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.
Gates County Community Partnership Awards College Scholarships to Local Seniors
Since 2019, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) has been honored to award the GCCP North Carolina Promise Tuition Plan Scholarship to graduating seniors from Gates County High School. This prestigious scholarship provides funding for one year of tuition at four esteemed institutions: Elizabeth City State University, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Fayetteville State University, and Western Carolina University. This year's distinguished recipients are Justin Powell, Kent Askew, and Leah Moore. Justin and Kent will be attending UNC-Pembroke, while Leah will enroll at Elizabeth City State University.
"Our mission to uplift the educational aspirations of Gates County's students resonates deeply with us, and awarding these scholarships is a source of immense pride," expressed Chante Jordan, President, Gates County Community Partnership.
The North Carolina Promise Tuition Plan, an initiative by the State of North Carolina, strives to make high-quality university education more accessible through the University of North Carolina system by offering reduced tuition costs, subsidized by state funds. GCCP actively supports students who benefit from this crucial program, viewing it as a strategic investment in their educational journey.
Sandra Jordan Branch, Director, Gates County Community Partnership, shared her thoughts, stating, "We believe that the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong duty. College provides a framework and opportunities for our youth to excel and flourish. It is about becoming the best version of ourselves to make the most positive impact on our communities."
As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity, Gates County Community Partnership is dedicated to fostering community engagement among Gates County citizens, focusing on the educational and social development of its young people.
Gates County Community Partnership Donates to Gates County High School's Science Department
In a generous move to bolster the educational journey of Gates County High School students, Gates County Community Partnership donated $750 to the school's science department. The funding is set to empower school science teachers, Ms. Renee Kittrell, Ms. Rachael Badgett, and Ms. Ashley Hall, in purchasing necessary lab supplies and consumables.
The importance of funding for science supplies cannot be overstated. At present, Gates County Schools allocates a small amount per teacher annually for classroom supplies. The high school science department has traditionally pooled these funds to purchase essential items like chemicals, personal protective equipment, and consumables. However, these funds often fall short, leaving the teachers to supplement their classroom needs out of their own pockets.
Without sufficient funding, the opportunity for students to engage in exciting and challenging lab experiments is limited, potentially stifling their ability to develop vital skills. Whether students pursue careers in STEM fields or not, the expertise developed through a robust science education serves as a foundation for lifelong learning and success.
"During a recent grant collaboration with the science department of Gates County High School, we found out about the need for more funding to support the annual purchases of miscellaneous supplies and consumables. The story touched the heart of one of our benefactors and they immediately expressed their desire to fully fund the cause. We are excited for the future," stated Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Vice President of Gates County Community Partnership.
The impact of this donation extends beyond the financial relief it provides. Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent of Gates County Schools, highlighted the significance of the contribution: "Gates County High School is thrilled to receive this generous anonymous donation, as science education is crucial for our students' future success. This incredible gift will be used to directly support our dedicated science teachers by helping to offset their out-of-pocket expenses for classroom supplies and activities. Now they can better focus on what they do best: inspiring the next generation of scientists."
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.