Career Alumni Network

We have collaborated with business and industry partners to expand the Career Alumni Network (CAN) program to assist students in exploring several career development opportunities. Distinguished alumni have volunteered to assist current students by serving as a contact, shadow, mentor, presenter or referral of existing career opportunities and options providing current students opportunities to truly “Start Here..Go Anywhere”! Interested students or alumni should complete the CAN Registration form.

Want to know more? Download the brochure.

Ian Pass

Associate of Applied Science/ Physical Therapist Assistant class of 2009, Cookeville Regional Medical Center

After arriving in Tennessee in 2004, I soon found myself looking to become more “economically viable”. After a short course and a state exam, in 2006 I began work with Cookeville Regional Medical Center’s In-Patient Rehabilitation Center as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Following an unfortunate motor vehicle accident in the May of the same year and the subsequent recovery time I went back to work at the In-Patient center and this time began training with the Physical Therapy Department with the thought of transferring to a PT Tech position later down the road. In the August of 2007, after much encouragement and thought from friends, co-workers and family, I enrolled at Volunteer State Community College to begin what I thought was to be a two year journey to earn a degree, and ultimately a license, as a Physical Therapist Assistant. I was incorrect; the journey has only just begun. I have successfully completed the requirements set forth by the school and the state and have obtained my license, but that was just the first few pages in the travel log. There are many, many more pages to fill.

The experiences I have gained over the past two years have allowed me to become closer with my family, with my faith, and with the community I live within. Before, I would wander into Wal-Mart and go about my business. Now I have people coming up to me and saying thanks for helping Uncle Joe, or Nana, or themselves. To see the smile in their eyes because of the work we did together is a precious commodity. In the short period of time that I have been practicing, I have been rewarded 100 times, 1000 times over what I invested. To see a patient light up like the sun because they completed an exercise they have struggled with for a month or more is immeasurable. That is the reason I worked hard in my studies at Volunteer State, to reap these kinds of rewards. Being paid to do what I do is just the icing on an already rich dessert. Another personal experience I was afforded the opportunity, was to become a Presidential Ambassador of the school. This opportunity I also consider to be immeasurable. I was able to go out into the community to represent the school, to speak to future students and help them make the choice to continue their education with Volunteer State. I am grateful for the chance to have “gone behind the scenes” by working different functions and events with which the school is associated. To meet the people who have helped make Volunteer State what it is today, and what it will be tomorrow. To converse and interact with the faculty on a different level than the rest of the student body was, and still is, a privilege I am honored to hold. As a final note, the Director of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Services Mr. Bruce Elswick, named me to be the Student Coordinator at the last department meeting.

Luke Metcalf

Community Development Director for Rivergate and Brentwood Carestone Assisted Living.

After graduating from High School I decided to get right into the workforce and started working my way up the ladder of a local retail company. Within a few years I realized the importance of continued education and the opportunities it presented, so I enrolled at Volunteer State Community College and found immediate results. I was able to take the new information I learned apply it to my professional life.

Continuing my education helped me operate at a higher level and reach new goals, both professionally and personally. After attending Volunteer State Community College a new and exciting opportunity to work for Carestone Assisted Living presented itself, and two years later here I am, the Community Development Director for two area locations in Rivergate and Brentwood. I contribute a large part of my success to the additional education and insight I learned at Volunteer State.

Volunteer State can give you the tools to achieve your goals; I know this because I'm living proof.

Alex Sircy

Class of 2005 VSCC, AA University Studies. Class of 2008 ETSU, BA Liberal Arts. Opryland-Gaylord in Nashville.

Volunteer State Community College is my second home. My experience with this special place began over 15 years ago when my mother started her career here as a secretary in the Developmental Studies Division. Looking back, I am so glad she took that job! As a result of her decision, over time I was able to develop an intimate relationship with the campus and befriend some of the most dedicated, compassionate individuals I have ever met. When the time came to choose a college to attend, it was a no-brainer. Vol State not only provided me with a well-rounded, foundational education, it also helped me cultivate the maturity, confidence, and direction I needed to further my studies at a four-year university. If I had the chance would I go back and start off at a four-year university? No way…there’s no place like home.

