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High School Students Explore STEM Fields at TCC’s Summer Camp
Tidewater Community College welcomed high school students from across the region to its second annual Summer STEM Discovery Camp, held June 30 to July 3 at the Virginia Beach Campus. The camp gave students a hands-on opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields—and find out whether these careers might be the right fit for them.
Each day from 9a.m. to 4p.m., the students attended engaging lectures and interactive workshops designed to expose them to real-world STEM applications. Students heard directly from STEM professionals and participated in team-based learning activities throughout the week.
The camp featured guest speakers who shared their educational paths, career journeys, and insights into STEM fields. Speakers included Jaidan Williams, IT Specialist at NASA; Erika Donaubauer, Senior Construction Engineer at HDR; Brianna Binowski, Bridge Engineer at HDR; and Stephen Harris, Computer Science Professor at TCC. These guest speakers offered students a firsthand look at what it takes to build a career in STEM fields.
In the afternoons, students applied their learning through hands-on and computer-based activities. They experimented with building paper rollercoasters, explored virtual reality rollercoaster simulations, and gained a foundational understanding of robotics and information technology. Campers also got an introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) concepts and learned the basics of computer coding.
The Summer STEM Discovery Camp is coordinated by Cassandra Small, a Computer Science Program Assistant in the Business, Computer Science, and IT Pathway at TCC. Small has led the camp for the past several years, helping to expand its impact and reach.
“The summer camp is our way of dangling the carrot for computer science and high school students,” Small said. “We wanted to offer a STEM camp that not only applies to computer science, but it also brings in engineering, science, and the IT component.”
This year, 35 students were selected to attend the free program after an application process. Small explained that one of the camp’s goals is to give students the tools they need to take their next steps in STEM, including how to network, find mentors, and prepare for college and careers in the field.
“This opportunity can help these high school students discover if they are really interested in the STEM field,” Small said.
She emphasized that it’s not just learning technical skills—it’s preparing students for the entire journey ahead, “They will know how to network, how to ask professors questions, and how to plan their career path,” she said.
Small and the TCC faculty hope to continue growing the program in the years to come.
“We’re going to keep driving the STEM Camp forward. We’re going to continue to make it better every year,” Small said.
TCC Students Prepare for 2025 Engineering Robotics Competition in Canada
Tidewater Community College will send a team of first and second-year students to the 2025 American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Annual Conference in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, from June 22 to June 25. TCC has been a proud participant in the ASEE Annual Conference since 1999 and has earned second-place honors six times in past robotics competitions. This year’s ASEE Annual Conference, themed “Engineering Educators Bringing the World Together,” will hostthe much-anticipated Engineering Robotics Competition.
TCC’s robotics team is a collaborative effort between the Chesapeake STEM Club and the Engineering Club. Since September 2024, both clubs have been preparing to compete in a track-based challenge where a robot must autonomously push a hockey puck into a goal. Their robot will face off against other college and university teams in a point-based contest that kicks off with a poster presentation before the main competition.
Faculty advisors Bill Simmons and Kenny Grimes, professors in the Engineering, Maritime & Skilled Trades Pathway, are guiding students through the project.
“This experience is the best they can get,” said Grimes. “It’s kind of like a senior project, but they don’t have to wait until their senior year.”
Grimes noted that these students have been working on this project day in and day out, “They work all the way through the year. Sometimes they’re working until the night before we leave for the competition.”
Both Simmons and Grimes emphasized the importance of networking at the conference, where students will explore internship opportunities and connect with industry professionals.
This year’s team includes four standout students: club president Nicole Weber, vice president Malachi Knight, and members Sydney Urwin and Nate Irwing. All are early in their academic careers, representing the next generation of engineering talent.
Knight highlighted the team’s collaborative spirit: “It’s nice having alike-minded people to bounce ideas around, giving more creativity. It’s good learning how to work with other people and see things from different perspectives.”
Although only four students are allowed to travel, the broader student organization includes more than 15 active members who have contributed to the project since the beginning stages.
“I’m really appreciative of how many people have been showing up consistently and have been working on the robot. It’s really a change from last year. It’s been making the morale [better]. The team is working together. I’m glad we have that dynamic,” Weber said.
The students look forward to representing TCC in Canada in June. With a strong legacy of academic and student achievement, the college is hopeful that this year’s team will build on that success at the 2025 competition.
TCC Students Set to Launch Payload into Space in June with NASA’s RockSAT-C Program
A team of ambitious Tidewater Community College (TCC) students is reaching for the stars—literally. Next month, they will send a student-designed experiment into space through the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) prestigious RockSAT-C program, a hands-on workshop that empowers college students to develop and launch payloads aboard a rocket.
The project is a collaborative effort led by Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering student Eleni Saffold and Mechanical Engineering student Jerry Gessner, supported by a dedicated team: Leigh Gartung, Aidyn Leinberger, Hadi Masri, Kiersten Ruby, Aidan Scully, and George Walker. Most of the team consists of engineering majors with one member studying computer science. With faculty members Mike Pastor and Rick Dyer supporting their efforts, the TCC RockSAT-C team showcases the power of interdisciplinary teamwork in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
Mike Pastor, a professor in the Engineering, Maritime, and Skilled Trades Pathway on the Virginia Beach Campus, is the lead faculty advisor for the team.
“Every month the students had to write and do a presentation to NASA to let them know how they were progressing with the project. We got the thumbs up for ours and wrote some proposals. We got the Virginia Space Consortium to fund our payload,” Pastor said.
No prior experience was required to join the team, making it a unique entrance point for TCC students into the world of aerospace and experimental research. The club-based project involves selecting, designing, and constructing a payload, which is then launched into space from NASA’s Wallops Island Flight Facility in Virginia.
The student-built payload is expected to reach 70 miles above the Earth’s surface during the 900 second flight—right to the edge of the exosphere. The TCC team’s experiment features an SD card voltage input system, and their results will contribute to ongoing research in space technology and electronics.
Students will present their research on June 25, with the rocket launch scheduled for June 26. Their project will be reviewed by NASA for academic merit, a key milestone that validates the educational value and scientific rigor of their work. TCC will be attending this conference alongside well-known four-year institutions including Louisiana State University and University of Alaska.
“I’m really excited to meet all the people who are going to be actually trying to break our experience and get the testing done because I think that would be really cool to see people do their jobs in action, especially at NASA,” team leader Eleni Saffold said.
The opportunity not only gives students the rare chance to participate in a NASA-affiliated launch, but also instills valuable professional and technical skills.
“In the beginning, they were afraid to work by themselves. They were afraid to get out there and start doing things on their own, but they built confidence. That is what this program does. It lets them see that working at a place like NASA is possible. It really is a possibility for any students that are on this project,” Pastor said.
As they prepare for liftoff, the TCC RockSAT-C team exemplifies what’s possible when education meets ambition—and the sky is not the limit, but just the beginning.
TCC Promotes Mental Health Awareness Month with Free Telehealth Services via TimelyCare
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, TCC is encouraging students to take advantage of TimelyCare, a free virtual mental health service designed specifically for college and university students. TCC has partnered with TimelyCare since 2022.
Currently trusted by more than 400 colleges and universities nationwide, TimelyCare combines clinical care with advanced technology and expert guidance to support students.
TimelyCare provides 24/7 access to a wide range of mental health services—including on-demand and scheduled counseling, psychiatry, health coaching, and self-care resources. All services are accessible through a mobile app or web platform, allowing students to receive support anytime, anywhere.
