August 2024 Quarterly Newsletter
Thank you for being a part of our thriving community that continues to serve Henderson County Public Schools by investing in and responding to the whole child and the whole school.
As the new school year kicks off, we are committed to supporting students, educators, and families in Henderson County Public Schools, through a variety of impactful programs and initiatives. From now until October, we will be fundraising for our Back to School Campaign! These funds will go towards the growth of existing programs, and the development of new programs, like Henderson County Pathfinders! We invite you to join us in making this year to make a greater impact for our students, our schools, and our community.
Click here to learn more about our back to school campaign!
We have so many exciting things happening this school year! New programs, growth of existing programs and incredible impact of past investments! Below are highlights of programs that we are committed to support for this school year!
We are excited to launch the Pathfinders Program, offering 1-1 mentoring for 7th through 12th grade students. This initiative will provide personalized guidance and support to help them navigate their academic and personal challenges, create a solid postsecondary plan, and ensure they have the tools and resources needed to succeed.
We are thrilled to expand The Leader in Me program to more schools in our district. This initiative will empower students with leadership and life skills, fostering positive impacts on their academic performance, social-emotional well-being, and community involvement. The program will help develop future leaders of Henderson County by instilling essential qualities such as responsibility, initiative, and problem-solving.
We alongside HCPS will partner with Mountain Roots to provide outdoor learning adventures for ALL fifth graders across ALL 13 elementary schools. This program will give students the opportunity to experience the wonders of outdoor education and connect with the natural environment, enriching their understanding of state science standards.
We will continue to support arts education in HCPS through the Berrian Fund, impacting middle and high school orchestra students by helping them excel in competitions, receive top-notch instruction, and prepare for college auditions. We will also provide essential resources to high school dramatic arts, visual arts, and performing arts teachers, enriching the learning experiences of many students.
We will promote the S Cubed – Sustained STEM Support program to middle and high school science teachers, providing resources and support to foster a love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This initiative will include bringing mobile STEM labs to schools and encouraging students to pursue STEM careers.
We will continue the Grow Our Own Educational Assistance Fund. We will award scholarships to current or former students, as well as HCPS staff, who are interested in pursuing a degree in education. Recipients will commit to returning to or staying in Henderson County to serve, with scholarships offering up to $3,000 annually.
This year, we will induct up to five new members into the Education Hall of Fame, celebrating their dedication, innovation, and impact on education in Henderson County.
We are proud to offer over 40 scholarships valued at $125,000 to deserving high school students. These scholarships will help students pursue post-secondary education, enabling them to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.
We are excited to introduce the talented individuals who will be joining our Board of Directors for 2024. Each new member brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion to HCEF. Please join us in welcoming them!
Kimbrell ArrowoodKimbrell Arrowood, a native of Henderson County and a graduate of East Henderson High School and North Greenville University. Kimbrell has served as the Public Information Officer for Henderson County Public Schools for the past two years. Her deep-rooted connection to HCPS is further exemplified by her family—her husband, Tyler Arrowood, is an HCPS educator, and their children, Westlyn and Marek, are future HCPS students. Kimbrell is passionate about supporting the best school district in North Carolina and loves spending time with her family in her free time.
Brock N. GoodlingBrock N. Goodling is a financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Anderson University. Brock’s diverse career includes roles as branch manager, commercial relationship manager, and financial advisor. He holds several certifications, including Business Credit Qualification and NC Insurance License. Brock is an active community servant, engaging with various local boards and committees, including the WNC Source Board and HCEF’s Finance and Fundraising/Marketing Committees. Married with three children, all of whom are HCPS alumni or current students, Brock is eager to enhance our community through his role on the HCEF Board.
Bradley C. JonesBradley C. Jones brings a wealth of experience in community banking to our Board. Born in Rome, GA, and raised in Hendersonville, NC, Bradley graduated from the University of Tennessee with degrees in Finance and Sport Administration. His career spans roles at several state and national banks, and he currently serves as Vice President and Premier Relationship Banker at First Citizens Bank. With a background in mortgage banking, business banking, and financial planning, Bradley is dedicated to serving his community. He and his wife, Ibby, have two daughters who are HCPS graduates. Bradley’s interests include tennis, golf, hiking, and volunteering with various local organizations.
Amy LaughterAmy Laughter, a retired educator and current real estate agent, is rejoining the HCEF Board with a fervent commitment to educational excellence. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science from Mars Hill College and a Master’s degree from Western Carolina University. Her 31-year educational career includes roles as a teacher, instructional coach, and Regional Education Facilitator. Amy’s deep connection to HCPS is evident through her family’s involvement and her previous service on the HCEF Board, where she also served as president. Amy is passionate about ensuring that every child receives an amazing educational experience.
Jessica Collins McAlisterJessica Collins McAlister returns to the HCEF Board after a year’s hiatus, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a continued commitment to our educational community. A graduate of West Henderson High School, Appalachian State University, and High Point University, Jessica currently works as a Physician Recruiter at Pardee Hospital and serves on the Appalachian State University Alumni Chapter Leadership Board. Her previous service on the HCEF Board included a term as President. Jessica enjoys hiking, traveling, and working on home renovations with her husband.
Michelle MullinaxMichelle Jones Mullinax, a ninth-generation native of Henderson County and CEO of Vocational Solutions of Henderson County, Inc., brings extensive experience as a CPA. A graduate of the University of North Carolina Asheville, Michelle’s professional and personal connections to the community are strong—her father was a founding Board member of HCEF. Michelle and her husband, Todd, have three children, including one HCPS graduate and two current students. Her deep commitment to our community and educational system makes her a valuable addition to the Board.
Jimmie Lynn WhitmireJimmie Lynn Whitmire, retired after 46 years as a Registered Dental Hygienist, has been a dedicated volunteer with The Free Clinics Dental Division and HCPS. With a background in board service to HCEF and various local PTO and advisory roles, Jimmie Lynn has a longstanding commitment to supporting education in our community. She also serves on the Children and Family Resources Board of Directors. Jimmie Lynn enjoys spending time with her family, including her Yorkie, and engaging in volunteer work and scrapbooking.
We are thrilled to welcome these new board members and look forward to their contributions to the Henderson County Education Foundation. Their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to education will undoubtedly enhance our mission to support and invest in our local schools and students.
Carolyn Henderson, Hendersonville Elementary
“With the support of the Henderson County Education Foundation, leaders are built throughout our district”
At HCEF, we believe that our strength lies in the dedication and talent of our team. We are excited to introduce and extend a warm welcome to two remarkable individuals who have recently joined our organization: Claire Rice, Development Officer, and Allison Cole, Finance Coordinator.
Claire Rice – Development OfficerClaire Rice brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role as Development Officer. With a background in marketing and community engagement, Claire is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing our mission and expanding our reach. Her creative approach to development and commitment to fostering meaningful relationships will be invaluable as we work towards our goals. We are thrilled to have Claire on board and look forward to the innovative ideas and enthusiasm she will bring to our team.
Allison Cole – Finance CoordinatorAllison Cole joins us as our new Finance Coordinator, bringing with her a keen eye for detail and a strong financial awareness. Her role is crucial in ensuring that our financial operations run smoothly and transparently. With Allison’s expertise in financial management and her dedication to maintaining fiscal responsibility, we are confident that she will help strengthen our financial foundation and support our efforts to make a positive impact in the community.
We are deeply grateful for the skills and experiences that Claire and Allison bring to HCEF. Their addition to our team represents a significant step forward in our mission to support Henderson County Public Schools and create a thriving community for all. Please join us in welcoming Claire and Allison to the HCEF family!
