Why I Teach: A Story Of Heart Over Hype

By Dr. Ken Robol

At Johnston Community College, we may not have the deep pockets or shiny new buildings of larger institutions like Wake Tech — but what we do have is heart. And sometimes, that makes all the difference.

One of the first students who truly reminded me why I do this work was Gwen DeWitt Roberson. Gwen will be graduating this spring — one of my first graduates — and her journey reflects everything our program stands for: grit, humility, and a deep desire to learn and grow.

I remember getting a call a couple of years ago from the Neuse Little Theatre in Johnston County. They had just received a grant and wanted a website redesign. They called in May — right as I was getting ready to start my summer break. And like many educators, summer is typically when I decompress, regroup, and take time for myself.

But I couldn’t shake the thought: This could be a perfect opportunity for a student.

Gwen had just started the program at that point. But even then, she stood out. She was hardworking, incredibly humble, and eager to soak up every ounce of knowledge she could. So, I picked up the phone and asked her if she’d be willing to take on a real-world project over the summer — designing an entire website for a local theater.

We met with the Neuse Little Theatre four or five times that summer. Gwen took notes, asked questions, brainstormed ideas, and poured herself into the project. There were countless things I could have been doing during my time off — but helping Gwen succeed was more important. I wasn’t getting paid. I wasn’t looking for recognition. I was doing what I believe every teacher should do: give students the kind of support that changes their life.

And it did.

Not long after the project wrapped, Sir Walter Chevrolet called me, looking to fill a full-time position. “Who do you recommend?” they asked.
Without hesitation, I said, “Gwen.”

Now, Gwen is graduating straight into a full-time job — not because we have the biggest program or the fanciest labs, but because she had people who believed in her, challenged her, and walked with her every step of the way.

At Johnston Community College, we might not always compete with larger schools when it comes to resources — but what we deliver is something that can’t be measured in dollars. We deliver heart. We invest in people. And we help students become the very best version of
themselves.

That’s why I teach. That’s why I stay.

Because this work matters.

And because people like Gwen remind me that success isn’t about prestige — it’s about purpose.

Dr. Ken Robol is a lead instructor and director of digital media at Johnston Community College