Cynthia Mabry

Class of 2002 Cum Laude, A.S. General Health Emdeon Business Services, formerly WebMD Manager, Communications Technology.

Directly out of high school, I attended a community college and didn’t complete the first semester. I never thought the opportunity to go to college would present itself to me again. After my relocation to the Nashville area, I worked full time for several years before realizing that it was my view about college in general which held me back, rather than college “not being for me”. I searched long and hard regarding where I wanted to be in 5 years, and took the first step by attending Volunteer State Community College. After researching several schools in the Nashville area, I felt at home immediately with VSCC. Every detail from the Staff Members, the curriculum, and the students was outstanding and I knew Vol State was where I wanted to build my foundation for my college career.

Vol State gave me the confidence and flexibility I needed as I was a full time student working 40+ hours a week. It's never easy going back to school, but my Guidance Counselors and Professors kept reassuring me I indeed had the strength to prevail! I graduated Cum Laude in May 2002 with an Associate of Science degree in General Health. I began my journey down the Sports Medicine track, then to Health and Wellness, but when my guidance counselor told me I would have to complete yet another semester for that “specific title” on my diploma (I had been going strong for 3 years at this point), I think the look on my face said it all! So we decided to change my concentration to “General Health” and my last semester I loaded on 16 hours to finish!

Where I am today, managing the Technology for one of the largest Medical Claim Clearinghouses in the country is not at all where I pictured myself, previously desiring to be in physical therapy. I fell in love with researching, planning, developing, and now managing processes and technology which benefits both our customer base and the business. My success, not only professionally but also the personal milestones I've prevailed over, is all truly dedicated to the excellence and never-ending commitment of the staff at Volunteer State Community College!

Leslie Flatt

A.A.S. 2007 Physical Therapist Assistant, Southern Sports Medicine Institute

Attending school at VSCC was a very positive experience for me. The staff was top notch and was always willing to help. The schedule was also a very positive aspect for me since I was working and attending school at night. Today, I am a graduate of the college, as well as a full time Physical Therapist Assistant in Gallatin. Vol State is the foundation upon which my career has taken a positive step in the right direction.

Sonja C. Hammer

Class of 1996 Cum Laude, A.A.S. Physical Therapist Assistant, T.J. Samson Community Hospital Glasgow, KY

What Vol. State means to me…SUCCESS!

Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine have always been a passion for me. Family first, career second determined P.T. Asst. school vs. P.T. school. This was the career path I chose. I attended Western Kentucky University then I transitioned to Vol. State. I wanted the best college so that I would be challenged to perform at my best. I was inspired in many ways throughout my education by faculty and classmates . The skills from the profession incorporated with my work ethic enables me to pass it on to others. I acknowledge Vol. State for assisting those of us who desire to make an impact. I am honored to be an alumni from a college which upholds values and standards of excellence!

Michelle Y. Prosser

Class of 1997

I graduated from Vol State in May 1997 with a Business and Commerce Degree. I enjoyed the friendly atmosphere of the college. The small class sizes made learning easy and I felt that the teachers were able to provide personalized attention to each student. The quality of learning at Vol State helped me to continue my education and to prepare me for the career that I have now. I am very proud to be an Alumni of Vol State.

Christina Reid

Class of 2006, A.A.S. Physical Therapist Assistant, Star Physical Therapy

After a continuous line of unsuccessful careers, I began to realize that if I wanted to have a career I truly loved I had to make the decision to return to college. I knew I wanted to work in the healthcare field bringing my passion of helping others to fruition. I chose Volunteer State Community College to lead me on my journey and to make my dreams come true. In 2000, I graduated from Volunteer State Community College with an A.S. in Sports Medicine and continued my education at MTSU graduating with a B.A. in English. Following the completion of my B.A., I continued in the healthcare field as a physical Therapist Technician. I quickly discovered an intense passion and love for Physical Therapy. I made the decision to return to Volunteer State Community College once again in 2005. I am honored to say that in May 2006, I graduated from Volunteer State Community College as a Physical Therapist Assistant. My life has been transformed because of the dedication of Volunteer State Community College’s instructors and staff members. They truly are passionate about helping others achieve their aspirations. I'm living proof that your goals and dreams can become a reality at Volunteer State Community College. Thank you Vol State!

