Anna, a proud native of Statesville, looks back fondly on her transformative journey at Mitchell Community College and continues to hold a deep-seated appreciation for its impact on her life. Her educational path began after completing her studies at Iredell-Statesville schools and graduating from North Iredell High School, where she laid the foundation for her future endeavors. In 2014, Anna embarked on her college experience at Mitchell, a decision that would shape her personal and professional growth in profound ways.
During her time at Mitchell, Anna immersed herself in the vibrant campus community, discovering a passion for the arts, particularly within the music department. Under the mentorship of Dr. Beverly Brown, Anna found herself drawn to the jazz band, where she honed her skills on the trombone and developed a lifelong love for music. Reflecting on those years, Anna credits Dr. Brown for not only fostering her musical talents but also instilling in her a deep appreciation for the supportive community within the department.
In addition to her musical pursuits, Anna found herself inspired by dedicated educators like Mr. Phil Holleran and Dr. Todd Martin. Mr. Holleran’s practical teaching methods resonated deeply with Anna, as he connected classroom lessons to real-world applications in Iredell County and beyond. Similarly, Dr. Martin’s commitment to bridging academic concepts with everyday experiences left a lasting impression on Anna, influencing her approach to learning and personal growth.
Throughout her time at Mitchell, Anna benefited greatly from the guidance of Ms. Rita Taggert, who served as both her advisor and public speaking instructor. Anna acknowledges Ms. Taggert’s pivotal role in navigating her academic journey and preparing her for future challenges with confidence and proficiency.
Post-graduation, Anna’s educational pursuits led her briefly to Arizona State University for online studies before she embarked on a career path in real estate. This professional transition opened doors for Anna within the local community, starting with her role at NextHome Inc. in late 2022. Her dedication and drive soon earned her the position of Director of Development at Pharos Parenting in July 2023, where she continued to make a significant impact. As of June 2024, Anna has taken on the role of Marketing Outreach Coordinator at Iredell Health System, furthering her commitment to serving the community she holds dear. Anna is also currently enrolled and will soon be completing her BA in Communications with a concentration in new media from Southern New Hampshire University.
Beyond her professional achievements, Anna remains involved in volunteer efforts for the City of Statesville, including holding the Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce ambassador title. Anna is a First Presbyterian Church of Statesville member and is actively involved in the youth ministry and the missions commission. She also plays a pivotal role on the Historic Preservation Commission, where her passion for preserving local history shines through.
Looking toward the future, Anna envisions completing her degree and continuing to grow within her current roles, with aspirations of contributing further to her community through potential local office positions within the city council. Her advice to current and prospective Mitchell students echoes her own experiences: cherish the unique sense of community and personal connection that Mitchell Community College offers, as it fosters an environment unlike any other, where personal growth and lifelong connections thrive.
Anna’s journey at Mitchell Community College stands as a testament to the institution’s profound impact on individuals and communities alike, embodying a spirit of excellence, community engagement, and personal growth that continues to inspire her and many others.