Chowan Connect Programs Archives - �鶹��Ƶ

Two �鶹��Ƶ Students Land Internships with Local Chambers

Catherine Vickers — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 13:58:13 +0000

September 3, 2024 was a momentous day celebrating a partnership with Murfreesboro and Ahoskie Chambers of Commerce and �鶹��Ƶ. Harri Lovett, Director of Business and Industry Partnerships for �鶹��Ƶ, says, “I feel like this agreement, impacting multiple communities, strengthens the unity of Hertford County, continuing the momentum and collaboration shown in recent months.This partnership and agreement makes my heart happy. We have two incredible Chowan students who have bought into the community and the big picture of what makes our University great. Having worked diligently with both the Ahoskie and Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerces, I recognize the significance of both committees respective contribution to Hertford County and its economic growth.

Our Ahoskie intern, Mr. Hassan Mutaasa is as bright as a student you will ever meet. Hassan has overcome so many obstacles on his path to Chowan, which have molded him into a resilient, polite, and extremely talented technician and professional. Under the guidance of President RJ Myers and daily mentorship from Executive Director Connie Poland, Hassan will aid our neighbors in Ahoskie exponentially.”

Hassan says, “I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this internship. It’s an exciting chance to deepen my knowledge, contribute meaningfully, and grow within a professional environment. I am looking forward to making the most of this experience.” A tour of Ahoskie, Burger King and Connie Poland as his chauffeur, makes for an awesome beginning to an internship.

Mr. Lovett goes on to say, “Anyone who knows Patrick Sullivan, our Murfreesboro Chamber intern, knows this is a match made in heaven. Patrick is gregarious, dependable, and bleeds Chowan blue. It excites me to think about the learning experience Patrick will receive under Executive Director, Daryl Williams and President, Sara Crowder. Patrick’s marketing capabilities will highlight the booming restaurant scene, small business growth, special events, and of course, the Inaugural Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament on October 4th. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Board of Trustee Member, Grace Brown, for facilitating the Bynum R. Brown Internship Award.”

Grace Brown is thrilled. “This is a win-win-win situation for all of us. Patrick will gain valuable experience through the Chamber of Commerce operations, the Chamber will benefit from the expertise and knowledge of a promising young marketing major, and Chowan has another active and engaged face in the Murfreesboro community. I am so pleased that we can honor my Father, Mr. Bynum R. Brown in this way through the Internship Award. He would be so proud of the work that Daryl, Harri, (and now Patrick) are doing to enhance Murfreesboro.”

Patrick is the first Chowan intern for the Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Williams is looking forward to introducing him to all of the local businesses and stated that he will officially be an employee of the Chamber. “We are vested in a relationship with the university, our community and local businesses.”

Meryl Brown, representing Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce, Daryl Williams, Executive Director for Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce, Harri Lovett, Director of Business and Industry Partnerships, Dr. Rosemary Thomas, �鶹��Ƶ President, Hassan Mutaasa and Patrick Sullivan, Interns, gathered at �鶹��Ƶ to celebrate Chowan’s Connect Program and the fellowship of the Chambers.

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CU Wednesdays: A Glimpse into this Midweek Break

Catherine Vickers — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 18:44:09 +0000

Wednesday is a middle of the week day; some say hump day, or think longingly of a day closer to the weekend. Wednesday, for Chowan students, is a welcoming day, a day to catch up, to relax, to wake up just a little later than a normal college schedule allows. Madison Kilgore, a freshman from Portland, Texas says, “I enjoy the life skills schedule on Wednesday because it gives me a chance to catch up on homework and have a break in the middle of the week. I love the activities provided because when I’m finished with work, I can enjoy something else to ease my mind. Pop and Paint was fun and easy and I was able to be creative while enjoying a snack with friends. I can reset and take a break. Madison’s Wednesdays actually begin with Volleyball practice in the morning. Pop and Paint was sponsored by the Department of Student Experience and Success, along with activities in the park, including cornhole and spike ball and of course, so much food.

On Wednesday, August 26, students were invited to attend a Professionalism Workshop, sponsored by the International Student Club. Officers Sreshta Puducheri, Marie Kaissieh, Lina Danna, and Elizabeth Waltz covered topics including social media and public relations, interviewing skills and networking. Calvin Baldwin, a former Chowan student and business owner, inspired the students attending on exciting possible career choices after graduation. Mr. Baldwin is thrilled to be helping university students. “As an alumnus of �鶹��Ƶ, I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to give back to the students. I’m invested in their future because someone once invested in mine. When I stand and interact with the students, I can feel their hunger and ambition for greatness. Dr. Rosemary Thomas is providing excellent leadership for the university, and it’s inspiring to witness the growth and potential of the next generation.”

Harri Lovett, a graduate of Chowan’s Masters in Organizational Leadership and now Director of Business and Industry Partnerships for the University spoke to the students about presentations; simply shaking hands and introductions and the basics aspiring professionals need to know.

