SANFORD - Tiffany Gee has been chosen as Central Carolina Community College's selection for "The Great Within the 58" academic excellence award sponsored by the North Carolina Community College System.

Gee, of Cary, is a student in the Veterinary Medical Technology program.

Here is Gee's story, in her own words:

"My time here at Central Carolina Community College has been nothing short of life changing. Like many adult or returning students, obtaining a college degree has been a lifelong desire of mine. I have had a few college experiences prior to coming to CCCC, at universities as well as other community colleges, and I can honestly say that none have been as helpful and welcoming as CCCC. The Veterinary Medical Technology program is very challenging in and of itself, but it has been extremely helpful to have an administrative team of advisors, registrars, and financial aid advisors to help make the enrollment and registration process less stressful and complicated. The affordability of enrollment and access to scholarship funds actually made my attendance possible. I have had so much love, support, and encouragement from my teachers and fellow classmates that has most certainly aided in and influenced my success during my time here. I am eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to attend CCCC and pursue my goal of achieving a higher education -- and I look forward to utilizing the skills learned here in my future endeavors."

Gee was nominated for the award by Megan Kelly, CCCC Animal Facilities Manager and Veterinary Medical Technology instructor. "When the word 'great' is mentioned in our department, there is consistently one student that immediately comes to the mind of every faculty member in the VMT program -- Tiffany Gee," said Kelly.

"Tiffany embodies the spirit of hard work and dedication, and puts forth her maximum effort into every task that she undertakes. She approaches every task and assignment with grit and determination that is rarely seen in everyday life, much less academics," said Kelly.

"She takes time to mentor her fellow classmates when they are struggling. She listens to them and genuinely seeks their success along with her own. Tiffany always has thoughtful commentary to add to lectures, often drawing from her own life experiences that enrich the teaching environment for both students and faculty," said Kelly.

"In addition to being a full-time VMT student, Tiffany also works full time in the veterinary industry," said Kelly. "She is well known in the community at large for being dependable, intelligent, and kind."

For more information on Central Carolina Community College, visit www.cccc.edu.