McDowell Technical Community College is proud to announce that Mrs. Penny Lonon has been named the recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award, one of the college’s highest honors, recognizing outstanding full-time faculty.
Lonon was presented with the award during the college’s recent Awards Day Ceremony. She was selected following a nomination process driven largely by student feedback. Nominations were reviewed by a committee chaired by Jay Perry, Director of Arts and Design Programs, and semi-finalists were interviewed by the committee before Lonon was chosen as finalist.
What distinguished Lonon was the consistent and detailed praise from her students, who described an instructor deeply invested in their success. Many noted her willingness to provide one-on-one support, her ability to adapt to different learning styles and her accessibility outside of scheduled class time.
Students emphasized that Lonon gets to know each of them by name and creates an engaging and supportive learning environment where individuals feel known, encouraged, and challenged to succeed. They highlighted her commitment to ensuring that no student is left behind.
Dr. Valerie Dobson, Vice President of Academics & Student Services and Chief Academic Officer, emphasized Lonon’s impact on student development.
“What stands out about Penny is how intentionally she builds confidence in her students and invests in their personal and professional growth,” Dobson said. “She meets them where they are, helps them develop critical skills step by step, and ensures they leave her program ready to contribute in a healthcare setting from day one.”
Lonon serves as Nurse Aide Lead Instructor at McDowell Tech, a role she has held since March 2020. She began her work with the college as an adjunct instructor and transitioned to a full-time faculty position in January 2026.
Before becoming an instructor, Lonon built extensive clinical experience as a Registered Nurse with Mission Health from December 2009 to September 2020, including work in emergency care, cardiac stress testing, and cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. From April 2006 to December 2009, she was a CNA II and Unit Secretary at Mission Health.
Lonon is a 2009 graduate of the Foothills Nursing Consortium, through which McDowell Technical Community College awarded the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. Lonon also earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Capella University in 2019.
As the college’s Excellence in Teaching Award recipient, Lonon will represent McDowell Tech as its nominee for the North Carolina Community College System Excellence in Teaching Award at the state level.
The Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes faculty members who create meaningful learning experiences, support students academically and personally, and make a lasting impact on the college and community. Lonon’s recognition reflects the vital role faculty play in preparing a skilled and confident workforce.
“Mrs. Lonon sets a high standard for teaching excellence through both her professional expertise and her commitment to student success,” said Dr. J.W. Kelley. “She understands what it takes to succeed in healthcare and translates that into clear expectations, strong mentorship, and a learning environment where students are prepared to meet real-world demands. She truly embodies our mission of helping students learn, grow, and dream. We are incredibly proud to recognize her with this well-deserved honor.”
About McDowell Technical Community College
McDowell Technical Community College provides accessible, high-quality education and workforce training to support student success and community development. Through innovative programs and strong partnerships, the college empowers students to achieve their goals and build brighter futures—right where they belong.
To learn more, visit www.mcdowelltech.edu .
