When she originally joined the SCC Board of Trustees, Larinda Haight says she did not fully know the board’s purpose. However, as she began learning how it functioned and began understanding the program and course offerings at Sampson Community College, Haight realized that she could be a direct source of information for Sampson County Schools, where she worked. Since then, Haight has made it her mission to share information about the programs available at SCC and connect SCS students with the appropriate contact.
Haight, an educator and school counselor for over 20 years, says that acting as that connection gave her role on the board even greater purpose. Sampson County shaped Haight when she was a young person, student, and even now. Serving as Vice-Chair on the SCC Board of Trustees allows her to give back.
“I was raised in Sampson County, and I believe I was blessed with so much. Giving back in the same way that things have been given to you is what community involvement and this board are all about,” Haight commented.
Haight also believes that being a member of the SCC Board of Trustees has allowed her to get out in Sampson County and see all that the county has to offer and to gain a better understanding of the demographics of the county population. She believes this allows her to be a more informed, fair board member.
Lisa Turlington, Dean of Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation, says Haight’s classroom and public-school experience make her an excellent addition to the board.
“Larinda serves on the front line of education in Sampson County and truly understands the role the College plays in educating and training our population. She is a strong advocate for students, and she bridges the interest of the high schools and the college to best serve our community,” Turlington noted.
Since she became a member of the SCC Board of Trustees, Haight has seen several projects and ideas realized on campus at SCC. Projects like the complete revitalization of the college’s Welding program, which she found most exciting.
Overall, Haight says the Board of Trustees act as liaisons for SCC in the community, working to continue to spread information about the programs and courses at the college.
“The board acts as cheerleaders for the College in the community. I think one of the goals should be sharing about the programs, talking about what’s going on here, and connecting people with who they need to know at the college,” Haight shared.
President of Sampson Community College, Dr. Bill Starling, says that Haight’s career as a school counselor has fueled her passion as a board member.
“I will always credit Larinda’s leadership and support in the development of the Career and College Promise program here at SCC and the successful manner that the program is now incorporated into the high school experience of so many of our students in both the Clinton City and Sampson County Schools,” Starling remarked. “Larinda has always seemed the most excited about the success stories of students she helped enter and complete our occupational programs.”
Haight plans to continue spreading the good news of Career and College Promise, and all other programs, at the college. After connecting students and local county and city high schools to SCC staff, Haight has seen how impactful these programs can be to students. She plans to continue acting as a conduit between these local educational institutions.
Haight and other board members will be reappointed at tomorrow night’s monthly Board of Trustees board meeting. For more information about the Board of Trustees, visit www.sampsoncc.edu/about/leadership/board-of-trustees/.
About Sampson Community College: Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options, and early college education.
