[Clinton, N.C.] –Sampson Community College (SCC) is continuing to highlight Spring 2025 graduates who have received one or more scholarships from the SCC Foundation during their time at the College. One of those individuals is Madeline Howard, a recent Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) graduate who received the Alice Smith-Harris Nursing Scholarship for 2024-25.

In 2017, Howard graduated from Cape Fear High School before enrolling in SCC’s ADN program in January 2023. Remarking that she heard nothing but praise from former SCC nursing students, Howard applied and immediately felt that the College was “exactly where I was supposed to be.”

She recalled, “I know many graduates from SCC that had nothing but great things to say about our school. SCC was my only choice and the only school I applied to the nursing program. I got in the first time I applied- it was meant to be.”

Howard currently works as an Emergency Department Tech/CNA II. After passing the NCLEX, she plans to start her nursing residency at Cape Fear Valley, serving in the emergency department. Howard is also a mother to a five-year-old son, who she described as magnifying her drive to graduate from SCC and ultimately pursue her BSN in the Fall.

She explained, “My son has truly motivated me to pursue my degree. I knew I always wanted to be a nurse ever since I was a little girl, but after having my son I was more motivated than ever. I wanted to pursue my dreams but also wanted to be someone my son could be proud of.”

During the 2024-2025 academic year, Howard was awarded The Alice Smith Harris Nursing Scholarship. Established in 2005 by Mr. Cecil Harris, in memory of his wife, the award recognizes outstanding students who wish to enter the profession of nursing. The couple lived in Clinton for many years and had special affection and respect for the nursing staff of Sampson Regional Medical Center.

Howard thanked, “I felt blessed to be chosen to receive a scholarship. It was a tremendous help to my educational journey. This scholarship has helped me progress in the program. Scholarships allow education to happen/continue and reduces the burden on the student. To the donors and the SCC Foundation, thank you so much for playing a huge role in me being able to obtain my degree. I am so thankful for receiving it.”

Reflecting on her time in the program, Howard shared that SCC employs “amazing” nursing instructors who create a student-orientated educational atmosphere. She expressed that she would wholeheartedly recommend the ADN program to other individuals looking to begin a nursing career, as SCC truly prepares graduates for successful careers in healthcare.

Howard closed, “At SCC, you can do anything. You are set up for success here. This is a student-oriented school. My experience in the nursing program has been well worth it. It has taught me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. I have enjoyed learning and preparing to becoming an RN. I can’t wait to go out and help others as a nurse.”

Sampson CC very proud of Madeline for her accomplishments at the College. The Foundation loves seeing the impact scholarships have on students and looks forward to seeing all she will continue to do throughout her education and healthcare career.

The deadline to apply for scholarships each year is April 15. Over 100 opportunities are available with just one application. Apply today at www.sampsoncc.edu/scholarships.

For more information about the SCC Foundation, visit www.sampsoncc.edu/foundation.

About Sampson Community College:  Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options and early college education. SCC is committed to the principles of equal educational and employment opportunities for all.