HAMLET — Students attending Richmond Community College in the summer will now have the opportunity to receive a $1,000 scholarship to help offset the costs of tuition, books and fees.

Kenny and Leah Melvin established the Dr. R. Kenneth Melvin Memorial Scholarship in memory of Melvin’s father, who served eight years as the third president of the college.

“Dr. Melvin played a major role in establishing this institution and its roots in technical education, and he laid the groundwork for what it has become today. In fact, it was under Dr. Melvin’s watch that the college transitioned from a technical institute to a technical college,” Dr. Dale McInnis, RichmondCC president, said. “We are honored to have a scholarship in his name, continuing his legacy of service to this College and the community.”

Dr. Melvin joined the staff of Richmond Technical College in 1966 as the evening director. He later served as director of instruction and dean of instruction before moving into the presidency role in 1977.

“I’ve watched this college grow,” said the younger Melvin, who remembers being on the campus many times as a child and being dubbed “PK,” which stood for “President’s Kid.”

“Dad would be so proud of what it has become and the lives it’s touched since 1966. So many people came out of the textile mills and the military without any education, and this college allowed them to improve their lives and their families for generations,” he said.

About Dr. Melvin

Dr. Melvin graduated from Tar Heel High School and North Carolina State University, where he received his doctorate in education. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

He was a teacher with Whiteville City Schools and Sampson County Schools before coming to work for the college. He also served in many other capacities in his church and throughout the community.

He and his wife, Jeannette, were married for 54 years before he passed away in 2009. While never an employee of the college, Jeannette contributed in many ways at college functions and events while her husband served as president.

About the Scholarship

The Dr. R. Kenneth Melvin Memorial Scholarship will benefit students who demonstrate academic progress and exemplary work ethic. Special consideration will be given to applicants who demonstrate leadership skills and community involvement. The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student enrolled for the summer semester.

Giving to the College

Both Melvin and his wife, Leah, started their education at RichmondCC and were eager to give back to the college.

“I want to spread the word how easy it is to establish a scholarship at this community college,” Melvin said. “Dr. Hal Shuler and his staff make the process really easy, and it is a great way to help a student obtain their college education.”

Associate Dean of Development Shuler also knew Dr. Melvin and described him as a very humble individual.

“Dr. Melvin meant a lot to me, as he encouraged me to get my doctorate,” Shuler said. “His passion for education was obvious, and this scholarship is a fitting way to honor his memory and to continue the work that he did for RichmondCC.”

To contribute to this scholarship or to establish a scholarship, call Shuler at (910) 410-1807 or email [email protected].

Wylie D. Bell is director of marketing and communications for Richmond County Schools.

Courtesy photo The Dr. R. Kenneth Melvin Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a student during summer semester at Richmond Community College. Pictured are, from left, Dr. Dale McInnis, president of RichmondCC; Jeannette Melvin, wife of Dr. Melvin; Kenny and Leah Melvin, who established the scholarship; and Dr. Hal Shuler, associate dean of development at RichmondCC.
https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/web1_rcc_Melvinscholarship.jpgCourtesy photo The Dr. R. Kenneth Melvin Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a student during summer semester at Richmond Community College. Pictured are, from left, Dr. Dale McInnis, president of RichmondCC; Jeannette Melvin, wife of Dr. Melvin; Kenny and Leah Melvin, who established the scholarship; and Dr. Hal Shuler, associate dean of development at RichmondCC.

By Wylie D. Bell

For the Daily Journal