���سԹ� is pleased to welcome Douglas “Doug” Dawson and R. Kent Wood to its Board of Trustees. Dawson and Wood were sworn in during the Board’s regular meeting on August 20. Dawson was sponsored by the North Carolina House of Representatives, while Wood was sponsored by the North Carolina Senate.

“We are fortunate to welcome two accomplished leaders who bring tremendous experience and a strong commitment to service,” said BCC President Dr. Gene Smith. “Mr. Dawson and Mr. Wood understand the importance of ���سԹ� to our students, employers, and community. I look forward to working with them and appreciate their willingness to serve BCC in this important role.”

Dawson brings more than four decades of military and public service leadership to the Board. He served 41 years in the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, retiring as a Captain, along with 33 years in federal civil service. Today, he serves as Chief and President of Brunswick Search and Rescue, volunteers with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol, and serves as Eastern Representative to the North Carolina Search and Rescue Advisory Council.

Wood brings more than 35 years of experience in real estate, accounting, finance, and executive leadership. A licensed North Carolina real estate broker and former CPA, he has held senior leadership roles in commercial real estate, investment, finance, and brokerage. He also has a longstanding connection to BCC, having previously served as President and a member of The Foundation of ���سԹ� Board of Directors.

BCC is proud to welcome Dawson and Wood and grateful for their commitment to serving the College, its students, and the Brunswick County community.

September 2026

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Decades after leaving southeastern North Carolina for a life of service, education and opportunity,��Dr.��Lonnie Griffin has found his way back home — this time through the doors of ���سԹ�. As the new Dean of Arts and Sciences, Lonnie is focused on taking his��expertise��and years of experience to make a lasting impact on the BCC community.������

After graduating high school, Lonnie left home to serve in the military as a teenager. “I graduated high school on a Friday and was in boot camp on Monday,” explained Lonnie.  After finishing his military service, Lonnie found himself in Jacksonville, Florida. To continue his education affordably, Lonnie decided to attend Florida Community College at Jacksonville (FCCJ). With experience as a medic, Griffin originally thought his path lay in healthcare until his first semester sociology class.  

“I got very interested in that field of study,” explained Lonnie. “I knew from taking that course that my direction would be changing from healthcare to teaching sociology.”   

After discovering his passion for teaching, Griffin continued his education, earning his associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and, finally, doctorate degrees from several colleges and universities — all while gaining experience in higher education.  

Lonnie first worked as a communication lab tutor, graduate teaching assistant, and later taught social studies at a high school. After a year in public education, Griffin joined a community college, beginning the higher-education teaching career that would eventually lead to his first leadership role. After several years of teaching and serving in a leadership position, Lonnie continued building his leadership experience, eventually transitioning to a technical college in Georgia, where he served as dean.   

While he found the role extremely rewarding, something was still missing for Lonnie — the balance and value of being connected to the classroom. “I missed teaching,” he said. “I’ve had people refer to the work as a calling, and I have thought about that a lot during my career.”  

The connection to the classroom and students has continued to shape how Lonnie approaches leadership, giving him an understanding of both the work of faculty and the students they serve.  

“You need to have a connection to the work that the people you are trying to manage are doing, so you understand their struggle,” Lonnie said. “It gives you direct access to the students too because it allows you to gauge where the students’ heads are and how they’re engaging with the material.”  

This philosophy is part of what drew him to BCC, along with the college’s strong reputation. “What President Smith has done at BCC – to have a presence in this community, to serve our students, to be the resource — is remarkable, and the word has spread. I heard about it all the way down in Georgia and decided that I wanted to be a part of it.”  

For Lonnie, higher education has always been more than a career. It has been a journey built around students, teaching and service. Now, as BCC’s new Dean of Arts and Sciences (and sociology instructor), he feels he has found the right place to continue his journey.  

“I’ve almost come full circle,” he said. “I left Eastern North Carolina as a teenager, spent a lot of years away, and now I have an opportunity to come back and be part of something that I really believe in,” said Lonnie. “I hope to be here for a long time, until I retire. I feel very blessed and excited for what the future holds.”  

August 2026

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Longtime ���سԹ� supporters Dan and Linda Lynes are continuing a tradition of generosity that has helped BCC students pursue their dreams.

The Lynes recently presented The Foundation of ���سԹ� with a $20,000 gift to further strengthen the Dan & Linda Lynes ���سԹ� Endowed Scholarship Trust. Their support helps provide lasting scholarship opportunities for students working toward degrees, careers, and brighter futures.

This year’s gift carries an especially meaningful connection to the Brunswick County community. A portion was given in honor of Sarah Williams, mother of the Lynes’ dear friend and Brunswick County resident Teri Daly. Williams dedicated more than 40 years of her life to nursing, including many years caring for patients in Brunswick County.

The setting for the check presentation was fitting: a nursing simulation lab inside BCC’s Dan & Linda Lynes Health Sciences Center, another reflection of the Lynes family’s longstanding commitment to education, healthcare, and the College.

