[Clinton, N.C.] – Angela Warner has worked at Sampson Community College for 32 years and currently serves as the Planning and Research Coordinator. However, before her time as an employee, she attended SCC as a student.
Warner grew up in Newton Grove, N.C and graduated from Hobbton High School in 1983. When trying to narrow down her college decision, Warner recalled that she had several friends and family members who had attended Sampson Community College. The support from friends and family encouraged her to enroll at her local community college. “A big plus for me was being able to stay home and attend college,” Warner remarked.
Warner’s interest in office and clerical work led her to explore the General Office program that was offered at SCC. After completing the program in 1985, Warner received her associate degree. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Mount Olive College in Management and Organizational Development.
When looking back on her courses and instructors at SCC, Warner remembers being particularly influenced by a Professional Development class. “I learned that you must always be ready for a challenge, be courteous at all times, and be willing to accept change,” Warner recalled.
Warner’s first job after graduating from college was as a receptionist and secretary for the Dunn Daily Record. She worked there for two years before becoming a secretary at Sampson Community College. Warner stayed in this position for 4 years and then became the Planning and Research Assistant and Public Information Secretary. After 1 year, she transitioned to Planning and Research Coordinator and has been working as such for the last 27 years.
Warner’s job varies from day to day which is one of the reasons she enjoys her work. Another reason is because of her coworkers. Frankie Sutter, Director of Personnel, says, “I remember meeting Angie the day I interviewed at SCC almost 20 years ago. I had no idea at the time that she would become a great coworker, but an even greater friend.”
When asked about her childhood interests, Warner discussed thoughts of being a teacher. She says, “As a young child, I always wanted to be a teacher, but after volunteering in a kindergarten class, I realized that it wasn’t a good fit for me. I still wanted to help people, so clerical work seemed like something I would really enjoy!”
Warner’s coworker Blair Hairr, Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs, commented on her experience working with Warner, saying, “Working with Angie is such a joy and privilege. No matter the task, she’s the first to offer her assistance, and trust me – you want it!”
When Warner first arrived at Sampson Community College in 1983, there were only two buildings—North and East. “My classes were all upstairs in North. We learned to type on electronic typewriters. There was a word processing course and we had to schedule times to use the equipment because there were only two or three word processors available!” Warner recalled.
However, when she returned to campus in 1989, she was very impressed at how much the college had grown. At the time, that included the addition of two new buildings and several new programs. Since then, Warner has witnessed the College’s growth takeoff, including the addition of the Walking Track due to the SCC Foundation’s “Develop the East” Initiative, and the addition of the Welding Building, in just the past few years.
Warner wants students to know that Sampson Community College is a great place to start their educational journeys. The convenient location, friendly and caring faculty & staff, and financial savings are huge bonuses when choosing SCC.
After taking the time to reflect on her past years at SCC, Warner is grateful for all the opportunities attending the college has provided her. In Warner’s words, “SCC has provided not only myself with a great educational background, but also my children and many others. I am proud to be an SCC alumna and employee.”
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.
