RCC’s Jesse Fortune Honored with George B. Vaughan Leadership Award
Rappahannock Community College adjunct instructor Jesse Fortune was recently honored with the George B. Vaughan Leadership Award for Outstanding Adjunct Faculty during the 2025 New Horizons conference in Roanoke. The award, presented by the Virginia Community College System, recognizes adjunct faculty members across the state who make a significant impact in the classroom and in their communities.
Jesse’s journey with RCC began at the Haynesville Correctional Center, where she teaches history with remarkable energy, compassion, and commitment. In student evaluations, her classes consistently receive perfect evaluation scores and glowing praise, with students describing her as “inspiring,” “helpful,” and “full of energy and enthusiasm.” The hallways of the correctional center’s education building often echo with laughter, spirited discussion, and even applause—testaments to Jesse’s ability to bring history to life and create meaningful connections through her teaching.
Beyond Haynesville, Jesse teaches a dual enrollment history course at King William High School and recently began leading online Western History classes for RCC. At RCC’s most recent convocation, she gave an engaging presentation on traditional Native American dance competitions, drawing from her own personal experience with the subject.
An RCC graduate herself, Jesse exemplifies the mission and values of the college. She is a dedicated mentor to fellow faculty members at the correctional center and a passionate advocate for her students and for the power of education. Her work reflects a deep commitment to access, equity, and excellence in teaching.
“We are lucky to have Jesse as a member of our faculty,” said RCC President Shannon Kennedy. “Her talent, passion, and tireless efforts make her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.”
The George B. Vaughan Leadership Awards were established in 2015 to honor Dr. Vaughan, a founding president in the Virginia Community College System and a lifelong advocate for education. The award recognizes the critical role adjunct faculty play in supporting student success across Virginia’s 23 community colleges.
Jesse Fortune’s leadership and dedication are a shining example of that mission in action.