MEDIA CONTACT:
Kenyon “KJ” Askew, Jr.
Director, Marketing & Strategic Engagement
klaskew736@nashcc.edu
252-451-8235

Nash CC Nursing Student Named 2025 Academic Excellence Award Recipient

ROCKY MOUNT, North Carolina (January 6, 2025) – Nash Community College is proud to announce Jessica Gorczynski as the college’s 2025 Academic Excellence Award winner, an honor presented annually by the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) to recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership and dedication to learning.

A student in NCC’s Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program, Gorczynski represents the very best of NCC’s nursing community. Faculty describe her as academically exceptional, deeply resilient and profoundly committed to caring for others. These are the qualities the program strives to instill in all nursing students.

Originally from Sanford, North Carolina, Jessica now resides in Raleigh and is expected to graduate from NCC in May 2026.

A Journey Rooted in Care and Commitment

Before beginning her nursing studies at Nash, Gorczynski earned a bachelor’s degree in molecular biology from the University of Colorado Boulder and worked in biopharmaceutical research focused on cancer therapy development. After four years in the field, she sought a more direct connection to patient care and wanted a career that blended scientific knowledge with meaningful human interaction.

“I realized I felt disconnected from patient care and desired to help others directly,” said Gorczynski. “I also wanted to start a family, and I felt I could not only better serve my family by becoming a nurse, but also serve my community.”

Today, Jessica is both a full-time student and a mother to a one-year-old, balancing the intense demands of nursing coursework with parenting. Outside of school, she enjoys camping, biking and playing music.

Representing Nash Community College Across the State

As the recipient of Nash Community College’s highest academic honor, Jessica will represent NCC among the state’s 58 community colleges. Each Academic Excellence Award winner receives a plaque and medallion in recognition of their accomplishments and contributions to their college community.

NCC faculty shared that Jessica’s professionalism, work ethic and compassion set her apart.

“Jessica exemplifies the very best of Nash Community College’s Nursing programs,” faculty shared in her nomination. “Her academic excellence, perseverance and deep commitment to caring for others reflect the qualities we hope to instill in all of our nursing students. We are proud to celebrate her achievements and excited to see the impact she will make as a future nurse.”

“We could not be prouder of Jessica and the dedication she brings to her studies, her family and her future career,” said Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt, president of NCC. “She embodies the heart of NCC.. students who work hard, care deeply and strive to make a difference. Gorczynski’s story inspires us all, and we are honored to have her represent NCC across the NCCCS.”

For more information about Nash Community College’s nursing program, visit www.nashcc.edu/academics/

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About Nash Community College 
Nash Community College’s mission is to provide an affordable educational environment which prepares students for university transfer and rewarding careers. Through quality instruction and services, technology, work force development, and community partnerships, Nash Community College provides lifelong learning opportunities to individuals, communities, and organizations. Nash Community College is a public community college in Nash County, North Carolina. It is part of the North Carolina Community College System.