Elizabeth City, N.C. — College of The Albemarle (COA) proudly announces the recipients of its annual employee recognition awards, presented during the college’s Employee Appreciation Day on May 2, 2025. The celebration honored faculty and staff for their exemplary service, excellence in instruction and leadership, years of service and upcoming retirements.
The 2025 event brought employees together from across all COA locations for a day of recognition, lunch, games and time to reconnect.
Institutional Support Staff Employee of the Year
Dawn Gough, custodian, was recognized for her commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment. Her dedication, reliability, and caring nature have made a lasting impression on colleagues and students alike.
Para-Professional/Technical/Clerical Staff Employee of the Year
Rob Nelson, computer support technician, was honored for his outstanding service and support. Known for his calm demeanor and technical expertise, Rob plays an essential behind-the-scenes role in supporting student success and instructional continuity.
Professional Staff Employee of the Year
William DeFeo, administrative services manager, was celebrated for his leadership and service within the college’s business operations. Colleagues praised his knowledge, patience, and willingness to help others navigate complex processes.
2025 NC Community College System Staff Award Nominee
Wayman White, director of information technology, was selected as COA’s nominee for the North Carolina Community College System Staff Award. With 28 years of service, his strategic leadership and commitment to cybersecurity and operational excellence have been instrumental to COA’s success.
Teacher of the Year
Regina Price, chair of mathematics and engineering, and math instructor, was named COA’s 2025 Teacher of the Year. Her innovative teaching methods, departmental leadership, and passion for student engagement continue to elevate math instruction at the college.
Faculty Excellence Award
Beth Egbert, assistant professor of biology, was recognized for her dynamic and student-centered teaching style in biology and chemistry and her support of research and collegewide science events.
Faculty Excellence Award
David Repanshek, instructor and program coordinator of aviation systems technology, was honored for his leadership in expanding and strengthening COA’s aviation program through partnerships, community outreach, and student recruitment.
Teacher of the Year
Regina Price, chair of mathematics and engineering, and math instructor, was named COA’s 2025 Teacher of the Year. Her innovative teaching methods, departmental leadership, and passion for student engagement continue to elevate math instruction at the college.
Faculty Excellence Award
Beth Egbert, assistant professor of biology, was recognized for her dynamic and student-centered teaching style in biology and chemistry and her support of research and collegewide science events.
Faculty Excellence Award
David Repanshek, instructor and program coordinator of aviation systems technology, was honored for his leadership in expanding and strengthening COA’s aviation program through partnerships, community outreach, and student recruitment.
Retirements
COA also recognized four retirees who have made a significant impact during their time at the college:
- Angela Godfrey-Dawson, compliance officer and grants coordinator, 36 years
- Kathy Lawrence, assistant professor, associate degree nursing, 9 years, 11 months
- Leslie Lippincott, associate professor and program coordinator, culinary arts, 12 years
- Bonita Williams, academic advisor, 4 years
Milestone Years of Service
Employees celebrating 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years of service were also honored during the celebration. These individuals represent every area of the college, from academics to student services, maintenance to leadership, and their contributions remain vital to COA’s mission and daily operations.
The college extends its warmest congratulations and appreciation to all who were recognized.
For information or media inquiries, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, director of communications and marketing, at [email protected] or 252-335-0821, ext. 2420.