Our Achievements

Durham Tech celebrates the achievements of our employees. We know that you are Doing great things! 

Have you participated in anything that you think is noteworthy recently? Some examples, including but not limited to, are publications, conference presentation, professional development activities, professional development facilitation, certification/credentials, and awards. Let’s share with the Durham Tech Community!

Fall 2024

Congratulations to the inaugural cohort of the President’s Emerging Leaders Institute on completing in May 2024.

 

Congratulations Leadership Academy inaugural cohort on completing the Leadership Academy in April 2024.

  

Congratulations Thomas Murphy on his appointment as President of the North Carolina Computer Instruction Association (NCCIA) in March 2024.He also presented at the conference and received certificates for completing a Data Science course and a Python course via Coursera.

How will this activity benefit you and Durham Tech?

“The NCCIA is a statewide Information Technology (IT) instructor association for professional development. My participation shows my leadership. It also helps Durham Tech's IT faculty professional development with me in the association's leadership role.”

Thomas Murphy serves as Program Director, IT Software and Web Development. He has worked 23 years at Durham Tech in various capacities, 20 years of which in an administrative/ supervisory role. He progressed from adjunct to full-time faculty to chair to program director to assistant dean and now back to program director.

 

Congratulations Dr. Christine Gunnigle. Christine participated as one of the panelists for an event titled:  

“Amplifying OTAs: A COTAD Roundtable” and featured stories of many amazing Durham Tech OTA students. The discussion was about the various challenges that OTA students, practitioners, and programs are facing and the different ways we can address these barriers on April 9 2024.  

The Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD) is a national occupational therapy organization doing work in justice, equity, diversity, inclusion (JEDI), anti-racism and anti-oppression. COTAD is a network of OT practitioners, students, and educators working to make health equity a priority at all levels of healthcare.  

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“Amplifying OTAs on a national level was an amazing opportunity to promote our students, program, and college. Durham Tech shined bright in this discussion and the mission of our college is closely aligned with the mission of COTAD.”

Dr. Christine Gunnigle, is a proud Occupational Therapy (OT) Practitioner, occupational scientist, and educator. Christine is currently the program director of the Durham Technical Community College OTA program and has been teaching in this program since 2013. She is committed to meeting students where they are, celebrating their strengths, and walking with them as they enter this great profession.

 

Congratulations Dr. Sharleen Traynor. Dr. Traynor has been selected to serve Selected to serve on the Diversity Advisory Council for the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) in March 2024.

Picture caption: Dr. Traynor with Durham Tech graduates Adriana Delgado (left) and Carmine Johnson (right) at the 2024 Association of Clinical Research Professionals Conference.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“This position allows me to share my voice and participate in discussions about advancing diversity in the clinical research workforce. This year, I was able to nominate 2 Durham Tech graduates to attend in national ACRP conference in Anaheim, California.”  

Dr. Traynor serves as Director of the Clinical Trials Research Associate program here at Durham Tech.  In this role, she oversees the training and education of students pursuing careers in clinical research and works closely with industry partners to support the development of a competent, diverse, and patient-focused generation of clinical research professionals.  Dr. Traynor has over 20 years of health research experience in government and academic settings.  In 2022, she co-founded the Clinical Research Equity Scholars Program in partnership with Duke University.   A teacher at heart, Dr. Traynor is now focused on education and inspiring students to explore careers in research.    

 

Congratulations Precious Vines Harris, accepted into the AAWCC LEADERS Institute; awarded full tuition scholarship in June 2024

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“This activity will provide essential leadership skills needed to enhance my role as a director and team member within the Business and Entrepreneurship pathway. I will represent Durham Tech and the AAWCC chapter at the Institute. My participation in the Institute will provide guidance and support, networking, and leadership training. I welcome the opportunity to gain valuable insight and experience from fellow peers and mentors who are excelling in their respective roles at area community colleges.”

Precious Vines Harris Currently, is the Director of the Paralegal Technology Program at Durham Technical Community College. She has been in this position since 2017 and have sought additional leadership roles in various capacities. Within this leadership position, she leads faculty, staff and students in administration, instruction, supervision, supporting the academic careers of 110 students. She identifies student needs and provides structure and holistic support to the advising process.  

