Gates County High School Launches Athletic Hall of Fame
Inaugural Class of 13 Honorees to Be Celebrated September 5, 2025
GATESVILLE, N.C. – Gates County High School will honor its rich sports tradition this fall with the launch of the Gates County High School Athletic Hall of Fame. The inaugural class of 13 honorees, featuring standout athletes, legendary coaches, and championship teams, will be recognized during the school’s first-ever “Hall of Fame Game” on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. when the Red Barons take on KIPP Pride at Gates County High School.
Terri Riddick, Gates County Board of Education, praised the new honor. “This Hall of Fame is more than a celebration of wins and records; it’s a way to pass down the legacy of Red Baron pride to future generations.”
The Inaugural Class consists of the following:
Antonio Davis – Basketball
One of the most prolific shooters in basketball history, Davis led Gates County to a district title and later starred at Livingstone College, where he averaged 35 points per game in 1987-88. He remains the only player in NCAA history to achieve career averages of 50/50/90 in shooting percentages. Davis entered the CIAA Hall of Fame in 2020.
Devane Harvey – Football
A defensive force from 1988–91, Harvey earned All-Conference honors and went on to a decorated career at Catawba College, where he became team captain and MVP. He later played professionally in the Arena League with the Albany Firebirds and Greensboro Prowlers.
Elton Winslow – Coach
Winslow guided both boys and girls basketball teams to championships, helped found the Gates County High School tennis program, served as Athletic Director for over a decade and a coach for 30 years, and established the annual Athletic Booster Club Kickoff Dinner fundraiser.
Eric Knight – Football, Basketball, Tennis
Knight excelled in football, basketball, and tennis, earning multiple All-Conference honors and Albemarle Area Player of the Year recognition. He played in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl and competed against future NBA stars in the NC All-State Basketball Game.
Jessie Britt – Football
After starring at Gates County (1978–81), Britt played college football at North Carolina A&T before reaching the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Lulu Eure – Basketball, Softball
Eure was a pioneer, playing on NC State’s first intercollegiate women’s basketball team under Hall of Fame coach Kay Yow. She also competed in softball for NC State and remains one of few two-sport scholarship athletes in school history.
Mary Honey Lamb-Bowman – Basketball
A standout in the early 1970s, Lamb-Bowman went on to coach at Norfolk State, Fayetteville State, Delaware State, and T.C. Williams High School. She later received Norfolk State’s Lifetime Achievement Award and was enshrined in Delaware State University’s Hall of Fame.
Leon “Pete” Smoak – Coach
Smoak guided Gates County football from 1969 to 1990, including the undefeated 1971 Eastern State 2A Championship team (13-0), a season many regard as a state title.
Quinton Ballard – Football
Ballard earned All-East honors at Gates County High School before winning two national championships at Elon University. He later played in the NFL with the Baltimore Colts and Miami Dolphins and entered the Elon Hall of Fame in 2008.
Thomas Smith – Football
A two-time All-Conference star at Gates County High School, Smith became a standout at UNC, setting defensive records before being selected in the 1st round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He went on to play nine seasons in the NFL with Buffalo, Chicago, and Indianapolis.
Willie “Doc” Williams – Coach
Williams coached Gates County basketball to 574 career wins and led his teams to numerous playoff appearances. He also served as an assistant football coach and acted in that role for the 1971 Eastern State Championship Team.
1971 Football Team
The legendary squad finished 13-0, defeating Southern Guilford 34-8 to capture the Eastern State Championship. The team remains a symbol of Red Baron football pride.
1986–87 Girls Basketball Team
Led by determination and talent, this group finished as the NCHSAA 1A State Runners-Up with a 25–4 record, narrowly falling 50–47 to Hendersonville in the title game.
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Gates County Community Partnership, highlighted the community impact. “These athletes and coaches brought people together. Their achievements inspired not just students, but the entire county. Honoring them ensures their influence continues.”
