Jay Morgan has built much of his own life around finding strengths, overcoming roadblocks, and setting goals. Now, he brings that same philosophy to his work with students in the Brunswick Interagency Program (BIP), helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities build skills, gain independence, and pursue opportunities in the community. 

“I’m blessed to be able to teach students, to be able to make their day,” said Jay. “We’re all a big team.” 

That sense of community is something Jay has experienced firsthand at BCC. He graduated from the college himself, and over the years, BCC has become part of his family’s story, too. 

“I went to school here and graduated from BCC. My wife graduated here, and now my daughter goes here, too. There’s such a strong family atmosphere at BCC, and especially at this stage of my life, I wanted to be part of that.” 

Education is something Jay has always valued. Before joining BIP, he spent nearly 20 years working in landscaping at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). When he left, he knew he wanted to find a way to stay connected to education, which ultimately led him to BCC. 

“I wanted to be a part of some kind of education system. I love to teach, I love to coach,” said Jay. “BCC gave me the opportunity to teach and work with students, and that’s something I really value.” 

That opportunity brought Jay to BIP, where he now serves as Employment Supervisor. In his role, Jay helps BIP students build employment skills and connect with opportunities in the community. Drawing on his experience in education and the passion for coaching he shared with his father, Jay has developed an approach to teaching that focuses on each student’s individual strengths. 

“How I approach teaching is exactly like how I’d coached. I look at the skill sets; everyone has something they aren’t good or bad at. I look at what their strengths are and then come up with a system for them.” 

Jay believes everyone has something special to offer, and sometimes it just takes a little guidance to discover it. Outside of work, Jay has always found joy in music and comedy, and he brings that same spirit into the classroom, finding ways to connect with his students and brighten their days. 

“I’ll go over and rap for the students, and I see how it brightens their day. It’s something I do on the side, but I love the reach. I’m blessed to be here, to be able to teach students and make their day.” 

For Jay, patience is also an important part of his work. His own experience with a learning disability has taught him that progress takes time, and that understanding shapes the way he approaches the barriers his students may face. 

“I believe there’s two people, one person makes excuses and one person gets around the roadblocks,” said Jay. 

With patience, experience, and a strong belief in his students, Jay is helping BIP students build the skills, confidence, and independence to pursue meaningful opportunities, contribute to their communities, and see what is possible for themselves. 

“That’s the dream: to coach, to teach, and to be able to make someone’s life better.”

September 2026

�鶹ӳ�� is pleased to welcome Douglas “Doug” Dawson and R. Kent Wood to its Board of Trustees. Dawson and Wood were sworn in during the Board’s regular meeting on August 20. Dawson was sponsored by the North Carolina House of Representatives, while Wood was sponsored by the North Carolina Senate.

“We are fortunate to welcome two accomplished leaders who bring tremendous experience and a strong commitment to service,” said BCC President Dr. Gene Smith. “Mr. Dawson and Mr. Wood understand the importance of �鶹ӳ�� to our students, employers, and community. I look forward to working with them and appreciate their willingness to serve BCC in this important role.”

Dawson brings more than four decades of military and public service leadership to the Board. He served 41 years in the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, retiring as a Captain, along with 33 years in federal civil service. Today, he serves as Chief and President of Brunswick Search and Rescue, volunteers with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol, and serves as Eastern Representative to the North Carolina Search and Rescue Advisory Council.

Wood brings more than 35 years of experience in real estate, accounting, finance, and executive leadership. A licensed North Carolina real estate broker and former CPA, he has held senior leadership roles in commercial real estate, investment, finance, and brokerage. He also has a longstanding connection to BCC, having previously served as President and a member of The Foundation of �鶹ӳ�� Board of Directors.

BCC is proud to welcome Dawson and Wood and grateful for their commitment to serving the College, its students, and the Brunswick County community.

September 2026

Decades after leaving southeastern North Carolina for a life of service, education and opportunity, Dr. Lonnie Griffin has found his way back home — this time through the doors of �鶹ӳ��. As the new Dean of Arts and Sciences, Lonnie is focused on taking his expertise and years of experience to make a lasting impact on the BCC community.   

After graduating high school, Lonnie left home to serve in the military as a teenager. “I graduated high school on a Friday and was in boot camp on Monday,” explained Lonnie.  After finishing his military service, Lonnie found himself in Jacksonville, Florida. To continue his education affordably, Lonnie decided to attend Florida Community College at Jacksonville (FCCJ). With experience as a medic, Griffin originally thought his path lay in healthcare until his first semester sociology class.  

“I got very interested in that field of study,” explained Lonnie. “I knew from taking that course that my direction would be changing from healthcare to teaching sociology.”   

After discovering his passion for teaching, Griffin continued his education, earning his associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and, finally, doctorate degrees from several colleges and universities — all while gaining experience in higher education.  

