“Investing in our future” The ECC Foundation recognizes its 2024-2025 scholarship recipients

Ramiah Smith is presented a certificate from a member of the West Edgecombe Ruritan Club in recognition of her scholarship from the group.

Nina White quickly felt a connection with the Edgecombe Community College students who were recently honored during a Scholarship Recognition Ceremony held on the Tarboro campus. The ECC alumna turned business owner and motivational speaker, is a testament to the significance of embracing obstacles, pursuing passions and harnessing talent.

“As I look out, I see the reflection of myself,” said White, who served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker. “I see students striving to overcome challenges, pursue dreams and invest in their future.”

Despite balancing the roles of wife, mother, full-time work, and the added challenge of battling cancer and undergoing chemotherapy while attending ECC, White maintained a strong GPA and participated in extracurricular activities.

The current owner of M&D Accounting Firm in Rocky Mount obtained her associate’s degree in criminal justice from ECC, along with a degree in criminology from Barton University. Prior to attending ECC, White earned an accounting degree from Temple University, as well as degrees in business and medical billing.

“Investing in yourself means more than earning degrees or passing exams. It’s about embracing challenges and committing to growth,” declared White. “Your journey at ECC is one of the most valuable investments you’ll ever make, and the returns will extend far beyond the classroom.”

“Investing in our future” was the theme of ECC’s annual scholarship ceremony. The event, sponsored by Astemo and presented by the ECC Foundation, “is a celebration of the outstanding achievements of our scholarship recipients, and an expression of our heartfelt gratitude to those who make these opportunities possible,” said ECC President, Dr. Greg McLeod, during the Dec. 12 event.

Nina White

According to Jean Bailey, president of the ECC Foundation Board of Directors, scholarships were awarded to more than 80 students. The Foundation, established in 1982, boasts over 70 endowed scholarships.

“This is a celebration of the commitment of our donors to our students,” noted Bailey. “For many of our students, the pursuit of their dreams might not be possible without these scholarships.”

Congratulations to all of the 2024 to 2025 scholarship recipients. To see some pictures of recipients, please visit edgecombe.edu/2024awards. To view a video of some of the scholarship recipients, visit and subscribe to the ECC YouTube channel at youtube.com/edgecombeedu.

The ECC Foundation would like to thank the table sponsors who also made this event a success, including the presenting sponsor, Astemo, as well as Bojangles/Tands Inc., Everette’s ProWash LLC, Word Tabernacle Church, Ginger’s Boutique and Phillips Printing Supply Co.