Kaye Barker, Gates County graduate and longtime athletic supporter and administrator, emphasized the significance for students. “When young athletes see the banners and names in the Hall of Fame, they will know what is possible. It connects the past to the present in a powerful way.”
The inaugural class will be officially enshrined on September 5, 2025, during halftime of the Gates County–KIPP Pride football game. Community members, alumni, and fans are invited to join in what promises to be one of the most memorable nights in Red Baron history.
“We are thrilled to launch this Hall of Fame and honor these trailblazers. Their stories are now part of the fabric of our school forever,” said Jonathan Hayes, Principal, Gates County High School.
Gates County Schools Participates in EurekaFest
This summer, The Lemelson Foundation provided a grant for groups of administrators and teachers from two counties in North Carolina — Gates County Schools and Public Schools of Robeson County — to see invention education in action. They traveled to Lemelson-MIT Program’s EurekaFest at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to talk to high school InvenTeams and their mentors who were showcasing the invention projects they had spent the past year developing inside and outside of the classroom.
Here are some of the takeaways that we heard from these visiting educators:
“I'm really impressed by the fact that these inventions address ‘pain problems’ — something that's happened in life that has inspired these students. Invention education requires us to stop teaching in silos and integrate subjects in a way that allows students to figure out solutions to real problems.”
“We see this as an opportunity to think about how we can reach out and take on some of the challenges we have in our own small rural community. It's an opportunity for us to really get outside the box and seek community stakeholders who want to partner with us.”
“As a teacher, a lot of times you get the whole, ‘Why do we have to learn this?’ — and seeing these students so engaged, it becomes personal for them, something that they actually care about and want to learn about.”
“What I've seen with these students that I would love to replicate is the opportunity to sit and struggle and fail and learn…that not only helps grow them academically, but socially and emotionally. It runs the gamut of what we want our students to learn as they leave us so that they are building a better community and a better world.”
We’re excited that as more educators see invention education, they are inspired by the power and opportunity to engage their students — and their communities — in truly transformational learning experiences.
Learn more about the invention education movement, and how to get involved, at InventEd Network: https://inventioneducation.org/
Activate Futures Students Shine at Youth STEAM Summit in Rocky Mount
Rocky Mount, N.C. - Students from Gates County High School’s Activate Futures program represented their community with distinction at the Youth STEAM Summit held Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the Rocky Mount Event Center. The all-day event brought together high school students from across rural northeastern North Carolina to explore opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Math, fields known collectively as STEAM.
Activate Futures is a youth development and college readiness initiative for 11th and 12th graders, sponsored by Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP), a local non-profit committed to preparing young people for academic and professional success. Gates County’s delegation included 18 individuals from the local high school.
The Youth STEAM Summit was designed to connect students with industry professionals, educators, and innovators from across North Carolina. With technology rapidly transforming agriculture and forestry, the event emphasized the role of science, math, and engineering as the foundation for modern problem-solving and economic growth.
“Events like this open the minds of our students to possibilities they may have never considered,” said Ashley Hall, Director of Activate Futures. “Gates County is proud to lead the way in participation, showing that even a small community can have a big presence when it comes to preparing youth for the future.”
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Kenston Griffin, CEO of Dream Builder Communication, Inc., who energized the crowd with a talk on empowerment, self-discovery, and embracing one’s unique gifts, skills, and talents. He discussed the intersection of business, leadership, and personal growth, offering practical strategies for becoming leaders rather than followers.
Participants also engaged in a series of workshops, including:
Be Pro Be Proud – Addressed the skilled labor shortage and encouraged careers in trades and technical fields.
University of Mount Olive Mobile Lab – Demonstrated precision agriculture and soil sampling techniques.
College and Natural Resources Professional Engagement – Connected students with forestry industry representatives, agency professionals, and university staff to explore career and education pathways.
Digital Literacy – Taught online safety and privacy in the digital era.
