Gates County Community Partnership

Over the next few weeks, Gates County Community Partnership will highlight some of its scholarship recipients, emphasizing their college journey and experiences since receiving one of our scholarships. Our objectives are to keep our local community engaged in the success of our youth and to help improve our students’ understanding of college. We recognize how these stories can inspire others and deliver a positive impact on young lives.

Today’s spotlight is on Victor Rountree, a 2022 graduate of Gates County High School. He was a recipient of Gates County Community Partnership’s "NC Promise Tuition Scholarship." This scholarship funds a full year of tuition at one of the four North Carolina Promise institutions: Elizabeth City State University, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Fayetteville State University, and Western Carolina University.

1. What major or area of study did you choose?

I am a music major, with a concentration in Commercial Music and Audio Production at Western Carolina University.

2. What are you up to now?

I am a junior and I am planning to graduate in May of 2026.

3. How did the "GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship" help ease your transition into college?

Moving away to be on your own, surrounded by strangers in a foreign environment, is stressful in and of itself. Scholarships like this one help to ease the transition from high school life to college life by giving you one less thing to worry about.

4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?

College is very different from high school; you have far more freedom and you have far more responsibility. Your schedule is not the same every day and every professor has different expectations and requirements for their courses. It falls on you to take the initiative and be flexible. It is a steep learning curve, having to adapt to no longer having someone pull you along. However, there is no greater instruction for the real world than increased responsibility.

5. What have been some of your most rewarding experiences during college?

The most rewarding experiences I have had in college have been acting on my existing passions, as well as discovering completely new ones. The music program here put me into an environment where I am exposed to something new everyday. I may not be passionate about everything I have to do but a lot of it has made me find out more about myself and what I want to do with my life. To me, that is by far the most rewarding part about higher education.

6. In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?

Gates County is where I go back to when the future and the world close in on me. It is where I can reconnect with friends and family and remember why I am working towards my career. When I go back, I play music for my local church and connect with the musicians there because it reminds me of my passion for creating something that people enjoy.

7. What are your life goals/aspirations?

As of right now, I am split between music theory and audio production/studio recording. I feel both of these paths would be fulfilling for me. I suppose my true life goal is simply to have a part in creating things that have the power to make people happy.

8. What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?

My advice to future college students on making the most of their college experience is simply to not be afraid to try new things and to not be afraid to fail. Failure is the world's greatest teacher because we can never improve if we always succeed.

Also, it is important to remember to set reasonable and reachable goals. You want to strive for something challenging but it should be neither infeasible or impossible.

And finally, it is essential to remember where you came from. College is full of new places, people, and ideas; however, where you come from is the place that built you and put you where you are today. Thinking back on how it all started can give you inspiration to keep moving forward and it gives you something to show to others from your community to give THEM the inspiration to strive for success.

9. Are there any significant accomplishments or experiences you would like to share?

My most significant and formative experiences have been performing in the ensembles here at WCU. There is something magical about working hard to create music with others who are just as passionate and determined as you are. When you get on stage in an environment like this for the first time it changes your life.

10. Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?

I would like to end with a simple statement: don't be afraid to try, don't be afraid to fail, and don't be afraid to get back up and try again. Trial and error are your greatest tools and you can learn the most from simply going for it.

Over the next few weeks, Gates County Community Partnership will highlight some of its scholarship recipients, emphasizing their college journey and experiences since receiving one of our scholarships. Our objectives are to keep our local community engaged in the success of our youth and to help improve our students’ understanding of college. We recognize how these stories can inspire others and deliver a positive impact on young lives.

Today’s spotlight is on Damari Holley, a 2020 graduate of Gates County High School. She was a recipient of Gates County Community Partnership’s "NC Promise Tuition Scholarship." This scholarship funds a full year of tuition at one of the four North Carolina Promise institutions: Elizabeth City State University, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Fayetteville State University, and Western Carolina University.

