Former President Dr. Jim Burnett Honored with Building Naming

Morganton, NC – Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) recently honored Jim W. Burnett (standing), who retired as College president in July 2014, by renaming the “Health Science Building” to “Jim W. Burnett Hall” in recognition of his quality leadership and 41 years of service to the College. A recent ceremony to unveil the building’s new name was attended by Dr. Burnett along with faculty, staff, students and community members. Current WPCC President Dr. Michael S. Helmick (seated right of Burnett) looks on.

“Dr. Burnett created in us a greater passion and appreciation for higher education and the Community College System,” said Ronald F. Martin, WPCC Trustee chair, at the ceremony. “He has made a significant, lasting and immeasurable impact on the College during his four decades of service.”

Dr. Burnett served as the College president from 2006 through July 2014. During his tenure, Dr. Burnett led efforts to increase enrollment, start Burke Middle College and expand Western Piedmont Foundation holdings by 215%.

Since his 2014 retirement, former president Dr. Burnett was presented the Emeritus President status in recognition of his years of service to WPCC including his last eight years of employment as the College’s president. Emeritus Status is an honorary designation for retired persons who have rendered exemplary service to the College as a member of the faculty or staff. Emeritus Status is conferred by the Trustees on the recommendation of the President of the College. In the 51 years in the life of the College, only 17 individuals have been presented the esteemed Emeritus award.

In addition, Dr. Burnett was honored in October 2014 with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, among the most sought after and valued awards conferred by the Governor of North Carolina. It is presented to outstanding North Carolinians who have a proven record of service to the State.

At the time of his retirement, Dr. Burnett endowed the Jim W. Burnett Professional Development Fund to provide full-time WPCC employees professional development opportunities that cannot otherwise be funded through county, state and federal funds. All full-time faculty and staff employed by the College are eligible to apply for funding for projects designed to help the College meet its mission to provide accessible, high quality education that improves lives and promotes growth. To donate to this new scholarship, contact Jessica Epley at (828) 448-3122 or or make a gift online.

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 Summer Semester is Friday, May 1.  Apply online or visit the Western Piedmont campus to apply in person.