Mitchell alumnus and trustee honored

Mitchell Community College had a strong presence at Tuesday’s Mooresville–South Iredell Chamber of Commerce 2018 Celebrate Business luncheon. Mitchell alumni, stakeholders and friends were both honored with and presenters of awards as a part of this annual event.  

Alumnus and famed NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. recounted his unconventional educational and career journey from student to mechanic and from celebrated driver boasting 26 career victories to philanthropist and beyond. Mitchell played a key role in this journey, helping him develop and hone skills needed in the auto industry. Earnhardt plans to continue his career journey in television by beginning a broadcast career with NBC.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper presented Earnhardt and his sister, Kelley Earnhardt Miller, with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. This prestigious award–the highest civilian honor presented by the governor–recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions through service and accomplishments to their communities and to the state. Earnhardt Jr. joins a select group of Mitchell alumni, employees, stakeholders and friends who have received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.  

Mitchell Community College Board of Trustees member and friend of the college Leigh Lowder Whitfield was honored with the Sara Haire-Tice Women in Leadership Award and recognized for her work in education. The award, named for another current Mitchell Trustee, annually honors a Mooresville-South Iredell leader for her accomplishments in the community. Whitfield serves as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center and is very active in community organizations and causes around the county.

In addition to awards recipients, Mitchell Trustee Jennifer Mills presented the Randy Marion Business of the Year award to MacLean-Fogg, Mooresville producer of transmission, power steering, anti-lock brakes, and other auto components. Mitchell’s connection to the thriving Mooresville-South Iredell community in business and industry reflect the College’s dedication to growth and excellence not just for students but for the county as a whole.