Randy Cline

Class of 1978, Assistant Vice President First State Bank White House, TN

After graduating from high school, I was faced with the challenge of financing my college education by myself. I quickly realized that Volunteer State was the most affordable option. After spending my two years on campus, I realized that VSCC offered a tremendous value to me. I was able to earn my Associate Degree in Communication using income from a part-time job and still save toward my final two years of college. At the same time I benefited from the small classrooms and individual attention given at Vol State. When I transferred to Middle Tennessee State University, my Associate Degree fulfilled all requirements of the first two years of my Bachelor Degree course work.

I established friendships at Vol State that continue today and cherish the memories of writing for The Settler and working on the Federal Communications Commission application to establish WVCP radio station. I always tell high school students that Volunteer State Community College is not only the best place to begin your college education, but it’s also a great place to find your direction in life.

Faye Stubblefield

Branch Manager, Farmers Bank-Cross Plains, TN

It’s never too late to realize a dream! With me, it started at age 50. I married at the age of 18, went to work, and raised two children. I always had a dream to go to college but life got in the way and years passed before I knew what happened. So, on my 50th birthday, I began to live my dream. I enrolled at Volunteer State Community College seeking a degree in General Banking. Yes, even at the age of 50, I was scared. I felt like the new kid on the first day of school, except with graying hair and no one to support me. I had not been in the classroom as a student since 1968. I couldn»t even remember how to study.

My choice to attend VSCC was for convenience at first. It was close to home and work, but as I progressed in my studies, I realized that choosing VSCC was one of the best decisions I could have made. I found the teachers, staff and other students to be friendly and supportive. Age made no difference. We were all there to learn and achieve our personal goals.

Even though I have not reached my goal of walking the line yet, my experience at VSCC and the relationships I have made here, have affected my life in many ways. By using the knowledge and skills learned, along with the confidence I have gained, I have this year been named Branch Manager and Assistant Vice-President of The Farmers Bank in my hometown of Cross Plains, TN. I believe this would not have happened without the presence of VSCC in my life. I, in return, hope that I can pass along that same help and support that I received as a student, to someone else that’s new on campus, a little scared or just needs a friend to lean on.

Thanks, VSCC, for making a difference in my life. I’ll pass it on!

Nelson Ehijene

Class of 1997, Nelson Ehijene, Inc., Gallatin TN

I am so grateful to my cousin Dr. Fetus Imasuen for suggesting that I attend Volunteer State Community College. At that time he was a counselor in the Developmental Department at Volunteer State. I was in my third year at the University of Benin in Edo State, Nigeria studying Agricultural Fisheries before my arrival in the United States in the spring of 1995. School was opened and closed intermittently for almost two years due to civil unrest between colleges and the government (military regime), therefore my mathematic and English skills had weakened.

Upon arriving at Vol State in the fall of 1995, I was encouraged to take the new skills class. This course was very helpful in reacquainting me with mathematics and English and getting me back into the study mode. I was able to enroll for college courses in the spring of 1996 due to the assistance of the people in NewSkills.

My advisor at Vol State was very helpful in counseling and encouraging me to take several courses so that I could graduate early. During this time I was also working full time off campus and part time in the computer lab. The professors were very knowledgeable and engaging during my studies. I was able to graduate in May 1997 Magna Cum laude with an Associate of Applied Science Degree.

Volunteer State was the building block in my chosen field of Information Systems. I have and will recommend Vol State to students from all walks of life because this school was instrumental to my success today. I continued my education at Belmont University where I received a Bachelors’ in Information Systems. I am currently the Network Services Manager at Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis, LLP.

Ed Mayberry

Class of 1973, General Business. President, Green Bank, Gallatin, TN

When I graduated from Gallatin High School in 1972, I had several choices of Colleges I could have attended. Volunteer State Community College was one of those choices. After visiting several campuses, I chose Volunteer State Community College, and to this day, have never regretted that decision. The smaller classroom setting which allowed greater personal contact with each of my professors gave me what I believe was a very strong foundation that better prepared me for my junior and senior years of college. I have remained involved with Volunteer State Community College through all these years, and I am still convinced it provides the best preparation for further education or employment.

