Wayne Community College has named Molly Sullivan, an Associate in Science student, as the recipient of its 2026 Dallas Herring Achievement Award.
The award honors the late Dr. Dallas Herring, one of the earliest champions of the North Carolina Community College System. The winner is selected based on an essay that describes how the student embodies Herring’s philosophy of “taking people where they are and carrying them as far as they can go.”
When Sullivan graduated from high school, she initially planned to attend a four-year university. When she was not accepted into her dream school, she felt discouraged and unsure of her next step.
“With some time and reflection, I now see that moment as one of the best things that could have happened to me. It pushed me to apply to Wayne Community College, and I am truly grateful for where that decision has taken me,” Sullivan wrote in an essay.
Sullivan received the Bison Benefit scholarship from the Foundation of WCC, which awards eligible dual-enrolled high school students four semesters of free tuition at WCC upon graduation from high school. “Receiving this support reminded me that sometimes the path we didn’t originally choose ends up being the one that gives us exactly what we need,” Sullivan said.
As a WCC student ambassador, Sullivan speaks with prospective students and represents the College at campus and community events. “These experiences have challenged me in positive ways, strengthening my communication skills and helping me become more confident and outgoing,” she said.
Sullivan plans to transfer to North Carolina State University to pursue a degree in animal science and become a large-animal veterinarian.
“Starting at WCC has given me both the academic foundation and the confidence I need to pursue that dream seriously,” she said. “I’ve been able to save money, learn responsibility, build meaningful relationships, and receive guidance from mentors who genuinely want to see me succeed.”
Reflecting on her educational journey, Sullivan believes that attending WCC was the best plan to lead her to a successful future. “I am proud of the path I’ve taken, and I’m grateful for the ways WCC has shaped me into the student and the future professional I am becoming,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan will be recognized as the Dallas Herring Achievement Award winner at WCC’s Student Recognition Ceremony this month.
Finalists for this award and their programs are Kelly Nachbaur – Office Management and Associate in Arts and Diamond Simmons – Associate in Science.
About Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, N.C. As it works to develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, the college serves around 10,000 individuals annually as well as businesses, industry, and community organizations with high quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities, including more than 150 college credit programs. WCC’s mission is to meet the educational, training, and cultural needs of the communities it serves.