SANFORD - Donors and scholarship recipients were recognized during the Central Carolina Community College Foundation Scholarship Luncheon on Wednesday, Nov. 15, at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center.

The Master of Ceremonies for the event was Don Schwenneker "Big Weather", Chief Meteorologist at WTVD ABC11 television.

Schwenneker spoke of his experiences as a meteorologist. "These forecasts and weather outcomes have created some incredible stories, especially in the aftermath of tough storms like hurricanes. Stories about incredible people who step up during these times to make real change in our world and in our communities," he said. "I have learned valuable lessons from them and others, and I have worked hard to pass those lessons to our audience by my storytelling during my time on air. Storytelling that has created change, improved lives, informed or simply entertained.

"One thing I have learned is that these stories, no matter how complete they may seem, can continue to evolve. The 'what' may not change, but maybe the 'who' or 'why' will be different after a period of time," said Schwenneker. "Stories are constantly evolving, and that is the true message of the stories that you are going to hear today. Tales of amazing people who have chosen to take action to change their stories ... an action that in all cases is tied to our community's college, Central Carolina Community College."

Guest speakers, with their areas of study, were scholarship recipients Kendal Gaines (General Occupational Technology - PTA), Aidan Dorman (Building Construction Technology), Reid Thomas (Basic Law Enforcement Training), and Aisha Nettles (Laser & Photonics Technology).

Gaines is in her first year at CCCC - and a member of the volleyball team. "I would consider myself blessed beyond measure," said Gaines, who spoke about how the financial support from the Foundation allowed her to focus on things that are important to her. She joined with several others to start a Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at the school. "The study we are in right now is called 'Something Greater.' It talks about how this wasn't just an accident that you were here, but it was planned a long time ago," she said. "Everything was planned out and done for a certain purpose and the Foundation has been a part of many students' stories and allows them to be something greater."

Dorman began by saying, "I want to thank all scholarship donors. It wouldn't be possible without you today." The Building Construction Technology student said one of his biggest goals is to get his degree so that he is able to help veterans in need of a home and to be able to build homes for them. "To end my speech today, I want to say don't focus on the bigger picture and get overwhelmed with all the changes you might have to do to get toward your goal, but focus on all the right changes you had to do to work toward your goal."

Thomas spoke of the financial challenges of becoming a CCCC student - and the support from college officials and the Foundation to help make it possible to attend school. "After BLET (Basic Law Enforcement Training), I hope to devote to much care and effort to people. Over time, I have found a professional life that provides a supreme level of meaning and high, noble responsibilities is one of the highest if not the highest aims in life," he said. "The Foundation allows me to pursue a career in law enforcement, specifically with the State Bureau of Investigation." He add that he hopes to live his life for others because his life is not for his own benefit but to live for others.

Nettles talked about her educational journey - which includes a return to CCCC to study Lasers & Photonics Technology. She points to the various scholarships she has receive that allows her to attend college. "We as students are dreaming of a bright future, but sometimes need a little extra help moving our dreams to reality," said Nettles. "All this is because of you - the donors. Give from your hearts to the school to make sure that a student like me is given a chance to be a better me, to prove that the impossible is possible, and to know someone somewhere who cares. That makes a world of difference and is never forgotten. Thank you!"

Tana Boerger, CCCC Foundation Board Chair, provided welcoming remarks. "Today is about forecasting the future and how our students are changing the stories of their own personal weather forecasts," said Boerger. "Thank you to all of the donors here today for investing in our students' lives and helping them predict and prepare for their futures."

Invocation was by Steve Heesacker, CCCC Foundation Faculty/Staff Representative.

The meal was provided by CCCC's Central Carolina Culinary Institute.

For downloadable photos from the event, visit: www.cccc.edu/foundation/photo-galleries.

The CCCC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization affiliated with, but independent of, Central Carolina Community College. It receives donations of money and equipment on behalf of CCCC and uses them to promote the educational mission of the college and assist students through scholarships and grants.

"This day means so much to our students who wouldn't be achieving their dreams without your generosity and support. Each of you are not only helping change the lives of our students, but you are also bettering the communities in which we live," said Dr. Emily C. Hare, Executive Director of the CCCC Foundation.

For information on giving to the Foundation or its fund-raising events, contact Dr. Emily C. Hare, Executive Director of the CCCC Foundation, 919-718-7230 or ehare@cccc.edu.