Athletics and student development play a huge role in students' success.

Mr. Tony Searcy came to Surry Community College in 1974 after being recruited to play basketball. "Being eighteen and right out of high school, the thing that stood out was the genuine interest that faculty and staff took in my success in the classroom, on the court, and in life." After obtaining an Associate's Degree, Mr. Searcy transferred to Appalachian State University where he played basketball for two years and obtained his Bachelor of Science degree. He played professional basketball in Belgium, came back to be a Graduate Assistant Coach at ASU, and then tried working in the private sector. Realizing he missed the service opportunities in education, he applied to Surry Community College and was hired as Counselor and Director of Student Activities; Tony has held this position since 1987. His involvement in academic counseling, advising the Student Government Association, and coaching the college basketball team has allowed him to work in a career field that best matches his personality. "I feel joy when I see a former student say that Surry Community College helped them to realize their potential," states Mr. Searcy. "Surry did that for me, and now I have the opportunity to help students in the same way. I learned it at SCC. Now I do it at SCC," he states with a smile, referring to the college's "Learn it. Do it." tag line.

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