Among its offerings are TalkNow—a 24/7 on-demand service that connects users with mental health professionals in real time—as well as scheduled counseling, health coaching, and group sessions.
TCC student Teneka Newsome utilized TimelyCare a few semesters ago when she found herself in a difficult place.
“Using TimelyCare was an essential part of my mental health at every moment of grief. There was always someone who was willing to help me work through those emotions. The best feature is the “Talk Now” option which gives you access to a licensed therapist within minutes. It was very helpful—it saved my life.”
Newsome said that her professors provided a list of resources in their syllabuses including TimelyCare.
“If they had merch, I would be the first to wear it with confidence that the message would reach others,” Newsome said.
Students can receive up to six counseling sessions for free per year. Health coaching includes access to specialists who support healthy lifestyle changes related to nutrition, stress, and weight management. Group sessions also include guided meditation, yoga, and other mental wellness topics.
TimelyCare also services faculty and staff, permitting only three sessions per year.
To utilize this resource, visit Timelycare.com/vccs to register with name and school email address.
Tidewater Community College and VBACAC Formalize Longstanding Partnership
Virginia Beach Animal Care & Adoption Center Becomes Official Off-Site Classroom for TCC Vet Tech Program
Virginia Beach, VA. (May 21, 2025) — Tidewater Community College (TCC) and the Virginia Beach Animal Care and Adoption Center (VBACAC) have officially renewed their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), reinforcing a three-year standing collaboration that supports both veterinary education and community animal care.
TCC’s Veterinary Science Department began its initial partnership with VBACAC in the Fall of 2021. The renewed partnership was finalized at the beginning of the year by TCC’s Dr. Megan Taliaferro and Dean Dr. Maggie Charlton, to designate the Veterinary Suite at VBACAC as an official off-site learning facility for students to get laboratory hours for the Veterinary Technology Program.
The Veterinary Technology Program is a 2-year long program with classes starting in the summer, going year-round. By designating the city animal shelter as a clinical/lab training site, the partnership ensures students will have hands-on experiences in shelter medicine — an essential component of their education.
“We’re pleased that our students will continue to benefit from the meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities the shelter provides. It’s a great opportunity that will also help us grow our cohorts moving forward. The City of Virginia Beach recognizes how important this educational program is and how important it is to develop the next generation of veterinary professionals,” Dr. Taliaferro said.
Jessica Wilde, the Shelter Manager under the Animal Services Bureau in Virginia Beach, praised the renewed partnership, “We’re really passionate about our community, education, and supporting our neighboring partners. And so, when we had the opportunity to discuss bringing in people to learn from things that we’re already doing on a day-to-day basis, it was a huge component.”
Noah Meyers, the Clinical Skills Instructor in TCC’s Veterinary Science Department emphasized that veterinary technology students will complete a portion of the required laboratory hours on-site at VBACAC under instructors and a veterinarian. The students will be working with cats and dogs provided by the shelter.
The first-year students will work under the supervision of TCC faculty to build a strong clinical foundation, focusing on safe and effective animal handling, pain scoring, and basic nursing skills such as drawing blood and administering medications. In their second year, students take on more advanced responsibilities in anesthesia and surgical support. These include placing intravenous catheters, inducing and intubating patients, and closely monitoring animals throughout anesthetic procedures. This progressive, hands-on training ensures graduates are not only well-prepared for their licensure exams but also confident in navigating the complex and meaningful work of shelter medicine.
Additionally, new lab equipment has been added to the Veterinary Suite to provide more educational tools for students to practice their technical skills.
Founded in 1968, Tidewater Community College (www.tcc.edu) helps students of all ages and backgrounds achieve their educational and career goals. TCC is the largest provider of higher education and workforce solutions in southeastern Virginia, serving both students and local employers with in-demand academic and career programs. It is one of 23 schools that make up Virginia’s Community Colleges.
ABOUT THE VIRGINIA BEACH ANIMAL CARE AND ADOPTION CENTER
The Virginia Beach Animal Care and Adoption Center (www.vbacac.com) is operated by the Virginia Beach Police Department’s Animal Services Bureau. As the city’s official animal shelter, VBACAC is dedicated to the care, protection, and placement of homeless and abandoned animals. The center provides shelter, medical attention, and adoption services for thousands of animals each year while promoting responsible pet ownership and enforcing animal welfare laws. VBACAC is committed to building a more humane community through education, outreach, and compassion.
Tidewater Community College’s Beazley School of Nursing celebrated its 59th Spring Pinning Ceremony on May 9, recognizing the Class of 2025 for their hard work and commitment to the nursing profession. Held at the Portsmouth Student Center, the event honored 23 nursing students who are nearing completion of their Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ASN) degree and preparing to be registered nurses (RN).
The pinning ceremony, an honored tradition in the nursing field, symbolizes the transition from a nursing student to a future healthcare professional.
TCC President Dr. Marcia Conston welcomed the attendees, congratulating the cohort for their dedication to service and applauding their achievements so far.
Dr. Jenefer Snyder, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer, emphasized the importance of the nursing profession:
“Today graduates, we celebrate you. Becoming a nurse is simply not a job, it is a calling. It demands sacrifice.”
Associate Professor of Nursing Charlita Warren, MSN, RN, spoke on the significance of the ceremony and what it means for the students,
“Today, we come together and celebrate in honor, recognizing a profound moment in the lives of each individual who have chosen a noble path.”
She highlighted that the nursing pin symbolizes the students’ commitment and perseverance in the nursing program and in their future work.
Nursing student Candance Elliot reflected on the historical roots of the nursing pin, sharing the legacy of Florence Nightingale in the 19th century and her impact on modern nursing. She noted how Nightingale started the pinning ceremony tradition in her educational nursing program in England.
“This practice evolved the tradition of pinning all new graduate nurses as a way to acknowledge the successful completion of the nursing program,” Elliot said.
The keynote address was delivered by Joanne Williams-Reed, DNP, RN-BC, CNS, who serves as the Director of Patient Care Services: Professional Practice, Education, Diabetes & Wound Care Services, at the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
Drawing from nearly 45 years of experience, Williams-Reed commended the students to be proud of how far they have progressed.
“You made it through the years of hard work, late night studying, clinical rotations, and tests.”
Then, she encouraged students to remember how important this career path is, her message underscoring the value of compassion, resilience, and lifelong service.
Two outstanding awards were also presented: Community Service and Clinical Achievement.
Yoselin Maldonado received the Community Service Award which required an essay to be submitted that showed how community service influences her personal life and how the community benefits from that service.
Juan Lopez received the Clinical Achievement Award for performing above average in clinical settings consistently. William Bell was an honorable mention for this award.
Nursing professors Shannon Washington, MSN, RNC-NIC, and Evelyn Coutee, MSN, RN, presented the pins for the Portsmouth Campus Spring Cohort students:
Andrea Aguilar Pineda
William Bell
Stacey Carter
Meghan Cosby
Alden Crespo
Afolabi Dorcas
Savannah Duffy
Candace Elliott
Jasmine Harris
Kyleena Justice
Juan Lopez
Alicia Lutomski
Yoselin Maldonado
Iyonna Pugh
Steven Reyes
Hannah Schmidt
Sarah Schulte
Brittany Scott
Dominique Spencer
Nadia Tejada
Kendall Webb
Sharah Williams
Shamyra Yancey
The event concluded with the students reciting the “Nightingale Pledge” before the benediction delivered by Associate Professor of Nursing, Shirley Greenway, MSN, RN. The ceremony marked a significant step forward as these students go into their professional journeys in hospitals and healthcare facilities across the region.
