Activate Futures! College Tour Opens Doors for Students Across Northeastern North Carolina
GATES COUNTY, N.C. — Thirteen high school students from Gates, Hertford, Camden, and Perquimans counties spent four days exploring colleges, career possibilities, history, culture, and community responsibility during the 2026 Activate Futures College Tour, sponsored by Gates County Community Partnership.
The free tour, held July 6–9, was supported by the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation and included transportation, lodging, meals, admissions sessions, campus tours, and evening activities. Students were accompanied by Ashley Hall, a Gates County Schools teacher and Director of Activate Futures, and Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Founder and Vice President of Gates County Community Partnership.
The group departed the Gates County Community Center on July 6 and visited North Carolina A&T State University, Winston-Salem State University, Davidson College, Livingstone College, UNC Charlotte, and UNC Greensboro.
At North Carolina A&T, students received both a campus tour and a special presentation from Dr. Antoine Alston, Associate Dean of Academics in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. Alston introduced students to opportunities in agriculture, environmental science, food science, engineering, research, and other STEM fields. He repeatedly encouraged them to pursue internships, study abroad, scholarships, undergraduate research, and campus involvement.
Among the lessons students remembered were Alston’s statements, “College is not for everybody, but it is for somebody. It is for you,” and, while encouraging graduate study, “Keep going to school while you are used to being broke.”
The presentation also highlighted A&T’s strength in sponsored research and the broad range of careers connected to agriculture and environmental sciences. The visit was supported by the Sustainable Forestry and Land Retention Project of Roanoke Cooperative.
The tour continued at Winston-Salem State University, where the university’s motto, “Enter to Learn! Depart to Serve!” reinforced one of the central themes of the trip. Students were impressed by the beauty and attention to detail inside the Cleon F. Thompson Student Services Center, as well as the welcoming staff, historic and modern buildings, and strong sense of student support. A graduate student ambassador known as “JT” was especially praised for presenting the university with enthusiasm and professionalism.
Davidson College offered students a different perspective on higher education. They learned about the rigor and benefits of a small liberal arts college, including small classes, undergraduate research, internships, foreign language and visual arts requirements, and extensive study-abroad opportunities. Because Davidson does not have graduate programs, its academic resources are focused heavily on undergraduate students.
The visit also included the “With These Hands” memorial, which recognizes the enslaved and exploited people whose labor contributed to the founding and development of Davidson College. The memorial gave students an opportunity to reflect on history, truth, equity, and institutional responsibility.
At Livingstone College, the advantages of a small campus environment were emphasized. Students learned that a smaller school can make it easier to connect with professors, administrators, and classmates. Librarian Laura Johnson offered encouragement and wisdom, while student ambassadors Keith Watson and Jalen Robinson urged the group to network, build relationships, join organizations, and deliberately engage with faculty and staff. Students also learned about Livingstone’s investments in construction and renovation, as well as its merit-based grants and scholarships.
The final day included visits to UNC Charlotte and UNC Greensboro. At UNC Charlotte, students attended an admissions session and completed a self-guided campus tour. They were impressed by the university’s size, landscaping, architecture, academic offerings, research opportunities, and connection to the Charlotte business community. They also learned that admission is increasingly competitive, especially in programs such as nursing, engineering, business, and computer science.
UNC Greensboro concluded the tour on a strong note. The university provided a detailed admissions session and guided tour that highlighted academic programs, diversity, student support, scholarships, study abroad, career preparation, and campus life. Students were especially interested in learning that UNCG offers direct admission from high school into its nursing program. They also noticed the university’s large Latino and African American student populations and its welcoming, inclusive environment.
Beyond the campus visits, the tour included a guided experience at the International Civil Rights Center and Museum in Greensboro. Students learned that the museum tells a much broader story than the Greensboro Four sit-in, chronicling the larger Civil Rights Movement and the sacrifices made by ordinary people who stood for justice.
Evening activities, including time in Charlotte, Topgolf, a Charlotte Knights baseball game, and group meals, were designed to expose students to life beyond their hometowns, strengthen relationships, and build independence. After a long first day, the group ended the evening with pizza at the hotel.
For the students, the trip was about more than simply seeing campuses.