1. What major or area of study did you choose?

After graduating high school, I attended Elizabeth City State University and majored in Social Work.

2. What are you up to now?

I am a recent graduate of Walden University with my Master’s in Social Work. I am currently employed at the Gates County Department of Social Services as an Adult Protective Service Social Worker and Adult Home Specialist. I work with the elderly population ensuring that they are safe from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

3. How did the "GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship" help ease your transition into college?

The GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship transformed my college experience by cutting my tuition costs and minimizing the hours I had to work while studying. This invaluable support allowed me to focus fully on achieving my educational and career aspirations without the constant worry of financial burdens.

4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?

The transition from high school to college was very stressful. The transition from always being at home, to sharing your space with a stranger was very hard. I had to adapt to sharing my space with a total stranger, whom I knew nothing about. Finding a club that was geared towards my degree helped me connect with individuals and network with people in the career field of Social Work.

5. What were some of the most rewarding experiences during college?

I was nominated by my Advisor to intern at UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, which only accepts four college students each year majoring in the field of Social Work. I was also inducted into the Pi Psi Phi Alpha Honor Society.

6. In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?

I have had the rewarding experience of volunteering with the Ladies of Distinction at Central Middle School, a mentorship program dedicated to empowering young ladies to embrace holistic health in every aspect of their lives.

7. What are your life goals/aspirations?

My life goals include building a fulfilling career in social work, where I can use my skills to make a positive impact on my community. I aim to enhance my knowledge in all areas of social work and eventually open my own practice.

8. What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?

Although resources are limited, connect with individuals and network with professionals that align with your field of study.

9. Are there any significant accomplishments or experiences you would like to share?

I proudly graduated from high school with an Associate in Arts Degree from the College of the Albemarle, setting a strong foundation for my future. I moved on to Elizabeth City State University, where I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, demonstrating my commitment to making a difference in people's lives. Recently, I achieved another milestone by graduating from Walden University with a Master's Degree in Social Work, all while juggling a full-time job at the Department of Social Services. My journey reflects my dedication and passion for serving others in our community.

10. Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?

The most significant choice I ever made was to have faith in my abilities and potential. Embracing self-belief empowered me to pursue my goals with confidence and resilience, ultimately leading to personal growth and fulfillment.

Over the next few weeks, Gates County Community Partnership will highlight some of its scholarship recipients, emphasizing their college journey and experiences since receiving one of our scholarships. Our objectives are to keep our local community engaged in the success of our youth and to help improve our students’ understanding of college. We recognize how these stories can inspire others and deliver a positive impact on young lives.

Today’s spotlight is on Kleiauna Riddick, a 2024 graduate of Mount Tabor High School (Winston Salem, North Carolina), whose lineage is rooted in Gates County. We heard about her remarkable story in May 2024. It is one that exemplifies resilience, perseverance, and honorable achievement. We are grateful to know Kleiauna!

1. What major or area of study did you choose?

I am majoring in Media and Communication: Production and Creation with an emphasis in Sports Media.

2. What are you up to now?

Currently, I am a student athlete at Ferrum College playing women’s basketball. I also do work study as a freelance videographer, which helps me to expand my portfolio.

3. How did the scholarship provided by Gates County Community Partnership help ease your transition into college?

The scholarship relieved me of financial concerns, which calmed me down and allowed me to concentrate more on acclimating to college life and the curriculum. It was a stress reliever.

4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?

The transition from high school to college was a transformative experience that challenged me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. In high school, my schedule was structured and predictable, with teachers and parents guiding much of my day-to-day responsibilities. However, college quickly taught me the importance of managing my own time effectively. With classes, assignments, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities competing for my attention, I had to learn to prioritize tasks and develop a strong sense of discipline.

