25 in '25 - Access Matters!
On a pleasant Saturday afternoon, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP), a dedicated nonprofit committed to enhancing community involvement for the educational and social advancement of local youth, proudly fulfilled the latest phase of "The Access Initiative," providing new computers to 25 families with children in Gates County Schools.
"This marks our third time executing this program, and we are proud to say that each year we have successfully met the needs of every family that met our qualifications," expressed Sherley Jones, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership. "We extend our deepest gratitude to our community for its unwavering support, without which none of this would be possible."
"The Access Initiative" aims to tackle the digital divide within Gates County by equipping families in need with essential technology, ensuring that these students have the necessary tools to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
Computer recipient Ronelle Howell thanked Gates County Community Partnership for supporting her family with a laptop. She stated, "I pray your foundation continues to grow abundantly and continues to bless others!"
The digital divide poses a significant challenge, especially in rural areas where access to technology and the internet can be limited. In response, GCCP has made substantial strides to bridge this gap by donating over 140 computers to local students and their families over the past several years. These efforts aim to empower families and provide a foundation for educational improvement and social mobility.
"We are incredibly excited about the future! With true broadband now available to nearly all of Gates County, there's a genuine opportunity for these computers to be put to their best use," emphasized Chante Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership. "Our commitment to supporting our young people knows no bounds, and this initiative is just one piece of a large puzzle we aim to be present to complete."
As GCCP continues its vital work, the organization hopes to inspire others to come together in support of their community. "Conscious and committed collaboration creates countless opportunities," emphasized Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership.
Peek at "The Promise" - Emma Taylor
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 Emma Taylor, a 2021 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?
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology with a concentration in Forensics, along with a Minor in Creative Writing from Western Carolina University (WCU).
2. What are you up to now?
Currently, I am working at a family-owned funeral home in Canton, NC while I wait to hear back from graduate programs around the country. I am pursuing my Master’s Degree in Anthropology with a concentration in Forensics.
3. How did the "GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship" help ease your transition into college?
The GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship helped me by assisting in my tuition payments while I figured out how to navigate ‘adult life’ and focusing on my studies at WCU.
4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?
Transitioning into college was a challenging experience to say the least. I moved across the state to Cullowhee, NC, which is roughly 8 hours away in heavy traffic. This meant I couldn’t easily come back to visit family or friends in Gates.
College is typically the first time young adults are truly on their own to face the many trials of their newfound freedom. It’s a place where they can express themselves away from predetermined roles they found themselves in back at home. I was no exception to this. I found myself growing more confident and grew excited about schoolwork because I was in a field I truly cared about.
I made friends within the first two weeks of my classes, and many are still friends to this day. Some days were hard, as I became homesick, seeing what people back home were up to on social media. This homesickness motivated me to keep pursuing what I loved because I needed to make my friends and family proud.
5. What were some of your most rewarding experiences during college?
The most rewarding experience during my time at Western was being able to celebrate academic achievements with friends! We would finish midterms and spend dinner together at the Chili's on campus, then go back to the dorms to watch movies until morning. It became almost a tradition to take the night to ourselves and push our stressors to the side once accomplishing a big goal together.
6. In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?
In college, I became President of the Anthropology Department's club. I held this position for almost two years. When I started, no one on campus was interested in a club that hadn’t done any activities in years. I grew a team of superstars in the Anthropology Department, and with their help we were able to create a club that made our department stronger. Our goal was to bring our students together and familiarize them with our amazing faculty! When my time as President ended, we were one of the most successful clubs on campus.
7. What are your life goals/aspirations?
My current goals are short term. I want to pursue my Master’s Degree and PhD. I’m not sure of my career goal. I have been trying to go where the wind takes me. I have been told I would be a good professor, so that may be my future.
8. What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?
Something I wish I heard while looking for colleges is to not sweat the little things. Little stressors weigh you down. They hurt more than they should and can affect your mental and physical health. While it may be hard at first to shove off all these little things, once you get the hang of it, you’ll see how much brighter life is and ultimately have a better experience.
Another incredibly rewarding aspect about college is the ability to give back to your community. Try looking for opportunities to volunteer. This could be helping at a local animal shelter or soup kitchen.
