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Alumni Profiles

Drew Ferebee at Chesapeake Campus.
TCC alum launches non-profit focusing on mental health

Drew Ferebee found her purpose at Tidewater Community College. “I never imagined that studying Human Services would be the most influential experience of my life,” she said. “My time at TCC helped me discover my passion and the faculty inspired me to walk in my purpose.” The TCC alumna earned an Associate of Applied Science […]

Susan Smigielski Acker is the publisher of Virginia Peninsula Media
TCC alum builds career as journalist and publisher

Susan Smigielski Acker got her start at Tidewater Community College’s Virginia Beach Campus in 1985, back in the day when a single-lane road led to campus. “TCC was my second chance after a failed attempt at ODU,” Susan said. “I thought I’d be at TCC for just a year, but I liked it so much […]

The apprentice mindset

Tidewater Community College is proud to recognize four apprentices on track to becoming certified journeymen in their trades. A journeyman is a worker skilled in a trade or craft who has successfully completed an official apprenticeship qualification. All four are part of the Oceaneering Marine Services Division apprentice program with TCC as their academic partner. […]

TCC alum Tanya Mills at Regent University Law School.
From TCC to Regent Law School

Tanya Mills remembers how her mom struggled when she emigrated to the United States from Cuba. “The process was brutal and time-consuming,” Tanya said. “But we were committed to making a fresh start in America.” Mills was 10 years old then. Now at 44, she is a Tidewater Community College alum who recently earned a […]

TCC alum Jamie Farris on Norfolk Campus.
“I was a student in the worst of circumstances. But I had people who believed in me.” — Jamie Farris, TCC alum

TCC is proud of all of its alumni. But for Norfolk Campus staff alum Jamie Farris holds a special place in their hearts.  Jamie had a challenging childhood. He was bounced from school to school throughout his elementary and high school years due to mental health and emotional issues.  “Growing up, no one thought I […]

Juanica and Gianni Walker on TCC's Norfolk Campus.
“I tell everyone looking to go to college to start at TCC” — Juanica Walker

Juanica Walker came to Tidewater Community College to train for a new career. Her goal was to be able to provide a stable life for her special needs son, Gianni. She found her calling while working as a nurse aide and medical technician in private homes and facilities for the elderly and those with intellectual […]

Student Speaker earns associate degree at 17

Allison Wilson got her start at Tidewater Community College while still in high school. She participated in Early College and was part of the cohort from Churchland High School. “Making connections with people I’ve been in class with since third grade was definitely a highlight,” Allison said. Allison is one of the 45 dual-enrollment students […]

TCC student Kristen McCombs
Grad finds purpose in the health professions

When Kristen McCombs dons her cap and gown for Tidewater Community College’s Commencement Exercises, her five-year-old son, Lincoln, will be wearing a t-shirt that says, “My mommy did it!” This May, Kristen, 28, is graduating with an Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS). She chose the career to help her family financially, […]

SaNayah Hill and Marvin Fletcher at TCC's Chesapeake Campus.
Father and dual-enrolled daughter graduate together

Marvin Fletcher and his daughter SaNayah Hill were surprised to find out they are graduating from Tidewater Community College at the same time. “I never thought my daughter and I would be wearing a cap and gown together. I’m utterly speechless,” Marvin said. SaNayah added, “I feel like it will be a fun experience and […]

Broolk Ogden at Chesapeake Campus
Grad finds path to new career in genetic counseling

Brook Ogden says the TCC tagline, ‘From here, go anywhere,’ rings true. “I was in a job I didn’t enjoy. Now I’m on a path for a career I’m excited about,” she said. Brook spent her 20s working for a real estate company. She considered becoming a broker and even passed the state licensing exam. […]