SCC provides support for wildfire response teams
Southwestern Community College employees and area residents serve a meal to firefighters and emergency personnel on Monday, April 21, at Swain West Elementary School. Donated photo
Shortly after a wildfire broke out in the Lower Alarka region of Swain County, Southwestern Community College’s Megan Nicholson made arrangements to help firefighters and emergency management teams set up their temporary command center at SCC’s Swain Center.
Nicholson, who is Southwestern’s Emergency Services/Safety Coordinator, also worked with other college employees, area residents and organizations to ensure those workers were served meals before and after shifts.
“We are extremely grateful to these firefighters and workers who are working tirelessly to protect the same communities we serve,” Nicholson said.
On Easter Sunday, SCC employees, local organizations and community members, including Cynthia Womble — a member of SCC’s board of trustees and Swain County resident — stepped in to provide meals and space for firefighters and emergency personnel. Additional meals and resources have continued through the week.
Through its Jerry Sutton Public Safety Training Center in Franklin, Southwestern has a longstanding partnership with local agencies.
“We remain committed to supporting the region in times of need,” said Dr. Don Tomas, SCC’s President. “We’re grateful for all our employees and neighbors who’ve stepped up to serve those who are protecting Swain County residents during a crisis.”