5. What have been some of your most rewarding experiences during college?

My college journey has been filled with rewarding experiences that have shaped me academically, spiritually, and personally. One of the most impactful aspects has been the privilege of learning from and interacting with teachers and staff who genuinely believe in me. Their encouragement and willingness to support my growth have inspired me to push beyond my perceived limits and strive for success. Knowing that I have people in my corner who want to see me succeed has been invaluable.

Another transformative experience has been learning to navigate life’s challenges by turning to God. In moments of uncertainty or difficulty, my faith has been a source of strength and guidance. These experiences have not only helped me grow spiritually but also made me a better person - more resilient, humble, and grounded. I’ve come a long way in learning to trust God’s plan and lean on Him through both triumphs and trials. This journey has strengthened my relationship with God, allowing me to grow closer to Him every day.

Stepping out of my comfort zone has also been one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience. Building relationships with people who come from different backgrounds and cultures has been eye-opening and enriching. These connections have taught me the value of understanding and appreciating diversity while challenging me to see the world through different perspectives.

I’ve learned that stepping beyond my own experiences allows me to grow and build meaningful bonds with others. These moments of connection, growth, and learning have made my time in college truly rewarding and continue to shape me into the person I am becoming. They are experiences I will carry with me for a lifetime

6. What are your life goals/aspirations?

My life goals and aspirations center around breaking generational barriers and building generational wealth — a journey I have already begun. I am determined to be the first in my family to graduate from college and earn a degree, paving the way for future success.

My passion lies in videography and I aim to establish a fulfilling career in this field. Networking and building meaningful professional relationships are key components of my plan. I seek to connect with others, create valuable opportunities, and build a reputable presence in my industry.

Equally important is my desire to give back to the community and support those in need, as I recognize the value of service and leadership. Throughout this journey, I remain committed to strengthening my relationship with God, knowing that faith is a guiding force in my personal and professional development. My path forward is driven by purpose, growth, and a dedication to leaving a lasting legacy for future generations

7. What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?

To future college students, my advice for making the most of your college experience is to approach every moment as an opportunity for growth. Embrace challenges, step out of your comfort zone, and seek experiences that will help you learn and develop both personally and professionally. Build connections with your peers, professors, and staff as relationships forged in college can open doors to new perspectives, friendships, and career opportunities. Don’t be afraid to make new friends and learn from those with different backgrounds and experiences. These connections will enrich your journey in ways you never imagined. Remember to give back to your community along the way. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply being a positive presence, your efforts can make a meaningful impact on others. Giving back not only strengthens your community but also deepens your sense of purpose and fulfillment. Most importantly, always believe in yourself and keep your faith strong. Life will present challenges, but no matter what happens, keep moving forward. Trust that every setback is setting the stage for a greater comeback. Stay true to your goals, rely on your faith, and remain steadfast in your belief that you can achieve great things. Your journey will be uniquely yours - embrace it with courage, compassion, and determination.

8. Are there any significant accomplishments or experiences you would like to share?

As a college freshman, I am proud to have earned a position in the starting lineup. I achieved my first collegiate double-double on December 12th.

9. Is there anything else you would like to share with the community of Gates County?

I want to encourage everyone in the Gates County community to always dream big. If you can dream it you can achieve it.

Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) has recently launched "Busting Boundaries," a dynamic youth development initiative aimed at middle school boys at Central Middle School. This program is designed to prepare young men in Gates County to become upstanding members of society through a diverse range of experiences.

Recognizing the importance of nurturing future leaders, GCCP is committed to teaching perseverance, fostering a selfless mindset, and guiding participants toward a purposeful life.

"Today marks the beginning of something great! This initiative has been a goal for us for some time," expressed Sherley Jones, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership. "We have exciting plans that combine enriching experiences with learning opportunities."

The initiative will focus on the "8 C’s": Character, Caring, Contribution, Confidence, Competence, Connection, Competition, and College.

Underpinning these areas of focus are foundational norms, including Respect, Attendance, Participation, Academic Focus, Personal Responsibility, Confidentiality, Safety, Positive Attitude, Teamwork, and Communication and Feedback.

