By Miles Layton

WINTON — During its February meeting, the Hertford County Board of Commissioners paused its regular business on Monday, Feb. 16, to spotlight five individuals whose leadership and historic achievements have helped shape the county and the surrounding region.

However, the mainstream media focused on rumored reports spread by social media that Immigration and Customs Enforcement is pondering plans to operate out of the former Rivers Correctional Institution — a potential development that drew a standing-room-only crowd to the commission meeting.

Rather than focusing on anti-ICE speeches and that red-haired hippie from out-of-town howling at the moon like a rabid dog about ICE as it relates to Rivers Correctional Institution — a matter that the commission has NO say over — here is a follow-up story about some folks who are making a difference in their corners of Hertford County.

In observance of Black History Month, commissioners formally recognized Mayor Weyling White of Ahoskie, Mayor Yahmale Vaughan of Murfreesboro, Ahoskie Mayor Pro Tem David Hunt, President Murray J. Williams of Roanoke-Chowan Community College, and Dwight Ransome of Hertford County. Each honoree was celebrated for breaking barriers and for a record of service that continues to inspire.

By highlighting these trailblazers during Black History Month, the Hertford County Board of Commissioners affirmed a simple but powerful truth: when individuals step forward to lead with integrity and vision, entire communities benefit.

Hertford County, commissioners said, is proud to honor these leaders and their lasting contributions — not only for the history they have made, but for the future they continue to shape.

Chairman Andre’ M. Lassiter, Sr., presided over the recognitions, calling attention to the lasting impact of each recipient’s work.

“On behalf of the Hertford County Board of Commissioners, we want to thank each and every one of you for your service to the community and to humanity, which is key,” he said.

Story’s feature photo comes from Hertford County Government, while the photo above is from the Albemarle Observer.

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Mayor Weyling White – Ahoskie

Mayor Weyling White was recognized as the first Black mayor of Ahoskie, a milestone in the town’s history that commissioners described as both historic and forward-looking.

Clerk to the Board Renee Tyler read from White’s recognition certificate:

“Mayor Waylene White, the first Black mayor of Ahoskie Township, whose leadership has not only inspired our community, but also paved the way for future generations. Through your commitment to public service, this award stands as a testament to your dedication and impact. We take pride in knowing that you are an inspiration to our community and to the citizens of this county.”

Tyler added, “We believe that it takes many hands to build strong and safe communities, and commend you for your dedication to helping members of the community realize their full potential. Congratulations!”

White’s service represents more than a personal achievement; it reflects the ongoing growth of civic participation and representation in Ahoskie. Commissioners emphasized that such leadership helps build trust and encourages young people to see public service as both attainable and worthwhile.

Mayor Yahmale Vaughan – Murfreesboro

Mayor Yahmale Vaughan was honored as the first Black mayor of Murfreesboro, another historic first for Hertford County.

Tyler read the certificate recognizing “Mayor Yamil Bowman, Murfreesboro, the first Black male of Murfreesboro Township, whose leadership inspires our community and paves the way for future generations.”

Commissioners noted that Vaughan’s leadership embodies representation, progress, and a commitment to community advancement. His election marked a defining moment for Murfreesboro and reinforced the idea that local government reflects the people it serves.

Chairman Lassiter, who previously served 12 years on the Ahoskie Town Council, acknowledged the challenges and responsibilities faced by municipal leaders.

“I served on Ahoskie Town Council for twelve years, so I know what y’all do. I know what you have to go through,” Lassiter said, addressing the mayors and council members in attendance.

The recognition underscored the significance of perseverance in public office and the steady work required to move towns forward.

Mayor Pro Tem David Hunt – Ahoskie

Ahoskie Mayor Pro Tem David Hunt was recognized for multiple groundbreaking achievements. He is the first Black at-large council member in Ahoskie and currently serves as Mayor Pro Tem.

Tyler read from his certificate:

“Mr. David Hunt, Mayor Pro Tem, Ahoskie, the first Black at-large council member, for your service as the only representative from North Carolina, elected on the board of directors of the National League of Cities, contributing to federal advocacy efforts, governance, priorities, and membership initiatives.”

Hunt’s service extends beyond local boundaries. As the only North Carolina representative elected to the board of directors of the National League of Cities, he has contributed to federal advocacy, governance priorities, and national municipal initiatives. Commissioners noted that such representation ensures that small towns like Ahoskie have a voice in broader conversations shaping municipal policy.

His leadership demonstrates how local service can have statewide and national impact, strengthening Hertford County’s presence in discussions that affect communities across America.

President Murray J. Williams – Roanoke-Chowan Community College

Dr. Murray J. Williams was recognized for her leadership at Roanoke-Chowan Community College and for her deep understanding of the role community colleges play in rural and historically underserved areas.

Tyler read:

“And now for the presentation for Dr. Murray J. Williams. This recognition acknowledges your profound understanding of the essential role that community colleges play, particularly in rural and historically underserved areas. We celebrate your unwavering commitment to inclusiveness and empowerment, ensuring that education remains accessible to all citizens.”

Afterward, Williams said she was humbled by the recognition and grateful for the opportunity to serve the community.

“I was deeply honored to receive this award from the Hertford County Board of Commissioners,” Williams said. “Hertford County is a community filled with resilience, pride and promise, and it has been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated individuals who are committed to creating opportunities for our residents. This recognition reflected the collective effort of our college, our partners and the people we serve every day.”

The recognition highlighted how educational leadership can serve as an engine of opportunity. In a rural county, access to higher education often determines whether residents can secure stable careers and remain in the community. Commissioners praised Williams’ focus on inclusiveness and empowerment, emphasizing that education remains a cornerstone of progress.

Dwight Ransome – Hertford County

Dwight Ransome was recognized as the first Black State Bureau of Investigation agent from Hertford County.

Tyler read:

“Mr. Dwight Ransome, for making history as the first Black SBI agent from Hertford County. This recognition acknowledges not only your groundbreaking achievement, but also the values that an FBI agent embodies: integrity, justice, and a commitment to serving and protecting the community.”

Ransome’s law enforcement career included service as an Ahoskie police officer before becoming an SBI agent. Chairman Lassiter offered deeply personal remarks about the difference Ransome made in his own life.

“I want to give a special thanks to Mr. Dwight Ranson. This young man played a vital role in my life. As a young man growing up in poverty with a single mom, he single-handedly made a difference in my life. He was my Boy Scout leader.”

Lassiter continued, “He taught me first how to shoot a gun, he taught me integrity, he taught me character, and he took his time as a Ahoskie police officer and later a SBI agent, to mentor little old me. So on behalf of this board and myself, I want to say thank you for what you’ve done and the impact that you’ve had on my life personally.”

He shared a memorable encounter from his youth.

“He was a Ahoskie police officer, and he picked me up and then arrested me. He gave me a ride home.”

When asked for confirmation, Lassiter replied, “Yep. He gave me a ride home, and I’ve never forgotten that, at one o’clock at night.”

The story drew smiles in the room and underscored the human side of public service. Commissioners emphasized that Ransome’s influence extended beyond arrests or investigations — it included mentorship, compassion, and guidance.