LOUISBURG, N.C.—Louisburg College president Dr. Mark La Branche was surprised with a special honor at this year’s Greater Franklin County Chamber of Commerce’s annual banquet and meeting, held January 16 at Green Hill Club. The Chamber awarded La Branche with its “Citizen of the Year” award, thanks in part to a nomination letter from the executive director of the United Way of Franklin County, Kathy Harrelson.
“Mark’s vision, leadership, exceptional understanding and patience has transformed…Louisburg College into a force that is recognized within the community, in other venues within the United Methodist Church and in higher education nationally,” Harrelson’s letter states.
Upon his move to Louisburg, she notes, “he learned the community with careful patience and…joined with community clubs and agencies to begin being a part of everything Franklin County. He embraced the whole community and looked to do good…He understood the importance of his community service roles and approached them with commitment and passion for helping others.”
The Citizen of the Year award is given to an individual, business or organization that has had a significant impact on the community through their volunteer and charitable activities; has shown leadership and performance in many areas of community service during an extended period of time; and has over the years contributed to the general benefit of the community as a whole.
About Louisburg College
Related by faith to The United Methodist Church, Louisburg College is the oldest two-year residential college in the nation, and the only one in North Carolina. With a student body of 700 students, over 90 percent of Louisburg graduates continue their education at four-year schools. Learn more at www.louisburg.edu.