WHITEVILLE — Southeastern Community College student Akin Ezzell has been named SCC’s 2026 nominee for the Dallas Herring Achievement Award, a statewide honor recognizing students who embody the mission of “taking people where they are and carrying them as far as they can go.”
Ezzell’s story lives up to that philosophy — a winding path that carried him from the log woods of Columbus County to the fast‑paced environment of hospital intensive care, driven by grit, humility, and a desire to help others.
A path that didn’t go in a straight line
After graduating from South Columbus High School, Ezzell tried several directions. He studied pre‑medicine at Campbell University, earned an Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, and worked as an underground lineman in Raleigh. The pay was strong, but the lifestyle wasn’t.
“I was moving from hotel to hotel and not really focusing on my health and nutrition,” he said. “I knew this wasn’t for me. Something is missing.”
He returned home and took long days in the log woods — hard work that left him exhausted but searching for purpose.
A mother’s influence, and a moment that changed everything
Ezzell grew up admiring his mother, Belinda Mathews, a registered nurse and SCC graduate. Her example stayed with him.
“My mother was a nurse, and I always looked up to her,” he said. “I kind of want to be like her. I want to help people.”
One day, still covered in mud from the woods, he walked into SCC determined to start over. That moment became the turning point.
Finding his place in nursing
Ezzell enrolled in SCC’s Associate Degree Nursing program in August 2023. The transition wasn’t easy — early academic setbacks tested him — but he leaned on classmates, faculty, and the hands‑on training SCC is known for.
“One thing you’ll find here is instructors who want you to succeed,” he said.
During a clinical mentorship, he recognized a patient in respiratory distress and alerted his supervising nurse, helping the patient receive immediate care. It was the moment he knew he belonged in the profession.
A nomination built on resilience
Ezzell’s journey — from electrical engineering to logging to nursing — reflects the power of second chances and the role community colleges play in helping students rebuild their lives.
“Honestly, I didn’t think I could make it to where I am now, but I’m here,” he said. “It’s been a long road.”
His nomination for the Dallas Herring Achievement Award honors not just his accomplishments, but the determination behind them.
More information about SCC programs is available at sccnc.edu.
© 2026 BCDollarSaver.com. All rights reserved
Be the first to comment