JSCC HONORS 14 STUDENTS FOR THEIR GROWTH, ACCOMPLISHMENTS, AND BRIGHT FUTURES THROUGH THE INNOVATIVE GEARS PROGRAM.
Recently, James Sprunt Community College celebrated the success of its first cohort of GEARS students. GEARS, which stands for Giving Everyone A Role in Society, is a program specifically designed to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
JSCC is one of 15 community colleges in North Carolina selected to participate in a pilot program hosted by the North Carolina Community College System. Through the two-year program, students develop life and soft skills designed to increase independence, explore career opportunities, and build essential employability skills.
This inaugural cohort began its journey at JSCC in 2024 and recently celebrated its accomplishments alongside friends, family, faculty, and staff during a ceremony held in Monk Auditorium.
The inaugural GEARS cohort included:
- Jaylen Barden
- Eduardo Barrena
- Debra Rose
- Andre Nichols
- Daylin Pickett
- Emma Lennon
- Felipe Valdez-Maldonado
- Francisco Perez
- Gustavo Giron
- Katlynn Morrison
- Mack Wooten
- Marlee Bass
- Shaquana Drake
- Shukeisha Williams
Dr. Jennifer Justus, College and Career Readiness Instructor for GEARS, reflected on the students’ accomplishments and the impact of the program.
“I love this program and how much JSCC has embraced students with intellectual disabilities. These students have been included in campus activities and profound learning environments. It’s been an honor to have been a part of their tremendous success.”
JSCC President Dr. Shannon Hair also addressed the cohort, celebrating the students’ accomplishments and recognizing the faculty and staff who supported them throughout their journey.
We celebrate far more than the completion of a two-year program—we celebrate the determination, growth, and incredible accomplishments of our GEARS students. These students have shown us what is possible when opportunity, support, and belief in every individual come together. I am deeply grateful to the faculty and staff whose dedication, creativity, and compassion have helped make this program a success. GEARS embodies the very heart of James Sprunt Community College’s mission: expanding access, providing innovative opportunities, and building partnerships that strengthen our community. We are incredibly proud of these students and excited to see the many ways they will continue to make a difference in the world around them.”
Dr. Dustin Walston, Vice President of Learning and Workforce at Wilson Community College, was invited by Dr. Hair to return to campus to offer program remarks. Dr. Walston played a significant role in implementing the GEARS program during his time at JSCC. In his address to the cohort, Walston emphasized the importance of lifelong learning, celebrating small victories, and being willing to ask for help along the way.
Following the successful completion of the program, students are beginning the next chapter of their journeys in a variety of ways. Some will transition into classroom environments with assistance from Access to Achievement (A2A), a program that provides support and accommodations for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Others will enter the workforce through a variety of employment opportunities.
Regardless of the path they choose, JSCC is proud of the accomplishments of its inaugural GEARS cohort and the tremendous growth each student has demonstrated. Their success is a testament to the power of opportunity, community, and believing in the potential of every individual. James Sprunt Community College looks forward to watching these students continue to grow, contribute, and build bright futures in the years ahead.
