February 20, 2026

Roanoke-Chowan Community College Hosted Black History Month Celebration Honoring Local Leaders

                                                                       

AHOSKIE, NC– Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) hosted its annual Black History Month celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, in the Jernigan Building Auditorium. The event honored local leaders whose contributions strengthened the community, aligning with this year’s national theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” 

Bertie County Sheriff Tyrone Ruffin Sr. delivered the keynote address. He reflected on his personal journey, accomplishments and the ongoing progress made within Black history.  Ruffin encouraged students to recognize their potential and reminded attendees that today’s generation is “walking in the dreams of our ancestors.” He emphasized resilience, self-worth and the importance of pursuing personal and academic goals. 

R-CCC recognized four honorees for their leadership and service:

• The Honorable Corey Ballance Sr., Bertie County Commissioner Chair and pastor
• The Honorable David Hunt, Ahoskie Town Councilman
• The Honorable Shirley Johnson, Hertford County Clerk of Superior Court and pastor
• Elenia Riddick, Hertford County Middle School Principal 

“These honorees exemplify leadership, resilience and service,” said Dr. Murray J. Williams, R-CCC president. “Their dedication to uplifting others and creating opportunities reflect the very essence of Black History Month. We are proud to celebrate their impact and the legacy they continue to build for future generations.” Williams also reflected on the 100-year history of Black History Month, honoring its origins and the continued influence of local and national Black leaders. 

The program included remarks from R-CCC Executive Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Tanya Oliver, along with participation from Dean of Student Affairs Danielle Ruffin, student leaders and representatives from Hertford County Early College. Oliver closed the ceremony by encouraging students to lead with purpose and recognize their role in shaping the future. 

The event was free and open to the public and welcomed students, staff, alumni, community members and local officials.

Student participants included R-CCC and Hertford County Early College students. Pictured from left are Carly Piland, Nate Stafford, Terry Hunt, Anaston Lassiter, Jameera Brown, Ta’Nijah Ruffin and Bryan Medina Lopez.

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