The summit was made possible through sponsorships from NC Electric Cooperatives, Roanoke Cooperative, CoBank, Enviva, and NRCS, with program partners including the North Carolina Forest Service, USDA, UMC Agriculture, Black Family Land Trust, Center for Energy Education, and NC A&T State University Cooperative Extension.
“This experience has given me new ideas for my future and a better understanding of how science and technology connect to real careers,” said London Barber, one of Gates County’s Youth Ambassadors.
With their strong turnout and enthusiastic participation, Activate Futures students demonstrated that Gates County youth are ready to step forward as leaders in the next generation of North Carolina’s workforce.
Peek at "The Promise" - Jordan Eason
Gates County Community Partnership will continue to highlight 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 have a positive impact on young lives.
Today’s spotlight is on Jordan Eason, our first scholarship recipient and a 2019 graduate of Gates County High School. He received 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.
What major or area of study did you choose?
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology from Western Carolina University (WCU).
What are you up to now?
Currently, I work for Pike Engineering as a Designer in Power Distribution.
How did the "GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship" help ease your transition into college?
The GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship helped my family by assisting with the cost of college while also leading me in the correct direction.
Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?
The transition from high school to college proved to be a worthy challenge. Moving from North Carolina to South Carolina right after graduation made it even tougher. This was indeed an interesting time of my life!
After arriving at college, I had to learn this was the closest I have been to the real world. All the life skills parents teach their kids will serve a purpose now. Walking WCU’s campus was nerve wracking at first, but there were other kids just as lost as me which made things much easier.
Meeting friends the first week of college made the transition smoother. This really provided me with a sense of security.
What were some of your most rewarding experiences during college?
One of my most rewarding experiences was going to Taco Tuesdays with my friends from soccer. This became a weekly routine and the memories we created will last forever.
Another rewarding memory was creating weekly calendars. The workload was stressful at times, so having a schedule became essential. I was generally able to keep weekends open to relax and have fun.
In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?
In college, I was a part of the Men’s Club Soccer Team and I was a coach for the Women’s Club Soccer Team. I was a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Both organizations bring awareness to engineering as a profession and help further one’s education.
What are your life goals/aspirations?
My ultimate goal is to become a Hardware Engineer and gain my Professional Engineering license. Until then, my goals are to continue working and gain my Fundamentals of Engineering license. I want to use my degree for small components in devices.
What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?
Growing up, we often fantasize about having that “fun” college experience, but frequently we forget about why we’re at the institution. I encourage incoming college students to have a plan. It’s easy to become sidetracked due to so many distractions.
I also encourage new students to be social and make new acquaintances. This is not limited to students only, but also faculty members. You never know who you might run into and from whom you might need help.
My final piece of advice is to take risks. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because you learn from them. Ask questions in class. Everyone in college had to start somewhere.
Are there any significant accomplishments or experiences you would like to share?
Two of my greatest accomplishments were being able to participate in the design of a handheld clamp for carpenters and my CAPSTONE project with Altec.
For the clamp project, I collaborated with three other engineering students from mechanical engineering and engineering technology. The design project was a success and it is possible the product will be patented.
For the CAPSTONE project, I worked on a cross functional team with four other engineering students. We were tasked with creating a ground resistance monitor. Our device was never fully functional but we were able to create a concept.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?
I want to say thank you for the help myself and many others received. The memories and teachings learned from Gates County will live with me forever. You all played a part in molding who I am today.
Gates County Community Partnership Awarded Grant from Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation to Support Youth and Community Initiatives
GATES COUNTY, NC — In a significant boost for local youth development and community engagement, Gates County Community Partnership has received a generous grant of $52,600 from the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation’s Community Progress Fund. This funding will support the organization’s “Opening GATES – Holistic Youth Development and Community Support” initiative designed to address critical needs facing Gates County’s residents.