“The 2026 college tour taught me that I’m not limited to only one area,” said Skye Murray. “I enjoyed seeing all of the different types of programs that the colleges presented. Touring all of the schools made me step out of my comfort zone and was such a rewarding experience.”
Zariah Rogers said the tour changed how she thinks about making the most of college.
“This trip taught me to make the most of my college experience by building connections with my classmates and professors, asking questions, and taking advantage of every opportunity that is thrown my way,” Rogers said. “I also learned that studying abroad is an amazing way to explore cultures and learn about them while continuing my education, and that grants and scholarships can help make those opportunities possible.”
Ezera Hathaway said the experience encouraged her to become more intentional about networking, persistence, and service.
“The 2026 Activate Futures College Tour has taught me to step outside of my comfort zone to network and make myself known at whatever college I choose,” Hathaway said. “Starting now, I must take advantage of opportunities. When things get uncomfortable or hard, I must keep pushing. I feel I am on the road to success, and to make the best of it I must give back to my community and lead the way for others.”
Hathaway also noted that the tour helped students better understand college affordability.
“You can go to school and not have to worry about debt or student loans if you do what is required in high school and during the college application process,” she said.
Malana Jordan said the experience helped her realize that choosing a college is about much more than academics.
“Being able to tour six North Carolina colleges taught me that it’s not just about academics; it’s also about finding a place where I feel like I belong,” Jordan said.
Her reflection echoed one of the tour's central messages, that selecting a college should involve finding a campus where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally while building meaningful relationships and taking advantage of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.
Ashley Hall said the tour allowed students to see possibilities that may have previously felt distant.
“Each campus gave our students something different to consider, but the message was consistent: prepare academically, ask questions, build relationships, and take advantage of every opportunity,” Hall said. “Watching them become more confident, more engaged, and more thoughtful each day was incredibly rewarding. They returned home with a better understanding of college and a clearer vision for their own futures.”
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. said the experience was intentionally designed to connect education with leadership and service.
“We wanted our students to understand that college is not simply a place to earn a degree,” Saunders said. “It is an opportunity to develop intellectually, socially, and personally, and then use that growth to strengthen your family and community. The colleges challenged them to pursue excellence, seek new experiences, travel, conduct research, build networks, and serve others. That is exactly what Activate Futures is intended to do.”
Gates County Community Partnership created Activate Futures to support the academic, personal, and social development of young people while expanding access to college and career opportunities. Organizers said the 2026 tour gave participants more than information about admissions. It helped them imagine themselves in new environments, recognize the value of academic preparation, and understand their responsibility to use education in service to others.
Final Cohort of Saunders Science Scholars Celebrated at 2026 Graduation Gala
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — The final cohort of the Saunders Science Scholars Program was celebrated on Saturday, May 30, 2026, during the 2026 Saunders Science Scholars Graduation Gala at the Museum of the Albemarle.
Established through a partnership among Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Gates County Schools, and Gates County Community Partnership, the Saunders Science Scholars Program was designed to expand educational opportunities for Gates County students through science enrichment, college and career exploration, leadership development, mentoring, and exposure to experiences beyond the classroom. For nearly a decade, the initiative empowered students to pursue higher education and careers in STEM and other professional fields while developing the confidence, character, and skills necessary for lifelong success.
The gala honored twelve graduating seniors from Gates County High School as they prepare to begin their collegiate journeys and celebrated the lasting impact of a program that transformed opportunities for young people across Gates County.
The event opened with remarks from Dr. Crystal Harden, Director of Programs and Strategic Engagement at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Harden energized attendees by inviting the twelve graduating scholars to stand and recognize the village that supported them throughout their educational journeys. She also encouraged the scholars to thank their mothers, creating one of the evening's first emotional moments.
Dr. Todd Boyette, Director of Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, welcomed guests and reflected on the collaborative effort that made the program successful. He individually thanked program benefactors Stephen and Addie Butts, program director Dr. Crystal Harden, collaborator Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., and Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent of Gates County Schools, for their dedication and commitment to creating opportunities for students.
