Austin Golding: Future Educator and Role Model

Morganton, NC—To look at this handsome young graduate, you’d never guess that his childhood had its share of challenges. Austin Golding, who received his Associate in Arts degree in May 2014 from Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC), encountered medical roadblocks as a premature infant that could have affected his life’s accomplishments if he had allowed that. As a youngster, Austin also sometimes struggled with stuttering. But there were caring teachers along the way that encouraged him to reach beyond his adversity and succeed in school. One special educator impacted Austin’s life—Mr. Ken Masters, Austin’s third grade teacher.

“Mr. Masters was a positive male role model for me,” explained Austin. “He is the teacher that every young person needs: Mr. Masters was a professional mentor and model for me since he was an instructor, but he also taught me that personally I could be successful and resolve my challenges.”

Now Austin plans to supply future kindergartners with the kind of example that Mr. Masters provided to him.

“Kindergarten is my first choice in my career as a teacher,” said Austin. “The first two years of school are especially important in setting the tone for each child’s future. I want to be that positive male role model in the classroom.”

Entering Appalachian State University (ASU) this fall as a junior, Austin’s Associate in Arts degree that he received in May 2014 is serving him well as a future educator. Austin, selected as a Burke Collegiate Scholar when he was a fifth grader, completed his degree at WPCC tuition-free.

“When Austin was selected for WPCC’s Educational Talent Search and as a Burke Collegiate Scholar, it was truly a God-gift,” said Angela Golding, Austin’s mother. “The educational support and the enrichment trips in which he could participate would never have been possible for me to provide as a single parent.”

“My instructors and counselors at WPCC have been terrific mentors to me,” Austin continued. “Their patience and guidance have helped make my future career possible. And even though I will be away at ASU now, I know I can call on them if I have questions. I know I will thrive because of their help and I am so grateful to them and WPCC.”

WPCC’s Western Piedmont Foundation, Inc. sponsors Burke Collegiate Scholars, an innovative program designed to encourage academically-capable rising sixth graders identified as potential first-generation college students, makes it possible for selected participants to complete high school and enroll at WPCC with eligibility for full funding for tuition and fees for five consecutive semesters should students not be eligible for sufficient Pell Grant funding. Each year, the Foundation selects one Burke Collegiate Scholar and two runners up in each of Burke County’s 16 elementary schools to participate in the program. The awards are made on the basis of academic potential, leadership skills and financial need. During these students’ middle school and high school years, the Foundation and WPCC’s Educational Talent Search Program provide support in the form of regular academic and enrichment programs. To learn more about the Burke Collegiate Scholars program or the Educational Talent Search, contact Jennifer S. Patton at WPCC at 828-448-3181 or jpatton@wpcc.edu 

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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. Apply online or visit the Western Piedmont Campus to apply in person.