The initiative encompasses several tailored programs aimed at empowering youth and strengthening community bonds. These include “Activate Futures,” a youth development and college readiness program for high school juniors and seniors; “Busting Boundaries,” a mentoring program for middle school boys; and “Tech Stars,” a summer camp focused on technology and digital skills development. Additionally, a new component, “Let’s Chat,” will deliver programming at a local chat bench to encourage community dialogue, foster communication and understanding, and support mental health.
Gates County faces challenges typical of rural communities such as limited resources and a relative scarcity of extracurricular and social programs. The “Opening GATES” initiative aims to tackle these issues by offering comprehensive, accessible programs that support both academic and emotional well-being.
Dr. Chante Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the grant. “We are truly thankful to the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation for their support and belief in our mission,” she said. “This funding enables us to expand our efforts in serving our youth and community more holistically. We’re excited to collaborate with local families, schools, and organizations to deliver impactful programming that will foster hope, resilience, and growth across Gates County.”
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Vice President of the Partnership, also conveyed his appreciation. “We are grateful to the community and all our supporters who help sustain our work. This grant will allow us to engage more deeply with our residents and create meaningful opportunities for connection and development. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these activities will have on Gates County’s future.”
The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, established in 1936 in Winston-Salem, aims to promote a just, inclusive, and sustainable North Carolina through charitable work across the state. Their support of Gates County exemplifies their commitment to fostering vibrant communities and equitable opportunities for all residents.
The “Opening GATES” initiative aligns with the foundation’s vision of enhancing collective well-being by addressing educational disparities and social isolation; issues exacerbated in rural areas. By investing in youth and community connection, Gates County Community Partnership is taking vital steps toward fostering a more connected, resilient, and prosperous community.
For more information about the “Opening GATES” initiative or to get involved, contact Gates County Community Partnership through their social media channels or [email protected].
Gates County Community Partnership Unveils New "Chat Bench" to Foster Social Interaction
GATESVILLE, NC — Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) recently installed a "Chat Bench," marking a pivotal step in the community's ongoing efforts to enhance mental health support and foster community cohesion. This initiative, spearheaded by Gates County Community Partnership and partially funded by the Obici Healthcare Foundation, received the green light from the Gates County Board of Commissioners last year.
The "Chat Bench" initiative responds to the growing need for social connectivity. In a world increasingly defined by digital interactions, chat benches aim to reestablish face-to-face connections. These accessible and welcoming spaces invite individuals to engage in conversation, serving to alleviate feelings of loneliness and encourage societal understanding.
"Our Community Engagement Grant from the Obici Healthcare Foundation helped make this project possible," said Dr. Chante Jordan, President of GCCP. "We are incredibly thankful for their support. This funding allows us to launch programming that will impact our community by fostering deeper connections and understanding amongst our residents."
Strategically placed at the Gates County Community Center, this inaugural bench is designed to be a beacon of hope and dialogue within the social hub of the county. Signage encourages passersby to pause, sit, and engage in conversations that might otherwise not occur.
This initiative promises a host of benefits, focusing on three key objectives: enhancing mental well-being through informal interactions, promoting awareness and understanding by providing a venue for open dialogue, and fostering reconciliation and brotherhood by encouraging discussions about differences and commonalities.
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Vice President of GCCP, expressed optimism about the potential impacts of the Chat Bench. "We are excited about this project and hope there will be significant benefits. This initiative has the potential to be a unifying force that fosters love and communal well-being."
To complement the Chat Bench's presence, GCCP plans to organize events and themed discussions aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues, promoting cultural exchange, and highlighting stories of community reconciliation. Furthermore, partnerships with local mental health organizations will provide resources for individuals seeking additional support.
Obici's Community Engagement Grants, which supported this venture, are dedicated to improving the health status of those in Gates County and surrounding areas. They champion projects that address community health needs, enhance physical activity and wellness, and increase public access to essential health resources.