The structured program includes enrichment activities, lectures, and presentations, all geared towards encouraging self-development and personal growth.

"We are deeply grateful to our participants and their families for placing their trust in us. Our commitment to the students is unwavering," stated Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership. "We have embraced this responsibility wholeheartedly and are dedicated to nurturing the growth of our students."

Over the next few weeks, Gates County Community Partnership will highlight some of its scholarship recipients, emphasizing their college journey and experiences since receiving one of our scholarships. Our objectives are to keep our local community engaged in the success of our youth and to help improve our students’ understanding of college. We recognize how these stories can inspire others and deliver a positive impact on young lives.

Today’s spotlight is on Makayla Hathaway, a 2021 graduate of Gates County High School and a 2024 graduate of Elizabeth City State University. She was a recipient of Gates County Community Partnership’s "NC Promise Tuition Scholarship." This scholarship funds a full year of tuition at one of the four North Carolina Promise institutions: Elizabeth City State University, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Fayetteville State University, and Western Carolina University.

1. What major or area of study did you choose?

After graduating from high school, I attended Elizabeth City State University and majored in Social Work.

2. What are you up to now?

Currently, I am in the Masters of Social Work program at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, in the Advanced Standing Program with a focus in School Social Work and Play Therapy.

3. How did the "GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship" help ease your transition into college?

The GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship made it easier to transition into college. When some people see ECSU as a school, they see the low cost tuition, but this scholarship helps cover essentials like books and supplies, reducing the financial strain on students and their families. This scholarship gave me a confidence boost as well; receiving a scholarship, no matter the size can help a student's self-esteem by validating their academic or personal achievements.

4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?

After finishing high school, I was unsure of my major, how I would do in college, and if I would survive the dreaded 8:00 AM classes that I heard were the worst (I am not a morning person). The transition of moving out of home and into a college dorm was bumpy at first, but once I acclimated myself to the environment, everything was great! I enjoyed the college experience, especially being at an HBCU.

5. What were some of the most rewarding experiences during college?

There were so many different experiences and opportunities that I was able to participate in while attending ECSU. PBS interviewed me about my college experience for a Live TV broadcast. I had the pleasure of flying to California for the HBCU Honda Trivia Challenge. I was one of two people from ECSU, and one of six in the entire country to participate in an international social work progression conference. I made lifelong friendships with peers and professors. I received awards for being the top of my social work graduating class. Dr. Kim Downing, ECSU's Director of Social Work, described me as one of the best students in her decades of being a professor. I was a member of Phi Alpha Honors Society, a social work organization that is dedicated to honoring diversity, equality, inclusivity, justice, and fostering a community where individuals from all walks of life can flourish. And, by the Grace of God, I graduated Magna Cum Laude, with highest honors!

6. In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?

Early in college, I founded a nonprofit organization called The Better Promise. We raise money to donate items to our homeless population and nursing home residents, as well as hold food and school supply drives in Gates County, Hertford County, and Pasquotank County. It blesses me to be able to serve others.

7. What are your life goals/aspirations?

In the foreseeable future, I hope to own my own business as a fully functioning licensed social worker who provides therapy to populations in need. I will have services for single parents with children who may be struggling, open income-based housing, and provide play therapy services to children. I hope this will be a fully flourishing business model in rural areas, like Gates County, where there is an opportunity for so much to occur!

8. What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?

To students who go to college and wish to give back, follow your heart. If it feels right to do right, then do it. It puts joy in your heart to lead with virtue and serve others. Push and advocate for justice. Stopping gets you nowhere! Anything that is attainable is achievable.

9. Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?

Put faith in your community! Open your hearts and minds to positive change and opportunity! Remember that one day, the youth of our town will be the ones in charge. Guiding them in the right direction and implementing hope into their lives is paramount.