Chad Elledge, NTCC Board Trustee
I graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1988. At that time, students in the top 10% of their class were given the incredible opportunity to attend NTCC tuition-free until they completed an associate’s degree. My parents encouraged me to take advantage of this, especially since I had a vision condition that brought financial and medical challenges for my family. Though I was initially frustrated—since many of my friends were heading straight to four-year universities—I agreed to visit NTCC.
That visit changed the course of my life. My dad had arranged for me to meet Dr. Richey, who not only listened to my career goals but helped me map out a clear path forward. I told him I wanted to study computer science, and he immediately identified my biggest challenge: completing all four required calculus courses before transferring to Texas A&M. He promised me that if I gave my best effort, he would get me through them at NTCC.
On my first day of classes, I realized that many of my high school classmates were also at NTCC, and I quickly made even more new friends from other local schools. With the support of professors like Dr. Wilhite, who held me accountable to the promise I made to Dr. Richey, I thrived academically. By the end of my first year, I had been inducted into Phi Theta Kappa.
During my spring semester, Dr. Richey and my dad met with me again to review my progress. When the cost of continuing college came up, Dr. Richey introduced me to counselor Mike Dennehy. Together, they helped me secure resources and scholarships that allowed me to complete my bachelor’s degree debt-free—something I would never have known was possible without NTCC.
The summer before I transferred to Texas A&M, I still needed two calculus classes. True to his word, Dr. Richey offered both courses over the summer for just four of us who needed them. He kept his promise, making sure I was fully prepared for the rigors of A&M.
NTCC gave me more than just academic preparation. I would often doubt myself and say that I could not do the work due to my vision issues. Dr Richey and Dr Wilhite both told me that asking for help was a sign of maturity and not a sign of weakness. They both assured me that my diploma would look the same regardless of the amount of help I received. This type of encouragement built my confidence and belief in myself. That foundation not only led me to complete my bachelor’s degree, but also inspired me to earn a master’s degree and multiple certifications for my job. Today, I mentor others the way I was once mentored.
My academic journey would look very different without NTCC. Because of the opportunities and life-changing support I received, I feel a deep responsibility to give back. That is why I chose to run for a seat on the NTCC Board of Trustees. It is my hope and honor to serve and ensure future students have the same opportunities I was given.