First Cohort of Saunders Science Scholars Celebrated at Graduation Gala
ELIZABETH CITY, NC — The future of Gates County took a step forward as the inaugural cohort of the Saunders Science Scholars graduated from Gates County High School and were honored at the 2025 Saunders Science Scholars Graduation Gala held at the Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. The event marked a proud milestone for the community, showcasing the remarkable achievements of young students whose dedication and curiosity have been nurtured through an innovative educational program.
Since its inception in 2018, the Saunders Science Scholars program has provided vital STEM enrichment and youth development resources to the Gates County Schools community. Led by the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and passionately guided by Dr. Crystal Harden, Director of Program and Access Initiatives, the program has created opportunities that are often scarce in rural areas, helping local students explore the wonders of science in meaningful and impactful ways. Named in honor of the late Benjamin C. Saunders, Sr., a revered Gates County educator and recipient of the “Order of the Long Leaf Pine,” the program embodies a legacy of community service and educational excellence.
“Graduates of the Saunders Science Scholars Program, congratulations on this remarkable achievement! Watching you explore the wonders of science with curiosity and determination has been truly inspiring,” said Dr. Harden. “Your journey through this program is more than just a testament to your resilience and hard work; it represents the power of opportunity and the brilliance that can emerge when communities unite with a shared vision. As you step into the future, remember that your pursuit of knowledge not only transforms your own lives but also illuminates a path for others in Gates County and beyond."
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership and an integral part of the program’s direction, expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments. “As we celebrate the graduation of the first cohort of Saunders Science Scholars, we stand on the foundation of dreams fulfilled through dedication and shared purpose," he said. "Having been born and raised in Gates County, it fills my heart with immense pride to see our students embrace the wonders of STEM and rise to new heights. Their knowledge is a beacon for our community. I am confident they will continue to inspire and uplift those around them.”
The importance of programs like the Saunders Science Scholars in rural communities cannot be overstated. Zamaria Kinsey, a graduate of the program, shared her perspective: “The Saunders Science Scholars program is not just a STEM program, it’s a family! They gave us the help we needed to do the impossible. We gained educational opportunities that are often not seen in places like Gates, and we carried on what we learned by teaching other people just like us.”
Another Saunders Science Scholars graduate, Logan Kronbauer, expressed, "The Saunders Science Scholars has been a major benefactor in my life. The program incubated my love for science, allowing me to supplement my education in the field of Chemistry. The college campus tours we embarked on allowed me to tour wondrous post-secondary institutions. As a result, I will be attending Wake Forest University in the fall. Additionally, the program allowed me to participate in volunteer opportunities, giving me a chance to help improve my community through the education of scientific subjects."
Parent Christie Bartoli also voiced her gratitude, noting how the program helped her daughter Bella pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. “Our family is extremely grateful for the Saunders Science Scholars program. Bella has wanted to be a veterinarian since elementary school, and this program allowed her to explore animal science and other STEM fields, ultimately helping her secure a spot at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.”
Superintendent Dr. Phillip Barry Williams emphasized the program’s profound impact: “At the gala, the Saunders Science Scholars program awarded 12 scholarships to Gates County High School seniors heading to prestigious universities. It has truly transformed our students’ educational journeys, fostering curiosity, innovation, and a passion for discovery. The program has instilled responsibility, integrity, and self-awareness, lessons that will serve these young leaders throughout their lives. These students have the blueprint to change the world. We are proud of our graduates and grateful for the opportunities this program has provided.”
As the first graduating class steps into the next chapter of their lives, their success underscores the vital importance of academic enrichment programs in rural communities. The Saunders Science Scholars program stands as a testament to what can be achieved when dedicated individuals, local organizations, and institutions collaborate to open doors and ignite passions in young minds.
Congratulations to the Saunders Science Scholars Class of 2025: Logan Kronbauer, Zamaria Kinsey, Ky’Asia Bunch, Ace Austin, Bella Bartoli, Shalamar Boyce, Ni’Jahe Saunders, Kelsey Evans, Leah Moore, Justin Powell, Clinton Mizelle, and Kent Askew. Your bright futures are a guiding light for Gates County and beyond.
