RCC Graduate David Wells Receives Lumber River Workforce Development Award

Laurinburg, NC - December 19, 2011

David Wells of Laurinburg is the 2011 recipient of the Lumber River Workforce Development Scotland County Outstanding WIA Adult of the Year. A graduate of Richmond Community College's Early Childhood Education program, he continued taking RCC's college-transfer courses in preparation for a bachelor's degree at St. Andrews University. His goal is to teach at a middle school in Scotland County and pursue a doctorate in education.

David Wells is an example of what an education can mean for someone born on the cusp of two worlds. He began his professional career in the 1980s as a car salesman in Ohio. He didn't need a high school diploma to do well in that profession. He moved to Laurinburg several years ago and continued to do well as a car salesman. Then, the economy took a downturn and car sales stalled. He was out of a job and in a new world where a high school diploma is the absolute minimum requirement for most jobs. He didn't have one and couldn't find another job.

Thanks to the professional staff at the Scotland County Division of Employment Security, Wells was directed to Richmond Community College and a new world of college degrees and job opportunities.

"They encouraged me to get my GED, put me in touch with the right people at RCC, and I obtained it in time to enroll at RCC that fall. I received Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funds through the DES in conjunction with the Lumber River Workforce Development Board. That paid for tuition and textbooks. Their support was essential in my being able to attend college," said Wells.

He earned an associate in applied science degree from RCC in Early Childhood Education, tutored at North Laurinburg Elementary School, and decided he wants to teach. He continued taking courses at RCC in preparation for a teaching degree at St. Andrews University. He begins there in January as a second semester junior. The university is getting a good student and a good leader. He has served as RCC's Student Government Association president for the past year.

Division of Employment Security JobLink Manager Betty Galloway said she wished all of their participants were like Wells. He was selected to receive the Lumber River Workforce Development Board Scotland County Outstanding WIA Adult of the Year. He was presented the award at the organization's holiday banquet last week.

In accepting the award, Wells thanked God for a teachable mind; his wife, Angela, for her support, and Scotland JobLink employees Betty Galloway, Mamie Massie, and Arlene Thorne for believing in him and affording him the opportunity to earn his degree. He credited RCC President Dr. Dale McInnis with serving as his mentor.

"After presenting me my GED, I saw him in the hallway. He pointed his finger at me and said, 'If I can do anything for you, let me know.' He has talked with me and encouraged me. I've seen him do that with other students. It has meant so much to me," said Wells.

Wells said the WIA program is a valuable resource and he is proof the program works.

"I'm no one special, nor have I done anything special. I was just given an opportunity and ran with it. The people I have mentioned have not just made a difference, they have been  the difference. I want to make a difference as well. Teaching children will be my profession, reaching children will be my passion. Thank you and may God bless all of you," said Wells.