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Tuesday, 21 May 2024
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Written by Staff Report
Methodist University’s 61st annual Commencement on May 11 included an entire day of celebration as graduates received degrees and are now prepared for the next chapter of their lives.
The University hosted “Commencement Weekend,” which included two commemorative events at the Crown Coliseum for the Class of 2024. First was Commencement 2024 for students receiving their bachelor’s degrees, and then a graduate commencement ceremony at the same location later that evening.
Methodist University President Stanley T. Wearden congratulated the nearly 400 graduate and undergraduate students who officially completed academic degrees from more than 80 areas of study that are offered on campus and online at MU.
“Congratulations, graduates. I am so very proud of your accomplishments,” said Wearden. “Now, you will embark on new adventures in your lives, equipped with a Methodist University education and supported not only by your families, faculty, and staff, but by your friends – fellow students you have met along the way who will join you as fellow alumni. Stay in touch with this network. Share your successes and challenges. Care for them and allow them to care for you.”
On Saturday afternoon, thousands of loved ones filled the Crown Coliseum for Commencement 2024. General Dan K. McNeill served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker. McNeill served with the Special Forces, airborne infantry (including the 82nd Airborne Division), mechanized infantry, and aviation units for more than 40 years before retiring in 2008.
Before receiving an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Methodist University for his contributions to society, McNeill addressed the graduates with a call for action in their post-graduation careers.
“Congratulations to all of you,” said McNeill. “As you move forward, you have the privilege to serve, and you must serve. Learn how to follow before you lead and when you’re ready, seek positions of leadership. Remember, leadership and trust are closely related terms. You now have the requisite skills to stride forth with confidence in the world.”
“This is a significant achievement, and it will change your lives in many ways both tangible and intangible,” Wearden said.
“You are now joining an elite group – the alumni of this great University. Your MU journey extends beyond today, beyond commencement. This is your University today, and it will always be your University. This is a great institution, and as we all work to make it even better, we will need your help.”
To access replays of both commencements, head to the Methodist University YouTube channel. Hundreds of photos from both commencements will be available on the Methodist University Flickr page at a later date.
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Tuesday, 16 July 2024
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Written by Amber Little
The time of the teen worker is upon us. With flexible schedules void of any real organization and free time to spare, local teens are joining the local workforce this summer again for the first time. While fashioned with mostly perky attitudes, most have never had any workforce development training to perform their jobs adequately. That is where My Future So Bright summer work program comes in for the win—a program designed to equip teens with skills that are needed in the workplace. The first two weeks of the program focus on key areas in workforce development to build foundational skills.
• Self-Management: Understanding the importance of personal responsibility, time management, and goal setting.
• Work Ethics: Emphasizing the value of integrity, reliability, and a strong work ethic in professional settings.
• Communication Skills: Developing effective verbal and written communication abilities is crucial for any workplace environment.
• Financial Literacy: Gaining knowledge on managing finances, budgeting, and understanding financial responsibilities.
• Workplace Etiquette and Professionalism: Learning the norms and expectations of professional behavior, including dress code, punctuality, and workplace interactions.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Appreciating and embracing diversity in the workplace and understanding the importance of creating an inclusive environment.
• Career Exploration and Resume Writing: Exploring different career paths and industries and learning how to create impactful resumes that highlight their skills and experiences.
• Interview Techniques and Networking: Practicing interview skills and learning the importance of networking to build professional relationships.
• Technology and Digital Literacy: Enhancing their ability to use modern technology and digital tools effectively in the workplace.
• Mock Interviews: Participating in mock interviews to build confidence and gain feedback.
After the completion of the first part of the summer program, teens put their skills to the test and join the summer workforce. My Future So Bright partners with local businesses in the community to bring the teens from training to employment. Teens are ready for employment in several fields and can continue to develop the skills learned in the workshops.
• Administrative Assistants: Leveraging their communication, organizational, and technology skills to support office operations.
• Customer Service Representatives: Utilizing their interpersonal skills and professionalism to provide excellent service in retail, hospitality, and other customer-facing roles.
• Sales Associates: Applying their knowledge of communication and work ethics to engage with customers and drive sales in retail environments.
• Internships: Taking advantage of hands-on experience and industry-specific training gained through the program to secure internships in various fields.
• Project Assistants: Supporting project teams with their organizational skills and ability to manage tasks effectively.
• Marketing and Social Media Assistants: Utilizing their creativity and digital skills to assist in marketing campaigns and social media management.
• Community Service Volunteers: Gaining experience through volunteer work in various community service projects, helping to build a sense of responsibility and community engagement.
My Future So Bright is an initiative of the Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board, a City of Fayetteville-funded organization. MCWD Board team member, Fayetteville native and E.E. Smith graduate, Jennifer
McArthur is enthusiastic about the program, its community impact and the teens that are joining the workforce with the skills needed to succeed.
“The concept of 'My Future’s So Bright' emerged from the dedicated efforts of Verna Jones. Her commitment to empowering youth and fostering workforce development inspired the creation of this program. The program's mission is to create a supportive environment where participants can develop essential professional skills, build self-confidence, and explore various career paths. By partnering with local businesses and community organizations, 'My Future’s So Bright' aims to foster a network of support and guidance that helps participants transition smoothly into the workforce … The primary goal for each workshop is to provide participants with a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge that will benefit them throughout their personal and professional lives.” McArthur boasted of the program.