Following dinner, Dr. Harden recognized members of the Saunders Science Scholars Class of 2025 who were in attendance: Shalamar Boyce, attending North Carolina Central University; Justin Powell, attending UNC-Pembroke; and Bella Bartoli, attending College of The Albemarle.
The evening continued with remarks from Stephen Butts, CEO of Arrivo BioVentures and funder of the Saunders Science Scholars Program. Butts congratulated the graduating scholars and shared four key points of advice as they prepare for college and life beyond high school.
First, he encouraged students to know that they belong and that their perspectives matter. Second, he reminded them that asking for help is a sign of intelligence, not weakness. Third, he challenged them to think deeply about what college is truly about; learning how to think differently and expand their perspectives. Finally, he emphasized that college is about much more than academics; it is about life experiences and challenging oneself to grow.
Butts also shared a memorable piece of advice with the graduates:
"Companies do not hire you because you know things, because you actually don't. What they are hiring you for is you know how to figure things out."
Next, Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent of Gates County Schools, celebrated the accomplishments of the final class of Saunders Science Scholars while reflecting on the partnership that made the initiative possible.
Williams emphasized that the program was built through a collaborative effort involving Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Gates County Schools, and Gates County Community Partnership. He noted that the success of the initiative was rooted in people who believed in something larger than themselves, particularly Dr. Crystal Harden and Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., who shared a vision that every student deserves access to opportunities that unlock their full potential.
He encouraged the graduates to continue building upon the foundation established through the program, stating:
"The Saunders Science Scholars program has given you a strong foundation to build a future. You have learned responsibility, accountability, and how to drive through challenges when times are tough. Watch your thoughts because they become your words. Watch your words because they become your actions. Watch your actions because they become your habits. Watch your habits because they become your character. Watch your character because that becomes your destiny."
Representing the Class of 2026, graduating senior Deshaun Sherman delivered heartfelt remarks on behalf of his fellow scholars.
Sherman personally thanked Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. and Dr. Crystal Harden for providing him a second chance through the program and spoke about the honor of being selected as a Saunders Science Scholar. He challenged his classmates to recognize the power and potential they carry within themselves while acknowledging the support systems that helped them reach this milestone.
"Though we are the future, we are also part of the present," Sherman said. "Tonight is a reminder that none of us achieve success on our own. We all have a support system of parents, teachers, mentors, coaches, and friends who encourage us to dream big and work harder."
The evening also featured remarks from Leslie Wright, parent of a Saunders Science Scholar, who spoke with humor, warmth, and authenticity about the impact of the program on students and families.
Wright described the strong sense of community and support the program provided over the years and celebrated the preparedness of the graduates as they embark on their next chapters.
"Scholars, you are now about to begin another journey," Wright said. "Remember success is not determined by where you start but by your willingness to keep going when life gets difficult."
She encouraged graduates to dream beyond their circumstances, think independently, and remain humble enough to seek help when needed.
Remarks concluded with Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Founder of Gates County Community Partnership and longtime collaborator of the Saunders Science Scholars Program.
Saunders expressed gratitude to Morehead Planetarium and Science Center for believing in Gates County and investing its expertise, resources, and energy into local students and educators. He also thanked Gates County Schools for its partnership and unwavering commitment to student success, Dr. Crystal Harden for her leadership and dedication, Stephen and Addie Butts for their vision and financial support, and the parents and families who remained active participants throughout the program's existence.
Saunders reflected on the program's namesake, his father, Benjamin C. Saunders, Sr., and his mother, Aileene Saunders, both retired Gates County educators whose lives exemplified service, leadership, and commitment to community.
He encouraged the graduates to embrace life's challenges as opportunities for growth and personal development.
"As you move forward, remember this. Life is not about what happens to you, it is about how you choose to respond to what happens to you," Saunders said. "Adversity will come. Challenges will come. Disappointments will come. But every obstacle carries within it an opportunity to grow stronger, wiser, more disciplined, and more compassionate. What we see as difficult moments are life's greatest classrooms. Embrace challenges and remember, a calm and rational mind is one of the greatest strengths a person can possess. Wisdom and sound judgment are born from clarity, not chaos."
Following the remarks, Dr. Harden shared personalized stories about each graduating scholar before joining Saunders to present bookbags, school supplies, and computers to every senior as they prepare for college.
