LAURINBURG — A Scotland County native brought back college representatives to help young adults get a good start on Monday.

The HBCU and More College Fair Experience brought more than 20 colleges, tech schools, and job opportunities to Laurinburg at the Highlands.

Byron Revels, creator of the event, expected more than 500 participants and the representatives are helping him make a difference in shaping the future for Scotland High graduates and residents.

When Admissions Counselor for St. Andrews University Kimberly McLaurin heard about the event and read that Revels tried to reach the college, she got in touch with him right away.

“It was a miscommunication,” said McLaurin. “The main thing is that we are here, we want to support the fair and to let the kids know we are an option to stay local,” said Kimberly McLaurin, admissions counselor for St. Andrews University.

“I appreciate what he’s doing, especially with him being from Laurinburg,” she added.

She says St. Andrews University is growing in many areas, especially sports.

“The football program just ended its third year and we are starting a cheerleading program and dance program,” added McLaurin. “We have added a pre-doctorate in physical therapy and a bio-medical sciences degree.”

Fayetteville Tech Community College admissions representative Ellen Fenton spoke of the advantages of starting at a two-year college.

“We want to reach out to as many people as we can,” said Fenton. “It’s cheaper here than starting at a four-year (and) it may be something families can handle financially. FTCC is the only school that has a Funeral Service Education program and the college also offers free courses for adults.

“The application process is free,” added Fenton.

NCWorks also was present to talk with students and parents about available training and jobs in the area.

“The goal is to make individuals job ready and to make students aware of what we have,” said Regina Smalls, manager for the Division of Workforce Solutions.

She added that the WIOA program is available for residents who want to train on the job and provides tuition assistance. If the employer hires the trainee, the employer is reimbursed for the training costs.

State Rep. Garland Pierce presented a certificate of achievement and congratulations from the NC House of Representatives to Revels at the college fair.

“I’m honored, it’s a ‘we’ thing. My cousins helped me and I’m happy an idea of mine took off,” said Revels. “The desire for it is so overwhelming so it needs to continue.”

Jael Pembrick can be reached at 910-506-3169 or [email protected]

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Jael Pembrick|The Laurinburg Exchange State Rep. Garland Pierce presented a certificate of achievement and congratulations from the NC House of Representatives to Byron Revels at the HBCU and More College Fair Experience.
https://www.laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/web1_Fair1.jpgJael Pembrick|The Laurinburg Exchange State Rep. Garland Pierce presented a certificate of achievement and congratulations from the NC House of Representatives to Byron Revels at the HBCU and More College Fair Experience.
Scotland County native helps create a college fair

Jael Pembrick

Staff writer