Lonnie first worked as a communication lab tutor, graduate teaching assistant, and later taught social studies at a high school. After a year in public education, Griffin joined a community college, beginning the higher-education teaching career that would eventually lead to his first leadership role. After several years of teaching and serving in a leadership position, Lonnie continued building his leadership experience, eventually transitioning to a technical college in Georgia, where he served as dean.   

While he found the role extremely rewarding, something was still missing for Lonnie — the balance and value of being connected to the classroom. “I missed teaching,” he said. “I’ve had people refer to the work as a calling, and I have thought about that a lot during my career.”  

The connection to the classroom and students has continued to shape how Lonnie approaches leadership, giving him an understanding of both the work of faculty and the students they serve.  

“You need to have a connection to the work that the people you are trying to manage are doing, so you understand their struggle,” Lonnie said. “It gives you direct access to the students too because it allows you to gauge where the students’ heads are and how they’re engaging with the material.”  

This philosophy is part of what drew him to BCC, along with the college’s strong reputation. “What President Smith has done at BCC – to have a presence in this community, to serve our students, to be the resource — is remarkable, and the word has spread. I heard about it all the way down in Georgia and decided that I wanted to be a part of it.”  

For Lonnie, higher education has always been more than a career. It has been a journey built around students, teaching and service. Now, as BCC’s new Dean of Arts and Sciences (and sociology instructor), he feels he has found the right place to continue his journey.  

“I’ve almost come full circle,” he said. “I left Eastern North Carolina as a teenager, spent a lot of years away, and now I have an opportunity to come back and be part of something that I really believe in,” said Lonnie. “I hope to be here for a long time, until I retire. I feel very blessed and excited for what the future holds.”  

August 2026

Longtime �鶹ӳ�� supporters Dan and Linda Lynes are continuing a tradition of generosity that has helped BCC students pursue their dreams.

The Lynes recently presented The Foundation of �鶹ӳ�� with a $20,000 gift to further strengthen the Dan & Linda Lynes �鶹ӳ�� Endowed Scholarship Trust. Their support helps provide lasting scholarship opportunities for students working toward degrees, careers, and brighter futures.

This year’s gift carries an especially meaningful connection to the Brunswick County community. A portion was given in honor of Sarah Williams, mother of the Lynes’ dear friend and Brunswick County resident Teri Daly. Williams dedicated more than 40 years of her life to nursing, including many years caring for patients in Brunswick County.

The setting for the check presentation was fitting: a nursing simulation lab inside BCC’s Dan & Linda Lynes Health Sciences Center, another reflection of the Lynes family’s longstanding commitment to education, healthcare, and the College.

“We are deeply grateful to Dan and Linda for their continued generosity and unwavering belief in our students,” said Gabriella DiSisto, Executive Director of The Foundation of �鶹ӳ��. “Their decision to honor Sarah Williams makes this gift even more meaningful. By recognizing someone who devoted her life to caring for others, the Lynes family is extending that spirit of service to future generations of students whose education will be made possible through this scholarship.”

For many years, Dan & Linda Lynes Health Sciences Scholarships have helped BCC students pursue degrees, develop workforce skills, and move closer to their goals. Because endowed scholarships provide a permanent source of financial assistance, the impact of that generosity can continue from one generation of students to the next.

The Lynes family’s gift also illustrates the meaningful ways donors can celebrate the lives and legacies of people who matter to them. Gifts may be made in honor or memory of a loved one, while planned giving offers another way to create a lasting impact for BCC students.

To learn more about creating an endowed scholarship, making an honorary or memorial gift, or including The Foundation of �鶹ӳ�� in your estate plans, contact Gabriella DiSisto at disistog@brunswickcc.edu or 910-755-6530.

August 2026

�鶹ӳ�� is excited to welcome Tanner Bullard as the new head coach of the Dolphins softball program. Bullard brings several years of collegiate coaching experience and a passion for helping student-athletes succeed both on the field and in the classroom.

Before joining BCC, Bullard spent three seasons as an assistant coach at Converse University, where he helped guide the program through one of the most successful periods in its history while contributing to both the team’s athletic and academic achievements. He previously served as a graduate assistant coach at UNC Pembroke, helping develop student-athletes who earned conference and regional recognition.

“We’re excited to welcome Tanner to �鶹ӳ��,” said BCC Athletics Director Robbie Allen. “He brings a strong coaching background, a passion for developing student-athletes, and a vision for building a competitive program rooted in discipline, teamwork, and academic success. We look forward to the future of Dolphins softball under his leadership.”

Bullard said BCC’s close-knit community and untapped potential made the opportunity an easy choice.