H. Clark Perry, Jr.

Class of 1979, A.S. General Business Administration. Agent, The New York Life Insurance Company. Registered representative for NYLIFE Securities, Inc. Member NASD/SIPC.

As a microbiologist for several years, I began to realize that I wanted a career change. I knew that I wanted to open my own business and develop a career that would provide for my family and support our lifestyle choices. Realizing a bachelor’s degree in biology would not be very helpful in the business world, I began taking classes at Volunteer State Community College. Class schedule flexibility allowed me to obtain my degree while working at a full time job. I found the curriculum and quality of teaching at the College to be excellent! Volunteer State Community College is one of the best kept secrets in Sumner County and middle Tennessee. Thank you Vol State for helping me make a career change that has been my passion for all my professional years!

Joni Worsham

Class of 1973, A. S. Music Education. Principal, Hendersonville High School

About thirty years ago when Volunteer State Community College first opened its doors, I became the first female student and second student ever to register for classes there. Also, I became the first ever editor of the campus student newspaper, THE SETTLER. I never would have dreamed that Vol State would play such an important part in my life, especially because I married another Vol State student, Phillip Worsham. I was able to pay my way through college as well as get an education that, I frequently tell my parents, was as good or better than any other place I have attended in the years since. The price of tuition at that time was only sixty-five dollars! The lifetime of experience was priceless!

Yvette (Bloodworth) Garrett

Class of 1976, Allied Health/Social Work. Area Manager, Tennessee Department of Human Resources, Sumner County

I enrolled at Vol State in August of 1975, less than half a year after my graduation from Gallatin Senior High School. Prior to my attendance at Vol State, I had been enrolled in the LPN program at Sumner Regional Hospital (formerly Sumner Memorial Hospital). Classes went well, however, as I entered clinical training I realized that career was not a good fit. As a Vol State student, I became a part of the medical records program and met an Allied Health advisor who assisted me with career interest inventories that helped steer me into Social Work as a career path. I am living proof that Vol State is a wonderful place to start for any young person. Personal attention, professional and caring staff, and a commitment to helping me find myself and my career path all became a part of my life changing experience there! I have served for the past twenty four years in social work and have been Area Manager in Sumner County the past two years. I have enjoyed my life and career and have Volunteer State Community College to thank for that!

Phillip Worsham

Class of 1973, A. S. Secondary Education. Guidance Counselor,Hendersonville High School

In 1971, I enrolled at a new community college in Sumner County, Tennessee. The cost was affordable with a reasonable commute. That was the beginning of many experiences that would change my life. At Vol State, I received an education that was equal to, or, in some instances, actually surpassed the quality of instruction that I found at other colleges. All my credits transferred, and I was able to graduate on time and pursue graduate studies. I became a charter member of Vol State’s first graduating class, met my later to be wife there, and served as the first editor of the college yearbook. As a high school guidance counselor today, I help students set goals and make educational and career plans. It is exciting to observe more students choosing Vol State as their first college choice to begin their futures. Vol State has earned great respect among colleges and universities and is known for its innovative approaches to offer students the very best to students. Thank you Vol State for what you began in my life in 1971, for what you are doing today, and for the many ways that will impact others in the future!

Cedric Short

Class of 1995, Magna Cum Laude, A.A.S. Math and Physical Science. Supervisor of Hardware Test Engineering Group, Square D Company.

My college experience at Vol State was the beginning of a great mind broadening process that endures to this day. From research skills, to music appreciation to engineering and mathematics, the faculty and staff were successful in challenging and encouraging me to see and understand the world in ways I had never know before. I enjoyed personal and professional growth as recipient of the Hal R. Ramer oratorical contest and through active participation in the Black Students Association and other campus events and organizations. With such encouragement and support, I was awarded an engineering scholarship to Vanderbilt University and graduated there Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical Engineering. To this day in my job and also in my personal life, I rely on the skills and foundational habits developed at Vol State.