9. Are there any significant accomplishments or experiences you would like to share?
I had an incredible opportunity at WCU to aid in a research project with one of my faculty members. This study was about a defect in dry bone that was able to be corrected by a spinal surgery known as Vertebroplasty. This surgery provides extra cushioning to a collapsed vertebrae so it functions. Recently, I was informed that our poster presentation gained interest at multiple conferences and our paper is now in the process of being published. In high school, I always said I’d be a published author one day. That day is coming sooner than expected!
10. Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?
Though I’m no longer in Gates and probably won’t be back for a while, I carry the lessons and memories I gained with me every day. I cannot express how thankful I am for everything I experienced back home; from the friends I made to the teachers who encouraged and inspired me. They helped shape who I am and how I see life even to this day.
Peek at "The Promise" - Victor Rountree
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.
Peek at "The Promise" - Damari Holley
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.
"Promoting Purpose" - Kleiauna Riddick
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.
"Busting Boundaries" at Central Middle School
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."
Peek at "The Promise" - Makayla Hathaway
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.
"Achievers” Spotlight – Kailyn Wilson
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 Kailyn Wilson, a 2023 graduate of Gates County High School and a recipient of Gates County Community Partnership’s “3 Sisters A.R.E. Achievers” Scholarship! This scholarship was sponsored by Dr. Crystal Harden of Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, UNC-Chapel Hill.
1. What major or area of study did you choose?
My major is Biology.
2. What are you up to now?
I am currently a senior honors student at North Carolina Central University. I am actively applying to Master’s Degree and Post-Baccalaureate programs to not only further my knowledge about the specific field that I’m interested in (medicine) but also to make me a better applicant for medical school and give me time to study for and take the MCAT.
3. How did the "3 Sisters ARE Achievers Scholarship" help ease your transition into college?
Receiving the “3 Sisters ARE Achievers Scholarship” helped my transition to college in several ways. The first one is financial freedom; this scholarship allowed me to focus solely on my academic endeavors without financial stress. This scholarship is also one of the reasons that I will be graduating debt-free. Lastly, this scholarship was a reminder that the people who chose me for this scholarship have so much faith in my future and the impact I WILL have on the world that they were willing to put money into it, and I refuse to let them down.
4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?
I was very intentional about my transition from high school to college and setting myself up for success in my first year in college. I knew that going from a small town (Gates County) where everyone knows everyone to THE “Bull City” would be an adjustment. I intentionally picked clubs and organizations I enjoyed in high school when I went to college. Last year at Central, I was a part of the D.R.E.A.M Volleyball Club, 11:11 Durham, and Women in Pre-Med; these clubs were where I met friends and mentors and traveled to different schools. Lastly, I didn’t forget about my support system back home. Although I am pretty independent, I made sure to stay in contact, of course, with my family, as well as with mentors, coaches, and teachers.
5. What have been some of the most rewarding experiences during college?
The most rewarding experience during college is being motivated every day to bring my best self because I’m surrounded by Excellence at my illustrious HBCU. I have been able to network with amazing peers both on and off of North Carolina Central University's campus through clubs such as Circle K International, Science African American Majors Evolving, 11:11 Durham Organization, and Women in Pre-Med.
6. In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?
My passion for community service started at Gates County High School through clubs like Beta, 4-H, and HOSA, but it flourished at NCCU. I attend a school where “Truth & Service” is our motto. I’ve volunteered at blood, coat, and hygiene drives, local churches in Durham, Eagle Preview, and so much more. My most meaningful community service work has been through the work I’ve done with Duke and NCCU through the Durham University Assisted Community Schools Research Collective. I’m a part of the curriculum sub-team, and this semester, I’ve assisted my team with finalizing the final touches and changes to the curriculum so that it can be utilized by college students in the spring of 2025. The purpose of the curriculum is to prepare college students with the knowledge needed to effectively understand and engage with vulnerable and minority populations before volunteering in public school settings.
7. What are your life goals/aspirations?
I aim to be a physician who can change our community's mistrust of healthcare and research.
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 best advice to a future college student would be to give yourself grace.
9. Are there any significant accomplishments or experiences you would like to share?
I was recently accepted into the UNC Shadowing Program and will begin shadowing physicians in January.
