SCC’s Isaiah Johnson Named Nominee for Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award

WHITEVILLE, NC – Southeastern Community College (SCC) is proud to announce that Isaiah Johnson, a dedicated student leader, mentor, and campus ambassador, has been named SCC’s 2026 nominee for the prestigious Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award. 

Established by the North Carolina Association of Community College Presidents, this award honors students who exemplify outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to their campus and community, reflecting the legacy of former Governor Bob Scott. 

Johnson, who joined SCC through the Columbus Career & College Academy in Fall 2021, has become one of the college’s most visible and trusted student leaders. Over the past four years, he has served in multiple leadership roles, including Vice President of the Student Government Association, President of the SCC Ambassadors, SCC Content Creator, and Historian for the Chess Club. 

“Isaiah represents the very best of our students,” said Dr. Chris English, President of Southeastern Community College. “He leads with character, humility, and a genuine commitment to lifting others up. His service to our campus and community reflects the leadership qualities Governor Scott valued and the mission our college works to fulfill each day.” 

From Welcome Week and campus tours to cultural celebrations, service projects, and student engagement initiatives, Johnson has helped create a welcoming and positive environment for students across campus. His leadership is rooted in inclusion, encouragement, and the belief that every student should feel seen and supported. 

In addition to his campus involvement, Johnson has made a lasting impact through his service in Teen Court, where he has served as a Defense Attorney for the past three years, helping young people take accountability and grow from their experiences. His work outside the classroom, along with caring for his grandmother and balancing full-time employment, reflects the compassion and responsibility that define his leadership style. 

Katie Floyd, SCC’s Student Engagement Coordinator and advisor to the Student Government Association, praised Johnson’s steady leadership and the trust he has built among his peers. 

“In my role, I work with many student leaders, and Isaiah stands out because he leads with consistency and sincerity,” Floyd said. “Students naturally gravitate toward him because they trust him and feel supported in his presence.” 

His leadership journey has also been shaped by resilience. Johnson has balanced personal hardships, academic demands, and multiple service commitments while maintaining a strong academic record and preparing for graduation with an Associate of Arts degree, Associate of Science degree, Criminal Justice certificate, and Masonry certificate. 

Looking ahead, Johnson plans to transfer to a four-year university, complete his paralegal studies, attend law school, and pursue a career as a business litigation attorney. 

“To me, leadership means stepping up when others cannot or choose not to,” Johnson shared in his nomination. “It means creating spaces where people feel welcome and encouraged.” 

Through his service, mentorship, and unwavering positivity, Johnson exemplifies the leadership and integrity celebrated by the Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award. 

For more information about Southeastern Community College and its commitment to student leadership and community engagement, visit sccnc.edu.