TCC’s Phi Theta Kappa Ceremony Celebrates New Inductees
Tidewater Community College (TCC) proudly welcomed 58 new members into the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society during an induction ceremony held on Wednesday, April 30, at the Virginia Beach Campus Student Center. This event marked an important milestone for students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.
Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society that serves two-year colleges across the globe. Its mission is to recognize and encourage academic excellence while promoting opportunities for individual growth, leadership, service, and fellowship. Membership in PTK is considered one of the highest honors a community college student can achieve.
TCC has a chapter on each of the four campuses: Alpha Zeta Lambda (Chesapeake), Beta Zeta Upsilon (Norfolk), Chi Mu (Portsmouth), and Psi Upsilon (Virginia Beach).
To be a member, students are required to maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher. They must have at least 12 credit hours completed towards a degree or certificate. PTK membership is invitation only by the local chapter.
The induction ceremony opened with remarks from Tanisha Amos, a current TCC student and active PTK member, welcoming students, faculty, staff, and guests.
Following Amos, Dr. Karen Campbell, Vice President for Student Affairs, commended the inductees for their dedication and hard work. She emphasized the importance of academic recognition and encouraged students to take full advantage of the leadership and service opportunities available through PTK.
TCC student Tara Hunt offered attendees a brief but insightful history of the PTK organization, emphasizing its global reach and ongoing commitment to student success. She shed light on PTK’s roots, which date back to its founding in 1918, and its evolution into a prestigious international society.
The program continued with Ethan Crutchfield introducing the evening’s keynote speaker, Darryl Faine. Faine delivered an inspiring address that emphasized perseverance, self-belief, and the transformative power of education. His message resonated deeply with both students and their families, serving as a motivational highlight of the evening.
As the ceremony concluded, the new members were formally inducted, each receiving a medallion and white rose to commemorate their achievement. The event ended with a reception, allowing inductees, family members, faculty, and staff to celebrate the milestone together.
This year’s induction ceremony was not only a celebration of academic success but also a testament to the vibrant and supportive community that TCC and PTK cultivate. As new members begin their journey with Phi Theta Kappa, they carry with them the honor and responsibility of upholding the society’s values.
A Driven Student Pursuing a Future in Psychiatry: Nolyn Smith
Nolyn Smith made the most of his college journey at Tidewater Community College (TCC), where he is set to graduate with an Associate of Science degree in Psychology on Monday. With plans to transfer to a four-year institution, Nolyn is focused, determined, and passionate about understanding people and helping others.
A 2024 graduate of Manor High School in Portsmouth, Nolyn began taking college courses at TCC during his senior year through the dual enrollment program. He took 14 college credits as part of the program, which combined on-site high school instruction with in-person classes at TCC’s Portsmouth campus. This early exposure to college-level coursework laid a strong foundation for his academic future.
Nolyn’s journey continued after high school graduation, as he made the decision to continue his education at TCC. He weighed the options of attending larger universities; however, a scholarship from TCC played a role in his choice,
“I chose TCC because coming out of high school, I didn’t have a lot of scholarship offers for bigger name colleges. But I got blessed to receive a scholarship from TCC, so I took that and did my time here.”
Eager to get ahead, Nolyn took classes during the summer of 2024 through the college’s “Learn. Explore. Accelerate. Persevere.” (LEAP) program where he took 12 credits that will transfer to a four-year institution.
Throughout his time at TCC, Nolyn made a lasting impact on campus. He served as a student ambassador, helping new and prospective students feel welcomed and informed.
“As a student ambassador, I help with a lot around campus. We try to get more people educated about events and help at the desk enrolling students,” he shared.
In recognition of his academic excellence and leadership, Nolyn was recently inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society. He is super grateful for the unwavering support of his family, professors, and friends, especially his mother,
“My mom has a medical background as well. She encourages and pushes me to do everything that I need to do. She started at an early age and then came back to it. She’s been really pushing me to get it done early instead of trying to wait till later in life to do it.”
In addition to his full class load and campus involvement, Nolyn works part-time in retail. When he does find time to relax, he enjoys playing and watching sports—particularly baseball, a sport he has loved since childhood.
Now, Nolyn faces an exciting decision about his next steps. He is currently deciding between Old Dominion University and the University of Alabama to continue his education. He plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a Pre-Med track and eventually attend medical school to become a psychiatrist.
With commencement on the horizon, Nolyn looks ahead with optimism, ready to embrace the future and all the opportunities that lie ahead.
From Here, Go Anywhere: 2025 Student Commencement Speaker Eli Gray
Tidewater Community College’s tagline, “From here, go anywhere” perfectly reflects the journey of Eli Gray—a determined and resilient student whose time at TCC has transformed his life and future. This May, Eli will graduate with an Associates of Science, General Studies. In the fall, he will transfer to the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where he plans to double major in Psychology and Sociology with a minor in Social Justice.
His ultimate goal? To one day open a nonprofit that provides guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to those who need it the most.
But this vision wasn’t always clear. Before coming to TCC, Eli thought a four-year college path wasn’t for him. He noted that higher education wasn’t something he had planned for or necessarily even wanted due to his educational experience growing up.
“I had a really hard middle and high school experience,” Eli admitted.
In Fall 2022, Eli decided to enroll at TCC’s Virginia Beach campus to complete a one-year Fire Science program online and become a fire inspector. He was also working two jobs as a dishwasher and donut shop employee before and after his classes.
“After enrolling and being at TCC for a little bit, I started enjoying and succeeding for the first time, just in this little fire science class, and I thought that I could maybe try an in-person class,” Eli said.
Eli noted how he started to commit more to college and enjoy his time learning, eventually taking the step to turn into a full-time student. He recalls thinking to himself, “I can do more than just this one-year program. I think I’m capable.”
By Fall 2023, Eli found himself beginning to see college not just as a short-term plan but as a foundation for long-term growth. He was taking a full course load, including online and in-person classes to be on track to earning an associate degree.
He also became deeply involved in student life. He joined the Psychology club Psi-Chi-Phi and was appointed to Old Dominion University’s inclusive Civic Scholars program—an experience that connected him with leaders and peers across Hampton Roads. Through this and other opportunities, he gained valuable experience with networking and civic engagement. Eli is also a recipient of the 2025 Community Engagement Award.
Eli emphasized how grateful he was to have found a community at TCC. He will be finishing up his community college journey alongside his two best friends: Hunter Randolph and Leah Foreman.
He credits much of his success to the people who supported him throughout his journey—from his professors to his classmates and friends, but especially his mother, for helping him stay grounded.
“There were a lot of people that helped me on my journey, for sure. But my mom was always there for everything, answering the phone when I was upset or happy. She was my greatest support.”
Now, Eli is preparing to take the stage as the 2025 Student Commencement Speaker at TCC’s graduation on May 12 at Chartway Arena.
“I am very honored to be chosen to do this. I can’t wait to represent everybody. This school has changed my life and the lives of so many others. I can’t think of a better way to close this and share it with my graduating class,” he said.