 

Congratulations Dr. Marina DelVecchio, on the publication of her fourth book Unsexed:Memoirs of a Prostitute’s Daughter published by feminist press, She Writes Press, and will be distributed by Simon and Schuster in August 2024.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech? 

“This is my fourth book, which is a feat. For Durham Tech, it shows that the college encourages the creativity and passions of their faculty, which also supports student engagement.”

Dr. Marina DelVecchio, is an English and women’s studies professor at Durham Technical Community College and a prolific writer of fiction and non-fiction. Her work, published in print and online, advocates for the empowerment and agency of women. 
 

Spring 2024

Congratulations Jessica Vaughan for completing the North Carolina Community College (NCCC) Leadership Program and the InsideTrack- Coaching Powered Leadership Certificate in 2023.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“I had the privilege of participating in the NCCC Leadership Program as a representative of Durham Tech. Throughout this experience, I gained valuable personal insights, essential leadership skills, and relationships with colleagues across the Great 58. I gained very insightful information around leadership skills, change, development, and much more. This program was extremely beneficial and highly recommended.” (on the NCCC Leadership Program)

“I was invited to join the InsideTrack Coaching Powered Leadership program, where I acquired supervisory and coaching skills, fostering a deeper appreciation for the importance of mentorship. This program taught me the five elements, Building Relationships, Assessing, Advancing, Building Motivation, and Strategizing that I can use to be a better leader to both students and colleagues.” (on the InsideTrack- Coaching Powered Leadership Certificate)

Jessica serves as the Director, Enrollment and Compliance in the Health and Wellness pathway here at Durham Tech. She has worked at the college for the past 11.5 years, predominately serving as the Program Director of the Health Information Technology program. She has served in many capacities outside my designated role--- including Data Teams, WBL committee, co-chairing of Faculty Association, participating with Leadership Council, and currently most involved with the implementation of the CRM and Early Success. Element cheerleader all the way!

 

Congratulations to Kashama Leo-Henry, for being nominated for the Childcare Hero Award because of her exceptional dedication and impactful advocacy for early education.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“Durham Tech commits to a Standard of Excellence and my professionalism and work ethic mirrors their core values. I am motivated to deliver the best services to my students and the community at large. I am a reflection of the slogan of Durham Tech. “We do great things.”

Kashama serves as an Instructor, Early Childhood Education Program. She is a wonderful mom to two beautiful children. She has over 22 years of experience working with children and families. She has served as a preschool teacher, resource teacher, infant and toddler specialist, site director, and quality enhancement specialist. She is a published author of 3 children’s books, Daddies and Uncles and More, Oh My!, I Can! Just Not Like You, and You Have A Friend In Me.

 

Congratulations Dr. Micah J. Dobson. Dr. Dobson has published an article in the Journal of Physical Activity Research, titled Creating and Implementing Diverse Physical Education Curriculum Programs for Undergraduate Physical Education published in 2023

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“Publishing in the journal of physical activity research has contributed significant value to the field of physical education and health.”

Dr. Dobson serves as an Adjunct Instructor, Physical Education here at Durham Tech. He is a leader in the field of physical/health education with experience on both the K-12 and postsecondary levels. He is an engaging, innovative, and dynamic physical education, recreation, and sport management educator skillful in both online and face-to-face teaching. Dr. Dobson is dedicated to student success and creating an inclusive classroom environment.

 

Congratulations Dr. Andre Davis. Dr. Davis is the President Elect for the North Carolina Community College Student Development Personnel Association (N3CSDPA). Dr. Davis became the President Elect for N3CSDPA on August 14, 2023, and will officially take office in the Summer of 2024.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“As the President of N3CSDPA I will be privy to discussions about initiatives, possible grants, policy discussions, and plans for Student Services Divisions throughout the state of North Carolina. I'll be uniquely positioned to provide policy guidance and gain valuable leadership experience to support our work at the college and through out the State.”