I recently became a Bubble Skincare campus ambassador, where I create content about Bubble Skincare products and share it on my social media accounts. I also complete different challenges around my campus to promote the brand, so I can’t wait to come up with new and creative content ideas in 2025.
I’m a student researcher for the Durham University Assisted Community Schools Research Collective (Duke & NCCU). In October, I traveled to Baltimore, MD, where I learned about the history of community schools in the Baltimore area and toured and saw schools such as Henderson-Hopkins School and Booker T. Washington Middle School.
In the Summer of 2024, I participated in two summer programs, the first one being the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) Experience at the University of Houston, where I networked and had the opportunity to do research with professionals in the biopharmaceutical manufacturing industry. The second one is the VCU Allied Health Career Exploration (ACHE) program; I had the opportunity to spend two weeks on the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) campus learning, exploring, and connecting with current students and faculty members as a part of nine allied health career programs that VCU offers.
10. Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?
Although Gates County is small, and resources may be limited, we are just as capable of greatness as our peers.
Peek at "The Promise" - Sydney Moore
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 Sydney Moore, a 2023 graduate of Gates County High School and a current student at 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?
I chose to major in Psychology to better connect with the world around me. Gaining a better understanding of the world we live in opened my eyes to see way more than what I had been exposed to in my hometown.
2. What are you up to now?
Currently, I am gearing up for a week of fun and fashion in Baltimore, Maryland in late February for the CIAA Basketball Tournament as a D’Lyte for the illustrious ECSU. Also, I will be performing in the CIAA step show with my devastating divas of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, as we won first place during our homecoming step show in October.
I will be graduating at 20 in May 2025. Afterwards, I will enlist in the Air Force as an officer and pursue my masters and PsyD. What happens after that will only be of God, for God, and with God!
3. How did the "GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship" help ease your transition into college?
The GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship eased my transition into college by handing my grace in a package! This scholarship has allowed me to be on my way across the stage with no debt or out of pocket expense. I am incredibly grateful for my journey and this scholarship has eased the burdens of financial stability. Not having to worry about anything other than making sure that my mind is clear and focused to receive all that is given during this period has been nothing short of a blessing.
4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?
The transition from high school to college was relatively easy. I was ready to leave high school. Leaving home and being on my own was an opportunity to explore who I was and to be great. I found the true meaning of faith my senior year of high school and God showed me the world through my dreams. So moving to college, I made sure that I knew I was in control of my future. My parents definitely picked the school that I attend, but it was the best decision and I was not ready to make it myself. I made sure that I had all the information needed to move forward and did everything I could to get to where I needed to be.
5. What have been some of the most rewarding experiences during college?
My most rewarding experiences so far in college are:
-Making the Cheer Team - I was scared because I was in the process of an identity crisis and thought cheerleading was all that I was. Then, I realized that cheerleading isn’t who I am, but it’s what I do.
-Becoming a Delta - I am blessed to say that I am a part of the devastating Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. The sisterhood has taught me to be confident and to not hide anything about myself, to stand up straight, put your shoulders back with reason, and know what you know and be humble enough to seek more.
-Passing Every Semester with As and Bs - This shows my willpower. If I want it I will have it, no matter what.
6. In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?
In high school, community service wasn’t a priority, but it was definitely a part of the deal. Now it is a priority! I have completed a significant amount of community service hours through both my sorority and my cheerleading team. As a result, I have learned the term “networking” and how being a good person draws people who make you better. I have participated in parades, food banks, sister givings, and other service initiatives.
7. What are your life goals/aspirations?
To be righteous and be graced with eternal life.
8. What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?
In a world ruled by evil, choose good.
9. Are there any significant accomplishments or experiences you would like to share?
Friendships are even better than expected.
To pray and believe that there is more to life and that you want to experience it with other people that understand you and have nothing but the best intentions for you. To have nothing but true honesty and support from people you would have never expected to love so deeply. To experience life in such a pure and soul quenching way. To have a truly fulfilled prayer of spending my life with other people who have the same views of life as well as having an unwavering understanding of differences.
I am proud to say these are my experiences and I will cherish them until the Lord calls me home.
10. Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?
Speak the truth in love. There is more out in the world than your phone, beyond the media, beyond your parents, beyond what you can see. Expand and live a life that you and God would be proud of. There is more than just Gates County. Don’t stand still when you can run.