Looking ahead, Eli is excited about continuing his education at Mary Washington, where he will focus on the psychology and sociology programs. He plans to take advantage of the internships and research opportunities.
He hopes to one day attend graduate school and work in juvenile detention centers.
For students who might be where he once was—unsure, overwhelmed, or feeling like college isn’t for them—Eli offers a message of hope and persistence.
“I want people to know that no matter who you are, you can do it. You can achieve things, succeed, and go above and beyond, doing more than you ever thought you could do.”
VTOP “Top Employers” Honored with Formal Congratulations at Regional Event Showcasing Internship Impact
Virginia Talent and Opportunity Partnership (VTOP) celebrated its “Top Employers” event at Tidewater Community College’s Virginia Beach Campus Joint-Use Library on Wednesday morning, April 30. The program highlighted the value of internships and the strength of regional workforce development. The event brought together leaders in education, workforce development, and student interns to reflect the power of work-based learning experiences. TCC is newly partnered with VTOP with plans to connect students with more internship opportunities in the future.
Following a networking session, attendees were welcomed by Dr. Karen Campbell, TCC’s Vice President of Student Affairs who set the tone for a morning of insight and inspiration. Presentations began with key representatives from VTOP Region 5, including Sarah Jane Kirkland (Grant PI), Michelle Simmons (Project Manager), and Rita Yohe (Project Coordinator).
Alisha Bazemore, Assistant Director for Innovative Work-Based Learning Initiatives at the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, presented “Where is VTOP Now?”, updating guests on the program’s growth and impact.
Bazemore also presented data saying that VTOP reported that across 57 institutions, 24,094 students participated in a credit-bearing internships in Academic Year 2023-2024, an increase of about 4.3% compared to the 2022-2023 Academic Year.
VTOP supports the internship readiness of employers through modules and employer matching grants to small businesses. Bazemore noted that 768 employers participated in the Developing an Internship Program module and 327 employers have participated in the matching grants program. About 213 student interns have been hired through the matching grants program.
Joshua Sheffield, Director of Emerging Workforce- Hampton Roads Workforce Council, shared “The Impacts of Internships.” His remarks emphasized how internships bridge academic learning and professional experience.
Six local college students shared their personal stories about their internship experiences, followed by a Q&A session. The student panel included these students:
Alvin Spruill (Old Dominion University) at BMW of North America
Diana Tagbor (Old Dominion University) at Virginia House of Delegates
Rebecca Haegele (Virginia Wesleyan University) at Venture Electric Company and RK&K
Cameryn Conger (Christopher Newport University) at Norfolk Admirals
Shanequa Jamison-Nesbitt (Tidewater Community College) at TCC’s Student Resource and Empowerment Center
Zion Asamoah (Norfolk State University) at Wells Fargo
VTOP’s sponsors included multiple companies from the Hampton Roads area including Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, City of Virginia Beach, Chartway Credit Union, LifeNet Health, Stihl, the YMCA, Norfolk International Airport, Wavy 10, and The Port of Virginia.
The VTOP “Top Employers” event served as a testament to the ongoing commitment to workforce readiness and the critical role of internships in shaping future professionals.
TCC Celebrates Student Success at 2025 Academic Excellence and Community Engagement Awards Ceremony
Tidewater Community College (TCC) held its annual Academic Excellence and Community Engagement Awards Ceremony on Thursday afternoon, April 24, in the Chesapeake Campus Student Center. Over 150 students were honored for their academic achievements and dedication at the event, with a special focus on those earning top grade point averages. Several students also received community engagement awards.
The ceremony opened with a warm welcome from TCC Associate Professor of Mathematics, Sarah DiCalogero, a TCC faculty member for over 20 years and current Faculty Senate Chair.
TCC President Dr. Marcia Conston addressed the audience, stating:
“I am continuously amazed and proud of the positive, good impact and influence TCC families, our students, families, and staff have on Hampton Roads. It is always a joy for me to recognize and to honor our students’ special achievements as well as their social achievements.”
Professor of Spanish and Foreign Language Department Chair, Dr. Jessica Lynam, served as the keynote speaker of the event. She praised the students’ resilience, saying:
“You kept on showing up. You showed up on the days when you felt like quitting. You showed up when it felt like too much.”
Dr. Lynam highlighted two Spanish words: “La Preparación” and “Educación”. “La Preparación” means preparation in English. She referred to how the students started off with the process of academic preparation. She related it to the students’ classes, degree program, and grades. “Educación” means education in Spanish. She emphasized the word’s deeper meaning beyond education to include character, values, and personal growth.
Dr. Lynam is TCC’s Professor of the Year for Academic Year 2024-2025. She teaches Spanish on the Portsmouth and Chesapeake campuses.
Later in the program, Dr. Conston, alongside Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Karen Campbell, handed out awards to students.
Students recognized for Academic Excellence were grouped by grade point averages:
4.0
3.8 to 3.99
3.5 to 3.79
Interim Associate Vice President of Academics, Dr. Siabhon M. Harris, introduced the Community Engagement Award.
“I would like to take a moment to highlight the purpose of this award. This award was created to recognize our students that go above and beyond, not only in the classroom, but also give service to others. These are students that have shown exceptional academic achievement and a deep commitment to making a difference in their time at TCC,” Dr. Harris said.
Faculty and staff nominated students, who excel in their studies and embody a spirit of service in the college and Hampton Roads area, for this award.
The recipients had to meet essential criteria. To be eligible, students had to have GPA of 3.0 or higher, be a first-time recipient, and demonstrate a strong history of service at the college or in the local community.
This year, there were 16 students who received the Community Engagement Award.
Tanisha Amos
Audrey Barrett
Tiana Carter
Ethan Crutchfield
Isaac DeHaan
Darryl Faine
Deiandre Fernandez
Eli Gray
Kevin Guo
Julia Lee
Cody Murray
Rick Nguyen
Mandy Nieto
Mary Orvin
Whitney Ulmer-Dukes
TCC Pep Rally Sparks School Spirit and Anticipation for Return of Sports
Tidewater Community College energized its campus community with a spirited pep rally on Thursday, April 10, in the Portsmouth Campus Student Center. Students, staff, faculty, administrators, and families came together to celebrate student involvement and build momentum for the return of TCC athletics.
The event, part of the college’s ongoing efforts to boost school spirit. Featured lively music from a DJ, dancing, food, and speeches from campus leaders and student representatives. The event was hosted by emcee LaShawn Scott, who kept the energy high, and the crowd engaged throughout the rally.
Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Karen Campbell introduced the rally’s theme, “Storm Forward,” encouraging the crowd to embrace change and move ahead with confidence. TCC President Dr. Marcia Conston also addressed the attendees, delivering key remarks and motivation that emphasized unity.
“I am excited that we are all here together. We did this for you—the students,” Conston said.
Dr. Conston acknowledged the arrival of fall sports, giving TCC Athletics Director Chad Smith the floor.
The initial announcement of TCC’s return to intercollegiate was back in February’s press conference; however, Smith shared that the first official basketball team practices will begin October 1, with the competitive season starting in November.
Head Men’s Coach Clint Wright and Head Women’s Coach Rebecca Kershaw discussed recruitment efforts and the excitement of rebuilding TCC sports.
Coach Wright noted that nearly 30 male student athletes traveled as far as Texas and New York to attend the recent basketball showcase held at Portsmouth Student Center on Saturday, March 29. Out of the 14 male student-athletes offered a spot on the team, nine accepted. Three of the future student-athletes—Dwight Howard, Bryce Thompson, and Tayshawn Trotman—were present at the pep rally.
