VGCC marks 40th Anniversary
Vance-Granville Community College celebrated its 40th anniversary on Sept. 4 by reflecting on the history of the college, rededicating its main campus and expressing appreciation to its students. The original charter for the college, then known as Vance County Technical Institute, was issued on Sept. 4, 1969.
In remarks to the assembled students, trustees, administrators, instructors and guests, VGCC President Randy Parker reflected on the origin of the college, conceived as the economy became increasingly industrial and technological in the 1960s. “As in other rural areas of the state, economic development was severely limited by the lack of a skilled workforce,” Parker said. He praised the “forward-thinking people” who founded the institution. “They worked together toward a common goal — a better future for all people, access to higher education, jobs and opportunities,” he said. “In 1969, these leaders faced some very difficult economic challenges, much like the economic challenges that we face today. They responded with hope, determination, dedication and commitment.” Parker re-dedicated the campus, declaring that its facilities “are set apart for activities that are special and extraordinary — teaching, learning, starting new careers and making everyone’s dream come true.” The president looked forward “to serving all the people who walk through the arches on our campus over the next 40 years and beyond, so that our four counties may continue to have a highly trained workforce, educated citizens and a better quality of life for all.”
Parker thanked state legislators, represented at the event by state Rep. Jim Crawford, and county leaders for supporting VGCC over the years. He also recognized VGCC trustee emeritus John K. Nelms, who played a key role in bringing Granville County into the fold in the 1970s, leading to the construction of the main campus between Henderson and Oxford.
VGCC Board of Trustees chair Donald Seifert, Sr. of Henderson noted VGCC’s continuing role in education and economic development. “Today is a great day to celebrate our 40th anniversary, while we are enjoying record-breaking enrollment, and while the community college plays a key role in promoting economic recovery,” Seifert said.
The celebration continued with a “Student Appreciation Day” reception, including a special 40th anniversary cake. Then, visitors browsed through the new “Hall of History” in Building 8, which included artifacts, photographs, scrapbooks and a video detailing the first 40 years of VGCC history.
The Sept. 4 activities were only the beginning of a series of anniversary events. Similar events will be held at VGCC’s three other campuses later in the month. South Campus, located between Butner and Creedmoor, will hold its event on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 until 6 p.m. The Warren County Campus in Warrenton will hold its event on Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 5 until 7 p.m. The Franklin County Campus near Louisburg will hold its event on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 until 6 p.m. Celebrations continue in October. The college will host a 40th Anniversary Ball on Saturday, Oct. 3, followed by a “Festival for the 40th” on Saturday, Oct. 10. Both events will be held on Main Campus.
Above: VGCC President Randy Parker (left) and Board of Trustees chair Donald Seifert, Sr. (right) prepare to cut the cake at a Sept. 4, 2009 reception celebrating the 40th anniversary of the college. (VGCC photo)