“I’ve always viewed BCC as a hidden gem with tremendous potential,” Bullard said. “My goal is to build consistency among our student-athletes, both on the field and in the classroom. I want to create a culture where our players compete at a high level, support one another, and graduate prepared for whatever comes next.”

July 2026

�鶹ӳ�� is pleased to welcome Gabriella DiSisto as the new Executive Director of The Foundation of �鶹ӳ��.

With more than a decade of nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience, DiSisto brings a passion for connecting generous people with meaningful opportunities to make a lasting difference. Throughout her career, she has helped nonprofits strengthen donor relationships, grow philanthropic support, and expand opportunities for the people they serve.

Now, she’s excited to help create those same opportunities for BCC students.

“Working in the nonprofit world has always been incredibly rewarding because every day I have the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life,” said DiSisto. “Foundations like ours open doors for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue their education and career goals. Being part of that journey is what motivates me, and I am absolutely thrilled to join �鶹ӳ�� and become part of this community.”

As Executive Director, DiSisto will lead The Foundation’s fundraising and donor engagement efforts, working alongside alumni, businesses, community members, and philanthropic partners to increase scholarships, enhance programs, and expand educational opportunities for students across Brunswick County.

BCC President Dr. Gene Smith said DiSisto’s passion for helping others makes her an ideal fit for the College and its mission.

“The Foundation plays a vital role in creating opportunities for our students, and Gabriella shares that commitment wholeheartedly,” Smith said. “Her passion for serving others, combined with her experience building strong relationships, will help us continue expanding the Foundation’s impact for our students and our community. We are excited to welcome her to the BCC family.”

The Foundation of �鶹ӳ�� helps remove financial barriers, supports innovative educational programs, and creates opportunities that empower students to achieve their academic and career goals. Through scholarships, grants, and generous community support, the Foundation changes lives every day.

DiSisto looks forward to building relationships throughout Brunswick County and inviting others to become part of that mission.

To learn more about The Foundation of �鶹ӳ��, make a gift, or explore ways to support student success, contact Gabriella DiSisto at disistog@brunswickcc.edu or (910) 755-6530.July 2026

�鶹ӳ��’s Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Class 75 has reached an outstanding milestone, achieving a 100% pass rate on the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission State Comprehensive Exam.

The rigorous four-hour, 300-question exam is the final academic requirement for aspiring law enforcement officers in North Carolina. Passing the exam demonstrates a graduate’s knowledge, skills, and readiness to serve their communities, making Class 75’s perfect first-attempt pass rate an exceptional achievement.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for our students,” said BLET Program Director J.D. Smith. “A 100% pass rate reflects the dedication, discipline, and perseverance these students demonstrated throughout the program. It also speaks to the commitment of our instructors, who work tirelessly to prepare future law enforcement officers for success both in the classroom and in the field.”

BCC’s Basic Law Enforcement Training program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in criminal law, patrol procedures, investigations, ethics, defensive tactics, firearms, emergency response, driver training, and community relations. Graduates must successfully complete all Commission-mandated coursework and pass the State Comprehensive Exam before becoming eligible for certification as North Carolina law enforcement officers.

Class 75’s achievement continues BCC’s tradition of excellence in public safety education and reinforces the College’s commitment to preparing highly qualified officers to serve communities across North Carolina.

Congratulations to every member of BLET Class 75 on this remarkable accomplishment. We look forward to seeing the positive impact each graduate will make in the communities they serve.

July 2026

�鶹ӳ��’s Practical Nursing (PN) program has been recognized as the No. 2 Licensed Practical Nursing program in North Carolina for 2026 by PracticalNursing.org, a trusted national resource for nursing education, licensure, and career information.

The annual rankings recognize nursing programs that demonstrate excellence in preparing future nurses through strong academic outcomes and quality instruction.

“This recognition reflects the outstanding work of our Practical Nursing faculty and the dedication of our students,” said Dr. Robert Robinson, Dean of Health Sciences. “Our faculty are committed to preparing compassionate, highly skilled nurses who are ready to provide exceptional patient care from day one. We are incredibly proud of this achievement.”

BCC’s ACEN-accredited Practical Nursing program combines rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences that prepare graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure examination and begin rewarding careers in healthcare. Students gain valuable experience using advanced simulation technology and industry-leading equipment in the Dan & Linda Lynes Health Sciences Center, helping build confidence and clinical decision-making skills before entering the workforce.

“We congratulate our Practical Nursing faculty, students, and alumni on this well-deserved recognition,” said Dr. Gene Smith, President of �鶹ӳ��. “Their commitment to excellence, combined with our investment in state-of-the-art facilities and technology, ensures our graduates are well prepared to meet the growing healthcare needs of our region.”

BCC offers a wide range of Health Sciences programs, including Associate Degree Nursing (ADN), LPN to ADN Bridge, Paramedic to ADN Bridge, Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, Nurse Aide, and more.