The evening's most emotional moment came during Dr. Harden's closing remarks. Fighting back tears, she reflected on her decade of service to Gates County students and families while thanking everyone who contributed to the program's success.
She encouraged the graduates to live purposefully, serve others, and become changemakers in their communities.
Reflecting on the significance of the evening, Harden later shared:
"The night was full of emotion. It was a struggle. I missed a lot of what I wanted to say because of the realization of the ending of the program. I gave it my all and I will always be grateful to have been chosen to provide impact in Gates County and help change lives. Systemic change is always the goal, but individual victories matter so much. This program was full of them! Thank you Gates County!"
The celebration concluded with music provided by DJ Mic Check (Michael English), along with dancing, fellowship, and the opportunity for scholars, families, and supporters to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of the Class of 2026.
Class of 2026 Saunders Science Scholars
- J'Yanah Powell – Norfolk State University
- Timberlyn Chappell – Appalachian State University
- London Barber – Chowan University
- Deshaun Sherman – Norfolk State University
- Layla Eggleston – UNC Charlotte
- Jamell Reid – UNC Greensboro
- Jayla Porter – Clark Atlanta University
- Audrina Bowdoin – Manhattanville University
- Christopher Lee – Fayetteville State University
- Logan Roman – UNC Charlotte
- Semiyah Saunders – Winston-Salem State University
- Ayden Wright – UNC Charlotte
Event Partners and Vendors
The 2026 Saunders Science Scholars Graduation Gala was made possible through the support of several outstanding vendors and partners:
- Next Level Operations – Event Planning and Décor
- Currituck BBQ – Catering
- HuthPhoto – Photography and Videography
- DJ Mic Check (Michael English) – Entertainment
As the final Saunders Science Scholars cohort prepares to begin the next chapter of their educational journeys, the legacy of the program will continue through the lives they impact, the communities they serve, and the futures they help shape for generations to come.
Gates County Community Partnership Receives Governor’s Volunteer Service Award
Organization recognized for transformative impact on youth, education, and community engagement
GATES COUNTY — Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) will be formally recognized for its outstanding service and commitment to the community as a recipient of the 2026 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, one of North Carolina’s highest honors for volunteerism and community impact.
The award will be presented during an upcoming meeting of the Gates County Board of Commissioners, recognizing GCCP’s years of dedicated service to the educational and social development of youth throughout Gates County and Northeastern North Carolina.
Founded in 2018, Gates County Community Partnership has become a driving force for community engagement, educational opportunity, and youth empowerment. The nonprofit organization, operated entirely by volunteers, has built a reputation for delivering meaningful programs and resources at no cost to the community; a philosophy the organization proudly describes as “Free is Key!”
Over the past several years, GCCP has led and supported numerous initiatives that have positively impacted students and families across Gates County. Among its accomplishments are helping facilitate transformational grants for Gates County Schools, awarding scholarships to graduating seniors, donating nearly 200 new computers to local students, delivering youth sports and mentoring initiatives, and partnering with other organizations serving Gates County and it's surrounding areas.
Gates County Community Partnership has also played a major role in strengthening educational pathways for local youth by supporting college tours, enrichment programs, summer camps, leadership initiatives, and academic development opportunities.
“We are deeply honored and humbled to receive the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award,” said Dr. Chante Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership. “This recognition belongs to every volunteer, supporter, educator, student, parent, and community member who has believed in our mission and poured into the future of Gates County. Serving this community is both a privilege and a responsibility that we do not take lightly. We are grateful for the continued support we receive and remain committed to creating opportunities that uplift and empower our youth.”
The roots of GCCP are deeply personal and community-centered. The organization was inspired by the launch of the Saunders Science Scholars program in 2017, a STEM-based youth initiative developed by Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. The program, named in honor of esteemed educator Benjamin C. Saunders, Sr., became the catalyst for GCCP’s formation, encouraging childhood friends connected to Gates County to establish a nonprofit focused on expanding educational and social opportunities.
Today, GCCP’s work continues to grow through partnerships with Gates County Schools, local organizations, universities, and community stakeholders who share a vision for a stronger and more connected county.
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.