Chavis-Lockley honored with 2023 VGCC Distinguished Alumni Award
From left: honoree Dr. Priscilla Chavis-Lockley, Tanya Weary of the VGCC Foundation, and award presenter Andrew Beal
At the VGCC Foundation’s recent Scholarship Awards Luncheon, Vance-Granville Community College honored Dr. Priscilla Chavis-Lockley of Creedmoor with its 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award. Chavis-Lockley is a VGCC alumna twice over, holding both an early childhood education degree and an associate in arts; she ultimately went on to earn five additional college degrees, including a doctorate from NC State University.
“[My success is] all because of my beginning here at Vance-Granville and the wonderful teachers,” Chavis-Lockley observed.
Chavis-Lockley recalled that she was a member of VGCC’s first class to graduate at the Main Campus’s current location, which opened its doors in 1976. Prior to that, students took classes at renovated quarters of the former Maria Parham Hospital building near downtown Henderson.
It is no stretch to say that Chavis-Lockley has dedicated her life to education on all its levels: She worked in local public schools for decades and even served as a part-time Communications instructor at Vance-Granville at one time. Since retiring from Vance County Schools in 2017, Chavis-Lockley has devoted her time to service. Over the years, she has worked tirelessly with youth, exposing them to positive cultural activities, job prospects, and more. She is active on many boards, including VGCC’s Basic Skills Advisory Board and the Creedmoor Parks & Recreation Committee. Most recently, Chavis-Lockley has taught quilting at the Oxford Housing Authority and volunteered at a local Oxford business.
“The impact she has made on our communities is astounding,” praised Andrew Beal, adjunct instructor of Political Science at the VGCC. Beal has witnessed Chavis-Lockley’s commitment to service firsthand, having been friends with the honoree since both participated in Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Vance program in 2008. “She exhibits exemplary commitment to service to others through professional and volunteer efforts, and her deeds and actions reflect her Vanguard pride and loyalty to VGCC through her interest, support, and involvement.”
The VGCC Foundation created the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2022 to recognize outstanding graduates of the College who have gone on to make a significant impact in their communities and chosen professions. The Foundation plans to honor one alumnus each year.
