July 1, 2025

R-CCC Honors Trustee Chair Ronald J. Gatling for 21 Years of Service

 

 

AHOSKIE, NC –Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) formally recognized Ronald J. Gatling, long-serving Chair of the Board of Trustees, during a retirement recognition service held June 24 on the college campus. Gatling, who served on the R-CCC Board since June 2004, including the past three years as chair, stepped down from his post in May 2025 after more than two decades of leadership and service.

Gatling was presented with multiple honors during the ceremony, including plaques, resolutions, a commemorative watch, and special recognitions from state and local leaders.

District Director Kimberly Mack, representing U.S. Congressman Don Davis (NC-01), presented Gatling with a certificate of special Congressional recognition. “In a previous article about you, you mentioned your mom told you to always try to make a difference,” said Mack. “From the tribute video and your illustrious career, it’s clear you did just that.”

R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams shared heartfelt remarks, saying, “You have been dedicated not only to the institution but to its mission. Your love for students and this college will forever be etched in our hearts.”

Interim Board Chair Jeri Pierce praised Gatling’s vision and steady leadership, presenting him with an official resolution from the Board. “Your dedication has helped shape this institution,” she said.

Andre’ Lassiter, R-CCC Foundation Board Chair and Hertford County Board of Commissioners chair, reflected on Gatling’s personal sacrifices and deep community commitment. “You don’t know the time and level of commitment that Ronald has spent in this community and at this college,” Lassiter said. “His leadership is irreplaceable.” Lassiter, joined by Commissioner Leroy Douglas II, presented a plaque and county resolution on behalf of the Hertford County Board of Commissioners.

Gatling, who also served four years as vice chair of the R-CCC Board and three years on the R-CCC Foundation Board, said he was humbled by the honors. “All this recognition doesn’t compare to where R-CCC is today. This college is the best it’s been since I’ve been on the board,” he said. “I gave my best and made a difference. I know I gave my all and helped a lot of folks.”

He also issued a challenge to his fellow board members, “Don’t allow anyone to derail your forward progress. If you’re not preparing for the future, you need to resign. Ask yourself if you are making a difference by sitting in this seat.”

A native of Hertford County, Gatling has spent his life in public service. He served on the Ahoskie Town Council beginning in 1997, became mayor pro tempore, and has been a Hertford County Commissioner since 2011. He has championed scholarship programs, youth internships, senior services and community enrichment. 

Gatling is also a recipient of the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, awarded by the Governor of North Carolina, and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award from Hertford County Public Schools.

 

Andre’ Lassiter, R-CCC Foundation Board Chair and Chair of the Hertford County Board of Commissioners (left), was joined by Commissioner Leroy Douglas II (right), to present Gatling a plaque and county resolution on behalf of the Hertford County Board of Commissioners for his dedicated work on the college’s trustee board.


Among the parting gifts was a commemorative watch presented to Gatling by Trustee Jean Matthews with Interim Trustee Chair Jeri Pierce looking on.

 

Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s Mission

Roanoke-Chowan Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System and located in Hertford County, is a public, two-year institution of higher education offering associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, college and career readiness, and customized business and industry training in a variety of delivery modes promoting public service, transfer, and workforce development for a diverse student body, leading them to contribute to the vitality of an increasingly global community. www.roanokechowan.edu #DiscoverRCCC “Where community and careers connect”

Media Contact: Melanie Temple, Director of Marketing & Recruitment/PIO, metemple7181@roanokechowan.edu, 252-862-1243