���سԹ� (BCC) is proud to announce the appointment of Lisa Fields as the College’s first Dean of Public Safety. In this newly created leadership role, Fields will oversee all public safety-related programs housed in and operated in conjunction with the Alan Holden Public Safety Center, currently under construction on BCC’s main campus in Bolivia.

“Lisa Fields is a proven leader whose dedication to public service, student empowerment, and strategic innovation will be instrumental in shaping the future of public safety training at BCC and beyond,” said Dr. Gene Smith, President of BCC. “Her appointment represents a bold step forward in our mission to deliver exceptional, real-world training for the public safety professionals in our region.”

Fields brings more than 25 years of law enforcement experience and 18 years in higher education, including her current role as Department Chair for BCC’s Professional & Technical Division. During her time at BCC, she has led key initiatives in curriculum development, student success, and community engagement—particularly in high-demand sectors like Criminal Justice and Public Safety Administration.

“It is an honor to lead Public Safety programs at ���سԹ�, particularly at a time when the need is greater than ever,” Fields said. “The Alan Holden Public Safety Center will be a game changer as we lead the future of public service in Brunswick County. Together with our dedicated faculty and community partners, we are preparing the next generation of public safety professionals to serve with integrity, resilience, and excellence.”

In addition to her public safety credentials, Fields has contributed significantly to institutional innovation. She played a key role in modernizing the College’s Cosmetology program, oversaw the rollout of Watermark Faculty Success for academic reporting, and has consistently built strong community partnerships to support BCC’s mission.

Fields holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Indiana State University and a Graduate Certificate in Community College Leadership from UNC Wilmington. She is currently completing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of the Cumberlands, with a research focus on student achievement and community impact.

She is also a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor, Title IX coordinator, and the 2024 recipient of the Dr. Susanne H. Adams Excellence in Leadership Award.

The Alan Holden Public Safety Center, now under construction, will be a 28,278-square-foot facility equipped with cutting-edge technology and simulation labs, including a VirTra Simulator, tactical firearms room, self-defense training space, EMS scenario labs, driving simulators, and an apparatus bay. The Center will serve as a central hub for preparing tomorrow’s first responders and emergency professionals throughout southeastern North Carolina.

August 2025

The post Lisa Fields Named Inaugural Dean of Public Safety at ���سԹ� appeared first on ���سԹ�.

���سԹ� proudly honored the newest graduates of its Manicure Program during a special ceremony held at the Douglas Terhune Center for Culinary Arts. Family, friends, instructors, and BCC leadership gathered to recognize the hard work and dedication of each student as they completed the one-semester course.

Graduates heard encouraging remarks from Greg Bland, Vice President of Continuing Education and Economic & Workforce Development; Program Director Takesha Grady; and Instructor Jessica Hargrove. The program equips students with the skills needed for a successful career in the Beauty and Wellness industry, offering hands-on training in a simulated salon environment.

With a focus on safety and sanitation, nail art, artificial nail enhancements, and customer service, students leave prepared to sit for the North Carolina State Board Licensure Exams—and step confidently into a new profession.

Congratulations to:
Delma Desrosiers, Norgui L. Florian, Alexis Kirchoff, Shania Lance, Stefany K. Barrenechea Poucer, Ana M. Izcano Perdomo, Skyler Plamondon, Danielle Powell, Morgan R. Rogers, Alyala A. Sangsawangwatana, and Laura A. Vernau.

Interested in enrolling in the next session?
Learn more about the Manicure Program and other Beauty & Wellness offerings at BCC:
/continuing-education-workforce-development/beauty-wellness-licensure-programs

July 2025

The post Celebrating Manicure Program Graduates at BCC appeared first on ���سԹ�.

May 8, 2025

The post BCC Graduates 52 from Nursing Program appeared first on ���سԹ�.

Born and raised in central North Carolina, Larry Turnage has called Ocean Isle Beach home for over 40 years. He first arrived in 1983 to partner with his father in launching a local HVAC business. Just three years later, Larry became a licensed contractor, building a reputation for expertise, integrity, and hard work—qualities that have guided him through every chapter of his remarkable journey.

In 1996, Larry felt called to serve in a new way. He entered Southeastern Baptist Seminary, began pastoral ministry locally, and found himself leading mission teams across the globe while continuing to support the HVAC business he helped build at home. In 2004, his wife Phyllis launched a management services company, and in 2009, Larry joined her full-time, offering various services for beach rental homes.

