts of the challenges they faced during this period and the courage they displayed each day to set a path for others that came behind them.
Leah Brown, Associate Director of Education and Collections with the Robert Russa Moton Museum, spoke to SVCC staff and students in attendance about the history of Moton High School and how a Moton student, Barbara Rose Johns, led a protest in 1951 where students walked out because of the unequal conditions. Robert Hamlin, a former Prince Edward County student, spoke to all in attendance about his experience of having to find another school to attend in North Carolina after Prince Edward County High School was closed. Hamlin said he had promised his mother that he would graduate high school, so he did what was necessary during that period in time to make that happen. Hamlin did graduate and would go on to serve in the Air Force for 20 years.
| |
SVCC selected as 2024 Bellwether College Consortium Finalist | |
|
On February 25-27, a team from SVCC traveled to San Antonio, TX to compete for the prestigious 2024 Bellwether Award at the 30th annual Community College Futures Assembly.
SVCC was selected as a finalist from a large pool of applicants across the nation. In total, 29 community colleges from 18 states competed for the award. Each finalist was assigned to one of three competition categories: Instructional Programs and Services, Workforce Development, and Planning, Governance, and Finance. SVCC was one of 10 participants in the Workforce Development category. Bellwether finalists are considered to be in the top 10% among community colleges in their respective categories.
The participants were asked to share how they addressed a significant issue affecting community colleges and provide replicable examples of lessons learned. SVCC’s presentation was entitled “Industry Collaboration for Workforce Development: SVCC’s Power Line Worker School” which highlighted the Power Line Worker program, the program’s creation, and the impact of effective collaboration with industry partners.
SVCC President, Dr. Quentin R. Johnson, states, “Although we did not take home first prize in our category, we are incredibly honored and humbled to have had the opportunity to compete for the 2024 Bellwether Award. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect and share ideas with other community colleges throughout the nation.”
The Bellwether College Consortium is comprised of award-winning colleges charged with addressing critical issues facing community colleges through applicable research and the promotion and replication of best practices addressing workforce development, instructional programs and services, and planning governance and finance.
| |
|
SVCC held STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Week
February 19th-23rd.
Activities and events included:
Science
• Green Chemistry & Cool Science Innovations
• Cow Eye Dissection
• We Are Guests In A Microbial World
Technology
• Hour of Coding
• Day in the Life of a Server Technician
Engineering
• Egg Drop Challenge
Mathematics
• How Math is Used to Make a Cool Winter Treat
Students also participated in a trip to the Planetarium at Hampden Sydney!
| |
Sentara Health Supports Nusing Program | |
|
The Southside Virginia Community College Foundation is excited to announce a generous contribution of $30,000 from Sentara Health to support the expansion and operation of SVCC’s nursing simulation lab located at the Estes Community Center in Chase City, VA.
This expansion is necessary due to the addition of the College’s weekend Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) program, which significantly increased the program’s student capacity. Launched in 2022, SVCC’s weekend ADN program provides educational opportunities for students who work or have other commitments during the week.
SVCC President, Dr. Quentin R. Johnson, states, “We are extremely grateful to Sentara Health for this award. Our simulation lab allows students to gain valuable hands-on skills before entering the workforce, so we are excited to see our lab and nursing program continue to grow.”
This contribution from Sentara reinforces their shared commitment to creating healthier communities through partnerships with organizations and individuals.
For more information about this project or the weekend ADN program, contact Melissa Arthur, Dean of Nursing, Allied Health, and Natural Sciences, at 434-736-2027.
| |
|
The SVCC Automotive Program is searching for a "donor" vehicle to allow students to build a Goblin! Not a real goblin, a goblin kit car - https://dfkitcar.com/
This is an exciting project to engage students and teach automotive skills. The college is looking for a Chevrolet Cobalt or a Pontiac G5 year model 2005 -2010 for parts to complete the kit. The donor car must be in good working order but does not need to look good. The kit comes with a body, so the items needed are: engine, transmission, and front suspension. If you or someone you know has an older car that could be used for these parts, please consider donating it to a worthy cause, the automotive program at Southside Virginia Community College!
Remember donations to the SVCC Foundation are tax deductible within present IRS Guidelines. Questions? Call 434-949-1051.
| |
Have you seen our billboards? | The "Picture the Possibilities" billboard campaign features SVCC Panther alumni and are spread throughout the service area. This billboard is located in Chase City. | The Value of an Experienced Team |
| | | |
