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 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’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.

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’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.

To reserve show tickets and learn more about the planetarium, visit https://help.tcc.edu/s/article/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.”

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.

Tidewater Community College’s Nonprofit Summit – SOLD OUT!

The Academy for Nonprofit Excellence (ANE), a program of Tidewater Community College and the Hampton Roads Community Foundation is excited to announce that the 2025 Nonprofit Summit: The Power to Thrive, has sold out. The event will be held Tuesday, March 11 at the TCC Virginia Beach Deborah DiCroce Student Center. The summit will welcome more than 125 nonprofit professionals and supporters who are looking to elevate their work in the social sector.

“Given the increasing burdens felt by many area nonprofits, this year’s conference is especially timely,” stated Sarah Linden-Brooks, ANE’s Program Director.

Rising operational costs, heightened demand for services, and limited resources have left many local organizations feeling constrained. This event offers an essential opportunity for nonprofit professionals to come together, share their struggles and strategies, and build the resilience needed to thrive in these challenging times.

Attendees can expect a day packed with valuable insights and practical tools. Workshops led by seasoned nonprofit experts will cover key topics like program management, effective fundraising, and advocacy. The conference will also feature an inspiring keynote by Floyd Jones, who will address how nonprofits can navigate challenges and maximize their impact. In addition, ample networking opportunities will allow participants to connect, collaborate, and learn from each other’s experiences.

TCC is excited to host this sold-out event, which is more crucial than ever. As nonprofit organizations face unprecedented challenges, the Nonprofit Summit will provide the knowledge, connections, and inspiration needed to ensure the continued success and growth of Hampton Roads nonprofits.

To learn more about the Academy for Nonprofit Excellence visit the website here.

“I enjoy working on this team, as everyone works together to get the job done.” — Penny Chase

Penny Chase is TCC’s Wage Employee of the Year. As a trade technician on the Virginia Beach Campus, Chase is known for going the extra mile in her position.

“Penny comes in every day and gets in her golf cart and does what is asked of her, plus more,” said Regina Simmons, custodial supervisor at the Virginia Beach Campus. “Penny is always willing and ready to help. I’ve seen her stop and help students who may be lost or have questions. Everyone knows who she is and speaks highly of her.”

Chase, a Virginia Beach resident, has worked at TCC since 2017.

Chase is largely responsible for the exterior appearance of the Virginia Beach Campus grounds. She ensures that all 80 outdoor trash cans are emptied each shift and picks up any debris littering the campus. She handles a myriad of tasks, largely outdoors, during the cold winter months and hot summers.

Chase says curb appeal is important and she wants to do her part to make a good impression when people come to campus.

“I am both honored and humbled by this award because the people I work with put in far more hours and have more responsibility than I do,” she said. “I enjoy working on this team, as everyone works together to get the job done.”

Chase also noted, “The best part is that I’m outside and get to see an air show with the Navy jets flying overhead each day!”

Chase says her children and grandchildren are her favorite accomplishments. She is the mother of a son, Paul Primmer, and a daughter, Philena Brant. She has three grandchildren who she enjoys spending time with.

In her free time, Chase can be found fishing from any nearby shoreline.

“One thing I always try to do is treat people fairly and work hard.” — Tommy Armstrong

Thomas “Tommy” Armstrong was recognized by the college’s Classified Association for his innovative leadership as facilities manager for Trades Services on the Virginia Beach Campus. Armstrong’s department covers the physical maintenance of the campus, which includes 126 acres of land and 13 buildings.

Armstrong and his team oversee the electrical, plumbing, HVAC and other system needs of the campus. They also respond to all after-hours emergencies, prepare for storms, and clean up after any weather event.

“Tommy believes in top-of-the-line service and performance. He does not cut corners and is willing to roll up his sleeves as a supervisor to accomplish all that needs to get done,” said Virginia Beach Campus Dean Kia Hardy.

