Ribbon cutting marks new era for ag education at HCA

HARRELLS — The hum of future welders, mechanics, and agricultural leaders is set to fill a new space at Harrells Christian Academy, which officially opened its Prestage Agricultural Education Center on April 15.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held at the Cargill Agriculture Education Complex, marked the debut of a nearly 7,000-square-foot facility designed to expand hands-on learning for students in grades 6–12.

Inside the new center, students will gain experience in welding, woodworking, small engine mechanics, and animal science, guided by instructors Lindsay Matthews and Mark Stampe, with additional collaboration from the University of Mount Olive.

School leaders dedicated the building in honor of William H. Prestage, recognizing his lasting impact on the agricultural community.

Attendees included members of the Prestage family, as well as representatives from the Golden LEAF Foundation, local officials, and supporters of the school’s agricultural program. Funding for the project came from a mix of grants, corporate support from Prestage Farms, and private donations.

The facility’s opening represents the realization of a student-led idea first proposed by HCA’s 2021–2022 FFA officers. Less than a year after breaking ground, that concept has become a permanent addition to campus — one school leaders say will help equip students with practical skills and open doors to careers in agriculture across southeastern North Carolina.