Coach Kershaw also spoke about her recruitment successes, highlighting two female athletes who already signed and two others who have verbally committed to the program.
At the pep rally, two student-athletes officially signed with the TCC Storm. On the men’s side, Derrick Grant, a 2024 graduate of Western Branch High School, committed to the program. For the women’s team, Ocean Lakes High School senior Madeline Fisher signed on as well.
Looking forward, the college announced its next basketball showcase event will take place on July 12. Several student-focused initiatives were highlighted including the Open-Door project, mentorship, and other student resources. Attendees also had the chance to participate in a raffle.
As TCC looks ahead to a new era of athletics and student engagement, the pep rally served as a powerful reminder of the college’s commitment to growth, inclusion, and school pride.
Dr. Andrea Palmisano honored with VCCS Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence
Dr. Andrea Palmisano of Tidewater Community College was recently honored with the 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence by the Virginia Community College System (VCCS). The award was presented on Wednesday, April 2, at the New Horizons Conference held at The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center. Palmisano received praise for her dedication to student-centered learning, academic rigor, and engagement with all students.
“The award is to emphasize that the faculty play a huge role in community colleges and to inspire everyone,” Palmisano said.
The Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence is presented annually to one teaching faculty member who exemplifies outstanding teaching at VCCS college(s). The recipient receives a VCCS stole and a $5,000 monetary prize. Only one nomination per campus is accepted. Selection criteria include instruction effectiveness, student focus, discipline continuity, and personal attribution.
Palmisano noted that her colleague and 2023 recipient, Thomas Geary, nominated her for the award.
“Andrea is an inspiration to her colleagues who see how much she puts into her course planning. When I hear of her innovations and approaches, it makes me want to reflect on how I can make my own courses better for my students,” Geary said.
As part of the nomination process, she compiled a comprehensive packet that included personal statements and accolades highlighting her qualifications. She also gathered references from faculty, staff, administration, and students. Palmisano noted that assembling the materials took several months of dedicated effort.
Since 2010, Palmisano has been a member of the psychology faculty at TCC’s Virginia Beach Campus. She began her tenure as an adjunct professor and was promoted to Assistant Professor of Psychology in 2015. Two years later, she advanced to Associate Professor of Psychology, and in 2019, she achieved the rank of Professor of Psychology, the position she currently holds.
Currently, Palmisano teaches principles of psychology, psychopathology, and childhood development. This fall, she will also introduce a new course she created called “Cross-Cultural Psychology”.
Palmisano has served as the faculty advisor for Psi-Chi-Phi, the psychology club on TCC’s Virginia Beach campus, for 12 years.
One of her students, Eli Gray, praised Palmisano for the guidance and support she offered throughout his academic journey at TCC.
“There’s not a single class that she teaches that you don’t feel how genuinely passionate she is. She’s also helped me and pushed me to accomplish things that I didn’t think I could do on my own. She always has everyone’s back,” Gray said.
Palmisano notes that many of her students transfer to four-year institutions to complete their bachelor’s degrees, and several go on to earn their master’s degrees. Her students often pursue careers in school psychology, speech pathology, counseling, and nursing. She continues to mentor and support them throughout their academic and professional journeys.
She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Capella University. Originally from Brazil, Palmisano is bilingual in English and Portuguese. She moved to the United States in high school after her father’s job brought the family overseas.
Palmisano has over 30 years of experience in the mental health and counseling fields. She began her career as a parent-child therapist for four years at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in New Jersey, before transitioning into higher education. In 1996, after a few years as a stay-at-home mother, she began teaching as an adjunct psychology instructor at Farleigh Dickinson.
In 2002, she became a Contract Trainer and Youth Program Director at Virginia Conflict Resolution Center in Norfolk. Since 2012, she has also worked as a Certified Mediator and Trainer at Palmisano Mediation Services, alongside her full-time faculty role at TCC.
In addition to teaching, Palmisano leads certification courses and mentors aspiring mediators. She trains other mediators in the Hampton Roads area and visits schools to help students develop soft skills through her peer-mediation curriculum.
“Time is going to pass. So, five years are going to pass whether you do what you love or not. So, what if you just do what you want to do? And then five years from now, you can look back and say, ‘Wow, I did it’, rather than ‘Oh, I wish I had done it’,” Palmisano said.
Palmisano resides in the Virginia Beach area with her husband and is a proud mother of two sons who work in the medical field. She also enjoys dancing as a form of mental health therapy.
TCC’s Coding Competition: Teams Showcase Skill and Collaboration
Tidewater Community College held a Coding Competition on Saturday, March 29, in the Virginia Beach Campus’s Advanced Technology Center. TCC’s Business, Computer Science & IT Pathway sponsored the competition which brought together 18 students from a pool of 28 registrants. With six teams of three students each, the competition tested their skills in solving complex algorithmic computer programming problems, simulating the challenges typically encountered in both academic courses and real-world software development jobs.
TCC’s Computer Science faculty— Scott Davis, Stephen Harris, and Jared Oliverio—organized and launched the event. The faculty members designed the Competition to improve students’ problem-solving abilities while fostering teamwork. Each team was tasked with solving a series of algorithmic challenges that ranged from beginner-level to advanced. The problems required participants to demonstrate their knowledge of various programming languages, including Python and Java. The competition also mirrored the types of puzzles one might face in software developer interviews, with minimal support documentation and restrictions on using Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) that offer code assistance. This unique structure ensured the focus remained on raw programming skills, teamwork, and the ability to think critically under pressure.
According to Cassandra Small, a Computer Science Program Coordinator at TCC, students honed their group programming skills, learning how to collaborate effectively and approach problems from multiple perspectives throughout the event.
“The challenges provided invaluable experience for future academic or professional endeavors, as many students in the competition expressed their excitement about the learning process,” Small said.
Small noted that while most of the winners were Computer Science majors, some of the winners were Dual Enrollment and Information Technology.
Jayden Zuniga, Todbukh Burged, and David Holloway won first place by dazzling the judges with their ability to tackle the most complex problems with remarkable speed and precision. Their collaboration and technical prowess set them apart from the other teams, earning them the top spot.
Maksim Karavaev, Travis Wiggins, and Ethen Carter earned second place, displaying exemplary teamwork and creative approaches to solving some of the more difficult challenges. Their strong problem-solving strategies earned them a well-deserved second position.
Aria Celik, Myriam Gallant, and Makayla Hawkins took third place. They demonstrated solid technical skills and a great ability to adapt to the challenges as the competition progressed.
“Many of these students transfer to four-year institutions and pursue other technology degrees. Some may immediately begin seeking positions in the field of technology, but it all depends on the student’s career goals,” Small said.
The Computers for Success Club at TCC, Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association International (AFCEA), and Naval Information Center Warfare (NIWC) contributed generous prize donations. The competition provided participants with valuable skills and emphasized not only technical skills but also the importance of collaboration, time management, and adaptability.
Faculty members noted how impressive the students were in their programming abilities and in how well they worked together to solve complex problems.
“The competition was a fantastic opportunity for our students to develop their technical abilities and to collaborate with their peers. We look forward to hosting even more of these events in the future, where students can continue to challenge themselves and grow. Overall, the Coding Competition was a tremendous success, celebrating the bright future of software development and teamwork among the next generation of programmers,” Small said.