While this year’s session is over, now is the time to get involved, whether as an interested teen, potential workshop hosts, or employer. For teens wishing to enter the program, there are qualifications and an application process that MUST be completed to be accepted.
Qualifications
• Be between the ages of 14 and 15.
Reside within the city limits of Fayetteville.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Demonstrate a genuine interest in gaining work experience and developing professional skills.
Application Process
• Application Form: Interested teens must complete an application form, which can be obtained from the Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board office.
• Interview: Selected applicants will be invited to participate in an interview to further assess their suitability for the program.
Application Process and Timeline
• Application Availability: Applications will be made available in early February to allow more time for interested teens to prepare their submissions.
• Application Deadline: The deadline for submitting completed applications has been extended to the end of March.
• Interviews: Interviews for selected candidates will be conducted throughout April.
• Notification of Acceptance: Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by early May.
• Program Start Date: The MFSB summer work program will commence in early June and continue through the end of July.
To request an application, contact Mid-Carolina Regional Council, 6205 Raeford Road Fayetteville in person or by phone at 910-323-4191.
Employers interested in partnering with the My Future So Bright Summer program can contact NCWorks Career Center via phone at 910-912-2400 and ask to speak to a Business Service Representative.
Employers can get involved with the program in different ways. They can become host/job shadowing sites. These employers offer the teens hands-on experience in the workforce. Employers can sponsor events or workshops that the program runs to teach the foundational skills. These can include networking events and career-building workshops. Employers can also become mentors.
This position is vital to the program and an important part of how it can connect with the teens and provide guidance and support. No matter what form employers choose to participate in the My Future So Bright program, it is impactful and meaningful in the work being done.
This year’s programs have been a success, and participants can be found all over the city, putting their skills to use. McArthur attributes the success of this year to its employer partners and many more.
“I would like to extend heartfelt gratitude and recognition to several outstanding individuals and partners who have been instrumental to the 'My Future So Bright' summer work program this year. Raymond Godsave, Manager of the NCWorks Career Center, ensured that there was dedicated space set apart from their normal daily operations for our program participants to attend workshops. His support has been invaluable in providing a conducive learning environment. Danielle
McClamb and Jordyn Horse, the Youth Service Team, and Torris Ferguson, the Business Service Representative for the NCWorks Career Center, played a crucial role in hosting the youth job fair on May 4.
"This event allowed the program to connect with youth candidates interested in being part of 'My Future So Bright.' Veronica Rozier and Orin Gill, the Business Services team of the Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board worked with successful business owners within the community. Their efforts enabled these professionals to share their insights and experiences in their respective industries with our participants, and they also worked diligently with each employer regarding job placement for program participants.
"A special thanks to Justin Hembree, Samantha Wullenwaber, and Verna Jones, the executive leadership team of Mid-Carolina, for their unwavering support of the vision and mission of the 'My Future’s So Bright' Summer Work Program. Eric Stevenson of Madison Counseling Firm and Xavier DeBrough deserve recognition for their dedicated work with our participants on the development of essential soft skills. We are incredibly grateful to Samuel Gordon Jr. of SWG Home Inspections, Esther Torres of Move with Esther, Karlette Beasley of Ideal Real Estate powered by LPT Realty, LLC, Latonia Parks of Top Bragg Realty & Property Management, The UPS Store #7705 & Cold Stone Creamery Hope Mills with the support of Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ – Fayetteville, Ta’Tianna Bonilla of I Love Balloons, LLC, Tamiko Singleton of Fayetteville Natural Hair Expo, Jessica Jones and Tinyca Bryan of Becoming Counseling Services, PLLC, Dr. Ernest & Pastor Cynthia Jones of True Vine Ministries, and Al Lampkins of Veterans Bridge Home and Community Blueprint for sponsoring lunches for our youth program participants.
"We also appreciate the contributions of Alexis Hargraves with Jane's Beautiful Angels, Nurturing Healthcare Solutions, and Leathia's Helping Hands of Virginia for donating and providing grab bags to the program. Many thanks to Sherry Bryon of Truist Bank, Kathy Jensen of An Affair to Remember, Eric Washington of Washington Apparel Company, Ebony Chisolm, Marvin Price of Fayetteville Technical Community College, Sylvia Glanton of Personameant Solutions, LLC, Patti Jordan, Barbara Robinson, Brooke Vann of Fayetteville State University, Dr. Gayle Gill and DaQuaria Shepard of The Carter Clinic, P.A., for hosting various breakout sessions and activities.
"Finally, I extend my gratitude to Ta’Tianna Bonilla, Marcus Doss, Karlette Beasley, and Latonia Parks for sharing their entrepreneurial journeys and insights into being business owners within our community. Each of these individuals and organizations has played a significant role in making the 'My Future’s So Bright' program a success, and their contributions are deeply appreciated.”
(Photo: The graduates of 2023's My Future So Bright program pose for a photo. Photo courtesy of City of Fayetteville Flickr.)
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