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Greetings,
Each summer brings a natural pause—a moment to reflect and prepare. This season is more than a transition between semesters; it is a time to honor the strides we’ve made together and to refocus our collective energy on the critical work ahead. Our mission is clear, our foundation is strong, and the momentum we are building is undeniable. As we turn the page toward a new academic year, I am filled with excitement and optimism. The 2025–2026 year promises to be one of continued growth and deepened commitment to student success. We have already welcomed a transformational leader to our executive team: Dr. Levy Brown, who officially began his role as Vice President of Academic, Student Success, and Strategy on July 1.
As we celebrated the Fourth of July, we were reminded of the values that define our country: freedom, resilience, unity, and hope. These same ideals are at the core of our work here at HCC. We believe that education is one of the most powerful expressions of freedom. It opens doors, lifts families, and strengthens communities. Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a working adult returning to the classroom, or someone exploring a new career path, know this: there is a place for you here. And you will not walk alone.
Dr. Patrena Elliott
President/CEO, Halifax Community College
| | Dr. Levy Brown Named Vice President of Academic, Student Success, and Strategy at Halifax Community College | | Dr. Levy Brown brings nearly 24 years of experience in public higher education, with a distinguished career that spans both North Carolina and Connecticut. A highly engaged, strategic, and inclusive leader, Dr. Brown is recognized for his visionary approach to education, his collaborative leadership style, and his commitment to student success. He has a strong record of working alongside faculty, students, staff, senior administrators, industry partners, and government officials to create transformative outcomes for students and communities alike. | | Alumni Spotlight: Jennifer & Jonathan Furr | | Strength in Partnership—A Couple’s Journey Together in Nursing School | | Jennifer and Jonathan Furr at the Halifax Community College School of Health Sciences Pinning Ceremony, held on May 6, 2025 | | In a world where it’s often tough to balance personal and professional goals, the story of Jennifer P. Furr and Jonathan Furr stands out as especially inspiring. After 25 years of marriage, the Furrs celebrated a significant milestone by graduating together from Halifax Community College’s Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program in May 2025. Their journey exemplifies perseverance, teamwork, and the strength that comes from shared objectives and mutual encouragement. | | Congressional Record Presented to Halifax Community College President | | Kimberly Mack, district director for Congressman Don Davis, presented HCC President Dr. Patrena B. Elliott with a Congressional Record. | | During Halifax Community College’s Employee Appreciation program, Kimberly Mack, district director for Congressman Don Davis, presented HCC President Dr. Patrena B. Elliott with a Congressional Record on behalf of Congressman Davis. | | |
The Next NC Scholarship offers an opportunity for many adults to return to school at no cost, helping them gain the skills they need to secure in-demand, high-paying jobs right in their community. Through the Better Skills. Better Jobs. initiative, we engage directly with adults who have earned some college credits but haven’t yet received a degree or certification. This initiative features community events, social media promotions, targeted digital marketing, and personalized resources to make it easier for adult learners to reconnect and re-enroll. Thanks to our collaborative efforts with the John M. Belk Endowment, myFutureNC, and several other state and local partners, we’re excited to launch this special outreach campaign to welcome even more adult learners back to college!
Better Skills. Better Jobs Link: https://betterskillsbetterjobs.com/halifax-community-college/
| | HCC Celebrates CDL Completion Ceremony for Inaugural Truck Driving Academy Cohort | | From Left to Right: Dr. Sinclair Nicholson, Vice President of Workforce Development and Operation, Dr. Patrena B. Elliott, HCC President/CEO, Antonio Williams Jr., Olander Bynum, Jarvis Green, Katrina Reeves (Instructor), Willliam Phipps Jr, Dashawn Moody, Stephanie Newsome Wade, Rasha Moody (Instructor), Ethel Walden, Kenneth Moye. | | |
HCC proudly hosted its first-ever Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Completion Ceremony on July 10, 2025. This milestone event recognized the inaugural graduating class of the newly launched HCC Truck Driving Academy, marking a significant step forward in workforce development for the Roanoke Valley and surrounding region.
A special presentation on the local CDL industry outlook was delivered by Ms. Cathy Scott, Executive Director of the Halifax County Economic Development Commission, who highlighted the increasing demand for skilled drivers across the region and the opportunities ahead for the graduates.
Each graduate received a certificate of completion, officially launching their careers as qualified commercial drivers. Delmus Willis provided Closing Remarks, and a celebratory reception followed.
Dr. Elliott emphasized the broader impact of the new program, stating:
“The launch of the HCC Truck Driving Academy and the success of our first CDL class represent a major investment in workforce expansion for our region. We are equipping individuals with the tools to build better lives while directly supporting the economic vitality of our local communities.”
The program received valuable support through Golden LEAF Scholarship funding, which helped increase accessibility and reduce financial barriers for students.
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Shift Gears Toward a New Career: New CDL Training Starts on July 21st! | | |
Enrollment is now open for the next cohort—don’t miss your chance to get behind the wheel of your future!
The upcoming CDL Class A Training course will run from July 21 through September 12. This program prepares students to become licensed commercial drivers, opening the door to high-demand jobs in the transportation and logistics industry. Enrollment is limited, so don’t wait to secure your spot. For more information or to register, call 252-536-6377 or email workforce@halifaxcc.edu. Your career in trucking is ready to roll—are you?
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3rd Annual Ride for
A Cause—September 6, 2025
Rain Date: Sept.13th
| | A FREE Education at HCC is Within Reach! | | | | |