Dr. Davis serves as the Director, Student Enrichment here at Durham Tech. He is an innovative, data-driven, student-centric, cross-functional leader with a passion for supporting and motivating students to achieve personal, academic, and career goals. He has created the "Performance Coaching Framework," which is designed to effectively support those who coach students and those who supervise Student Success Coaches (SSC). He brings the same level of passion and experience to coaching and developing high performing teams to work collaboratively to impact overall student success. Andre holds a coaching-powered leadership certification through InsideTrack, serves as a co-lead of the Element 451 program targets team and early success system team, and is a member of the enrollment strategy council.

 

Congratulations to Dr. Kara Battle. Dr. Battle Co-authored an opt. ed piece with Dr. Ben Coulter, Southeastern Regional Director for Western Governor's University in October 2023. Read more at How to Navigate the College Transfer Process?

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?

“This collaboration speaks to our support and partnership with 4-year colleges and universities and our commitment to student transfer programs.”

Dr. Battle serves as Vice President/Chief Academic Officer here at Durham Tech. Dr. Battle is an educational leader with 30 years of higher education experience and demonstrated success managing departments, projects, and initiatives to promote student success. Devoted team professional with a focus on communication and organizational efficiency; on ensuring equity for all students and employees; and on ensuring Durham Tech is a first choice of education and employment for the community.

Fall 2023

Congratulations to our four employees who completed the Management Accelerator Learning Journey, part of the McKinsey Connected Leadership Academy

• Al Leaston - Assistant Dean, Information Technology and Business and Entrepreneurship
• Precious Vines Harris - Director/Instructor, Paralegal Technology Program
• Jacequeline Mitchell - Director, Massage Therapy Program
• Marye Vance - Coordinator/Instructor, Teaching-Learning Center; Codirector Teaching and Learning Central Hub

“Connected Leaders Academy provides organizations the opportunity to improve their talent pipeline and unlock their organization’s full potential” — Mckinsey & Company

"Through the management accelerator program, I discovered the power of transformative leadership, unlocking my potential to drive positive change. This program ignited my passion for effective management, forever shaping my journey toward becoming an impactful and purpose-driven leader. " —  Al Leaston

 

 

“I am extremely grateful for taking part in the Black Management Accelerator Leadership Academy with McKinsey and Company. I learned so much from the leadership modules, collaboration, networking, and peer group projects. I highly recommend this experience, and thank Durham Tech for the opportunity to participate.”  —  Precious Vines Harris

 

“The McKinsey and Company Black Management Leadership Program allowed me the vulnerability to express, with other Black leaders, the challenges of being the only minority female in a meeting, how to utilize my voice when those challenges occur to be my authentic self, and how to stay within a leadership mindset. The program's modules also offered self-awareness activities to use as a guide when making decisions. Although many of the learning exercises and modules were not new thinking, they allowed a deeper understanding to enhance existing core knowledge and skills.  This was a learning experience that I encourage others to participate in as it will support growth as a strategic partner within your organization."  — Jacequeline Mitchell

 

"McKinsey's Black Manager's Academy provided clear competencies to measure participation through each module. The modules were designed to strengthen and challenge my skill set to manage and lead a team. The resources and breakout sessions such as leadership boards, were helpful by allowing the opportunity to reflect on materials reviewed during each session. I found the design of the breakout sessions helpful in networking with other people in various roles and organizations. Having completed McKinsey's BMA, there is continued support through business platforms and opportunities to participate and engage in webinars related to leadership."  — Marye Vance

 

Congratulations to the Faculty of the English for Academic Purposes Program

The English for Academic Purposes program in the Center for the Global Learner has achieved a 10-year accreditation status from the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). In reviewing a program or institution, the Commission seeks to determine that it provides the student services and programs described in its materials; is student-centered; provides a program that supports its mission; and has the resources, fiscal and human, to assure that students are well served through meeting the 44 CEA Standards for English Language Programs and Institutions. The Commission has determined that the Durham Technical Community College English for Academic Purposes Program meets these requirements and commends the program for its achievement.

 

Congratulations Lori Heiger, for being elected as the Central Regional Representative for the North Carolina College Advising Association. Elected to serve in Spring 2023 - Spring 2025

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?
“I will be able to learn more about advising around the state of NC and I will be able to share it with Advisors, both academic and program.”

