 Timothy Donnell Corbett has been named as the Non-Trad of the Month for March 2007. A graduate of liberal studies candidate, Timothy is about to complete his final project on accessible transportation for the elderly and disabled. The project explores the need for this transport in general, and in Southeastern NC, specifically, and the process of developing and operating such a business.
It is because of his dedication to this project that Jenny Yates and Elizabeth Hines nominated him for Non-Trad of the Month. Elizabeth explains, “Last year Tim realized that his grandmother, Ivory Bell Corbett, needed accessible transport beyond what was available from her assisted living facility in rural Pender County. Tim acted quickly, purchased a van and completed all the necessary steps to found Ivory’s Accessible Transport. Sadly, Ivory passed away recently, but not before she was able to enjoy the business that she inspired. Ivory’s is up and running and beginning to expand. She further adds, “In addition to Tim’s academic and entrepreneurial abilities, he is an accomplished keyboard player, an awesome wheelchair basketball star, and leader in the Southeastern Wheelchair Basketball Association.” But that’s not all: Tim also plays the bass guitar at two local churches; he works with youth in the community as a mentor and advisor; and he is the co-founder and president of the Wilmington Disabled Athletic Association, an organization that promotes recreation and competitive sports for people with disabilities. The 43-year-old veteran has done all of this and more while maintaining a 3.5 GPA. While at UNCW, Tim has received the UNCW Academic Achievement and Minority Student Leadership Awards. He is due to graduate this spring whereupon he plans to apply to a doctoral program to continue his studies. As a non-traditional student, Tim said the greatest challenges he has faced have been “competing with younger students” academically, “competing with other students in general, being disabled,” and learning to manage his time between studies, family, and work. To overcome these obstacles, Tim wanted to tell other non-trads to “be diligent.” He advised, “Don’t put pressure on yourself. Take time to enjoy your experience. Keep a well-rounded full of positive people.” People like Jenny Yates and Elizabeth Hines, whom Tim thanked for assisting him along the way. “Special thanks to these people that always seemed to inspire me to reach for greater heights,” he said. Whether in the classroom, on the court, or behind the wheel, Tim Corbett is definitely going places. We can’t wait to see where he ends up next. ---------------------------------------------- If you would like to learn how to nominate yourself or someone you know for this award, CLICK HERE.
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