Dr. Crystal Harden Reflects on Legacy as Saunders Science Scholars Program Concludes After a Decade of Impact
GATES COUNTY, N.C. — After a decade of transformative impact on youth in northeastern North Carolina, the Saunders Science Scholars program will officially complete its run following a pair of milestone events celebrating its final cohort and enduring legacy.
The program will mark its conclusion alongside the Gates County High School Graduation on May 29 and the Saunders Science Scholars Graduation Gala on May 30. Together, the events will honor students, families, and the leadership that helped shape one of the region’s most influential educational initiatives.
At the heart of that leadership is UNC's Dr. Crystal Harden, who has served the Gates County community for the duration. She currently acts as Director of Programs and Strategic Engagement at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Under Dr. Harden's guidance, the program expanded its reach and deepened its impact, providing Gates County students with access to high-quality science enrichment, mentorship, and college and career exploration opportunities.
“For me, this work has always been about opening doors and helping young people see what’s possible,” said Dr. Harden. “The Saunders Science Scholars program was not just about science, it’s been about building confidence, nurturing curiosity, and reminding our students that they belong in every space they aspire to enter.”
The Saunders Science Scholars program was conceptualized and funded by Stephen Butts, a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill alumnus and CEO of Arrivo BioVentures, LLC. It was named in honor of the late Benjamin C. Saunders, Sr., a respected Gates County educator whose legacy of service and commitment to education continues to inspire the community.
From its earliest planning stages ten years ago, the program has been a collaborative effort. Gates County Community Partnership worked closely with Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and Gates County Schools, to design and implement the program. Through this partnership, Morehead provided a wide range of resources to Gates County outside of the base program, including donations, science programming, summer camps, professional development for teachers, grant support services, and engaging science exhibitions that enriched learning experiences for both students and educators.
Gates County Community Partnership Director, Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. served as an advisor, mentor, and active collaborator throughout the program’s span. As the son of the program’s namesake, the initiative has been deeply personal for him and his family.
"To see it grow from an idea into a life-changing experience for so many young people has been incredibly meaningful. The results speak for themselves. The Saunders Science Scholars legacy will endure through the students it has served," said Saunders, Jr.
“This isn’t an ending so much as a transition,” Dr. Harden added. “We taught our scholars to carry this experience forward, and that’s where true impact lives!”
Gates County High School Opens Nominations for 2026 Athletic Hall of Fame Class
GATESVILLE, NC - Gates County High School is once again calling on the community to help honor its rich athletic tradition as nominations open for the 2026 Gates County High School Athletic Hall of Fame Class.
Following the overwhelming success of last year’s inaugural ceremony, the Hall of Fame has quickly become a cherished tradition celebrating the athletes, coaches, teams, and supporters who have shaped Red Baron history. The first class, inducted during a memorable ceremony this past fall, brought together generations of GCHS greats and highlighted the powerful role athletics plays in uniting the Gates County community.
Now, the committee is looking ahead to its next class of honorees.
Nominations will be accepted from April 27 through June 12, 2026. Community members are encouraged to submit candidates who have made a lasting impact on Gates County High School athletics. Eligible athletes must be at least 10 years removed from graduation.
Principal Jonathan Hayes emphasized the importance of community involvement in the process.
“The Hall of Fame is about more than recognizing achievements, it is about preserving the stories and traditions that define Gates County High School. We encourage our community to take part by nominating individuals who have left a lasting legacy both inside and outside of athletics.”
Nominations can be submitted online using the official Google Form:
https://forms.gle/99up7Ng8urTKVkkh7
Paper submissions and additional materials, such as photos, articles, or supporting documentation, may be emailed or sent to the school. For details, contact Jonathan Hayes at 252-357-0720.
Kaye Barker, a longtime supporter of Gates County High School athletics and a driving force behind the creation of the Hall of Fame, reflected on what the initiative means to the community.
“Seeing the Hall of Fame come to life last year was incredibly special. It was a reminder of how much pride and history we have here in Gates County. I am excited to see even more stories recognized as we continue to build this tradition.”
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., representing Gates County Community Partnership, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming class and his involvement in the effort.
“I am truly thrilled about the next class of inductees and grateful for the opportunity to be part of something that means so much to our community. The Hall of Fame is a powerful way to honor excellence, inspire students, and celebrate the legacy of Gates County athletics.”
