Lenoir Community College student Shanice Williams of Kinston has been named LCC’s Dallas Herring Award recipient for 2024. She is one of the Great 58 in the North Carolina Community College System.

The Dallas Herring Award was established by the North Carolina Community College System to honor the late Dr. Dallas Herring, one of the state’s earliest advocates of community colleges. The award is bestowed annually upon a student who best embodies Dr. Herring’s philosophy of “taking people where they are and carrying them as far as they can go.” 

A single mother with three children and a full-time job, Williams refused to let adversity define her. Determined to create a better life for herself and serve as a positive role model for her children, she embarked on her academic journey at LCC.

Despite experiencing heartbreaking losses, she persevered, driven by the memory of her beloved grandmother and uncle. Through dedication and resilience, Williams not only completed her associate in applied science degree in Medical Office Administration but also secured an internship with the Lenoir County Health Department during the Covid19 pandemic. Her exceptional performance led to a full-time position, where she continues to excel. 

Her proactive approach and relentless pursuit of her goals have now led her back to LCC to pursue a Billing and Coding degree, further expanding her career opportunities. “I appreciate my instructors, Mrs. Christy Culbreth and Mrs. Carla Jones for their unwavering support and whose guidance and encouragement have been invaluable throughout my journey.”