Small anticipates making the competition an annual event.
“We’ve done the competitions in the past prior to the most recent one but have not been consistent each year. We do, however, anticipate adding it to our annual calendar.”
Exploring the Universe: TCC’s Virginia Beach Campus Planetarium Entertains and Educates
Tidewater Community College’s Virginia Beach campus has a hidden gem: a state-of-the-art Digistar 5 laser projector planetarium with 4k resolution. In 2008, the planetarium opened in the Science building, featuring 88 seats and an all-sky image.
TCC collaborates with the company Evans and Sutherland, which makes shows for the planetarium, usually one new show a year on top of regular shows. On the first Friday evening of every month, the planetarium usually presents two or three visual and sound shows, which are open to the public. Several TCC professors take turns hosting the shows: Dr. David Wright, Leah Flax, and Kevin Mitchell, among them. Johnny Waugh, who works as the Equipment Service Repair Tech II, also helps with the preparation before the shows.
The most recent shows were hosted by Dr. Wright on Friday evening, March 7. Wright is a TCC Professor Emeritus of Physics and Astronomy. He presented three shows: Max on the Moon and Cosmic for kids, Supermassive Black Holes, and Rock Music Laser Light Show featuring music by David Bowie.
Wright helped with the planning, building and startup of the planetarium. He taught at TCC for 45 years in the Physics and Astronomy department, specializing in calculus physics, algebra-trigonometry based physics, conceptual physics, and astronomy. Dr. Wright previously appeared in a TV show called Science Files on PBS that won two Emmy’s. He has also presented on multiple shows with celebrities: Kelly Clarkson, Conan O’Brien, and Regis and Kathie Lee. After retirement from TCC, Wright is still heavily involved with the planetarium and encourages people to attend the shows to learn more about astronomy and science.
“People should expect to learn something about astronomy as well as have some fun,” he says.
Flax and Mitchell noted that they favor the music side of the shows where they sync the sound to different visuals. They have their longtime friend, Chris Kemp, join for some shows to play his bass guitar. The three of them call their band, “Pleiades Planetarium Exchange”.
Before the shows, details are blasted out to the public and students are notified earlier to have first dibs on obtaining tickets. Tickets are free; however, they must be reserved online on the TCC website.
TCC does have rules for attending the planetarium: children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the planetarium, and children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Food, drinks, and chewing gum are not allowed. The Science building is wheelchair accessible and has accessible parking on the backside of the Science building.
The next shows will be on Friday, April 4, startingat 6:00 p.m. “Secret Lives of Stars (By E&S) will be showing the unique characteristics of stars and their secret lives. At 7:15 p.m., “Laser Light Show Grateful Dead” will be shown.
For the educational side of the planetarium, Flax emphasized that she enjoys taking TCC students into the planetarium for labs and even lectures. Like her science class, multiple classes in the Science and Mathematics Pathway use the planetarium for labs, especially classes NAS 131 and NAS 132 which are astronomy-based. Students learn about constellations, seasons, blackholes, and more.
“Instead of looking at a computer screen and showing like what a sky would look like, I can put it up and it really looks like its nighttime. It’s a huge tool for teaching and answering questions. It’s such a special place. I can’t imagine a better educational tool,” Flax said.
Eathan Wankel is one of Flax’s students who has enjoyed his time in the planetarium. Wankel is a General Sciences student on the Virginia Beach campus and plans to transfer to the University of Arizona to study Astrophysics after graduation in May.
Wankel notes that his astronomy class spends class time in the planetarium once a week which he prefers over a normal classroom setting. He also attended multiple shows on Friday evenings with his family including the “Life to Mars” presentation.
“It definitely is an enjoyable room to be in, mainly for all the different pictures we get to see from telescopes that have been taken over the last 20 years,” says Wankel.
Wankel said he is inspired to further his education and eventually work with telescopes through his experience in TCC’s planetarium.
TCC’s AVP for Student Success, Dr. Kia Hardy, Inspires Leaders for Women’s History Month
Tidewater Community College’s Associate Vice President for Student Success, Dr. Kia Hardy, inspired leaders on Tuesday afternoon, March 25, as the featured speaker at the college’s Women’s History Month event, “Preparing to Fill the Leadership Gap: The Challenges Facing Mid-Level Women Leaders in Urban Community Colleges.” Speaking at the Virginia Beach Campus Student Center, Dr. Hardy provided an inspiring address advocating for women’s empowerment, equity, and leadership.
Dr. Hardy is a Virginia Beach native and Kellam High School graduate. She studied sociology and was a member of the women’s basketball team at the College of William and Mary. After earning her undergraduate degree in 2005 at William and Mary, she widened her educational background by earning a Master of Education degree in Educational Policy in 2008. During her time in the master’s program, she worked at William and Mary as the Assistant Women’s basketball coach. After earning her master’s degree, she began working in higher education as the Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admission at William and Mary and then as the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admission at North Carolina State University.
Hardy started her career at TCC as the Lead Academic Counselor on the Norfolk campus from 2014 to 2018. Subsequently, she served as the Interim Dean of Student Services on TCC’s Norfolk campus from 2018 to 2020 while working on her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Community College Leadership at Old Dominion University.
In her address, Dr. Hardy shared research from her dissertation about women who are underrepresented in higher-education positions in the workforce. Her phenomenological research study was based on women’s experiences in mid-level positions at urban community colleges. The study was qualitative, and she interviewed ten diverse women leaders in dean or director positions. She noted that she found five major themes from her study: leadership progression, work-life balance, mentorship and professional development, communication, and institutional climate and structure.
More of her research noted that there is higher representation for women at the community college-level for presidents versus any other higher education-level. She found that most held faculty or academic positions before their presidencies. She also highlighted that women are often put in interim positions, noting how she is a prime example.
After earning a Ph.D. from Old Dominion University, Dr. Hardy served as Interim Dean of Advising/Virginia Beach Campus Dean, and then Dean of Advising/Norfolk Campus Dean. In May 2024, she was promoted to TCC Associate Vice President for Student Success in the Student Affairs Division.
Through her own research and experience, Dr. Hardy notes several avenues that help women succeed in higher-education, specifically in mid-level to executive-level roles. She highly recommends mentorship, professional development, and pursuing a doctoral degree.
Despite her career and educational successes, Dr. Hardy recalls the challenging time when she was simultaneously working at TCC and earning her Ph.D. at ODU. Dr. Hardy and her husband, Cerone, also had a toddler at the time.
“I knew that that was something that I was going to ultimately do, and so I decided that I was going to [get my Ph.D.] when my son was younger. I trusted the setup that we had with tri-parenting when my mother and mother-in-law were retired and able to help me and my husband parent our child,” Dr. Hardy said.
Dr. Hardy also mentioned how she struggled with her mental and physical well-being for a while. She said that she lost her voice and didn’t feel like herself.
“It was a year and a half during a pandemic of trying to figure out how to fix me. My doctor told me, ‘When you feel something coming on, you need to take a day, or you need to figure out how you can bring yourself back.’”
Dr. Hardy now carefully manages her overall well-being to make sure she is making time for herself and her loved ones with her workload.
“I really worked hard [to center myself] for the last three to four years. Now, I take time for myself. I even have the Calm app. I actually bought a lifetime subscription to it. I listen to it during the day and do the little thirty second mindfulness,” Dr. Hardy said.