As the Hall of Fame continues to grow, the committee hopes to build on the momentum of its inaugural celebration, an event that not only honored past achievements but also strengthened community bonds and inspired future generations.
The 2026 inductees will be recognized during the Hall of Fame Game on September 18, 2026, when Gates County High School hosts Northside High School.
Team Partnership Claims First Title with Thrilling One-Point Victory in Virginia Beach
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — April 11, 2026 — In just its first year of existence, Team Partnership, a 17U AAU boys basketball team from Gates County, North Carolina, has made history.
The upstart program captured the championship at the VBFH Spring Break Challenge on Saturday at the Virginia Beach Field House, edging the Red Wolves of Newport News in a nail-biting 44–43 victory in the title game.
The championship contest came down to the final moments, with Team Partnership holding off a late push from the Red Wolves to secure the one-point win and complete an impressive tournament run.
For the players, the victory was about more than just the scoreboard.
“Winning isn’t just about scoring more points, it’s about playing for each other,” said team member Jaylen Perry. “When a team has heart, trusts one another, and gives everything they’ve got, that’s when real victory happens. I am grateful to be experiencing this with my close friends.”
Team Partnership is sponsored by Gates County Community Partnership and was created with a mission that extends beyond basketball. The program focuses on positively influencing young athletes in life while helping develop their skills on the court. A goal is to supplement the athletic program at Gates County High School.
Participation on the team is free, with all expenses covered by grant funding, through Gates County Community Partnership. This aligns with a core tenet of the organization.
“I would like to thank Gates County Community Partnership for sponsoring this basketball team,” said team parent Tonita Eure. “I am always for whatever and whomever is there to help our children better themselves as athletes and young people. This initiative is great for these boys. It keeps them busy, physically fit, and engaged in basketball.”
Head Coach and General Manager Katron “Tron” Greene emphasized that while the championship is a significant milestone, the program’s deeper purpose remains unchanged.
“For me winning the tournament wasn't the biggest thing,” Greene said. “It really is about these kids getting better for their upcoming season and growing as young men. They have phenomenal basketball coaches at Gates County High School: Kaila Ballard is a Gates County legend and future Hall of Famer, Jamie Cherry was a hoop star at UNC, and LB Wolfrey is one of the best point guards to come out of Gates County. So I thank God first, and then the high school coaches for their players. We won't let you or these kids down.”
The championship victory marks a strong beginning for a program built on community support, mentorship, and development. According to organizers, the team’s primary focus during the tournament was ensuring that every player received the best learning experience possible.
“We are excited for the kids who decided to be a part of Team Partnership,” said Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership. “This was our very first competition and the goal for this tournament was to make sure everyone had significant playing time. Under the superior leadership of Coach Tron Greene, who has coached at the high school and college levels, we were able to bring home the trophy! I am so proud of our team. This is just the beginning!”
After reflecting on the championship victory, participant Cruz Cardoza emphasized, "We are going to "keep learning" until the "l" disappears."
Gates County Community Partnership Gala Draws Strong Community Support, Inspires Future Investment
Elegant evening at ECSU celebrates impact, unity, and opportunity for local youth.
ELIZABETH CITY — An evening defined by elegance, inspiration, and community pride unfolded on Saturday, April 4, as Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) hosted its highly anticipated Charity Gala at the K. E. White Center on the campus of Elizabeth City State University.
With a black-tie atmosphere and a mission-driven purpose, the event brought together community leaders, educators, supporters, and residents from across Northeastern North Carolina to celebrate the organization’s impact and rally support for its continued work in youth development and education.
Founded in 2018, GCCP has become a cornerstone of opportunity in Gates County, providing programs and resources at no cost to the community, guided by its belief that equitable access should be guaranteed for all. Saturday’s gala served as both a celebration and a call to action.
“This evening was about more than just recognizing what has been accomplished, it was about bringing people together to invest in what is still possible,” said Dr. Chante Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership. “We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our community. It is a privilege to serve Gates County, and this event affirmed that when we come together with a shared purpose, there is no limit to what we can achieve for our youth.”
The event also highlighted GCCP’s deep roots in community collaboration. Since its inception, the organization has worked alongside Gates County Schools to expand educational opportunities. Its initiatives have included securing major grants, awarding numerous scholarships, providing laptops to students, supporting youth athletics, and collaborating on youth development programs, such as the Saunders Science Scholars STEM initiative, under the leadership of the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and UNC’s Dr. Crystal Harden.
