GTCC honors staff member, student with MLK Jr. Service Award
Published on: January 20, 2026
Guilford Technical Community College will honor Library Director, Monica Young and a student, Eli Forehand, with its annual GTCC MLK Jr. Service Award at a community celebration hosted at University of North Carolina at Greensboro University.
In honor of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., the award honors members of the GTCC community who demonstrate a commitment to King’s legacy through acts of service, leadership, and community building.
Forehand, a first-year student studying business administration and accounting, was nominated for his volunteerism and service with Triad nonprofits focusing on homelessness and food insecurity such as Greensboro Urban Ministries and Out of the Garden Project. He also volunteers with Backpack Beginnings, where he has organized activities for children which include cookie decorating and Scholastic Book Fairs.
“Winning the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Award is a true honor,” said Forehand. “This recognition reflects not only my commitment to serving the community, but also the continued importance of unity, compassion, and support during a time of division and uncertainty. I hope this award creates opportunities to connect with students who are dedicated to giving back and making a positive impact. One-way students can volunteer is through the newly formed Out of the Garden Project Club at GTCC.”
Young, manages multiple library locations across the college and serves as the lead advisor for Phi Theta Kappa student honor society, where she encourages students to participate in service and professional activities. She participates in campus committees and represents GTCC at statewide library organizations to help the college stay up to date on academic resources and technology.
“Winning this award validates my efforts to empower students of all backgrounds to reach their full potential,” said Young.
“Eli’s dedication to serving those in need exemplifies the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy. His compassion and leadership inspire our entire community,” shared GTCC President Anthony Clarke, Ph.D. “While, Monica’s tireless work to support students and advance our college’s mission shows what it means to lead with purpose and integrity.”
About Guilford Technical Community College: Guilford Technical Community College is the third largest of 58 institutions in the North Carolina Community College System. GTCC serves over 30,000 students annually from five campuses and a Small Business Center. For more information, visit gtcc.edu, Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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