“We are deeply grateful to Dan and Linda for their continued generosity and unwavering belief in our students,” said Gabriella DiSisto, Executive Director of The Foundation of ���سԹ�. “Their decision to honor Sarah Williams makes this gift even more meaningful. By recognizing someone who devoted her life to caring for others, the Lynes family is extending that spirit of service to future generations of students whose education will be made possible through this scholarship.”

For many years, Dan & Linda Lynes Health Sciences Scholarships have helped BCC students pursue degrees, develop workforce skills, and move closer to their goals. Because endowed scholarships provide a permanent source of financial assistance, the impact of that generosity can continue from one generation of students to the next.

The Lynes family’s gift also illustrates the meaningful ways donors can celebrate the lives and legacies of people who matter to them. Gifts may be made in honor or memory of a loved one, while planned giving offers another way to create a lasting impact for BCC students.

To learn more about creating an endowed scholarship, making an honorary or memorial gift, or including The Foundation of ���سԹ� in your estate plans, contact Gabriella DiSisto at disistog@brunswickcc.edu or 910-755-6530.

August 2026

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���سԹ� is excited to welcome Tanner Bullard as the new head coach of the Dolphins softball program. Bullard brings several years of collegiate coaching experience and a passion for helping student-athletes succeed both on the field and in the classroom.

Before joining BCC, Bullard spent three seasons as an assistant coach at Converse University, where he helped guide the program through one of the most successful periods in its history while contributing to both the team’s athletic and academic achievements. He previously served as a graduate assistant coach at UNC Pembroke, helping develop student-athletes who earned conference and regional recognition.

“We’re excited to welcome Tanner to ���سԹ�,” said BCC Athletics Director Robbie Allen. “He brings a strong coaching background, a passion for developing student-athletes, and a vision for building a competitive program rooted in discipline, teamwork, and academic success. We look forward to the future of Dolphins softball under his leadership.”

Bullard said BCC’s close-knit community and untapped potential made the opportunity an easy choice.

“I’ve always viewed BCC as a hidden gem with tremendous potential,” Bullard said. “My goal is to build consistency among our student-athletes, both on the field and in the classroom. I want to create a culture where our players compete at a high level, support one another, and graduate prepared for whatever comes next.”

July 2026

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���سԹ� is pleased to welcome Gabriella DiSisto as the new Executive Director of The Foundation of ���سԹ�.

With more than a decade of nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience, DiSisto brings a passion for connecting generous people with meaningful opportunities to make a lasting difference. Throughout her career, she has helped nonprofits strengthen donor relationships, grow philanthropic support, and expand opportunities for the people they serve.

Now, she’s excited to help create those same opportunities for BCC students.

“Working in the nonprofit world has always been incredibly rewarding because every day I have the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life,” said DiSisto. “Foundations like ours open doors for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue their education and career goals. Being part of that journey is what motivates me, and I am absolutely thrilled to join ���سԹ� and become part of this community.”

As Executive Director, DiSisto will lead The Foundation’s fundraising and donor engagement efforts, working alongside alumni, businesses, community members, and philanthropic partners to increase scholarships, enhance programs, and expand educational opportunities for students across Brunswick County.

BCC President Dr. Gene Smith said DiSisto’s passion for helping others makes her an ideal fit for the College and its mission.

“The Foundation plays a vital role in creating opportunities for our students, and Gabriella shares that commitment wholeheartedly,” Smith said. “Her passion for serving others, combined with her experience building strong relationships, will help us continue expanding the Foundation’s impact for our students and our community. We are excited to welcome her to the BCC family.”

The Foundation of ���سԹ� helps remove financial barriers, supports innovative educational programs, and creates opportunities that empower students to achieve their academic and career goals. Through scholarships, grants, and generous community support, the Foundation changes lives every day.

DiSisto looks forward to building relationships throughout Brunswick County and inviting others to become part of that mission.

To learn more about The Foundation of ���سԹ�, make a gift, or explore ways to support student success, contact Gabriella DiSisto at disistog@brunswickcc.edu or (910) 755-6530.

July 2026

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���سԹ�’s Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Class 75 has reached an outstanding milestone, achieving a 100% pass rate on the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission State Comprehensive Exam.

The rigorous four-hour, 300-question exam is the final academic requirement for aspiring law enforcement officers in North Carolina. Passing the exam demonstrates a graduate’s knowledge, skills, and readiness to serve their communities, making Class 75’s perfect first-attempt pass rate an exceptional achievement.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for our students,” said BLET Program Director J.D. Smith. “A 100% pass rate reflects the dedication, discipline, and perseverance these students demonstrated throughout the program. It also speaks to the commitment of our instructors, who work tirelessly to prepare future law enforcement officers for success both in the classroom and in the field.”

BCC’s Basic Law Enforcement Training program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in criminal law, patrol procedures, investigations, ethics, defensive tactics, firearms, emergency response, driver training, and community relations. Graduates must successfully complete all Commission-mandated coursework and pass the State Comprehensive Exam before becoming eligible for certification as North Carolina law enforcement officers.

Class 75’s achievement continues BCC’s tradition of excellence in public safety education and reinforces the College’s commitment to preparing highly qualified officers to serve communities across North Carolina.

Congratulations to every member of BLET Class 75 on this remarkable accomplishment. We look forward to seeing the positive impact each graduate will make in the communities they serve.