A key architect behind the evening’s success was Sandra Jordan Branch, GCCP Board Member and lead planner of the gala, whose vision helped bring the event to life.
“This gala was truly a labor of love,” said Jordan Branch. “We wanted to create an experience that not only celebrated our work but also made our community feel valued and inspired. We are so thankful for everyone who showed up, supported, and believed in what we’re doing. It is an honor to serve this community, and seeing everyone come together in such a powerful way was incredibly meaningful.”
A highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Brigadier General Terrence Adams, Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of War and Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy. His message of leadership, resilience, and perspective resonated deeply with attendees.
Central Middle School Principal Rosalind Rosa described the evening as both impactful and thought-provoking.
“Attending the GCCP Gala was a wonderful experience,” Rosa said. “It was a pleasure to hear Brigadier General Terrence Adams address the community; his message was encouraging, inspiring, and uplifting. One takeaway that resonated with me was the idea that there can be two sides that are both right at the same time, and that being right often comes with a cost. It challenges us to ask ourselves if we are willing to accept the cost that comes with being right?”
“He also encouraged us to step outside our comfort zones, connect with new people, plant seeds in others, listen more, and remember that we have more in common than we often realize. It was an elegant affair!”
The gala’s theme, “Opening Doors, Expanding Horizons,” reflected GCCP’s mission to inspire and increase community engagement in support of youth educational and social development, a mission rooted in its origin story and its partnership with the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, which sparked the organization’s founding.
As the evening concluded, one message was clear; Gates County Community Partnership is not only making a difference, it is building momentum!
Gates County Student Launches Science Program to Inspire Young Minds
GATES, N.C. — A Gates County High School senior is making a lasting impact on local elementary students through a hands-on science initiative designed to spark curiosity and build the next generation of thinkers.
Audrina Bowdoin, a Saunders Science Scholar, founded NextGen-Gates, a science enrichment program held at Buckland Elementary School. The program takes place in the school gymnasium and engages second-grade students in interactive, science-based activities aimed at making learning science both fun and meaningful.
Since launching in 2025, Bowdoin has dedicated time on Thursdays to work directly with students, leading sessions that align with what they are learning in the classroom. According to second-grade teacher Ms. Brittany Parker, Bowdoin’s consistency and preparation have made a noticeable difference.
“Miss Audrina Bowdoin has been working with our second-grade students since October,” Parker said. “She visits weekly and brings engaging, hands-on activities that connect directly to our science curriculum. From exploring life cycles to learning about turtles and adaptations, she ensures every lesson is interactive, organized, and exciting for the students.”
The mission of NextGen-Gates is to inspire curiosity and creativity in young learners while also providing leadership opportunities for high school students. Bowdoin has embraced that mission fully, designing sessions that blend education with creativity. Content has included a Halloween-themed slime experiment and interactive science bingo.
The program is supported by Buckland Elementary teachers Ms. Michelle Young and Ms. Brittany Parker, and made possible through the leadership of Principal Krystle Williams, whose unwavering support brought Bowdoin’s vision to life.
Bowdoin’s work has also been guided by mentors who have encouraged her growth as both a student and leader. Dr. Crystal Harden of the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and Director of the Saunders Science Scholars program praised Bowdoin’s dedication.
“It has been such a joy working with Audrina over the past few years,” Harden said. “She has a genuine passion for science and an incredible ability to connect with others. Seeing her use science to engage young students and introduce them to the excitement of STEM at such an early age is truly inspiring.”
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. of Gates County Community Partnership echoed those sentiments, emphasizing Bowdoin’s drive and independence.
“Audrina did practically everything herself. This was her idea and her vision. Our role was mainly to help facilitate the location of the program," Saunders said. "We are especially grateful to Mrs. Krystle Williams for her exceptional efforts guiding and supporting Audrina and providing her with the resources required for success.”
Through NextGen-Gates, Bowdoin is not only enriching science education for younger students but also demonstrating the power of student-led leadership. As she prepares to graduate, her work leaves behind a model of innovation, mentorship, and community collaboration that will continue to benefit Gates County’s youngest learners.
Fybe Installs New Basketball Goals at T. S. Cooper Elementary
SUNBURY, N.C. - Students at T. S. Cooper Elementary School are enjoying a revitalized outdoor court thanks to the recent purchase and installation of four new basketball goals by Fybe. The goals replace worn and missing units that had stood on the courts for decades, restoring a recreational space used by both students and the broader Sunbury community.
