Students from Stanly Community College’s Carolina Auction Academy (CAA) put their auctioneering skills to the test during a live auction held at Hinson’s Auction House on March 13. As part of their 96-hour course requirements and final exam, each student contributed three items, which were auctioned off to enthusiastic bidders. The event raised more than $1,900, with all proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The auction drew strong support from the community, including many CAA graduates who returned to show their encouragement.
As a highlight of the program, students voted for two peer awards: Best All Around and Most Improved. This year’s honorees were Casey Aldridge, Best All Around, and Erin McPherson, Most Improved. Additionally, special recognition was given to students who traveled significant distances to attend the program. Susan Collins of Louisburg, N.C., commuted over three hours and was recognized as the North Carolina Travel Award recipient. Vicky Wynn of Charleston, S.C. frequently flew into Charlotte before driving to Locust and was honored as the recipient of South Carolina Travel Award.
“We are incredibly proud of this dedicated group of students,” said CAA instructor Ivan Broadwell. “They worked hard, and this auction was a testament to their skills and commitment to the craft.”
The next class begins in the fall and will be a blended format, with most sessions held in person and over one third of the program online. For more information on the program, contact Betty O’Neal at 704-991-0142 or eoneal8048@stanly.edu.