GCCP Supports Gates County Community Center's Youth Athletic Training Program
Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) recently donated athletic training equipment to the Gates County Community Center for its thriving Youth Athletic Training Program. The program, expertly led by Robert (Rob) Paris, provides high school and middle school students with an empowering blend of physical training and personal development.
Operating Monday through Thursday, from 3:30 and 4:30 PM, the program extends far beyond robust physical conditioning. It is a haven where young athletes learn discipline, perseverance, and the tenets of holistic well-being, which includes mental and spiritual health. Paris, the heart and soul of the initiative, shared his passionate vision: "We are all about holistic health, not just physical but mental, spiritual, and mentoring the kids to become what they need to become. It's about treating them and guiding them in every way, giving them opportunities to access things they never had. And that's what we're about here at the community center; doing the work for the youth."
The recent donation, consisting of battle ropes, cones, hurdles, jump ropes, medicine balls, and parachutes, resonates with the community's commitment to nurturing its youth. Norris Raby, Director of the Gates County Community Center, expressed immense gratitude, "We are greatly thankful for the continued support of Gates County Community Partnership. They help our youth and others realize dreams, better serve themselves, and better serve the community."
Dr. Chante Lassister-Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership, highlighted the initiative's crucial role: "Gates County Community Partnership takes pride in giving back to our community and our youth. This was a fantastic opportunity to support an initiative at our Gates County Community Center and provide encouragement for our youth community-wide."
For participants like Robert Mills and Cameron Lee, the program is transformative. "I like Rob's program because it gets me right for the summer and stuff for other sports," Robert shared, emphasizing the practical benefits. Cameron added, "Rob's program is great. He helps us with sports, and both our mental and physical states. He pushes us, and as a mentor, he's been amazing."
Such testimonials underscore the program’s impact, not only enhancing sporting prowess but also fostering a supportive environment for personal growth. The collaboration between the community center and GCCP showcases a model of community spirit, aiming to uplift the younger generation and prepare them for their future endeavors. As these young athletes train with enhanced resources, Gates County witnesses a burgeoning promise of bright futures forged through dedication and community support.
Gates County Community Partnership's Chante Lassiter-Jordan Earns Doctorate in Educational Leadership
Gates County is celebrating a remarkable achievement by one of its own, as Chante Lassiter-Jordan, President and Director of the Gates County Community Partnership, has been awarded a Doctorate in Educational Leadership (EdD) from East Carolina University. This milestone underscores her unwavering commitment not only to personal excellence but also to the educational advancement of her community.
As a proud native of Gates County, Lassiter-Jordan brings over two decades of experience in the public school education sector. She currently plays pivotal roles as the Human Resources Director and Exceptional Children’s Program Director for Gates County Schools. Her academic journey, firmly grounded at East Carolina University, has seen her accumulate a Bachelor of Science in Special Education, a Master of Arts in Education – Special Education, a Master of School Administration, and an Education Specialist Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision.
The attainment of a Doctorate in Educational Leadership is a significant step for any educational leader. This advanced degree provides the profound understanding necessary to navigate and steer large educational districts and institutions effectively. It equips leaders with the skills to implement strategic planning, advocate for necessary reform, and foster environments that promote educational excellence and equity.
Reflecting on her journey and its purpose, Lassiter-Jordan often turns to a guiding philosophy articulated by Malcom Forbes: "Education's purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one." This sentiment not only highlights her approach to her roles but also underlines her dedication to fostering open-minded, progressive educational environments.
Chante Lassiter-Jordan's accomplishment is not just a personal triumph but also a beacon of inspiration for Gates County. It signals a commitment to the power of education as a transformative tool and a testament to the potential of local leaders to effect meaningful change in their communities. As she continues her journey, her efforts and achievements promise to enrich the educational landscape and inspire future generations to strive for excellence.