Anderson Oconee Pickens

Tri-County Technical College’s New Learning Center at Watkins Community Center Named in Honor of Senator Billy O’Dell

CONTACT: LISA GARRETT, 646-1506

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2/3/2009
(By Lisa Garrett)

HONEA PATH --- It was standing room only last Friday when community leaders, residents and Tri-County Technical College officials gathered at the Watkins Community Center in Honea Path to celebrate the dedication of the College’s new Learning Center named in honor of Senator Billy O’Dell.

As a way of thanking Senator O’Dell for his support in assisting with obtaining state funding for renovations, the Center is named the Senator Billy O’Dell Learning Center and will offer corporate and community education classes for the citizens of Honea Path.

“This is overwhelming and a great honor,” said Senator O’Dell, a member of the South Carolina General Assembly for two decades (representing District Four). He added that Tri-County’s presence in the         building would provide training and education services for the local community. 

“Through hard work, with Senator Billy O’Dell leading the charge for funding, the state awarded funds for renovations for the facility,” said Al Young, past president of the Watkins Community Center board and president of The Commercial Bank.

The College received monies in state appropriations, along with a grant from AdvanceSC, to revamp an area for two classrooms and a computer lab, along with a shop area for teaching welding and small engine repair.

Tri-County will offer Learn to Shag (February 17); Western Partner Dance (February 19); and a series of home design courses (March 4). 

Currently a museum is under construction, along with a community meeting center, arts center and rooms for organizations such as a GED program.  “This is a way to draw people to our community.  We want to share our little town with a big heart with the rest of the world,” Young said.

 “This is a great day for all of us.  Dreams can and do come true,” said Young.  “There’s a lot of work to do and more challenges as we go forward but we’ll get there,” he added.

“This is a model of how the community gets together and makes something happen,” said Dr. Ronnie Booth, president of Tri-County.

“Our mission statement says we are dedicated to serving as a catalyst for lifelong learning and economic development.  Our vision statement says we want to be the role model in community college education,” said Dr. Booth.  “This is what it’s all about.  But people have to get to us and our services.  This is a foundation piece for us and a way to bring college to your community.  We will do all that we can to meet community needs. I can’t say enough about the support we have received.” 

He also lauded Senator O’Dell’s work in the progress of the building.  “He is one of the good guys who makes thing happen.  Life is about what we leave behind, our legacy.  Sen. O’Dell is leaving a mark on the community and opening doors for others and giving them a chance.  Tri-County is here to make it happen.”

Honea Path Mayor Lollis Meyers echoed Dr. Booth’s comments about Senator O’Dell.  “This is a community building and a community effort.  We are thankful for what the senator has done.  He cares for his people and goes to fight for us.  He stands up for what is right. This means a lot to this community.”

“This is the most inspiring community I’ve ever seen,” said Anderson County Council member Cindy Wilson.  “There is a real partnership here. This community pulls together.  Education is part of the infrastructure for economic development.  This is so inspiring.  We have a level of citizen volunteers and community leaders who work together.  This is a beautiful, wonderful town.”