January 20, 2010
For Immediate Release

RCCC Faculty Member
Writes Book on Public Speaking

                SALISBURY, N.C. — Cathy A. Cook, a communications instructor at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, has authored a book on public speaking. Cook is using the book in her public speaking classes this spring.

                 Cook's book: "Once Upon A Speech: Telling Your Story As A Public Speaker," is an interactive resource to transform personal storytelling into professional public presentations. Published by Kendall Hunt Publishers of Dubuque, Iowa, the book is available from the publisher and major booksellers.

                 An RCCC faculty member since 2005, Cook teaches public speaking, interpersonal communication and election rhetoric classes. She chartered and serves as the advisor of RCCC's Communication Club. In 2008, Cook received RCCC's Outstanding Excellence in Teaching Award, making her the college's nominee for the North Carolina Community College System - R.J. Reynolds Excellence in Teaching Award. She was one of five finalists for the state-level award.

                 Cook earned a bachelor's degree at Pfeiffer University, a master's of divinity at Duke University, a doctor of ministry at Drew University, and a master's in communication studies at UNC-Charlotte.

                 Cook has presented her communication research at the National Communication Association's annual convention and at other national, regional and state conferences. A native of Cabarrus County, Cook and her family reside in Concord.

               RCCC is a comprehensive, community-based institution of higher learning, serving the citizens of Rowan and Cabarrus counties in North Carolina. RCCC is one of 58 colleges in the state-supported North Carolina Community College System.

                RCCC offers fully-accredited associate-degree programs in more than 40 areas of study, including arts and sciences, business, information technology, health and public services, and engineering technologies. RCCC also offers accredited diploma and certificate programs focused on career training, continuing education and basic skills education. RCCC provides a strong foundation and transferable credits for students moving on to four-year colleges and universities and helps adults get the additional training they need to start new careers.

               RCCC annually provides more than 2,000 course offerings, serving an overall enrollment of approximately 20,000 students. In addition, RCCC provides the education and job-training programs needed to meet many of the workforce demands of the North Carolina Research Campus being developed in Kannapolis. For complete details, see the RCCC website at www.rowancabarrus.edu.