Retired WPCC President Receives State Award

Morganton, NC – Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) recently presented to Dr. Jim Burnett the Order of the Long Leaf Pine at a retirement reception to honor his 41 years of service to WPCC including the last eight years as the College’s president. Dr. Burnett was nominated for the award by the College’s senior staff in recognition of his years of effective leadership, exemplary strategic planning, thorough community involvement and quiet integrity. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, among the most sought after and valued awards conferred by the Governor of North Carolina, is presented to outstanding North Carolinians who have a proven record of service to the State.

At the time of his retirement, Dr. Burnett established the Jim W. Burnett Scholarship to provide professional development opportunities that cannot otherwise be funded through county, state and federal funds. The scholarship funds may be used to pay for conference registration, program or project costs, or to purchase equipment and supplies. All full-time faculty and staff employed by the College are eligible to apply. To donate to this new scholarship, contact Jessica Epley at 828-448-3122 or jepley@wpcc.edu. Donors are also welcome to make a gift online by visiting wpcc.edu/foundation.

Western Piedmont Community College is situated in the picturesque rolling foothills of Morganton, North Carolina, and has served the citizens of Burke County since 1964.  Each year, more than 10,700 students pursue personal enrichment, new skills for a job or career, high school diplomas, college degrees, and transfer pathways. The application due date for new students for the Spring semester is Tuesday, Dec. 9. Apply online or visit the Western Piedmont campus to apply in person.