AHOSKIE, NC – Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC), in partnership with Halifax Community College and Martin Community College, is celebrating a significant milestone for the Adult High School (AHS) Consortium with the success of its first graduates and the continued growth of a program designed to help adult learners earn a high school diploma and access new educational and career opportunities. This regional consortium was established in 2025 and a pilot project launched earlier this year. 

The AHS Program, offered through the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS), provides adults who did not complete high school with an opportunity to earn a state-recognized high school diploma while building a pathway to workforce training and post-secondary education. Being part of the NCCCS’s efforts to help students complete their high school education, the program seeks to prepare students for future success.  

This year, the consortium celebrated three graduates whose stories reflect determination and resilience: 

 Nigel Marks Jr., 23, overcame significant obstacles while pursuing his diploma. While balancing coursework and employment, he was involved in a serious automobile accident that temporarily limited the use of his hands. Despite the challenge, he remained committed to completing his education and became the first Roanoke-Chowan Community College student to graduate through the consortium. Nigel plans to pursue welding training and certifications with the goal of working in the shipbuilding industry.  
 
His younger brother, Jacari Marks, followed his example by enrolling in the program and earning his diploma less than two months later. Jacari has since begun employment with Amazon and plans to pursue welding certifications as he continues building his career.  
 
At Halifax Community College, Landon Moss completed the program after returning to school with a determination to finish his education. In addition to his studies, he volunteered with three fire departments throughout Halifax County. Following graduation, he plans to enlist in the military and continue his education while serving others.  
 
“This achievement represents much more than diplomas earned,” said Dr. Murray J. Williams, president of Roanoke-Chowan Community College. “The Adult High School Consortium is changing lives by creating opportunities for adults who are ready to complete their education, strengthen their careers and build brighter futures for themselves and their families. Nigel, Jacari and Landon exemplify the determination and perseverance that make this program so impactful, and we are proud to celebrate their success.” 

Miranda Lassiter, dean of College & Career Readiness at Roanoke-Chowan Community College, said the consortium partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration among community colleges. 

“Serving as dean of College & Career Readiness, it has been incredibly rewarding to witness the impact of the Adult High School Consortium between Halifax Community College, Martin Community College and Roanoke-Chowan Community College,” she said. “Watching Roanoke-Chowan Community College celebrate its first two Adult High School graduates, Nigel Marks Jr. and Jacari Marks, has been both a professional milestone and a personal source of pride. Their success demonstrates that this program is more than an opportunity to earn a high school diploma. It is a pathway to renewed confidence, career advancement and generational change.” 

Lassiter also noted that the partnership removes barriers that have prevented many adults from completing their education while creating seamless pathways into workforce training and higher education. She credited the leadership and collaboration of Dr. Lakisha Peebles at Halifax Community College for helping bring the initiative to fruition and highlighted the inspiring impact of Nigel encouraging his younger brother to enroll and complete the program. 

The Adult High School Consortium was established to expand access to high school completion opportunities throughout the region. Through the collaboration of these three community colleges, adult learners can earn a high school diploma while preparing for continued education and employment opportunities. 

“These first graduates are only the beginning,” Lassiter said. “Their stories reflect resilience, determination and hope, and we look forward to celebrating many more student successes in the years ahead.” 

The next AHS Consortium program will begin August 17. For more details, contact Lassiter at 252-862-1300.