A few years ago, the Turnages decided to scale back, ease into retirement, and chase a long-time dream of visiting all 50 states. They made it to state number 38 when ���سԹ� came calling with a new kind of opportunity—helping build an HVAC program from the ground up on the main campus in Bolivia. At first, Larry was hesitant. The lab wasn’t ready. The program needed everything. But something in him stirred. “I wasn’t looking for full-time work again,” he recalls. “But I’ve never walked away from a challenge, especially one that could make a difference.”

He interviewed, was offered the job, and accepted — a decision that changed everything. What started with 10 students, and a shared vision has grown into a thriving program—and a fully equipped teaching lab—thanks to Larry’s hands-on approach and unwavering belief in the potential of others. “We dug in and turned it around in no time flat,” Larry says. “Students started earning their certifications and finding work even before graduation. We’ve grown the program by 600%, and our students range in age from 17 to 71.” One student told him, “This school and the HVAC program have changed my family’s life.” Larry says it’s changed his too. “What wasn’t even on my radar 18 months ago is now a heartfelt passion. Thanks to BCC’s leadership and an incredible team of coworkers, I’ve found a deeper purpose.”

Though he once planned to stay just long enough to get things started, Larry now sees retirement as a distant idea. When he’s not teaching, he’s traveling or cheering on his grandson, an up-and-coming athlete. And in the quiet moments, he’s working on a book—Love, Life, Loss & the Lord—a personal story of resilience, faith, and service. It’s sure to be a best seller. Larry Turnage is a mentor, a builder, and a beacon of hope. And at BCC, we’re proud to call him one of our own.

April 2025

The post Faculty Friday: Meet Larry Turnage – A Life of Purpose, Passion, and Paying It Forward appeared first on ���سԹ�.

The post Faculty Friday: Sara ‘Kathryn’ Davenport appeared first on ���سԹ�.

We continue our Black History Month celebration with some thoughts from student-athlete Tyre Boykin. Tyre is a BCC sophomore and plays guard for the Dolphins Men’s Basketball Team. ��

To him, Black History Month is a time to honor what our ancestors and black historians fought for. “It is an opportunity to embrace and celebrate our ethnicity and achievements throughout the years, though it is still a work in progress,” said Tyre. “Black history is something that we should celebrate throughout the year, but it’s also good to emphasize the impact of black-owned businesses, movements, talent, inventors, foods, and culture during February.”��

If you’ve seen Tyre (No. 4) in action on the court, you know he does not back down from a challenge. “Throughout my life, people told me what I couldn’t do because of my background, size, and skin color,” said Tyre. “They said the odds were against me because I was a black male raised in a single-parent household. That may have been the case, but it didn’t stop me. I focus on staying grounded, uplifted, and reminded that I do not have to be a statistic. Every challenge has made me stronger. Plus, with God on my side, anything is possible.”��������

Tyre said his parents and brother inspire him most when asked about role models. “They are black business owners, and I’ve watched them put in the work to achieve their goals. They make me want to start a business of my own one day.”��������

In the meantime, Tyre encourages others to join him in giving back to the community by volunteering at food banks and homeless shelters. “I also enjoy mentoring at local schools,” he said. “Playing basketball and spending time with youth is always a joy. We can all do those things to keep Black History Month alive.”��

February 2024

����

The post BCC Student Athlete Shares Thoughts on Black History Month appeared first on ���سԹ�.

As we celebrate Black History Month (BHM) at BCC, we want to look within our organization and learn from our Black leaders, students, athletes, and staff. The first of these remarkable people is 17-year BCC veteran leader Onya Gardner,��Dean of Continuing Education and Workforce Development.

When asked what BHM means to her, she quickly pointed out that it’s not just for black people. “It’s for every one of every color and background to recognize our differences and the beauty that comes from them,” said Onya.

A few years ago, when she took on new leadership roles in her career and sorority, , Onya said she learned more about the people who helped pave the way for her. “We all know about the very famous Black Americans who helped shape monumental change, but I realized there were so many others that we don’t talk about and should,” she said. “For example, brands like Hidden Valley were created by Black Americans. We also invented traffic lights, folding chairs, automatic elevator doors, and many other things we often take for granted. Black History Month is a time to reflect on and be grateful for everyone who did not allow adversity to stand in the way of making a difference.

