After graduating from Clinton High School in 1977, Steve Vernon visited Sampson Community College (SCC) for the first time, with the intent to further his education. However, plans changed and his college career was put on hold as he accepted a job within the manufacturing industry. “When the company I worked for suddenly closed and outsourced, it provided me with the opportunity to go to college and make a career change” states Vernon. Thirty-two years later, in August of 2009, his dream of a college education began as he enrolled at SCC in the Early Childhood Education program.

“During my time at SCC, I found the staff and instructors to be outstanding” adds Vernon. “They always encouraged me to succeed and supported me in this endeavor”. Excelling academically, Steve received numerous awards and honors including being inducted into Phi-Theta-Kappa Honor Society where he served as Vice President, receiving the Academic Excellence Award and being selected to attend a reception at the Governor’s Executive Mansion. He graduated in May of 2013 with an Associate Degree in Applied Science/ Early Childhood Education and high honors with a 4.0 grade point average.

After graduating, Steve began to give back as he was hired by the Sampson County School System as a First Grade Teaching Assistant at Salemburg Elementary. “Every day offers me the amazing opportunity to make a difference in a young child’s life” smiles Vernon. “I relish the thought that I might be able to play a small part in helping a child reach their full potential.  If I can help children believe in themselves and strive to do their best, I am satisfied at the end of each day.”

“I would advise any student that has the opportunity to go to college to consider Sampson Community College.  SCC offers amazing associate degree programs with low tuition. Additionally, SCC offers anyone a chance at a better future.”

For more information about Sampson Community College, visit sampsoncc.edu or call 910-592-8081, Sampson Community College, “Begin Here, Go Anywhere”.