Prospective students are encouraged to attend an information session, explore program options, or schedule a campus tour by contacting OneStop Student Services at onestop@brunswickcc.edu or (910) 755-7320.

Learn more about BCC’s Health Sciences programs at brunswickcc.edu.

July 2026

�鶹ӳ��’s men’s basketball team is heading back to the national spotlight, earning the No. 19 seed in the 24-team NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship in Hutchinson, Kansas.

The Dolphins (28–5) will face No. 14 seed Gulf Coast State in the first round on Saturday at 8 PM CST, with the game streaming live on ESPN+.

This national appearance comes on the heels of a dominant postseason run. After finishing the regular season ranked No. 20 in the NJCAA final poll and competing against one of the toughest schedules in the region, BCC carried that momentum into the Region 10 Division I Atlantic District Tournament. The Dolphins powered through the field, winning three games by an average of 21 points to claim the championship.

In the title game, BCC delivered a statement win over No. 1 seed Gaston College, 90–76, securing their place on the national stage.

Under Head Coach Walter Shaw, who now holds 524 career wins in his 26th season, the Dolphins have built a legacy of excellence. This year’s title marks the program’s second consecutive Atlantic District championship and the third since 2021. It is also BCC’s fifth Region 10 Tournament title and their fourth trip to Hutchinson, all under Shaw’s leadership.

With the victory, BCC made history as the first Region 10 program since 2019 to win back-to-back championships and earn consecutive automatic bids to the national tournament.

This season’s success has been fueled by depth, balance, and a true team-first mentality. With only four returning players, the Dolphins embraced the mantra “Strength in Numbers,” averaging 94 points per game. Ten players contribute between 5 and 13 points per game, and nine different players have led the team in scoring throughout the season.

Standout performances have also earned individual recognition. Darius Kane was named First Team All-Region 10, while Alius “Junior” Bowser and Linwood Rowe earned Second Team honors. Kane and Bowser will continue their careers at North Carolina Central University, while Rowe, the team’s leading scorer, has been named one of the Top 100 junior college players in the nation.

With a roster full of talent and every player eligible for recruitment in the 2026 class, the Dolphins are as promising for the future as they are dominant in the present.

As the team heads to Hutchinson, community support can make a meaningful impact. Fans who would like to help offset travel expenses are invited to make a donation of any size. 

For Demaris Lance, �鶹ӳ�� (BCC) has been more than a workplace. It has been part of his life story. In April, Demaris will celebrate 20 years as a BCC employee, not counting the year he spent here as a student. Having first experienced the college as a student and later as a professional, he says BCC is a place where he truly grew up.

A Brunswick County native from the Calabash area, Demaris first attended UNC Pembroke, where he initially majored in Computer Science before switching to accounting. But home was never far from his mind. A self-described homebody, he found himself making the drive back nearly every weekend while also working part-time as a cook at a local restaurant. With a baby on the way, Demaris made the decision to return home, continue his education at BCC, and later earn his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in Accounting from UNC Wilmington.

As luck would have it, BCC had an opening in its Business Office at just the right time. “I was really fortunate,” Demaris said. “BCC came into my life when I was going through a lot of change. I was starting a family and trying to finish my degree, and the support I found here made all the difference. It gave me the stability I needed and helped me keep moving forward.”

He began his career as a Financial Aid Accountant, which he calls the “front of the house,” working directly with students and Student Services. “In that role, I was the connection point between departments and students,” he said. “I was close in age to many of them, and I think that helped. I understood what they were going through because I had just been there myself.”

Over the years, Demaris transitioned from Financial Aid to a Purchasing role and now serves as Accounts Payable/County Funds Accountant. Through all those changes, his appreciation for BCC has only deepened. “I’ve had the opportunity to watch this college grow in so many ways,” he said. “There’s so much here now that didn’t exist when I first started, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the level of support. That’s what really stands out, and I think it’s a big reason why students connect with BCC. It’s a place where people genuinely want to see you succeed.”

Even though he no longer works directly with students every day, Demaris still makes a point to engage with them whenever he can. “Even in my current role, I try to take time to speak with students when the opportunity comes up,” he said. “Those conversations matter. It’s important to stay connected to the people we’re here to serve.”

When he is not at BCC crunching numbers, Demaris spends time with family, staying active in his church, and enjoying time in the kitchen, especially when he is cooking something fun with his granddaughter. He also lights up when talking about one of his longtime favorite pastimes: bowling. “Bowling has always been something I really enjoyed,” he said. “I spent years in a league and even managed to bowl a 300 game, which is something I’ll always be proud of.” Although he has taken a break from the sport, his enthusiasm has not faded. “I definitely miss it,” he added with a smile. “It might be time to get back out there.”