Press Release: The Village Males to Men Mentoring Program Hosts Career and College Fair at Nash Community College

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 25, 2025

The Village: Males to Men Mentoring Program Hosts Career and College Fair at Nash Community College

Nashville, NC (November 25, 2025) —  The Village: Males to Men Mentoring Program hosted its second annual Career and College Fair at Nash Community College, giving participating students direct access to postsecondary pathways and professional opportunities available within the region.

The Village is a selective program for first-time high school freshmen who demonstrate leadership, academic promise, and a strong commitment to positive behavior. To participate, students must meet established academic and conduct expectations and maintain that standard to remain in the program. The Village supports young men from ninth grade through graduation, equipping them with skills, connections, and experiences that strengthen leadership, support on-time graduation, and prepare them for life after high school. Dr. Leondus Farrow Jr., Associate Superintendent of Nash County Public Schools says, “While The Village is not an at-risk program, it is a program that aims to build young men’s social and leadership capital through post-secondary enrollment and career readiness by assisting them in gaining the necessary tools, resources, and knowledge that will maximize their opportunities for a viable future.”

“Our goal is simple. We want to help young men unlock their potential and see themselves as the leaders we already know they are,” said Nelson Johnston, Director of Alternative Programs and Student Mentorship. “When students are given exposure, support, and people who believe in them, they don’t just plan for the future, they step into it with confidence.”

Throughout the day, students explored a variety of college, career, and military pathways, including opportunities with Nash Community College, Nash County Public Schools, NC Wesleyan University, the United States Army, the National Guard, the Boys & Girls Club of the Tar River Region, and other local employers and organizations. Students also toured the Nash Community College campus.

Several attendees reflected on the positive impact of the event. Village senior Jahion Outlaw shared, “Today had a lot of great opportunities and things to explore. The SkillsUSA program was the one that interested me the most.”

Community partner Terry Ruffin, a recruiter, community engagement specialist, and case manager with the Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC), attended the event and spoke about the value of mentorship.

Ruffin explained that meaningful mentorship requires more than general guidance. “The impact comes from relating to their journey,” he said. “Our challenges strengthen us. When we learn to overcome them, we’re able to share our experiences and help someone else do the same.”

School leaders echoed the program’s importance and the strength of the students involved. Cara Patterson, Assistant Principal at Northern Nash High School, remarked on the event’s significance. “This fair gave students knowledge of the opportunities available to them in our county, and it sparked interest in what they want to pursue,” she said. “These students are leaders, and I’m excited to see what they accomplish because they all have so much potential.”

Individuals interested in serving as mentors with The Village program are encouraged to contact Nelson Johnston at gnjohnston@ncpschools.net.

 

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Media Contact:

Caroline Johnson

Communications Department

csjohnson@ncpschools.net