HICKORY, N.C.— On February 24, Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) hosted its annual Celebration of Excellence, an evening dedicated to honoring resilience, leadership, and service within the Catawba Valley community. The event recognizes individuals whose leadership and service embody the values of progress, unity, and community advancement. This year’s honorees included Katia Carson, Antionne Mayhew, and Chavis Sims. At the conclusion of the event, CVCC employee Dr. Johnny Scott was recognized for 20 years of dedicated service to the college and the broader community.

“The Celebration of Excellence is not just about reflection — it’s about recognition,” said Dr. Felicia Simmons, CVCC Vice President of College Access and Engagement. “It is about celebrating those who carry forward a powerful heritage of strength and achievement while forging new pathways in business, education, service, advocacy, and the arts. This means ensuring that every individual feels seen, valued, and supported.”

2026 CVCC Celebration of Excellence Recipients

Katia Carson, a Hickory native and CVCC alumna (Class of 2015), was honored for her work with youth development and community engagement. As the Community Engagement Coordinator at Hickory Public Library’s Ridgeview Branch, Carson has worked extensively with youth through the YMCA, Hickory City Schools, church leadership, and as a NAACP Youth Advisor. Her work focuses on building relationships across racial, cultural, and economic lines while promoting mental, spiritual, and physical wellness.

Antionne Mayhew, born in Hickory, returned home after years away to invest in the community that shaped him. As a coach, Youth Advisor with the NAACP, and certified high school athletic official, Mayhew views athletics as a ministry and a platform for mentorship, character development, and confidence-building in young people. His leadership spans roles at the Hickory Foundation YMCA, Hickory City Schools, and Northview Middle School.

Chavis Sims, originally from Shelby, North Carolina, has dedicated his life to education and leadership. A principal at H.M. Arndt Middle School, Sims holds advanced degrees in sociology and school administration and is currently completing his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. His career spans teaching, coaching, adult education, and school administration, driven by a belief in education’s power to transform lives and communities.

Special Recognition: Dr. Johnny Scott
The evening also included a special presentation recognizing Dr. Johnny Scott, CVCC Community Liaison, for 20 years of dedicated service to the college and the broader community.

CVCC President Dr. Garrett D. Hinshaw reflected on his arrival at the college in 2006 and the impact Dr. Scott had on both his leadership and the institution. He also credited Dr. Scott with helping shape CVCC into the community-centered institution it is today.

“When I arrived, I saw a vision of greatness for this college” said Dr. Hinshaw. “Not long after I began, [Dr. Scott] told me, ‘This is not the community’s college.’ I listened — and I realized I had a friend. Dr. Johnny Scott has made a lasting difference in this community, at this college, and in my own life.”

In accepting the recognition, Dr. Scott reflected on the growth he has personally witnessed at the college.

“This is not the same CVCC. It’s a completely different place,” stated Dr. Scott. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to work and serve here.”

The Celebration of Excellence concluded with a renewed commitment to unity, service, and excellence — values that continue to guide CVCC as it strengthens its role as the community’s college.