Dr. Hardy encourages women to pursue their goals and ambitions, especially in higher education. She wants to serve as a mentor to help guide others through their journey.
Dr. Hardy closed with a special message, “I am available like I mentioned when it comes to mentorship. Whether it’s a student or a staff member, we can make a meeting on my calendar. But, I wish the best on whatever journey that you’re on.”
TCC Emergency Funds Helping Students Stay on Track for Success
Tidewater Community College has provided individuals in the Hampton Roads area with education and skills-based training for decades. TCC not only offers a wide range of areas of study and trade skills but has resources that help students overcome challenges that may hinder them from learning in the classroom and earning a degree and/or certification.
Around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, TCC started encouraging students to reach out to the newly established office, the Student Resource and Empowerment Center (SREC), to utilize the Student Emergency Assistance (SEA) funds. SEA funds are available to students who are experiencing financial hardship. The intent of this resource was to provide small assistance grants to help students overcome financial issues that make it difficult for students to continue and succeed in their academic programs during the pandemic. It continues to serve the TCC student body today.
Davien Armstrong, Lead Case Manager of SREC, has been connecting students to resources at TCC since July 2022. He previously worked as advisor for Open Door, a federally funded program that helps first generation students and students with disabilities with academic performance.
“When COVID came around and we received a lot of money through the 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the funding really opened the door for us to provide assistance on a much broader scale. We were able to help with more items financially than we were previously,” Armstrong said.
The small assistance grants can go towards books, car repairs, childcare, commencement regalia, medical/dental expenses, rental assistance and deposit, required course supplies, transportation, tuition, and other living expenses.
Armstrong notes that there are other types of assistance that SREC has available including diaper distribution, food bank, internet and technology access, mental healthcare services, mothers’ room access, and more. The SREC has services available for all students from a variety of backgrounds.
Armstrong says that SREC also can help students build a financial plan for long term stability as they enter the workforce or go on to a four-year institution to earn their bachelor’s degree.
Recently, students have reached out to SREC with gratitude after they were assisted financially in tough times.
Melody Romines, a General Studies student on the Portsmouth campus, recently received financial assistance to help repair the roof on her house.
She is originally from Texas and said that TCC has been her support system with her family out of state. She served active duty in the military from 2016 to 2022 and worked at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth until spring 2024. She decided she wanted to go back to school to expand her educational background to provide her with more opportunities for her and her children.
Romines said her roof was leaking and worried about the safety of her family with the anticipated arrival of snow and other inclement weather. She said she started supporting her and her two young children on her own after a separation from her ex-husband and subsequently didn’t have the funds to repair it.
“My roof started leaking and needed to be replaced. I filled out an emergency fund request form, and Ms. [Brittany] Scott was able to help me,” Romines said.
She emphasized that TCC quickly provided the financial assistance in a short turnaround time.
“This time last year, I was donating plasma to pay for expendables because my disability check and GI bill only covered my bills,” Romines said.
She said she was able to receive extra diapers and utilize the food bank to help support her family. She also received the CCAMPIS childcare scholarship and now her kids attend the daycare on Portsmouth’s campus while she attends class and works for the Dean of Retention, Valerie Burge-Hall, Ph. D., at the welcome desk.
Romines praises the college and staff for all the support and opportunities she continues to receive, “I’m very thankful that TCC had all these programs, and I’m very thankful that the environment is very open and welcoming. There are people that will help you and provide resources. You just have to be humble enough to ask for help.”
Romines plans on entering nursing and possibly transferring to Old Dominion University to earn her Bachelor of Nursing degree.
Teneka Newsome, a Human Services student also on the Portsmouth campus, received financial assistance for her apartment funds after a turn of challenging events occurred including an eviction and the death of loved ones.
In the fall of 2023, Newsome decided that she wanted to go back to school and advance her education in human services after working as a personal care aid for over 15 years in the behavioral health sector. Newsome had previously struggled with school during her childhood in the rural town of Ahoskie, North Carolina, where she left high school without a diploma because she didn’t pass a state reading level test.
In 2024, Newsome said she was witnessing her world falling apart while still enrolled in school. In the spring, she was living with her parents when a foreclosure occurred, and then her uncle, whom she was very close to, passed away. In the fall, she hit the lowest of lows when she and her children were evicted from her parents’ house. A month later, her teenage son passed away.
Newsome received funds for her new apartment shortly after her eviction. She says that TCC not only helped her financially but gave her the extra support she needed when she was going through deep emotional and mental turmoil. She praises TCC’s mental health resource (Timely Care) and faculty and staff for all the support she received.
“If you’re going through things, don’t be afraid to talk and share because so many people are so willing to help. I know if you come from a long background, there are people who are skeptical to help because they don’t know what the situation really looks like, but then there are people who have good faith who say, ‘I do trust that if I do this for this individual, they’re going to do right. And that’s what I strive to do now. Anything that has been given to me, I try to pay it forward,” Newsome said.
Newsome was accepted into the College Attainment for Parent Students (CAPS) program that guides low-income single mothers throughout their higher education experience. She said that wanted to give back to TCC after all the assistance the college has provided her and her family. Last December, she created a kids’ toys donation and drive for the holiday season as vice president of her Human Services club.
“TCC is a star. The community speaks for itself. Everyone who I have spoken to or encountered have been so welcoming and nonbiased. TCC has transformed my life as a whole. I found support within the community and resources here on campus,” Newsome said.
Newsome plans to transfer to Norfolk State University to earn her bachelor’s degree in social work and eventually earn her master’s degree to be a licensed social worker. She recently earned a certification as a peer recovery specialist.
Armstrong strongly encourages students to seek out resources that TCC offers. “This is entirely a judgment free zone. We’re not here to judge anyone. We’re purely here to help in every sense of the word. We’re not here to pry. We simply want to know, ‘What can we do to help?’”.
The four campuses: Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach all have SREC offices with case managers available during the weekdays.
Keynote Speaker Floyd Jones Inspires at TCC’s Nonprofit Summit
Tidewater Community College’s Academy for Nonprofit Excellence hosted the 2025 Nonprofit Summit: The Power to Thrive on Tuesday, March 11, in the Virginia Beach Campus Student Center. The Summit included two speeches by keynote speaker Floyd Jones and multiple workshop discussions to help local changemakers expand their nonprofit organization impact and help repower them to succeed in their future work. TCC staff and local nonprofit organization leaders from the Hampton Roads area presented their fundraising advice and experience in the concurrent sessions in the morning and afternoon.
Jones, a renowned coach and community builder, shared his insight on engagement and nonprofit leadership for fundraising campaigns. The New York City native is the founder of Floyd Jones Enterprises and BackBlack—an initiative that has raised over $2 million for Black-led nonprofits.
Jones has a mission to provide leaders of nonprofit organizations with tools and confidence to succeed with their fundraising campaigns, specifically actionable strategies to transform their followers into loyal supporters and donors. He also has experience with partnering with leaders to help grow their grassroot organizations and create lasting change. Jones has worked with several brands in the past including Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, VISA, Nike, AfroTech, Neon One, Man Talks, NBA 2k, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
At the Summit, Jones presented two strong keynote speeches to inspire the audience of nonprofit organization leaders and purpose-driven entrepreneurs: “The Significance of Your Story” and “Community as Catalyst”.
