McDowell Technical Community College proudly announced John Dillard, longtime History and Sociology instructor, as the recipient of this year’s prestigious Excellence in Teaching Award during the college’s recent commencement.
Dean Chuck Bowling, who introduced Dillard during the award presentation, praised him as a transformative educator who “creates a welcoming and safe classroom environment where learners feel respected, supported, and empowered to succeed.” Bowling continued, “Through innovative teaching methods and personal commitment, John equips students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive beyond the classroom.”
Dillard’s journey to becoming an award-winning educator is marked by perseverance, hard work, and a passion for student success. A native of Western North Carolina, he first attended Western Piedmont Community College before transferring to Appalachian State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree while working full-time at Kincaid Lumber Yard. He went on to complete a Master of Arts in Social Sciences at Appalachian State University while balancing two part-time jobs—one at a case goods factory and another at Hickory Regional Airport.
After graduate school, Dillard began teaching part-time at both Western Piedmont Community College and McDowell Technical Community College, where he focused on adult learners pursuing their GEDs. Often, he taught in GED labs with more than 200 students, offering guidance to working adults striving to change their lives through education. Later, while teaching at Caldwell Community College in Lenoir, he supported adults who had been laid off from furniture factories impacted by NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), helping them retrain for new careers in fields like nursing, electrical work, and welding.
“These students had a work ethic like no other,” Dillard recalled. “They treated their education like a 40-hour-per-week job. Many went from studying for a GED to placing directly into college-level math and English in record time. Their dedication was inspiring.”
In 2007, Dillard joined McDowell Tech full-time. Over the past 18 years, he has taught countless students in History and Sociology, adapting to changing student populations. When early college programs launched just before he started full-time, Dillard transitioned from working with adult learners to teaching high school sophomores and juniors enrolled in Early College programs. Today, he estimates that 95% of his students are Early College students, but he finds each teaching experience equally rewarding.
“It is so exciting to watch students of all ages and backgrounds as they learn to believe in themselves and achieve success,” said Dillard. “I would do it all over again.”
Valerie Dobson, Vice President of Learning and Student Services, added: “John’s career is a shining example of how passionate educators can transform individual lives and our entire college community. His dedication to student-centered learning and creating inclusive, supportive classrooms inspires both students and colleagues.”
Outside the classroom, Dillard’s passion for teaching and hard work extends into every facet of his life. He runs a back-country guide service, teaches others as a master gardener, operates as an antique dealer, and enjoys cooking. “Teaching and hard work are in John’s blood,” colleagues noted. His wide-ranging interests reflect the same dedication and curiosity he fosters in his students.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dillard finds joy in watching his daughters, Madalyn and Victoria—now 22—grow and mature into responsible young women, calling fatherhood one of the greatest joys in his life.
Dr. J.W. Kelley, President of McDowell Tech, commended Dillard’s unwavering commitment: “John Dillard exemplifies the very best of our faculty. His ability to connect with students from all walks of life—and to help them realize their potential—perfectly reflects our mission to Learn, Grow, and Dream. We are proud to have him on our team.”
McDowell Technical Community College congratulates John Dillard on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his many years of exceptional service and commitment to student success. To experience amazing faculty at McDowell Tech, get started by visiting the college at https://mcdowelltech.edu/.
