Governor Cooper Delivers Farewell Address at Nash Community College

Governor Roy Cooper visited Nash Community College today to deliver his official farewell address as he concludes his second term in office. The event, attended by invited guests, community members and NCC staff, was a heartfelt reflection on his time as governor and the future of North Carolina.

The day began with a visit to the Science & Technology Building, where Governor Cooper greeted hundreds of students in a lecture hall. Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt, President of Nash Community College, welcomed the Governor, who shared key points about his vision and priorities during his time in office. Governor Cooper emphasized his commitment to creating great paying jobs, reflecting on the importance of workforce development and education in achieving that goal.

He also took a moment to acknowledge the impact of teachers, recalling how his mother, “the best teacher on the planet,” shaped his life and career. Governor Cooper shared that the compliments he still receives about his mother’s teaching are a testament to the power of great educators. “I can remember all of my elementary teachers, and I hear stories from people who still thank me for what my mother did for them,” he said.

Governor Cooper’s address continued with a heartfelt note about Nash County. “Nash County will always be and is always my home,” he shared, highlighting the strong connections he has to the community that helped shape his journey.

Afterward, Governor Cooper moved to the Brown Auditorium to deliver his official farewell address. The event featured a touching introduction by Kristi Jones, his former Chief of Staff, who has worked alongside the Governor for many years. Kristi fondly recalled the Governor’s frequent reminder that, “It’s not about me, it’s about the people of North Carolina,” a message he would often share just before public appearances.

In her remarks, Kristi praised Governor Cooper’s leadership and care for his staff, noting that he had written thousands of handwritten notes and frequently reached out to check on others. “You wanted a North Carolina where people could live a life of abundance and purpose, and you have done that,” she said.

Governor Cooper’s farewell speech was filled with humor, reflection and gratitude as he reflected on his eight years in office. “Some of the people here today have been with me for more than 25 years,” he remarked, expressing his deep appreciation for the dedicated public servants he has worked with. “What I will miss most is the extraordinary public servants I’ve had the honor of working with.”

He also thanked his family for their unwavering support. “Public servants don’t do this alone. My family serves too,” he said, giving special recognition to his wife, Kristin, for being a constant source of stability and friendship throughout his career.

Governor Cooper reaffirmed his belief in the power of North Carolinians, stating that the state’s success is driven by its people – those who can thrive, innovate, and grow. He emphasized the importance of quality public education, underscoring how public schools and teachers have been central to the state’s achievements.

The Governor also took time to commend Nash Community College for its strong role in education and its partnership with the public school system. He thanked Dr. Hunnicutt and the Board of Trustees for hosting the event, highlighting the college as a model of excellence in education.

Concluding his speech, Governor Cooper declared, “Even though I’m leaving office, I’m not done yet and neither are the people of North Carolina.” His final remarks reinforced his commitment to the future of the state, as he called on North Carolinians to continue striving for success and progress in the years ahead.