Community College Student Academic Excellence Recognized

ASHEBORO (April 25, 2008)

Randolph Community College students Permelia Ann Cox of Climax and Tony R. Garner of Asheboro were among 116 students from 58 community colleges who received praise and special awards at a luncheon at the North Raleigh Hilton on April 16. This was the 11th time more than 600 community college staff, students and supporters, including about 15 legislators, gathered to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of selected students.

Cox is a student in the Office Systems Technology curriculum at RCC, while Garner is completing his degree in Machining Technology. Both are candidates for graduation in May 2008.

The event was also a chance to pay special tribute to retiring System President Martin Lancaster, who with Cape Fear Community College President Eric McKeithan, created the event to praise students and give deserved acknowledgment to the colleges that educate them. Several speakers took the opportunity to thank Lancaster for his years of service to the community colleges and especially to the students.

Three students shared their personal stories of success and in doing so, represented all the students in the room, each with his or her personal story of triumph over adversity or special challenges.