Lori currently serves as an Academic Advisor at Durham Technical Community College and is actively involved with several statewide organizations. She has previously served the North Carolina Community College Sociology/Psychology Association as their Vice President (2012-2014) and Secretary (2008-2012) and the North Carolina Sociology Association as their Secretary (2006-2008) and Executive Council member (2004-2006).

 

Congratulations Dr. Sadik Kara, for serving as a National Science Foundation (NSF) evaluator for five Biomedical and electronics instrumentation research projects submitted to the National Science Foundation (NSF) by some Universities such as Stanford and Harvard University. He was assigned as Lead for one project, and reviewer for others by NSF twice in 2023. May 8-9, 2023, and June 1-2, 2023.

Dr. Kara, is an Instructor Building, Engineering, and Skilled Trades programs / Biomedical Equipment and Electronics Eng. Technology programs. He has supervised 25 masters and 16 Ph.D. Engineering thesis, also, I completed 15 Biomedical Engineering projects.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?
Evaluators often interact with researchers, professionals, and experts from various fields. This can lead to valuable networking opportunities that could potentially foster collaborations, joint research projects, and partnerships for the university. Engaging in the evaluation process exposed me to a diverse group of researchers and professionals. This can lead to valuable collaborations, joint research efforts, and opportunities for co-authorship. Evaluators review projects from various disciplines, broadening their understanding of different scientific areas and promoting interdisciplinary thinking. Participation in the evaluation process hones critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. These skills are transferable and beneficial in both academic and non-academic settings.

 

Congratulations Darryl Bing, on being a recipient of the 2023-24 Yarborough Research Grant from NC Academy of Science, Spring 2023. The Yarborough Grant is a competitive award that goes to institutions and students for the continuation of natural science research. Our grant is for the continuation of research on how microbial fuel cell technology may be used to repurpose wastewater as a potential source of renewable fuel.

Darryl is a Chemistry Instructor here at Durham Tech. He is a native New Yorker who has lived in North Carolina for 22 years and a full-time Durham Tech employee since the Fall of 2021. In addition to engaging students in research, he is also the organic chemistry instructor for the Department of Physical Science.

 

Congratulations Shelley Rusincovitch
Durham Tech adjunct instructor Shelley Rusincovitch was named to the shortlist for the AIMed Champion Non-clinician of the Year 2023 award  AIMED GLOBAL SUMMIT 2023, in June 2023. This award recognizes an exceptional non-clinician, a person who is increasing the impact of AI systems to help solve clinical and operational challenges.

Shelley Rusincovitch, is an informaticist and technical leader who specializes in healthcare applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning, data modeling, and data science experiential learning. She has more than 20 years of experience in clinical research including clinical trials, registries, and health system data warehousing. Ms. Rusincovitch serves as the managing director of Duke AI Health, a multidisciplinary, campus-spanning initiative housed within the Duke University School of Medicine.

Congratulations Brittney VornDick, for presenting her conference paper at the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) national meeting in Sacramento. She also presented a poster at the meeting. She is also part of a New Faculty Development Series for TYC Physics instructors, only 20 were selected across the country in July 14-17.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?
I learned about new teaching methodologies to bring back to the classroom.

Brittney is the full-time physics instructor here at Durham Tech. She is currently president of the North Carolina section of AAPT, and she has also served as secretary of the Engineering Pathways Committee. This past school year she has gotten involved with the Two-Year College (TYC) Physics Guidelines Committee and the TYC Faculty Development Series part of AAPT.

 

Congratulations Dr. Micara Lewis-Sessoms
Dr. Lewis-Sessoms has co-published an article in the Community College Journal of Research and Practice. This work outlines a blueprint for researchers and practitioners on strategies to conduct case studies around equity at community colleges. 