Armstrong, a Currituck, N.C. resident, says he is humbled by this award. “It means a lot. One thing I always try to do is treat people fairly and work hard,” he said. “This award is the best I’ve ever received.”

He continued, “I’m accepting this award on behalf of myself and the staff I lead. They are all remarkable and work hard every day to ensure we have a safe and operational campus.”

Armstrong started at TCC in 1994 and has worked in facilities management on every campus. While working in the Electrical department Armstrong was instrumental in installing the fiber optic cabling, that provides phone and internet services across the college.

He also was involved in the building of the new Portsmouth Campus, as he was the trades manager at that campus between 2009-2013.

A man of faith, Armstrong prays for the safety of staff each day. He said, “We work on systems that can cause severe harm or even death. Before coming to work I pray that my staff can go home at the end of each day and also for the knowledge, skills and ability to do all that we are asked to do.”

Armstrong was raised on a farm in North Carolina. He earned a degree from Guilford Technical Institute and is certified by the Department of Professional Regulations as a Master Electrician.

Tommy enjoys spending time with his wife of 36 years, Marie Armstrong, who has always supported his work as a maintenance manager. During inclement weather, she would pack his suitcase and food to get him through time spent on campus overseeing snow removal and monitoring conditions.

The couple has a side catering business and are known for their Carolina-style barbeque and their chicken. They also grow vegetables in a year-round garden. The couple have two grown sons and also cared for their niece, Victoria Smith, who had special needs and passed away at age 32 in 2022.

“My mamma always said a good name is better than riches,” Armstrong added. “She always wanted me to get the ‘Good Citizenship’ award, and I never did because I was very mischievous. This award represents that for me. I finally made it!”

“I love showing students that art is all around us.” — Alison Napier

Alison Napier is the recipient of the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award. She is an art historian recognized for her significant contributions to course development and her focus on student success.

Her passion for Art History comes from her curious nature and investigative spirit. “Art History is fascinating because you look at history, what’s happening in the world, and the cultural impact and then you are able to see how those factors result in the artwork of the day,” she said. “You really get to play an art detective.”

Napier saw that Art History had a stigma of being for the elite and was drawn to being a professor in order to help everyone understand the joy of the subject. Throughout her career, Napier has taught at a variety of schools. She spent 20 years teaching at high schools and has worked at both small and large universities.

She enjoys teaching at a community college and working with a diverse student population who are all in different places in their lives. She says, “I love showing them that art is all around us and how it all ties together in the big picture.”

As an accomplished teacher of online courses, Napier was approached by the Distance Learning department and asked to create Open Educational Resource versions of four art courses. She created those course offerings, and now they use free online resources instead of textbooks.

Napier recognizes that oftentimes class resources can provide a financial barrier to students, and she gladly made these contributions to course development. In addition, she applied the same free resources in her own classes to help keep students enrolled and moving forward in their education.

Napier said, “I was honored to receive this award, and it is proof that we are overcoming the stigma around online courses. It is an acknowledgment not only of me, but of all online teachers.”

Outside of teaching at TCC, Napier is a doctoral candidate writing her dissertation and working a full-time job. She holds two master’s degrees from Old Dominion University – one in humanities and art history and the other in applied linguistics and teaching English as a second language. She is at work on her doctorate in American studies and material culture from the College of William and Mary.

She enjoys free time with her husband and two Labrador retrievers. Napier also enjoys driving her jeep to the beach, swimming and going to art museums to stay current on art exhibits to share with her students.

“It’s wonderful to see students grow in their knowledge of this emerging field.” — Judy Gill

Judy Gill, director of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operations and associate professor of mathematics, was honored by the Faculty Senate with the Faculty Special Achievement award for her development of the Drone Pilot Program at TCC.

Gill, who joined the college full-time in 2004 teaches UAS and developmental and college-level math. “I am honored to be recognized by my peers with this award,” she said. “It means a great deal to me.”