Rita Reagan

Class of 2004, A.A.S. General Technology, Summa Cum Laude, Volunteer State Community College at Livingston. Assistant Director, Livingston - Overton County Tennessee Chamber of Commerce

Volunteer State was my road to success and it can be yours. With state of the art facilities, highly trained faculty, strong academic programs that can help build skills for a future career, and a commitment to academic and personal excellence, Vol State offers an enduring dedication to help students succeed, one person at a time. Their reputation for quality continues as more graduates become leaders and professionals in Tennessee and our nation. I’m honored to say that Vol State has given me the tools to succeed in my career and beyond. It was the best decision of my life!

Kathy Vaughn

Class of 1996, A.A.S. Physical Therapist Assistant. Physical Therapist Assistant, Star Physical Therapy

My attendance at Volunteer State Community College was extremely positive. I received an excellent education as well as preparation for the job market I was entering. The Allied Health professors are definitely an asset to the College.

Allen Bowman

Class of 1995, A.A.S. Radiologic Technology. Assistant Director, Radiology Vanderbilt University Medical Center

I used to wonder what it would be like to earn a college degree. It seemed that the responsibilities facing me — family, bills, life — would prevent me from completing my educational dreams. Two things changed me from wishing for a degree to receiving an Associate Degree in Applied Science in radiography; a personal decision to start that journey and Volunteer State Community College. I am proud to say that not only did I complete my degree requirements at Vol State, but I went on to obtain my master’s degree. Though I did not enroll at Vol State until I was in my mid thirties, I was able to reach my goals because they have a commitment to students as well as excellence in education!

Cristal Russell

Class of 2002, A.A.S. Business. Certified Chef, Culinary Arts Instructor

Volunteer State Community College means a lot to me. It allowed me to pursue my degree with a variety of ways, to take my classes on or off campus, or even at home. Being a Mom with a family and career, returning to school is never easy. The staff is top notch, and they can help you to obtain your goal, just as they did for me.

Since graduation, I have been able to live my dreams. I am now teaching Culinary Arts to high school students, and I feel that I am giving back to our community. Thank you Volunteer State Community College for everything!

Mae W. Banks

Class of 1988, A.S. Business and Commerce. Director, Tennessee Technology Center at Hartsville

I was uncertain about my future until a Volunteer State representative spoke at my high school during my senior year. My goal became to go to college and go into business. I decided that I wanted my life to make a difference by serving others! By obtaining my associates degree at Vol State and a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree elsewhere, I had credentials that would allow me to live my goal in life. However, Vol State is where it all began, where people took a personal interest in me and gave me a chance to grow academically and personally. I worked my way up as secretary in Admissions and Records, became Division secretary in Developmental Studies and received an advanced level of service recognition. Later, I became an Academic Advisor and understood individual student needs and how serving people, one at a time, is the key to helping others. I made the right career choice, thanks to my start at Vol State and now I am in a position to help others even more. Vol State was my “Step in the right direction”!

Andrew Finney, Pharm.D.

Class of 2000. Pharmacist, Perkins Drugs and Gift Shoppe, Gallatin, TN

I attended Vol State after graduating high school in 1997 and could not have picked a better starting point for my college education. Vol State equipped me with the tools I needed to pursue my goals and a wonderful support framework of educators committed to their student's success. I received my Associates of Science degree in the spring of 2000 and continued my studies in chemistry at Tennessee Technological University . From there I was accepted to the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy and graduated in the spring of 2005 with the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. None of this would have been possible without the solid foundation Vol State gave me. I have always been and will continue to be supportive of Vol State’s mission to provide a quality eduaction to all students and to prepare anyone to accomplish whatever professional goals they may have.

Phyllis Trevathan

Class of 1978, A.S. Business and Commerce

When I graduated from high school, I was not quite ready to venture into the job market, so I decided to further my education at Volunteer State Community College. Upon entering Vol State, I set a goal for myself. This goal was to take pride in my work and prove to myself that I could be one of the best in my field of work. At the end of my two-year training, I felt I had fulfilled my goal and I was prepared to tackle the many challenges in the world of business. My experience with the faculty and other students was great. I learned the true meaning of responsibility and how to stand on my own two feet. Vol State opened the door to a better future for me.