November 7, 2023

IGNITE DAVIE and Pro Refrigeration – a Success Story at Work

Max Martinez’s journey from a recent graduate to a successful technician at Pro Refrigeration in Mocksville is a testament to the transformative power of the  IGNITE DAVIE College Promise. The program not only benefits students, but provides invaluable employees to our local businesses, fostering a brighter future for this community. The 2022 graduate of Davie County High School (DCHS) initially had plans to attend a four-year college but was persuaded by some of his peers and elders to pursue a trade free of charge through IGNITE DAVIE.  IGNITE DAVIE is a place-based last-dollar scholarship, meaning students must live in and […]
September 27, 2023

IGNITE DAVIE: Fueling Career Ambitions Through Education

Despite enduring a particularly grueling 24-hour shift, Ashley Lipscomb, a dedicated paramedic at Davie County EMS, can’t fathom pursuing any other profession. “I’m an adrenaline junkie, so I thrive on the lights, sirens, and running emergency calls,” she declared with an infectious grin. “Having to think fast to develop a treatment plan fires all of your brain cells; it’s exhilarating.” IGNITE DAVIE: An Educational Spark Igniting Success Lipscomb graduated from Davie High in 2021 and immediately went to work for Davie County EMS as a part-time EMT. Recently, she took a significant step forward in her career by obtaining an […]
August 11, 2023

When Businesses Support IGNITE DAVIE, it’s a Win, Win, Win!

As companies compete for employees, supporting IGNITE DAVIE College Promise is the long-term answer they are looking for. A new marketing program offers many rewards to participating companies while helping to raise the final $1 million to fully endow IGNITE DAVIE for future generations. Employer of Choice Program: A Win for Students, Businesses, and the Community “The Employer of Choice Program gives businesses a great opportunity to fill local positions with local workers,” said Melinda Szeliga, Davie Community Foundation COO.  “Your business will stay on the mind of graduating students while IGNITE DAVIE empowers them with the education and training […]
July 31, 2023

IGNITE DAVIE Helps Students Find Careers in Davie County 

Emma James Finds a Career Close to Home Emma James has found a career close to home, thanks in part to IGNITE DAVIE College Promise.  Born and raised in Davie County, she graduated from Davie High in 2021, Davidson-Davie Community College through IGNITE DAVIE in Spring 2022, and immediately went to work as a Dental Assistant 2 at Hillsdale Dental in Advance.  IGNITE DAVIE is a place-based last-dollar scholarship, meaning students must live in and attend school in Davie County. All eligible high school graduates, regardless of financial need or academic ability, can continue their education and training to open […]
June 16, 2023

Proud Community Welcomes All-America County Team Home

After winning All-America County status, Davie County’s tired but elated delegation returned home from Denver, Colorado, to a warm welcome from family, friends, and the community. Davie County is one of only ten communities across the country to receive this prestigious award from the National Civic League this year.  Touched by the turnout, the team expressed its appreciation for the welcome and the support. “It was heartwarming to see the surprise welcome as we approached the government center,” said Ken Gamble, Mocksville town manager. “I’ll never forget the looks of joy on the faces of our youth and adult team […]
June 12, 2023

Davie County Named All-America City 

Davie County, NC, has been named an All-America City by the National Civic League.  Davie County was one of 20 communities selected as finalists from across the country to compete for this prestigious award in Denver, Colorado.  The National Civic League’s All-America City Award has celebrated the best in American civic innovation since 1949. Although the award is called All-America City, it is actually a competitive forum of best practices open to cities, counties, tribes, and community organizations of all types.   The Award recognizes the work of communities in using inclusive civic engagement to address critical issues and create stronger […]
May 16, 2023

All-America City Award Application Highlights What Makes Davie County Special – Part III

Everyone who lives in Davie County knows what a special place it is. Soon other communities around the country will know it as well. Last month, the National Civic League selected Davie County as a finalist for this year’s All-America City Award. We will now compete against 19 other communities in Denver, Colorado, June 9-11, 2023. This year’s theme is “Creating Thriving Communities through Youth Engagement.” The 2023 award seeks to identify communities that are breaking down barriers to meaningful youth participation and enacting programs that will improve the quality of life for youth and, by extension, all members of […]
April 18, 2023

IGNITE DAVIE is Meeting the Needs of Both Students and Employers

IGNITE DAVIE is proving to be a win-win for students and local employers alike.  Thanks to Davie’s college promise program, Robby Bostic started a career as an HVAC installer without educational debt, and Webb Heating & Air Conditioning gained a valuable new employee.  IGNITE DAVIE is a place-based last-dollar scholarship, meaning students must live in and attend school in Davie County. All eligible high school graduates, regardless of financial need or academic ability, can continue their education and training to open the door to better career opportunities and increased earning potential. Beginning with the Class of 2020, IGNITE DAVIE pays […]
January 26, 2023

IGNITE DAVIE Adds Short-term Training Programs for Fall 2023

Beginning in Fall 2023, the IGNITE DAVIE College Promise program will include four short-term training programs at Davidson-Davie Community College.  Previously, IGNITE DAVIE paid for tuition and fees with a stipend for books for graduates to attend DDCC full-time in a certificate, diploma, or associate/transfer program at either campus.  Now IGNITE DAVIE students will have the option to enroll in a 16-week program for Electrical, HVAC, Nursing Assistant 1, or Phlebotomy, which will allow them to quickly start a career in an in-demand field or complete the first step of a certification program.    “This is a new, expanding opportunity that […]