Closer to home, Onya speaks proudly of her father. “He graduated from Bolivia High School and was one of the first Black Americans to attend the first year of integration,” she said. While it wasn’t easy for him, he stayed the course, got good grades, and played basketball. Later he became an English and History teacher, and then an Assistant Principal. He worked at Leland Middle, South Brunswick, and North Brunswick High Schools and retired after a long and fulfilling career.”

Onya has special ties to her sorority and currently serves as president of the local chapter Alpha Psi Omega. Founded at Howard University in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha is the oldest Greek-lettered organization established by African American college-educated women. “This is extra special because my mom is also a member and serves as the sorority’s International Secretary,” she said. “In 2023 AKA established the FIRST, Black-owned, woman-led, sorority-based, digital banking financial institution in the history of the United States, For Members Only Credit Union. As the International Secretary, my mom’s signature is on the founding documents. I’ve watched my mom continue the sorority’s 116-year mission of scholarship, sisterhood, and service to all mankind. She inspires me to do the same. She is my most important role model.”

While she is grateful for BHM as it is a moment dedicated to remembering, learning, and celebrating, she works hard all year to do that. “I stay involved, take on new roles, and always remain authentically Onya,” she said. “Sometimes, I’m the only Black woman on a Board of Directors, but that’s okay. I take advantage of my seat at the table by participating and taking the opportunity to share my perspective. I also bring others with me, helping to broaden our reach and contribute more fully.”

If you haven’t yet met Onya, please reach out to her at gardnero@brunswickcc.edu. You will find a warm and inviting leader with a great smile who dedicates herself daily to helping all students succeed.

The post BCC’s Onya Gardner Reflects on Black History Month appeared first on ���سԹ�.

After an introduction from BCC’s Director of Customized Training, Steve Hulon, Captain Sellers provided an overview of the fire station’s services, safety tips, and fire extinguishers employees can expect to find at their workplace. He trained employees on how to operate the extinguishers and maintain them safely. Employees participated in a timed exercise, allowing each to fight a simulated fire. This event exemplifies the hundreds of Customized Training programs designed by the college for companies of all shapes and sizes throughout Brunswick County, NC.

“Our goal is to foster and support the job growth, technology investment, and productivity of the companies we serve,” said Hulon. “We work with companies to understand their goals and unique training needs and then use our extensive network of resources to design and execute customized programs.” In addition to safety, BCC provides training focused on improving communication skills, organizational effectiveness, continuous improvement, quality, technical and mechanical skills, and more. Contact Steve Hulon at (910) 755-7304 or hulonl@brunswickcc.edu to learn more.

January 2024

The post Hands-On Fire Extinguisher Training Ignites Safety Awareness appeared first on ���سԹ�.

After nine years serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, BCC student Andrew Burgmuller found himself on the BCC campus for orientation after enrolling in his first college classes. Also present were two BCC employees and veteran mentors who approached Andrew, offering help and guidance. Like Andrew, they understood how it felt transitioning from the military to civilian life and wanted him to know that he wasn’t alone.

Since then, Andrew has stepped into their shoes, helping student veterans succeed in every way possible at BCC and beyond. “There are so many resources for veterans at BCC,” said Andrew. “I had no idea about them until I arrived on campus. I was familiar with the GI Bill but soon learned that much more is available. I’m grateful for the help I received and enjoy paying it forward to those who come after me.”

While beginning college in your thirties might intimidate some, Andrew dove right in and hasn’t looked back. He took advantage of resources like free tutoring and, before long, became a tutor himself as part of the Federal Work Study Program. He applied for scholarships created for student veterans and received several awards. While still attending school, Andrew is currently employed at BCC as a TLC (The Learning Center) Specialist. “I’ve been fortunate to benefit from scholarships funded by organizations like the Committee to Honor America’s Veterans and Calabash Elks Lodge. It’s humbling to see people who have given so much of themselves as part of the military still giving to the next generation. They make me want to do the same. There’s nothing quite like helping a student who enters TLC with an ashen face leave with a smile.”

Student veterans can find Andrew in TLC or contact him via email at burgmullera@brunswickcc.edu.

The post Meet Veteran Mentor Andrew Burgmuller appeared first on ���سԹ�.

The post Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Seminar Series appeared first on ���سԹ�.