January 9, 2026

Roanoke-Chowan Community College to Honor Local Leaders During Black History Month Celebration

                                                                       

AHOSKIE, NC– Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) will host a Black History Month celebration at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, in the Student Services Building Multi-Purpose Room. The event will honor local leaders whose contributions have strengthened the community and reflect the theme “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”
 
Bertie County Sheriff Tyrone Ruffin Sr. will deliver the keynote address, sharing his personal journey and insights on the achievements and progress within Black history.
 
This year’s honorees include:
 

• The Honorable Corey Ballance Sr., Bertie County Commissioner Chair/Pastor
• The Honorable David Hunt, Ahoskie Town Councilman
• The Honorable Shirley Johnson, Hertford County Clerk of Superior Court/Pastor
• Elenia Riddick, Educator

 
“These honorees exemplify leadership, resilience and service,” said Dr. Murray J. Williams, R-CCC President. “Their dedication to uplifting others and creating opportunities reflects the very essence of Black History Month. We are proud to celebrate their impact and the legacy they continue to build for future generations.”
 
The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 252-862-1200 or visit www.roanokechowan.edu.
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