Longtime VGCC instructor Mike Huffaker retires
W. Michael “Mike” Huffaker, Sr. of Oxford recently retired after teaching science for 30 years at Vance-Granville Community College. Huffaker’s family joined his VGCC colleagues at a retirement reception at the college’s Civic Center on Oct. 3.
At the reception, VGCC Dean of Arts and Sciences Dr. Michael Ellis thanked Huffaker for his dedication, and noted that many students had written to the dean in praise of his instruction. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, VGCC President Randy Parker presented Huffaker with a plaque which read, “In recognition of 30 years of service to the students, faculty and staff of Vance-Granville Community College. Thank you for your commitment to teaching and dedication to making our world better through education.”
Reflecting on his three decades at VGCC, Huffaker said, “I think of the thousands and thousands of students I have taught and the contribution VGCC has made to the community. I feel a deep satisfaction for having been a part of what has been probably the single most important institution in changing lives and offering opportunities for improvement in this region. I’m also proud of being a part of the faculty when VGCC was recognized as first in the state in College Transfer student success.”
Huffaker came to VGCC in the fall of 1978 after teaching at Morehead State University (his alma mater) and Maysville Community College in Kentucky. He taught Vance-Granville’s earliest biology courses as part of the College Transfer program and taught Anatomy and Physiology as part of the Radiography program. He helped initiate the college’s Associate Degree Nursing program and taught VGCC’s first Anatomy and Physiology course for Nursing students. Huffaker’s wife, Gail, is a graduate of that Nursing program. Huffaker also helped develop the Anatomy and Physiology curriculum that is used by all Registered Nursing programs across the state. He is a charter member of the International Human Anatomy and Physiology Society . In addition to biology and “A & P,” Huffaker has taught courses on nutrition, CPR, first aid and safety. His students have included Emergency Medical Technician trainees and Basic Law Enforcement Training cadets, as well as employees of businesses such as Revlon and Iams. Huffaker also taught at Piedmont Community College for a time while continuing to teach full-time at VGCC.
Early in his tenure, Huffaker, who has served under all of VGCC’s presidents, was president of the Faculty Senate. Later, he was the chairman of the college’s first Professional Advisory Committee (PAC). Huffaker has been recognized by Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and Who’s Who in Collegiate Faculty. Outside of VGCC, Huffaker has been a YMCA coach, a den leader for the Boy Scouts of America and a hunter safety instructor for the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.
Above: VGCC President Randy Parker (right) presents a plaque to retiring instructor Mike Huffaker (left) in recognition of his 30 years of service. (VGCC Photo)
