Student Activities
Student Government Association
On February 5, 1981, the Board of Trustees of McDowell Technical Community College approved granting the existing Student Advisory Council full status as a Student Government Association. The duties and responsibilities of the SGA are to serve in an advisory capacity to the President, Administration and Faculty on matters pertaining to student interest and welfare. Participation in SGA is an important way for students to have input into decision-making at the college. The MTCC Student Government Association actively participates in and supports the state student government organization known as N4CSGA. The academic, educational, career and social needs and concerns of the students at MTCC are addressed and given due consideration through this association both at the local level and state level. The president of the SGA serves as an ex-officio member of the Board of Trustees of MTCC.
Any curriculum student who is attending at least half-time and has at least a 2.5 GPA is eligible to be a voting member of the SGA (up to 20 nominated students). Non-SGA members who wish to have input into college decisions or address issues which are of concern to themselves or others should contact an SGA member or the SGA Advisor to express those concerns. To request a time to speak before members of the Student Government Association, a student should contact the SGA advisor or an SGA officer to schedule time on the SGA meeting agenda. The SGA advisor can provide additional information about how to become an SGA member, more complete information about SGA activities, or a list of SGA members and officers. The designated SGA Advisor from Student Services provides guidance and serves as a liaison between students and college administration.
The Student Government Association sponsors various events, including Spring Fling and Fall Festival. These events are funded through student activity fees collected each semester. Announcements of these events will be posted or presented in class.
Club Opportunities
The Student Government Association (SGA) is here to support all campus clubs—from helping new clubs get started to promoting ongoing club activities. If you see a club you'd like to join, or want to learn more about club meetings and events, email sga@go.mcdowelltech.edu and we’ll get you connected.
If you're starting a new club, SGA will review your proposal, provide guidance, and help connect you to funding and campus resources to get your club up and running.
Here’s how to get a Club started on campus:
- Find Your Focus – Identify the purpose or interest area of your club. It should align with the values and mission of McDowell Technical Community College.
- Recruit Members – Gather a group of at least five students who share your interest.
- Secure a Faculty/Staff Advisor – Each club must have a McDowell Tech faculty or staff member serve as an advisor to help guide and support the group.
- Submit a Club Proposal – Complete a Club Proposal Form and submit it to the Office of Student Outreach and Engagement.
- Meet with SGA – Once your club is approved, the Student Government Association (SGA) will serve as your support system. SGA connects clubs to funding opportunities, provides organizational guidance, and helps you take the next steps toward launching your club successfully.
Clubs at McDowell Tech are student-led, advisor-supported, and coordinated in partnership with SGA. From planning events to requesting funding, SGA serves as the central hub for all campus clubs and organizations. For more information or to get started, contact the Director of Student Outreach and Engagement.
Awards/Leadership Opportunities
McDowell Technical Community College is proud to recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and student excellence through a variety of awards and honor societies. The following opportunities are available to eligible students and serve as a meaningful reflection of their dedication and success.
Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society – Beta Zeta Lambda Chapter
McDowell Tech’s chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, Beta Zeta Lambda, was established in 1998. PTK is the official international honor society for two-year colleges, recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges. The mission of Phi Theta Kappa is to recognize and encourage academic achievement among associate degree students and to provide opportunities for:
Membership invitations are extended annually to eligible students who:
- Have completed at least 12 credit hours of associate degree coursework
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Are recommended by their academic advisor
National Technical Honor Society (NTHS)
Established at McDowell Tech during the 2000–2001 academic year, NTHS recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in career and technical education. With more than 1,500 member institutions worldwide, NTHS promotes high standards in workforce education and fosters personal and professional success.
Eligible students may be invited annually based on the following criteria:
- Completion of at least 9 credit hours toward their program of study
- A cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher
- A recommendation from their faculty advisor
- Commitment to integrity, leadership, and professionalism
Academic Excellence Award
Each year, MTCC participates in the North Carolina Community College System’s Academic Excellence Awards. One student from each college is nominated annually based on academic performance, leadership, and contributions to the college community. Recipients must meet criteria established by the System Office.
Free Resources to Students taking classes at McDowell Tech
McDowell Tech is committed to supporting your success—both inside and outside the classroom. We offer several free resources to help students with their basic needs, health, and overall well-being.
Kim Ledbetter Food Pantry
The Kim Ledbetter Food Pantry is available to any student currently enrolled in classes at McDowell Tech.
Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
A valid MTCC Student ID is required to access the pantry.
Contact: 828-652-0622 or 828-659-0444, foodpantry@go.mcdowelltech.edu
TimelyCare
TimelyCare provides 24/7 access to free virtual mental health and wellness support for all enrolled students. Services include TalkNow (on-demand mental health support), scheduled counseling sessions, health coaching, and more—all accessible by phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit: www.timelycare.com/mtcc
Single Stop
Single Stop is a one-stop resource hub designed to connect students with support services, including help with food, housing, utilities, legal aid, healthcare access, and more.
Get confidential assistance to help ease financial burdens so you can stay focused on school.
Visit: https://app.singlestop.org/MCDOWELLTECH/MAIN
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 anytime. This free and confidential service is available 24/7 to offer support, resources, and connection to local services.