Title: Equity Case Studies on Rural Community Colleges: A Blueprint for Campus Change; Authors: Jorge Burmicky, Roshaunda L. Breeden, Micara Lewis-Sessoms, Pamela L. Eddy & Sarah L. Rodriguez July 25, 2023

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?
At Durham Tech, equity is what we do and who we are. As an Equity Champion, it was essential for me to become immersed in equity research and development for the betterment of our students’ experience. Participating in this research project afforded me the opportunity to connect with research leaders in diversity, equity, and inclusion. I was able to advance my knowledge of the role equity plays in closing the achievement gap for community college students. Additionally, I am able to share Durham Tech’s equity best practices with colleges across the nation. Coupled with the historical work of the college in equity, I will continue to stamp Durham Tech as an institution operating with and growing an equity mindset and culture.

Micara serves as Durham Technical Community College’s (Durham Tech) Director of Work-Based Education and Apprenticeship. In this collaborative role, she serves as a leader in connecting the value of WBL to labor market outcomes. Previously, she served as Durham Tech’s Director, School-Age Education program, and Assistant Dean, Business and Entrepreneurship programs. She collaborates with community college leadership, students, and employers to create equitable learning outcomes between Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and industry.

 

Congratulations Dr. Chris A. O'Riordan-Adjah
Dr. Chris A. O'Riordan-Adjah has published a paper and presented it at the American Society of Engineering Educators (ASEE) 2023 Annual Conference & Exposition. 

The paper entitled Promoting Building and Technical Skilled Trades and not Leaving Engineering out of the Equation, discusses the building and skilled trades programs offered here at Durham, what it takes to get into these programs, the benefits, and why students should consider these options.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?
Since this is a national conference, this opportunity brings awareness to Durham Tech and its programs. Since there was an emphasis on student-centeredness, it meets our strategic plan core value of providing training opportunities within a supportive environment that supports students through goal achievement. 

Chris serves as the Dean, Building and Skilled Trades here at Durham Tech. He understands how the college can serve students holistically by focusing on retention and student success initiatives, like improved advising, success coaching, and connections to employers. He is also an advocate of the Building and Construction Trades which provides a great opportunity for hands-on student enthusiasts.

 

Congratulations Marina DelVecchio
Marina is a co-author of the published article “Risk Factors of Food Insecurity Among Students at Diverse Post-Secondary Education Institutions: A Cross-Sectional Examination.”  In the Journal of American College Health, 2023. Authors: Drake, Connor; Tyler Johnson; Ruth Gilliam Phillips; Thomas Szigethy; Marina DelVecchio, Ph.D.; Kate Zhang; Ralph Snyderman.

How has the activity benefited you and Durham Tech?
“It benefits me by adding to my scholarly research and publications, and it benefits Durham Tech because our students were surveyed for the paper/research”

Marina is an Instructor of English and Honors Program Director in the Creative and Liberal Arts (CALA) department here at Durham Tech. Marina DelVecchio is the author of numerous online and print publications. Marina DelVecchio is an award-winning author, her debut novel, Dear Jane, was a finalist for the 2020 International Book Awards and the 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. It also won first place for the 2019 Wishing Shelf Book Award and was named in Kirkus' list for Best Indie Books of 2019. Her essays appear in Ms. Magazine, the Huffington Post, Her Circle Ezine, The New Agenda, and BlogHer.

 

Congratulations Marye Vance on being inducted into the National Society Leadership Success.

She was nominated for induction due to her high grade point average in doctoral studies at Capella University. The induction process included several levels of leadership development through an orientation, webinars, and leadership meetings. Two badges were issued for the two levels completed in the leadership academy, the Orientation and Leadership Training Certificate, and the Foundations of Leadership Certificate. Having completed the first two leadership levels, induction into NSLS was the accomplished goal. This induction leads to two accelerated levels in Advanced Leadership Certification and Executive Leadership Certification, scheduled to be completed after induction in October 2023. The activity took place over the year, 2022 – 2023.

How has this activity benefited you and Durham Tech?
The activity provided professional growth in the area of leadership development skills which aligns with the work performed at Durham Tech.

Marye currently serves as Teaching-Learning Center Coordinator/Instructor /Codirector Teaching and Learning Central Hub here at Durham Tech in the Organizational Development and Learning Department. She strives to serve others through a reflective lens for deeper understanding and meaning to help encourage and motivate them to their next level as a professional.