Gill was motivated to start the drone program at the college because she had always been passionate about new technology. She saw UAS or drones growing in popularity and becoming an indispensable tool in many industries. She wanted to find a way to help meet the country’s growing need for drone operators.

Gill began teaching drone classes at TCC during Fall Semester of 2022. The full program will be up and running in 2024.

“TCC’s drone classes provide students with a place to utilize their creativity while gaining knowledge in a subject they are enthusiastic about,” said Gill. “It is wonderful to see students grow in their skills and knowledge of this emerging field.

Gill earned her Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 UAS Pilot License and began training to teach drone operations in 2018. She was one of the first faculty in the Virginia Community College system to participate in the Geospatial Technician Education-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Institute at Virginia Tech. The program was funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation, administered by the Virginia Space Grant Consortium.

During the program, she learned to plan missions, fly drones, collect data, and maintain Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

Through TCC’s hands-on program, students will learn how to plan missions and fly drones as well as gain the knowledge necessary to obtain their FAA Part 107 UAS pilot license. In addition to the skills necessary for operating drones, Gill finds that her students learn interpersonal communication skills and how to collaborate with a team to accomplish goals.

Gill’s passion for drones extends outside of the classroom. She enjoys attending drone light shows when they come to the Hampton Roads area. These displays feature 200-300 drones flying in formation while displaying colorful lights with accompanying music. She also enjoys flying drones for fun and learning about drones both in a recreational and educational setting.

A Virginia Beach resident, Gill holds a master’s in computational and applied mathematics from Old Dominion University and a bachelor’s in mathematics with a concentration in economics from Christopher Newport University. When she is not flying drones, Gill enjoys spending time with her family and pets, going to the beach, and playing pickleball.

“TCC is more than a college. It’s a place that changes lives.” — Heather Boone

Heather Boone is the Professor of the Year, chosen by the Faculty Senate. Professor Boone has taught Graphic Design at the college since 2008 and is being honored for her dedication to student success and engagement.

Boone, a Virginia Beach resident, teaches typography, publication design, interaction design and systems design in online, in-person and hybrid formats.

“TCC is more than a college. It’s a place that changes lives,” Boone said. “Some students have so many obligations with families and full-time jobs and it’s rewarding when they reach their goals, find meaningful work and then reach out to tell you how well they are doing.”

Her recent accomplishments include preparing for the new Visual Arts + Design Center, which is set to open on the Norfolk Campus in the fall. “It’s great to be in downtown Norfolk with plenty of design businesses and activity,” Boone said. “In addition, the design space is beautiful, and we have a lot of room to spread out.”

Boone recently reworked the Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design degree with Professor Mary Lee Shumate. The new degree is cohesive and covers all areas of design from visual communication to website design to motion graphics.

“It is so rewarding when you see students realize they love this career. They become excited by every project and want to see the classes just keep going,” she said. “Helping students find their path is the best part of the job.”

Boone serves as the faculty advisor for the 340 Art and Design annual publication, formerly 340 High Street, and has facilitated ten editions. The most recently printed 23rd edition honors the journey of the Arts Center from Portsmouth to the Norfolk Campus. The 24th edition is currently in production and Boone is scheduled to begin the 25th edition with students in the Fall Semester at the new Arts + Design Center.

When she isn’t teaching, Boone spends free time with her son, William. The pair enjoy swimming, traveling and frequent trips to New York City. William is following in his mom’s footsteps with a passion for art and design. Recently awarded art student of the year in his grade, William is currently designing his own typeface.

Boone holds a Master of Fine Arts in design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting and printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts. She is also an alum of the School of Visual Arts in New York City and Winchester School of Art, part of the University of Southampton, in the U.K.

TCC celebrates annual award winners

Tidewater Community College recognizes five faculty and staff members from across the college with annual special awards on Aug. 17, 2023.

