Empowering Career Growth

Tracy Kozell’s journey in the legal field took an exciting turn when she decided to enhance her career by enrolling at Gaston College. After nine years of dedicated work at Hester & Payseur in Belmont, Kozell’s employers, Jamie Hester Griffith and Ann Payseur, recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Technology.

Embracing this opportunity, Kozell enrolled at Gaston College in the spring of 2021. Her initial intention was to familiarize herself with family law and estate planning, the areas she was working in. “It really just started out with me getting more familiar with the law I was working with,” Kozell explained. “So I thought I’d ask them to take a few classes, and it turned into a full-on degree. Gaston College has been wonderful for me.”

Kozell’s educational journey at Gaston College was marked by support and guidance from key staff members. She particularly credits Dean of Career and Technical Education Lisa Albright-Jurs and instructor Kyndra Griffin Messick for their instrumental roles in her success. Her dedication and hard work were recognized when she joined the National Technical Honor Society at Gaston College in November 2022.

Reflecting on her experience, Kozell shared, “The Paralegal program at Gaston College is not just about the classes one takes but about helping to make your own success story and building a long-term career that you are passionate about. The instructors certainly have accomplished that as I still hear their lessons in my day-to-day activities at work with clients as well as with the attorneys I work for and my co-workers. I feel proud to be a Gaston College graduate.”

Kozell’s commitment to her profession didn’t stop at graduation. In August 2024, she successfully passed the North Carolina Certified Paralegal Exam through the North Carolina Bar Paralegal Division. This achievement, though not mandatory for paralegals, has opened new doors for Kozell. “Passing the exam has benefitted my career as a North Carolina Paralegal and opened up opportunities to help others in the community as I started working with pro bono programs throughout North Carolina,” she explained.

Kozell’s success story is a testament to the power of continuous learning and the support of both employers and educational institutions. Originally from the Fayetteville area, Kozell and her husband Chris now reside in York, S.C., following a corporate relocation. Throughout her educational journey, Kozell continued to work at Hester & Payseur in Belmont, balancing her studies with her professional responsibilities.

Tracy Kozell’s journey from a dedicated paralegal to a Gaston College graduate and certified professional showcases the transformative power of education and the supportive environment at Gaston College. Her story serves as an inspiration for those looking to advance their careers through continued learning and professional development.