Yancie Carter is always there for students, whether they need a question answered or just want someone to listen without judgment. A counselor at San Bernardino Valley College since 2015, Carter says he decided to go into the field "once I developed a deeper understanding of the importance of education." Carter, a native of Chicago, is involved with several groups on campus, including the Student Success and Support Committee, Student Services Council, and the Extended Opportunities Programs and Services (EOPS) Advisory Board. 

 
Carter appreciates his role in "shaping students' self-confidence towards achieving success," and says one of the most important things he does is "actively listen to students from a place of understanding. Many times students need an ear more than they do direction and guidance."  
Through being a counselor, Carter has made a powerful observation. "He who says he can and he who says he can't are both right," Carter says. "In life, it is our attitudes and perspective which determines our success and perceived failures." 


His colleagues rave about Carter's collaborative spirit, strong communication skills, and ability to set and reach goals, and were inspired to nominate him for the Counseling & Matriculation Achievement Award at the 2019 SBVC Spotlighting Our Success Awards. 


His anonymous nomination described how Carter illustrates strong leadership skills and excels in his coordinator responsibilities. It also praised his leadership roles in the Starfish Early Alert System, Degree Planner, AB705, coordination of on-site high school student education plans, and as Co-Chair of the Student Success and Support Committee.“

Mr. Carter is personable and possesses strong communication skills. He exhibits a sense of self-motivation and is a committed and responsible professional,” the nomination stated, “He is strategic, sets short and long term goals, and follows through in completion of his goals. Mr. Carter is resourceful and welcomes leadership opportunities. He is a valuable asset to the college and the community.” 


It felt "great" to win, Carter says, but he believes it can be shared by the entire campus, because "when one person wins, we all win."