The project, completed entirely by Fybe employees who supplied the manpower and equipment needed for installation, is the latest in a long line of community service initiatives undertaken by the company across northeastern North Carolina.
“Fybe believes strongly in supporting the communities we serve, not just through broadband access, but through hands-on projects that make a visible, lasting difference,” President, Bo Coughlin, said. “When we reached out to Gates County Community Partnership for ideas in Gates County, we were looking for something that would benefit families and children in a tangible way. We are incredibly appreciative of the opportunity to provide something that the school and the community will enjoy for years to come.”
The project began when Sarah Tinkham, Grants and Compliance Coordinator for Fybe, reached out to Gates County Community Partnership seeking recommendations for a meaningful service initiative in the county. Tinkham connected with Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Vice President of Gates County Community Partnership, to explore possibilities.
After discussions among Tinkham, Saunders, and T. S. Cooper Elementary Principal Lovie Roscoe, the group agreed that replacing the four outdoor basketball goals was the most impactful and achievable project.
Saunders noted that the courts hold deep personal and historical significance for the community and his family.
“My father, Benjamin C. Saunders, Sr., was principal at T. S. Cooper when the original basketball goals were installed some 40 years ago,” Saunders said. “He was adamant that the courts not only serve students during school hours but also remain open for community use after hours. That spirit of accessibility and community engagement is something we are proud to see continue today.”
For Principal Lovie Roscoe, the new goals represent more than upgraded equipment, they symbolize renewed opportunity for physical activity, teamwork, and community gathering.
“We are extremely grateful to Fybe for purchasing and installing the new basketball goals for T. S. Cooper Elementary School,” said Principal Lovie Roscoe. “Our students deserve safe, functional spaces to play, grow, and build friendships, and we appreciate the Gates County Community Partnership’s continued support.”
Fybe’s community service efforts in Gates County complement its significant investment in broadband infrastructure throughout the region. The company recently completed a major fiber expansion project in the county, bringing high-speed fiber internet to nearly 5,000 homes and businesses. Through fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) technology, residents now have access to speeds up to 2 Gbps, enabling improved access to education, telehealth services, local government resources, and economic opportunities.
About Fybe
Fybe delivers broadband internet and voice services to residential and business customers throughout rural North Carolina. Fybe is also a founding member of eNCore, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed in partnership with MCNC and Roanoke Cooperative to improve the technology, economic and social landscape of North Carolina. eNCore and its member organizations aim to bridge the digital divide in North Carolina by empowering overlooked, unserved, and underserved communities with technology resources needed to fully participate in today’s digital economy. At Fybe, we believe every community deserves the digital tools to thrive and are committed to building a network that expands access to education, healthcare, and more.
Brigadier General Terrence Adams to Headline GCCP Gala
Distinguished military cyber advisor brings global perspective to the event.
Elizabeth City, NC — When Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) hosts its highly anticipated Gala on Saturday, April 4 at 5:00 p.m., attendees will be treated not only to an elegant evening at the K. E. White Center at Elizabeth City State University, but also to a keynote address from one of the nation’s most accomplished military leaders, Brigadier General Terrence Adams.
Currently serving as the Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor, Brig. Gen. Adams operates at the highest levels of national defense, advising on military cyber forces, strategy, and global security initiatives. His leadership spans decades of service across the Army and Air Force, including command at the squadron, group, and wing levels, and deployments supporting major operations around the world.
But beyond his impressive résumé, organizers say it is Adams’ story, rooted in discipline, education, and perseverance, that makes him the perfect keynote speaker for an event centered on opportunity and transformation.
Born in Tuskegee, Alabama, Adams began his military journey by enlisting in the Army straight out of high school. After six years of service, he pursued higher education and entered the Air Force through ROTC, eventually rising through the ranks to become a Brigadier General. His academic credentials include multiple advanced degrees in fields ranging from computer information systems to national security strategy, along with executive education from institutions such as Harvard University and MIT.
Over the course of his career, Adams has led in some of the most complex and high-stakes environments, including assignments at the Pentagon and command roles at Joint Base Charleston. His work in cyber operations and national defense has earned him numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.
For GCCP, bringing a leader of this caliber to Gates County is both intentional and symbolic.
