SANFORD - Bianka Rhodes Stumpf, Lead Social Sciences Instructor, has been selected as Central Carolina Community College's Faculty Member of the Year for 2017-2018.

Ms. Stumpf was a finalist for the North Carolina Community College System's 2018 Excellence in Teaching Award.

"Ms. Stumpf energizes her students through her creative teaching techniques that leave an everlasting impression on all of her students." said CCCC President Dr. T.E. Marchant.

Dr. Brian Merritt, CCCC Vice President of Learning & Workforce Development, said that changing students' lives is what Ms. Stumpf's work is all about. "Chosen locally by her peers as the 2017 Faculty Member of the Year at Central Carolina Community College, Bianka's analytical skills, her passion for education, her energy, innovation and recent accomplishments all combine to have an incredible impact on her students and colleagues," said Dr. Merritt.

"In the classroom, Mrs. Stumpf creates an interactive learning environment that engages students and promotes discussions," said one of her former students. "Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Stumpf champions her students and supports them in any way possible."

Another former student stated, "Though Mrs. Stumpf has affected my life more than any other instructor has (or ever will), another thing I admire is the amazing content of her character. Mrs. Stumpf turned into my mentor."

Ms. Stumpf said the most moving part of this recognition is that it requires nomination by her teaching peers and selection by a committee of colleagues across the College. "I work, learn, and collaborate with some exceptional educators, so to have been given their endorsement is affirming," she said. "The award also serves as another nudge to continue the very hard, but unquestionably worthy, work of teaching with competence, creativity, and compassion. It's a reminder to keep at it and serve students."

Ms. Stumpf received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Catawba College, her Master of Education degree from Campbell University, and has done Post-Graduate work at Fayetteville State University.

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