[Clinton, N.C.]—Tyler Ward is a current senior at Sampson Early College High School (SECHS) who is also dual-enrolled at Sampson Community College (SCC) in pursuit of three degrees. Planning to graduate in May 2025, Ward was recently nominated as the College’s Academic Excellence Award winner for the 2024-2025 academic year— the highest academic honor the N.C. Community College System (NCCCS) bestows.
A former Midway Middle student, Ward enrolled at SECHS in August of 2021 after a recommendation from his high school counselor. He transferred as an incoming freshman to the Early College, seeking his high school diploma, Associate of Arts, and Associate of Science degrees simultaneously.
Ward said of his decision, “Thanks to the NC Community College system, I had the tremendous opportunity to begin my college education at a young age. From the beginning, the faculty and staff at SCC welcomed me with open arms and substantial support. Their commitment to student success helped me form strong relationships with professors and build plans for my future.”
In addition to his studies, Ward currently works weekdays at Garland Pizza, serves as a math tutor, completes independent research (aided by the NC School of Science & Mathematics) in computational sciences, volunteers in his community, and attends Peniel PH Church. This year, in anticipation of SCC’s Spring commencement, Ward was also nominated by the College’s faculty & staff as the Academic Excellence Award winner for 2025.
The Academic Excellence Award is the highest academic honor the NCCCS bestows on students. Every year, each of the 58 N.C. community colleges select one student to receive the award. The award was created in 1998 to recognize and encourage scholarship among students.
To be eligible, a student must be currently enrolled, have completed at least 12 semester hours in a curriculum degree program, and have a cumulative GPA of no less than 3.25. Recipients receive a plaque and medallion in honor of their academic accomplishments.
Blair Hairr, Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs, expressed, “Sampson Community College is proud to recognize Tyler Ward as this year’s recipient. Tyler has been described by many as bright, kind, and determined. His commitment to excellence has left a lasting impression on our faculty and staff. We are confident that Tyler will continue to embody SCC’s motto, ‘Begin Here, Go Anywhere,’ and we look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in the future.”
When asked who he’d like to thank, Ward noted that there have been “countless faculty and staff at SCC who have helped me during my time at the College.” However, he specifically highlighted the support of Emily Ko, Director of Academic Services; Jennifer Eavenson, Dean of Arts & Sciences; and Wanda Kenny, Distance Learning & Learning Resource Center Navigator; in addition to the guidance of his loved ones.
“Thank you to Mrs. Emily Ko, for helping build my academic pathway; Mrs. Jennifer Eavenson, for her college and life advice; and Mrs. Wanda Kenny, for her leadership and support in tutoring,” Ward shared.
“I extend my sincerest gratitude to all SCC faculty and staff who have helped me along my academic journey. I am deeply grateful for my family, friends, and every faculty member at SCC and SECHS. Without their endless guidance and support, I would not be where I am today.”
Reflecting on his time at SCC & SECHS, Ward stated that he’s found his experience to be “completely worth it.” Not only are the faculty & staff both warm and inviting, he noted, but they also work to build academic relationships with their students— motivating them to reach their fullest potential. Ward also appreciates the various events held on campus throughout the year, claiming they strengthen ties among the Clinton community.
He voiced, “Pursuing an associate degree at SCC has been an amazing opportunity as a high school student. With engagement both inside and out of the classroom, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at SCC. I have learned perseverance, organization, time management, communication skills, and independent study habits.”
Upon graduation in May 2025, Ward plans to transfer to a North Carolina university, preferably NC State or UNC Chapel Hill, to pursue a degree in chemistry and pharmaceutical science. He ultimate goal is to find a career working in life sciences, as he’s currently been interested in pharmaceutical research.
Overall, Ward remarked that he would highly recommend SCC to other prospective high school students looking to further their education and “jump-start” their academic journey. To him, the College has truly given him the chance to ‘Begin Here, Go Anywhere.’
“I strongly recommend attending SCC to other prospective students,” Ward closed. “Especially students with the opportunity to attend the early college program in high school. An academic journey at SCC will provide a firm foundation early on in one’s academic career that will last a lifetime, whether one’s end goal is working in a trade or pursuing higher education. For anyone interested in jump-starting their academic journey, I highly recommend considering Sampson Community College.”
Sampson CC is incredibly proud of Tyler and his academic journey so far. The College congratulations him on being selected as the 2025 Academic Excellence Award winner and looks forward to all he will do throughout his future education.
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. SCC is committed to the principles of equal educational and employment opportunities for all.