Selected by their peers, the honorees received their awards at TCC’s 2023 Fall Convocation held at the college’s Chesapeake Campus.

Professor of the Year
Heather Boone – Professor of Graphic Design

Heather Boone is the Professor of the Year, chosen by the Faculty Senate. Professor Boone has taught Graphic Design at the college since 2008 and is being honored for her dedication to student success and engagement.

Boone, a Virginia Beach resident, teaches typography, publication design, interaction design and systems design in online, in-person and hybrid formats.

“TCC is more than a college. It’s a place that changes lives,” Boone said. “Some students have so many obligations with families and full-time jobs and it’s rewarding when they reach their goals, find meaningful work and then reach out to tell you how well they are doing.”

Her recent accomplishments include preparing for the new Visual Arts + Design Center, which is set to open on the Norfolk Campus in the fall. “It’s great to be in downtown Norfolk with plenty of design businesses and activity,” Boone said. “In addition, the design space is beautiful, and we have a lot of room to spread out.”

Boone recently reworked the Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design degree with Professor Mary Lee Shumate. The new degree is cohesive and covers all areas of design from visual communication to website design to motion graphics.

“It is so rewarding when you see students realize they love this career. They become excited by every project and want to see the classes just keep going,” she said. “Helping students find their path is the best part of the job.”

Boone serves as the faculty advisor for the 340 Art and Design annual publication, formerly 340 High Street, and has facilitated ten editions. The most recently printed 23rd edition honors the journey of the Arts Center from Portsmouth to the Norfolk Campus. The 24th edition is currently in production and Boone is scheduled to begin the 25th edition with students in the Fall Semester at the new Arts + Design Center.

When she isn’t teaching, Boone spends free time with her son, William. The pair enjoy swimming, traveling and frequent trips to New York City. William is following in his mom’s footsteps with a passion for art and design. Recently awarded art student of the year in his grade, William is currently designing his own typeface.

Boone holds a Master of Fine Arts in design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting and printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts. She is also an alum of the School of Visual Arts in New York City and Winchester School of Art, part of the University of Southampton, in the U.K.

Faculty Special Achievement
Judy Gill – Professor of Mathematics

Judy Gill, director of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operations and associate professor of mathematics, was honored by the Faculty Senate with the Faculty Special Achievement award for her development of the Drone Pilot Program at TCC.

Gill was motivated to start the drone program at the college because she had always been passionate about new technology. She saw UAS or drones growing in popularity and becoming an indispensable tool in many industries. She wanted to find a way to help meet the country’s growing need for drone operators.

Gill began teaching drone classes at TCC during Fall Semester of 2022. The full program will be up and running in 2024.

Gill earned her Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 UAS Pilot License and began training to teach drone operations in 2018. She was one of the first faculty in the Virginia Community College system to participate in the Geospatial Technician Education-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Institute at Virginia Tech. The program was funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation, administered by the Virginia Space Grant Consortium.

During the program, she learned to plan missions, fly drones, collect data, and maintain Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

Outstanding Adjunct Faculty
Alison Napier – Assistant Professor of Art History

Alison Napier is the recipient of the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award. She is an art historian recognized for her significant contributions to course development and her focus on student success.

As an accomplished teacher of online courses, Napier was approached by the Distance Learning department and asked to create Open Educational Resource versions of four art courses. She created those course offerings, and now they use free online resources instead of textbooks.

Napier said, “I was honored to receive this award, and it is proof that we are overcoming the stigma around online courses. It is an acknowledgment not only of me, but of all online teachers.”

Classified Employee of the Year
Tommy Armstrong – Facilities Manager – Trade Services

Tommy Armstrong was recognized by the college’s Classified Association for his innovative leadership as facilities manager for Trades Services on the Virginia Beach Campus. Armstrong’s department covers the physical maintenance of the campus, which includes 126 acres of land and 13 buildings.

