The Shinnston News & Harrison County Journal has named Laurie McCormick as October’s Citizen of the Month, a program sponsored by Dorsey Funeral Home
in Shinnston – locally owned & operated.
By TRINA RUNNER
News & Journal Staff Writer
Julius Caesar was once quoted saying, “Experience is the teacher of all things”. That being true, Laurie McCormick is wise far beyond her list of degrees. Currently a recruiter for Robert C. Byrd Institute in Bridgeport, McCormick’s adventures around the world have not only taught her life skills, they have given her an avenue through which to extend kindness to others.
With her hometown of Buckhannon being the home of West Virginia Wesleyan College, it is not surprising that McCormick’s pathway has been paved by faith. Although she graduated from Perdue University and was awarded a full scholarship to Regent University for her Masters Degree, it was the work outside the classroom that made the biggest impact.
McCormick had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala for a mission trip while in college and fell in love with the people and their culture. After graduating, she served two years as a US-2 Missionary with the United Methodist Church in the San Fernando Valley Shalom Zone I California. For those who know her, McCormick’s mission work is a perfect fit, as it allows her to use her natural gifts of generosity and humility while she dedicates her life to the service of others. This personification of faith has come to define her as she continues her involvement in the mission field today.
After moving from California, McCormick attended the Jerry Savelle’s Bible School in Crowley, Texas. While on a mission trip to Kenya, she was asked to teach at the Disciples of Mercy Bible School, where she once again allowed her faith to guide her in service. She later received a Master’s of Divinity Degree from United Theology Seminary in Dayton, Ohio and was ordained as an Elder in the United Methodist Church, where she preached for 10 years. She currently serves as worship leader for Living Grace City Church in Nutter Fort.
Although no longer in the ministry full-time, McCormick uses her communications background to teach students about the wonders of technology. For RCBI, she travels around the region demonstrating the opportunities offered through the institute, including Associate Degrees in Applied Science. RCBI is the only nationally accredited machinist training facility in the state and their dedication to serving the community feeds McCormick’s enthusiasm for her job.
“I love introducing students to all the possibilities that exist in the world of manufacturing,” she said. “They are truly amazed as they watch how 3-D printers work and learn how the materials are made for use in airplanes and more. Everyday is a new experience.”
