In this episode, we highlight Heather Pack, Director of Student Support Services. Heather was also named the North Carolina Community College System’s Staff Member of the Year. Heather shares how her work, and the work of her team, helps ensure students enroll, persist, and succeed.
Heather describes Student Support Services as a mission-driven effort to remove barriers that can stand in the way of student success. From financial challenges to self-doubt and competing responsibilities, many students arrive at A-B Tech facing obstacles that extend beyond the classroom. Her team meets students where they are, offering personalized support that builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Throughout the conversation, Heather emphasizes that success means more than grades or graduation. It’s about helping students believe in themselves, ask for help, and move forward despite setbacks. She also highlights the power of relationships, especially for students who may never have had an advocate in an educational setting before.
Reflecting on her statewide recognition, Heather credits her team, noting that student support is a collective effort rooted in compassion and collaboration. She also underscores that student success is a campus-wide responsibility and plays a critical role in strengthening the regional workforce and community.
Heather’s message is clear: when we support the whole student, we open doors that can truly change lives.