Mr. Lovett says regarding this event, “As our dedication to serve students with all aspects of their professional development grows, so does our need for dedicated events that focus on shaping the student into the professional. I am so invigorated by the enthusiasm of the International Student Club in their preparation and execution of this fantastic event. The topics dissected challenging issues that young professionals face in the workplace and gave invaluable insight into how to combat the said issues. These student directed discussions are so important because we remove barriers and allow students to ask questions or even uncover themes of which they are unfamiliar.”

Also on Wednesday, Keyond Gorley, Director of Public Safety, sponsored a Meet and Greet with donuts, sharing safety concerns with new students, actually, anyone who wanted to attend. A caring environment involves all those working on behalf of the students, an entire campus community, de-stressing on Wednesdays brings the warmth of belonging to campus.

With students focusing intensely on two classes per seven-week period, Wednesdays are an important component of the ten critical areas Chowan advocates in their life skills mandate, particularly involving self-care and wellness, spiritual growth, confidence and communicating effectively. Freshman, Anna Holcombe from Wake Forest NC says, “Wednesdays are a change of pace from everyday. It allows me the opportunity to become involved in activities on campus and spend time with people I might not otherwise get to see.” Madison plays Volleyball for Chowan. Another Volleyball player, Hanna Virts from Ponte Vedra, Florida loves being able to catch up on her academic classes.

This Wednesday, Mr. Lovett will sponsor a Small Business Meet-up where the business owners in Murfreesboro will meet with interested students, not necessarily jobs, but to build relationships and find mentors. Volleyball, field games and service projects will all be included making another wonderful Wednesday possible for Chowan students.

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�鶹��Ƶ Hosts Speed Interview Event for Students

Zoe Beale — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:46:20 +0000

On Thursday, April 18th, Harri Lovett, Director of Business and Industry Partnerships, hosted “Speed Interviews” for students and local business professionals to connect on campus through a series of brief interviews lasting just three minutes each. This initiative aimed to equip students with essential networking skills and the ability to present themselves effectively in an interview setting.

Calvin Baldwin, ’07, leads the opening session.

“The speed interview concept allows us to enhance �鶹��Ƶ’s relationship with many local entities while servicing our students in an engaging, realistic, and fast-paced environment,” said event organizer Harri Lovett. “I am so grateful to the twenty industry leaders that attended this event.”

The event commenced with an inspiring address by 2007 Chowan graduate Calvin Baldwin, who shared his personal experience of the opportunities he received as a student at Chowan. Baldwin, driven by his passion to extend the same opportunities to others, emphasized the event’s significance in empowering students to excel in their future endeavors.

“It not only enhanced my interviewing skills but also provided me with a clearer understanding of my career aspirations.” – Hiba Laknit, ’24

Hiba Laknit, a senior at �鶹��Ƶ, shared her thoughts on the importance of events such as these. “Participating in the event was a great learning experience, offering a glimpse into different industries and career paths. It not only enhanced my interviewing skills but also provided me with a clearer understanding of my career aspirations. I am grateful for the chance to participate, and the knowledge gained will undoubtedly benefit my future endeavors.”

The students weren’t the only attendees who saw the benefits of the event. Dr. Angie Jenkins, the Regional Impact Manager of myFutureNC, shared her thoughts with Mr. Lovett. “What a wonderful privilege it was to interview such a group of exceptionally talented students, who showcased not just their skills but also the kind of awareness, professionalism, and intelligence that today’s employers are actively seeking. Their readiness and strategic approach to professional engagement were truly impressive. It’s clear that Chowan is not just preparing students academically but also equipping them with the critical interpersonal skills necessary for today’s workforce.”

The Speed Interview event witnessed an overwhelming response from both students and professionals, making it a success. Students not only gained valuable experience but also enhanced their confidence levels, enabling them to forge meaningful connections within the business community that will prove beneficial beyond graduation.

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�鶹��Ƶ’s Harri Lovett Hosts First Business and Industry Coffee Event

Zoe Beale — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:36:23 +0000

The first Business and Industry Coffee Event was held at the Hawks Nest on February 21st, and was a resounding success. Harri Lovett, Director of Business and Industry Partnerships for �鶹��Ƶ, hosted students, faculty, and local business professionals to network with current students.

The event took place in the ideal setting of the Life Skills Mall, which showcased the ongoing additions being made to promote student success. The highlight of these additions is the Pro Shop, a new space within the Career Services department. The Pro Shop will provide students with an interview space to utilize as they apply for jobs, as well as the opportunity to practice interviewing, update their resumes, and learn valuable tips for obtaining interview skills.

�鶹��Ƶ is committed to prioritizing student success, and the introduction of the Life Skills Model is a testament to this dedication. By equipping graduates with the skills that employers are seeking, �鶹��Ƶ ensures that its students are well-prepared for the professional world.

The event saw a diverse range of attendees, including representatives from prominent local businesses, faculty members, and motivated students eager to expand their professional networks. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as participants engaged in meaningful conversations and exchanged contact information.

�鶹��Ƶ remains committed to providing its students with the resources and opportunities necessary for their success. The Business and Industry Coffee Event is just one example of the university’s dedication to fostering connections between students and professionals, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to thrive in their chosen fields.

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