Isothermal News

Marla L. Bailey (Arts & Sciences Division) - Day Student

Associate of Arts Degree

Marla Bailey is a student who consistently takes responsibility for what she learns and how.  In ENG 111, for instance, she extensively researched a project that interested her personally – the differences and similarities between Polk County, Iowa, where she grew up, and Polk County, NC, where she now resides.  It was clear as the project progressed that this was not just a paper she had to write; it was a topic she found interesting and energizing.  Of course, the writing was good, too.  That same semester, she placed second in the Anuran essay contest. 

Although independent and self-directed, Marla also works well with others, In classroom situations, she contributes fully to group work and works successfully with students of all ages.  Another trait is her willingness to ask questions if she has trouble understanding something or if she disagrees.

Reflection is yet another trait.  In the fall of 2009, Marla received the Dr. Barbara Peterson Award for Excellence for her graduate portfolio, partly because she gave so much thought to the reflection she wrote for each artifact.  Marla explored what worked for her as a learner and why.

As is true for many of our students, Marla has also been busy with life.  She and her husband have a 10-year-old daughter with whom Marla spends much quality time.  In fact, they walk the mile or so to Tryon Elementary School together every day, rain or shine! 

Jennifer D. East (Applied Sciences & Technology) - Day Student

Advertising & Graphic Design

Jennifer East is a nontraditional student who returned to school as a displaced worker.  She came to Isothermal Community College with extraordinary skills in fiber arts accumulated through formal and informal education and years of experience.  As a lab assistant, she oversees students as they challenge new software and also provides a calming presence as newer students attempt tough assignments.  Jennifer has become the “go to” person for all the students and instructors as well.  She sets a high standard for herself and is a role model for others.  Her outstanding grades and accomplishments illustrate her talents and commitment of  lifelong learning She is a valued employee of the College and mentor for many.

Brandi Blackwood (Health Sciences - ADN Program)- Day Student

Associate Degree Nursing

The recipient of this award also received the award last spring.  She has consistently excelled in all areas of nursing theory and practice.  She clearly has an aptitude for nursing.  She exhibits very good critical thinking skills and demonstrates a clinical practice that is clearly excellent.  This is the last semester of her Associate Degree Nursing Program and she maintains the same, calm, quiet demeanor that she had at the beginning.  Her current nursing preceptor describes her as “Outstanding”.  The ADN faculty and director do as well.

Ashley Austin (Health Sciences - LPN Program) – Day Student

Licensed Practical Nursing

Ashley exhibits a commitment to excellence in all of her endeavors.  As class president, she demonstrates an initiative to resolve any problems that may arise during the one-year program.  She demonstrates a cooperative spirit and willingness to help others.  Academically, she is always prepared for class and she completes assignments with minimal direction.  Submitted paperwork is completed in a very thorough and concise manner.  She clearly serves as an inspiration to others.

Daniel Kurkendall (Developmental Ed. & Academic Support) – Day  Student

Mechanical Drafting Technology

Daniel has the characteristics that make him successful in class and in life.  He is good-natured, responsible, conscientious, and hardworking - traits that make him a leader.  He treats class the way he probably treated his former job and the way he will treat his future job;  he is always thoughtful, and he always does his best.  He provides a benchmark for other students to follow, and other students respond to his example.

Camille Ratliff (Business Sciences) – Day Student

Medical Office Administration

Camille Ratliff  is a conscientious, intelligent and highly motivated student.  Her thirst for knowledge exceeds the boundaries of her class assignments.  She is interested more in learning and applying what she learns than just getting a grade.  As a result of  her dedication, hard work, and determination, this student gets along well with both students and faculty.  Willingly accepting the challenges given to her, she consistently exceeds all expectations.  She is a perfect model of the behavior and temperament required for success in today’s work environment.  Camille is a genuine pleasure to have in the classroom.  As her instructors, we are confident that her future will remain bright!

Craig Bailey (Adult High School/GED) – Day Student

Adult High School Diploma

Craig is pursuing his Adult High School Diploma.  He would like to join the National Guard one day and this accomplishment is a requirement.  He strives for perfection and has an A average in all his courses.

Evelyn G. Wright – (Arts & Sciences) - Evening Student

Dual Enrollment Student

Evelyn Wright truly stands apart as a student at ICC.  She is extremely creative in her approach to problem solving and writing and sets high standards for herself.  She always does more than is asked of her and often helps other students.  Her consistent high ethics and values are prevalent in her work.  She has a calm and thoughtful demeanor and is truly interested in everything that she can learn from her instructors..  Evelyn plans to go to nursing school and become a neonatal RN.  She will be wonderful at her job!

David Pittman (Developmental Ed. & Academic Support)-Evening Student

Building Construction Technology

David deserves this award because of his great attitude towards life and math.  It doesn’t matter what we ask David to do, he always does it with a smile.  Furthermore, David does not settle for just a passing grade; he strives to be and do his best at everything he does in the classroom.  He goes above and beyond what is expected of him whether it is doing extra problems to master a concept or putting in extra time to stay on schedule.  We can always count on David to make our job not only pleasurable, but truly rewarding.

Jenny Dalton (Business Sciences)-Evening Student

Business Administration

Jenny Dalton has demonstrated hard work and dedication since becoming a student at Isothermal Community College.  She has been able to overcome numerous personal challenges with the same strength and determination that brought her to the attention of  her instructors and peers.  An extraordinarily bright and articulate young woman, Jenny can always be relied upon to lead class discussions and frequently encourages others to do the same.  As an officer and member of Phi Theta Kappa, Isothermal Community College’s invitation only honor society, Jenny has used her leadership skills to serve her college and community.  Diligent, focused, and quietly determined to succeed, Jenny is more than an exemplary student.  She is genuinely liked and respected by the faculty and her peers.

Nannette Washburn (Adult High School/GED)-Evening Student

GED

Nannette is a hard worker.  She has been a faithful evening student in the Basic Skills Program since December 02, 2008.  It is evident that her hard work has paid off; she has passed all the GED tests except Math while working a full time job.

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Mike Gavin
Director of Marketing and Community Relations
Isothermal Community College

828-286-3636, ext. 206