“Brigadier General Adams represents exactly what we strive to show our young people, that where you start does not limit where you can go,” said Sandra Jordan Branch of Gates County Community Partnership. “His journey reflects the power of education, mentorship, and determination, which are the same values that drive everything we do at The Partnership.”
The gala, themed “Opening Doors, Expanding Horizons,” aligns seamlessly with Adams’ life story. His progression from a small-town upbringing to advising national leaders on cybersecurity mirrors GCCP’s mission to expand opportunities for Gates County youth through education, mentorship, and exposure to new pathways.
Since its founding in 2018, GCCP has worked tirelessly to provide those pathways, securing major grants for local schools, awarding scholarships, donating over 190 laptops, supporting youth academics and athletics, and leading initiatives like Saunders Science Scholars, a STEM partnership with Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.
For attendees, Adams’ keynote is expected to be a highlight of the evening, offering not only insight into leadership and service, but also inspiration for the next generation.
Tickets for the Gates County Community Partnership Gala are available at GCCP2026.eventbrite.com.
Gates County Community Partnership Starts Chat Bench Initiative with Inspiring “Let’s Chat” Youth Mental Health Event
GATESVILLE, N.C. — Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) officially launched its new Chat Bench Initiative with a powerful and uplifting community event titled “Let’s Chat: Conversations that Matter — Youth & Mental Health.” Held at the newly installed chat bench outside the Gates County Community Center, the gathering brought together families and young people for meaningful conversation about mental health, connection, and support.
The event marked the beginning of a new community effort designed to encourage open dialogue and strengthen relationships throughout Gates County. The chat bench, located at the community center, serves as the first and flagship bench in what organizers hope will become a growing network of conversation spaces across the community.
Vice President of Gates County Community Partnership Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. welcomed attendees and shared the vision behind the initiative.
“The Chat Bench represents more than metal and paint, it represents a safe space for hearts to open and voices to be heard,” Saunders said. “Our vision is that this bench becomes a symbol of understanding, kindness, and love among all citizens of Gates County. We want it to remind people that no one has to face life’s challenges alone, and that meaningful conversation can bring us together.”
The Chat Bench Initiative was inspired in part by a New York Times article titled “I Spent a Week at a Chat Bench. Here’s What I Learned,” which explored how simple spaces dedicated to conversation can help combat loneliness and strengthen communities.
Recognizing the increasing need for mental health support and stronger community cohesion, Gates County Community Partnership developed the initiative to create welcoming, inclusive spaces where people can sit, talk, and connect. The bench serves as an invitation to engage in open conversation, whether sharing experiences, offering encouragement, or simply listening.
The goals of the program are both simple and profound:
-Enhancing mental well-being by reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation through positive social interaction.
-Promoting awareness and understanding by encouraging people to share stories and perspectives.
-Encouraging reconciliation and community unity by creating spaces where individuals from different backgrounds can find common ground.
Organizers plan to host regular events and themed discussions at the benches to raise awareness about mental health issues, encourage cultural dialogue, and highlight stories of community resilience.
The inaugural event focused on youth mental health, a topic that resonated deeply with those in attendance.
The featured speaker was Rondeshya Cosby, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Bright Shadows Telepsychiatry Services. Cosby shared insights about the challenges facing young people today and emphasized the importance of providing safe spaces where youth feel comfortable discussing their emotions and experiences.
Cosby has extensive experience in psychiatric and emergency care and has dedicated her career to expanding mental health services in northeastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia. Through her practice and nonprofit outreach, she works to ensure that children, adolescents, and families have access to the care and support they need.
Guiding the conversation was Dr. Crystal Harden, CEO of ForWARD Education, LLC, a science education consulting company focused on advancing educational opportunities in underserved communities. Dr. Harden facilitated a thoughtful dialogue that encouraged participation from students.
Young people in attendance engaged in the discussion, sharing their thoughts, asking questions, and reflecting on the pressures and opportunities they experience today.
Dr. Chante Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership, closed the event with thoughtful words of gratitude and encouragement while emphasizing the words of the panel.
Organizers described the event as insightful and enriching, particularly for the youth who attended. The conversation helped foster understanding between generations while highlighting the importance of community support in addressing mental health challenges.
The Chat Bench Initiative is a collaborative effort supported by The Obici Healthcare Foundation and the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, whose funding helped bring the project to life. Their support reflects a shared commitment to improving community health and promoting meaningful connections among residents.
