The Halifax County Junior County Commissioners completed the inaugural year of the program by participating in a Completion Ceremony on May 14.
The ceremony recognized the students’ accomplishments and contributions throughout the year. The JCC members planned and executed the program including the welcome, Pledge of Allegiance, invocation, year in review, program reflections and closing remarks.
The JCCs also recognized Nicholas Denton, son of County Manager Dia Denton and husband Jeff, as an honorary member of the program. The family was presented with a certificate and a poem in his memory written by JCC member Jade Lassiter.
The inaugural JCC members included 10 area high school students: Northwest Collegiate and Technical Academy – Timaree Cherry and Brandon Pagan — Roanoke Rapids Early College — Josiah Ausby and Isabella Short — Roanoke Valley Early College — Azaiah Harry-Davis and Makai Tyrone — Victory Christian Academy – Jade Lassiter and Diego Snyder — Weldon High School — Matthew Owens-Reid — and Halifax County Early College — Marvin Wiggins.
The program was led by co-advisors Commissioners Gary Redding and Chenoa Richardson-Davis, Deputy County Manager Christina Wells, and 4-H Extension Agent for Youth Development Stephanie Proctor.
Throughout the year, JCC members participated in several educational and community-based activities designed to strengthen leadership skills, civic engagement, and career readiness. The program began with students attending a Halifax County Board of Commissioners meeting, where they observed county government in action and completed a scavenger hunt activity to learn more about the meeting process and the responsibilities of local government officials.
In November 2025, JCC members participated in job shadowing experiences within Halifax County Government based on their individual career interests. Participating departments included the County Manager’s Office, Economic Development, Emergency Services, Finance, Health Department, Human Resources Management, Legal, Sheriff’s Office, and Social Services.
During these experiences, students participated in hands-on activities, toured workspaces, and engaged with professionals to learn more about potential career paths.
During the holiday season, JCC members partnered with Social Services to collect gifts and facilitate gift wrapping for local children in foster care.
The event allowed students to give back to the community while supporting children and families during the holiday season.
In February 2026, JCC members participated in a Halifax County Board of Commissioners public comment session. Prior to the meeting, students worked in groups to research and prepare presentations on topics important to youth in Halifax County, including mental health, education and workforce training, and recreation. During the meeting, students shared their perspectives and recommendations for improving opportunities and resources for young people in the community.
The JCC members hosted and moderated a Youth-Led Candidates Forum in February 2026. The forum featured candidates running for Congress, North Carolina General Assembly, Halifax County Board of Commissioners, Halifax County Board of Education, and Halifax County Clerk of Court.
During the forum, students asked candidates questions regarding youth opportunities, economic development, recreation, housing, education, and community improvement initiatives.
In March, JCC members participated in a job preparation and interview workshop. The workshop included presentations on interview preparation, professional attire, researching employers, and practicing interview skills. Professionals from Halifax County Government, Halifax Community College, healthcare organizations, and the real estate sector served as interviewers and provided students with detailed feedback to help strengthen their communication and professional development skills.
For the final activity of the year, the JCCs attended the April 20 Halifax County Board of Commissioners meeting. During the meeting, JCC members delivered public comments expressing appreciation to county leaders and staff for establishing the program and shared reflections on the impact the experience had on them throughout the year.
The Halifax County Junior County Commissioners program was first proposed by Commissioner Gary Redding in May 2025 and was approved unanimously by the Halifax County Board of Commissioners.
Public, charter, and private high schools across Halifax County were invited to participate in the inaugural year of the program. “Halifax County looks forward to continuing the Junior County Commissioners program and providing future students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, engage in local government, and make a positive impact in their communities.”