The afternoon keynote speech “Community as Catalyst” was devoted to providing organizational tools to help nonprofit organizations engage the community. It focused on the process of mobilizing passionate advocates, volunteers, and board members into joining the fundraising campaigning and connecting with others to build a network of supporters.
Jones noted that Sarah Linden-Brooks, Program Director of the Academy for Nonprofit Excellence, had heard him speak at another convention and reached out to have him speak at this year’s summit.
“I love when I see organizations so intentional about supporting changemakers. We have so many people who are making an impact, but they don’t have the support they need to fly and succeed. So, when Sarah told me about this event, I was like ‘I’m going to be there’. I decided to make my way to TCC and speak,” Jones said.
Jones first spoke on his fundraising success with the Volo Kids Foundation, which is an organization that uses the power of play to build communities of active, resilient, and confident kids through quality sports programs and opportunities at no cost to families. The foundation launched its first Giving Tuesday campaign in 2017. Jones played a role in the peer-to-peer campaign, which had a goal to raise $5k. The campaign evolved as he started the trend to change his profile picture on social media to him as a kid playing a sport to spread awareness of the campaign. It sparked conversation online where the campaign’s supporters received hundreds of likes and dozens of comments to help spread awareness of the campaign. Jones and his team ended up raising $30k, and the success of the campaign drove momentum into the next year.
Jones shared his tools for fundraising success including the 5 S’s of success: set an intention, set a goal, segment your audience, mobilize your supporters, and share your story. He also shared the significance of goal setting and collaboration. He emphasized that fundraising should be easy and engaging and to be creative while in the process.
Jones shared his final piece of advice: “People want to support you. Let them.”
TCC has many Nonprofit Summit Supporters including the United Way South Hampton Roads, Hampton Road Community Foundation, ODU: Monarch Humanities Internship Academy, Towne Bank, Association of Fundraising Professionals VA: Hampton Roads Chapter, The Curtis Group, Network Peninsula, and Nisenson Consulting.
To learn more about TCC’s Academy for Nonprofit Excellence, visit https://academy.tcc.edu for more information.
Virginia’s House Speaker Don Scott Honors Black History Month with Inspiring Address
Tidewater Community College’s Student Life Committee closed Black History Month 2025 on Wednesday afternoon, February 26 at the Portsmouth Campus Student Center. The Virginia Speaker of the House, Don Scott, served as the keynote speaker to discuss workforce development and shared his story of his rise to earning a spot in the Virginia House of Delegates. TCC students, faculty, staff, and the public were invited to attend the keynote speaker presentation, “African Americans and Labor: Resilience, Innovation, and Empowerment” which included a networking lunch.
TCC’s Associate Vice President for Professional Development Solutions with Workforce Solutions, Kodi Fleming, was onstage with Speaker Scott to discuss workforce development and the industry within our area. Speaker Scott said he is pushing for paid internships and workforce employees’ access to quality training. He praised TCC for providing resources and opportunities for people to earn a certification and go into the workforce with skills that can help them succeed in multiple fields.
In Scott’s keynote speech, he shared about his upbringing with his single mother and siblings in Houston, Texas. Scott attended Texas A&M University and graduated with a degree in agriculture. After earning his undergraduate degree, he served as a naval officer on the destroyer USS John Hancock. In 1994, he earned a law degree from Louisiana State University, hoping to continue into the legal world.
Around that time, Scott said he had many struggles and challenges which led him to serving time in prison. Throughout that time, he reconnected with his faith and felt guided in a better direction.
Scott said he cherishes the workforce development programs. His first job after prison was welding. In 2002, Scott joined the KRA Corporation, a workforce development company, working in case management followed by a promotion a year later to project manager. In 2005, Scott moved from Philadelphia, where he and his wife originally resided, to the Hampton Roads area. At that point, he was running the project and serving as the senior vice president at the firm.
In that decade, Scott addressed this part of his life as the period of “resilience” as he worked his way through a difficult time of his life, regaining his strength and identity as a person.
Scott spoke on how he reached a point where he wanted to be able to use his law degree and skills to contribute to making change in society. In 2014, he passed the Virginia bar exam and was licensed as an attorney in 2015. He opened his own firm where he took on criminal defense, family law, and civil cases. In 2022, Scott partnered with Breit Biniazan Trial Lawyers.
Scott said that “it’s easy to have a pity party” but people can “redefine” themselves like he did. He called this “innovation” because he was able to make a new name and story for himself.
Eventually, Scott stepped into politics. He ran in 2019 for the House of Delegates to represent the city of Portsmouth. He served as the minority leader from 2022 to 2024. In 2023, Scott was nominated unanimously by his caucus and became the first black Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates in history.
“Politics don’t matter, humanity is what matters,” Scott said.
In his time in politics, he has advocated for many important causes including criminal justice reform, economic development, affordable healthcare, and public education.
Scott spoke on “empowerment” as the last message to the TCC community. He encouraged people to speak up and not to be afraid to be their authentic self.
“People need to use their voice to speak up. Representation matters,” Scott said.
TCC Introduces Men’s Basketball Head Coach Clint Wright Sr.
Tidewater Community College introduced the college’s new men’s basketball Head Coach, Clint Wright Sr. to the TCC community and families at an athletics news conference at the Portsmouth Campus Student Center on Wednesday, February 12.
Wright is a Suffolk native and has over a decade of experience coaching at the high school level. He previously coached basketball at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy, Nansemond River High School, King’s Fork, and Lakeland High School in Suffolk before joining TCC as the men’s head coach.
Wright is honored to be a part of TCC athletics and this new milestone in the institution’s history, “I’m extremely excited for this opportunity. It’s one that I dare not take for granted. To be a high school coach and now a college coach is something that I’m just simply overjoyed with. I can’t wait to get with the kids at the four campuses to get those guys at the basketball gym and get some training going.”
Coach Wright gave props to his wife, Javonda, along with other family members and friends, for the overwhelming amount of support they have provided him during this career transition.
Chad Smith, TCC Athletic Director, welcomed Wright to the TCC Athletics program and applauded Wright on his most recent coaching success which was around the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Wright led Lakeland’s boys’ basketball team to the 2020 3A Region Championship as well as a state championship. The same year, he was selected as the 3A Region Coach of the Year.
Wright is also a former college-athlete, who graduated from Norfolk State University in 1991. He was a team member on the basketball team during the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Tournament Championship in 1990. He also played a huge role for the three South Atlantic Region berths for the Spartans.
Wright remembers his time as a student-athlete and how special it was for his personal and professional growth. He wants to be able to give back and serve as mentor to his student-athletes.
“I want to establish some significant relationships, so they can do anything they want to do when they leave here. As we know, TCC is “From here, go anywhere,” Wright said.
TCC will join the Region 10 conference of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and compete against other two-year colleges in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. TCC will be the largest community college in Virginia to offer competitive athletics.
TCC’s president, Marcia Conston, is excited to have a competitive athletics program added to the college.
“The advantages of an affordable higher education experience coupled with an engaging athletics program are something students in our region deserve. We are eager to see all of the doors that will open for our students and community as a result,” Conston said.
The college’s StormBird mascot was unveiled, embracing and evolving the former STORM identity. The StormBird will make its debut when competition begins this fall. Game schedules, ticket information, and TCC Storm merchandise details will be announced in the coming months.
More information about TCC’s new athletics program is available online at tcc.edu/sports or by following TCC athletics on Instagram at TCCStormSports.
