Richmond County Schools along with the community honored four college leaders who are from Richmond County on Wednesday afternoon.

Dr. Jerry Wallace is the president of Campbell University; Dr. Charles Jenkins serves as interim Chancellor for UNC-Pembroke; Dr. Jerry McGee is the president of Wingate University and Dr. Dale McInnis serves as the president of Richmond Community College. All four men grew up and graduated high school in Richmond County.

Wallace had a complication and was unable to attend the event.

“We are really excited to do this and think it is exceptional to have four college presidents from Richmond County,” said Dr. George Norris, superintendent of the Richmond County School system. “It is great to say to our community and kids to show you can go anywhere if you apply yourself. These men are four great examples.”

Ken Goodman, chairman of the Board of Education opened the program by thanking everyone for attending and explaining the importance of honoring successful academic leaders.

“These four men declare Richmond County a place for academic excellence,” said Goodman.

Students from all four middle schools, Richmond Senior High School, Richmond County Ninth Grade Academy and Richmond Community College’s Early College program attended the event and participated in the program.

“I’m overwhelmed by the opportunity to be in the presence of these educational leaders. It shows what a great job our county school system has done. I’m proud to be a graduate of Richmond County,” McInnis said.

The students asked the presidents questions such as what was their inspiration to go into education. Each of them credited their inspiration to their parents and teachers.

“I am thrilled and honored to be in Richmond County. I’ve enjoyed working with Richmond County Schools and Richmond Community College,” said Jenkins.

The men were given a plaque and gift bag that were presented by the principals of their high schools and a graduate of their university.

“Anytime you receive an honor it is special, but to receive it from your here makes it a little more special. It is fun to come back. I always enjoy being in Richmond County any chance I can,” said McGee.

McGee thanked those who attended for allowing him to dream big dreams, and to the students he said, “don’t you dare let anyone steal your dreams.”

“To see my name in the same company as Dr. McGee, Dr. Wallace, and Dr. Jenkins, I can’t help but feel humbled,” said McInnis.

Goodman also issued a proclamation declaring May 5 a day to honor these four men and other exceptional education leaders.

Cameron Quick can be reached at (910) 997-3111 ext. 15 or by e-mail at cquick@yourdailyjournal.com.