GCCP hopes the Chat Bench will continue to serve as a place of openness, empathy, and dialogue, reminding residents that sometimes the most powerful step toward healing and understanding begins with a simple invitation: “Let’s Chat.”
With future conversations and events already being planned, Gates County Community Partnership believes the bench will become a lasting symbol of connection, compassion, and community unity in Gates County.
Gates County Community Partnership Launches “Let’s Chat” Series with Focus on Youth & Mental Health
GATESVILLE, N.C. — Gates County Community Partnership will host the first event in its new “Let’s Chat” series, Conversations that Matter: Youth & Mental Health, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the “chat bench” outside the Gates County Community Center. The featured speaker will be Rondeshya Cosby, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Founder and Clinical Director of Bright Shadows, and the conversation will be facilitated by Crystal Harden, EdD, CEO of ForWARD Education, LLC. In the event of rain, the gathering will relocate inside the Community Center. The event is free and open to the public.
The “Let’s Chat” initiative is a collaborative effort between Gates County Community Partnership, the Obici Healthcare Foundation, and the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation. Created in response to the growing need for mental health support and stronger community cohesion, the initiative plans to introduce designated benches throughout the local area where individuals are encouraged to engage in open, meaningful conversations.
The chat bench serves as an accessible and inclusive space dedicated to improving mental health, fostering dialogue, and promoting understanding and harmony across the community. Organizers hope the bench becomes more than just a place to sit, but a symbol of connection.
“The Chat Bench represents more than metal and paint, it represents a safe space for hearts to open and voices to be heard,” said Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Vice President of Gates County Community Partnership. “Our vision is that this bench becomes a symbol of understanding, kindness, and love among all citizens of Gates County. We want it to be a reminder that no one must face life’s challenges alone, and that meaningful conversation can be the bridge that brings us together.”
A Platform for Connection
The primary purpose of the Chat Bench Initiative is simple yet profound: to provide a platform where community members can connect, communicate, and support one another. By encouraging spontaneous conversations in a welcoming environment, the benches aim to combat social isolation, a significant factor affecting mental health today.
With youth mental health as the focus of the inaugural conversation, organizers hope to create a safe and supportive environment for families, educators, and young people to explore the challenges facing today’s youth.
Featured Speaker: Rondeshya Cosby, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Rondeshya Cosby is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, entrepreneur, and community advocate with deep roots in Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Born in Syracuse, New York, she spent much of her childhood in Virginia Beach before moving to Gates County in 2000. She attended Gates County High School for her 9th through 11th grade years before relocating back to New York to complete high school.
In 2010, she returned to Gates County to establish permanent roots, purchasing her first home in 2012. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from the College of the Albemarle in 2013, later graduating at the top of her class from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2018. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University in November 2020 and became board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in March 2021 after passing the ANCC certification exam.
Cosby worked as a registered nurse from 2015 to 2020 at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in both psychiatric and emergency departments and served in the emergency department at Sentara Albemarle and later at Riverside. From 2021 until January 2026, she practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner with Riverside, gaining extensive experience in outpatient and community-based mental health care.
In 2023, she founded Bright Shadows Telepsychiatry Services to provide virtual psychiatric support to underserved communities. In 2025, she expanded services with a physical location in Elizabeth City offering mental health and substance-use treatment for children, adolescents, and adults ages six and up.
Cosby also founded Bright Shadows Corporation, a nonprofit organization established in 2025 to focus on community partnerships, free and low-cost healthcare services, educational programming, support groups, and outreach initiatives. A key goal of the nonprofit is collaborating with Gates County Schools to expand access to mental health services for children and families.
Facilitator: Crystal Harden, EdD
Crystal Harden, EdD, is the CEO of ForWARD Education, LLC, a science education consulting company dedicated to protecting and promoting educational advancement for under-resourced and underserved communities. ForWARD Education provides quality education services and resources designed to empower students and educators in achieving academic success.
Harden’s leadership and passion for equity in education will guide the conversation, helping ensure that participants engage in thoughtful, productive dialogue centered on supporting youth mental health in Gates County.
A Community Invitation
Gates County Community Partnership invites residents of all ages to attend this inaugural “Let’s Chat” event. By gathering at the bench community members can take part in conversations that matter and help build a stronger, more connected Gates County.
As Saunders expressed, the dream is simple yet powerful: that the bench becomes a lasting symbol of understanding, kindness, and love and that through honest conversation, the community continues to grow closer together.