He continued, “I’m accepting this award on behalf of myself and the staff I lead. They are all remarkable and work hard every day to ensure we have a safe and operational campus.”

He also was involved in the building of the new Portsmouth Campus, as he was the trades manager at that campus between 2009-2013.

Armstrong was raised on a farm in North Carolina. He earned a degree from Guilford Technical Institute and is certified by the Department of Professional Regulations as a Master Electrician.

Wage Employee of the Year
Penny Chase

Penny Chase is TCC’s Wage Employee of the Year. As a trade technician on the Virginia Beach Campus, Chase is known for going the extra mile in her position.

Chase, a Virginia Beach resident, has worked at TCC since 2017.

Chase says curb appeal is important and she wants to do her part to make a good impression when people come to campus.

Chase also noted, “The best part is that I’m outside and get to see an air show with the Navy jets flying overhead each day!”

In her free time, Chase can be found fishing from any nearby shoreline.

TCC alum lands dream job at NASA

Kyle Epperly is a Tidewater Community College alum twice over. He earned his first associate degree in Automotive Technology in 2006. For the last 12 years, he worked at Hall Automotive as a master technician.

Kyle came to TCC once again looking for a new career. He wanted work that was less physically demanding, more challenging and on the cutting-edge of technology.

He found TCC’s Mechatronics degree online and started a new journey.

While at TCC, Kyle learned about an internship opportunity at NASA Langley. He applied and began working there in January of 2023. He is now an engineering technician apprentice and working on testing structures for spacecraft.

Mechatronics is suited for students like Kyle with a passion for technology who enjoy hands-on work. He said, “The transition from being an automotive technician to working in mechatronics has been easy. I’m still doing what I’ve always loved which is working with my hands and technology.”

Mechatronics students spend about half the time in classroom instruction and the rest in state-of-the-art laboratories. Kyle said, “What I liked most about TCC is that it gave me the skills that I actually use in my job now. Every class was hands-on which really helped me understand the material. You don’t just learn theory but get to see how the systems really work.”

The Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics covers motor controls, hydraulics, computer programming, pneumatics, programmable logic controllers and more. The broad industry allows students to use the degree to specialize in something they love or do something different each day.

Kyle is part of the Materials and Structures Experiment branch where he performs tests to ensure that materials measure up to NASA’s durability expectations.

The mechatronics industry is constantly growing and expanding which provides people the opportunity to continually increase their knowledge in the field. There are plenty of advanced manufacturing firms in Hampton Roads that provide graduates with ample job prospects. According to the Department of Labor Job Outlook, mechatronics technicians earn a median salary of $60,360 per year or about $29 per hour.

Kyle is confident he made the right decision to return to school and pursue this career. He said, “I am grateful that my family was so supportive and pushed me to find the time to pursue this degree while still working a full-time job. It was worth all the hard work.”

For more information regarding Mechatronics at TCC, contact Thomas Stout at tstout@tcc.edu or call TCC’s Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111.

TCC faculty get an up-close look at offshore wind project

New jobs are on the horizon for offshore wind turbine technicians, welders, electricians and more to support Dominion Energy’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) facility, which will include 176 wind turbines.

Tidewater Community College is gearing up to offer additional industry training. With help from the city of Virginia Beach, it’s investing in $300,000 worth of wind turbine equipment.

TCC has also developed a curriculum for Offshore Wind Energy Technicians. The new certificate will launch as the jobs become readily available.

There are currently two wind turbines located 27 miles offshore, with the remaining structures to be constructed up to 50 miles into the Atlantic Ocean.

This month, TCC faculty member Steven Capaldo, assistant professor in the Engineering, Maritime and Skilled Trades Pathway, spent the day on the water touring the area and getting an up-close look at the turbines. He traveled on a boat with Dominion Energy representatives and got an insider’s look at what’s to come.

“It was spectacular to see the structures and learn more about this vital program for our region,” Capaldo said.