July 2026

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The annual rankings recognize nursing programs that demonstrate excellence in preparing future nurses through strong academic outcomes and quality instruction.

“This recognition reflects the outstanding work of our Practical Nursing faculty and the dedication of our students,” said Dr. Robert Robinson, Dean of Health Sciences. “Our faculty are committed to preparing compassionate, highly skilled nurses who are ready to provide exceptional patient care from day one. We are incredibly proud of this achievement.”

BCC’s ACEN-accredited Practical Nursing program combines rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences that prepare graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure examination and begin rewarding careers in healthcare. Students gain valuable experience using advanced simulation technology and industry-leading equipment in the Dan & Linda Lynes Health Sciences Center, helping build confidence and clinical decision-making skills before entering the workforce.

“We congratulate our Practical Nursing faculty, students, and alumni on this well-deserved recognition,” said Dr. Gene Smith, President of ���سԹ�. “Their commitment to excellence, combined with our investment in state-of-the-art facilities and technology, ensures our graduates are well prepared to meet the growing healthcare needs of our region.”

BCC offers a wide range of Health Sciences programs, including Associate Degree Nursing (ADN), LPN to ADN Bridge, Paramedic to ADN Bridge, Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, Nurse Aide, and more.

Prospective students are encouraged to attend an information session, explore program options, or schedule a campus tour by contacting OneStop Student Services at onestop@brunswickcc.edu or (910) 755-7320.

Learn more about BCC’s Health Sciences programs at brunswickcc.edu.

July 2026

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���سԹ� officially dedicated the Alan Holden Public Safety Center on June 11, marking a significant investment in public safety education, workforce development, and the future of emergency response throughout Brunswick County and southeastern North Carolina.

Community leaders, public safety professionals, elected officials, BCC trustees, faculty, staff, students, and supporters gathered for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the state-of-the-art facility and recognizing the service and leadership of its namesake, Alan Holden.

Designed to meet the growing demand for highly trained first responders, the Alan Holden Public Safety Center provides cutting-edge learning environments for students pursuing careers in emergency medical services, law enforcement, fire and rescue, and other public safety professions.

The facility features specialized classrooms, advanced simulation technology, tactical training spaces, and flexible instructional areas that mirror real-world emergency response environments. These innovative training resources will help students develop the skills, confidence, and experience needed to serve their communities from day one.

“Public safety professionals are among the most essential members of any community, and they deserve access to the very best training environments available,” said BCC President Dr. Gene Smith. “The Alan Holden Public Safety Center will have a lasting impact on our students, our public safety partners, and the communities they protect.”

The center will serve not only new students but also current public safety professionals seeking continuing education, advanced certifications, and specialized training opportunities. Through its innovative design and training capabilities, the Alan Holden Public Safety Center positions BCC as a regional leader in public safety education and reinforces the College’s mission to provide workforce training that meets critical community needs.

The facility is named in honor of Alan Holden, whose decades of public service and leadership have made a lasting impact on Brunswick County and ���سԹ�. Holden has served on the BCC Board of Trustees, as well as on the Foundation Board. His service to the Town of Holden Beach includes roles as mayor, commissioner, and emergency director, and he is a former firefighter with the Tri-Beach Volunteer Fire Department.

Following the ceremony, guests toured the facility to experience firsthand the technologies and training environments that will prepare future generations of first responders.

As Brunswick County continues to grow, the Alan Holden Public Safety Center will help ensure that local communities are served by highly trained emergency responders equipped with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to answer the call when it matters most.

June 2026

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���سԹ� officially dedicated the Dan and Linda Lynes Health Sciences Center during a special ribbon cutting ceremony held on campus on May 19. More than 100 family members, friends, community leaders, faculty, staff, and supporters gathered to celebrate the Lynes family’s longtime commitment to student success and healthcare education at BCC.

The ceremony featured remarks from BCC President Dr. Gene Smith, Dan and Linda Lynes, and former nursing student and Lynes Scholarship recipient Dr. Katie Caison. Guests also enjoyed a reception, facility tours, and demonstrations inside the Health Sciences Center.

Although the facility has served students for several years, the ceremony formally recognized the Lynes family’s lasting generosity and impact on ���سԹ�.

“A building dedication is far more than placing a name on a structure,” said Dr. Smith. “It is about recognizing a legacy of generosity, vision, and belief in education that has changed lives and strengthened our community for generations to come.”

Dan and Linda Lynes have supported BCC for more than a decade through scholarships, mentorship, and investments that help students pursue healthcare careers and other workforce pathways.

“We are incredibly honored by this recognition,” said Linda Lynes. “We believe education changes lives, and supporting students at BCC has been one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives.”

Today, the Dan and Linda Lynes Health Sciences Center houses programs preparing students for careers in Registered Nursing, Practical Nursing, Dental Assisting, Clinical Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, and other healthcare professions. The facility includes classrooms, simulation labs, and hands-on learning environments that prepare graduates to serve healthcare organizations throughout Brunswick County and beyond.

To learn more about Health Sciences programs at BCC, visit brunswickcc.edu.

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