“Because of Piedmont Community College, I am able to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. I am so proud to have been a part of this great community college.” This was Tiffani Woods’ response when asked about her educational journey at Piedmont Community College (PCC).
Tiffani graduated with an Associate in Arts degree from PCC on May 17, 2019. She has worked diligently in the classroom and at the College overall, serving as President of the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society.
Her efforts were rewarded as she was named Piedmont Community College’s Academic Excellence Award recipient, an honor bestowed by the North Carolina Community College System, for the 2018-19 academic year. At PCC’s recent commencement ceremony, Tiffani was awarded a plaque and medallion by Dr. Pamela G. Senegal, PCC President and Paulina Lopez, Commencement Speaker and 2012 PCC Graduate, in recognition of this prestigious award.
In her nomination essay, Tiffani shared that her story did not begin with overwhelming success. She went to college directly after high school and was not convinced that the major she selected would lead her in the right direction. She dropped out, married, and worked a job that she did not love.
Upon moving to North Carolina, Tiffani learned about Piedmont Community College and reconnected with her educational goals.
After directing the children’s ministry at her church for two years, Tiffani realized the deep connection she felt working with elementary aged kids.
Determined to succeed, Tiffani began her studies at PCC while researching next steps. After working with advisors at both PCC and East Carolina University (ECU), Tiffani applied for and was accepted into ECU’s online Elementary Education cohort that begins this summer.
“My experience here [at PCC] has been nothing short of wonderful… I have also grown a lot as a person and a leader. Being in PTK and a student at PCC has challenged me and has been such a rewarding experience.”
Tiffani will continue her schooling with online studies at ECU this summer. Upon graduation, she hopes to share her passion for education in the classroom and potentially follow in her father’s footsteps by seeking a degree in administration so she can one day become a principal.
Photo: Tiffani Woods (center) with Dr. Pamela G. Senegal and Paulina Lopez
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