Since 2010, TCC has offered a Career Studies Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies that prepares students for careers in the manufacturing and installation of clean energy technologies such as wind and solar. However, new classes have been designed with an emphasis on Mechatronics, Electrical Technology and Electronics Technology, which are specifically relevant for technicians for the offshore wind farm.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated in 2022 that the mean average annual wage for wind turbine service technicians is $59,880. Technicians are trained to inspect, diagnose, adjust or repair wind turbines. They will perform maintenance on wind turbine equipment including resolving electrical, mechanical and hydraulic malfunctions.

The CVOW initiative will include the turbines, as well as three offshore substations, undersea cables and new onshore transmission infrastructure to deliver emissions-free wind power to homes and businesses.

TCC’s effort to train the next generation of wind energy technicians is being led by Dean David Ekker in the Engineering, Maritime and Skilled Trades Pathway and faculty members Capaldo and Anthony Jones, who teach the maritime trades.

Take a look at TCC Funeral Service degrees

Tidewater Community College’s Funeral service degrees are not one size fits all.

At TCC, you can train to help families and individuals prepare for their end-of-life needs. The growing funeral services industry is unique in that it requires science, business and social skills. Specialized degrees are available that focus on various aspects of the industry.

TCC gives students the opportunity to use embalming equipment that is common in the industry,

The Science

TCC offers an Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Service degree that trains the student in embalming and restorative arts that includes a study of chemistry, anatomy and physiology, cosmetology and restoration/reconstruction. Students enrolled in this program get hands-on training in a state-of-the-art embalming lab.

All business

For students who have an interest in the business aspects of funeral services, TCC offers an Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Directing. This degree equips students with the skills necessary to run a mortuary including marketing, accounting, advertising, human resources, sales, contracting and legal compliance.

Supporting families

Funeral service providers differ from other professionals in that they provide support to grieving families. Funeral directors engage with the families by listening, advising, assisting and reassuring them throughout their most difficult moments. They work with families to celebrate the life of their loved ones in a way that honors them.

While this career path is not for everyone, it is a much-needed service in our society. It provides a challenging and rewarding career for the right person. As TCC’s program lead for Funeral Services, Frank Walton said, “Working in funeral services has taught me to live each day to the fullest and to cherish the people and things that I love. It has inspired me to do everything I dream of since I don’t know what tomorrow holds.”

For more information about TCC’s Funeral Services programs contact Walton at jwalton@tcc.edu or call (757) 822-7207.

TCC staffer pays it forward at the CMVE

Meet Ed Sivells. He is a proud Navy veteran who is paying it forward at TCC.

Sivells is one of the certifying officials for the Center for Military and Veterans Education (CMVE). Last week, he submitted the 1 millionth application to certify a military-related student for educational benefits through the Veterans Administration’s new enrollment management site.

Ed Sivells with the Veterans Administration video team.

To mark the occasion, Ed is being featured in a video for the VA. And sharing his story.

Sivells is a retired Navy senior chief petty officer. He was a culinary specialist who served the Office of the Secretary of Defense, preparing meals in the White House. He also spent time in Washington, D.C. as an enlisted aide to Admirals.

When he retired from the military, he came to TCC to earn an associate degree and landed a position as a work-study student in the CMVE. He became a full-time staff member in 2017. “I found my calling in this place. When I saw the opportunity to serve military members and their families, it sparked a passion in me.”

He added, “You can hear the sound of relief in their voices when we help them find a path forward. I know what it’s like to walk in their shoes and this job is my way of giving back.”

Sivells earned a Hospitality Management degree from TCC and a bachelor’s in business administration from Regent University.

Sivells encourages other veterans to follow in his footsteps. “TCC is a veteran-friendly school with people here to help. TCC made me feel comfortable in the transition from the military and I’m grateful. Now it’s my joy to make things happen for other members of the military community.”

For more information about the CMVE, visit here.