Name:
Vertie Torrence 

Profession:
I am a retired teacher.

Background:
I was born and raised in Cornelius and attended North Mecklenburg County School.  I graduated from Livingstone College in Salisbury, NC. My final teaching assignment was Cornelius Elementary School.

Contribution to Cornelius/surrounding area: 
I taught school for 34 years and currently help organize an after-school tutorial program at Torrence Chapel Church.  I belong to the North Mecklenburg Civitan Club, which does a lot to help people in many ways.  I am also active in other church organizations.

If you could have dinner with one person from history (present or past), who would it be and why?
I would have dinner with my friend, Shirley, so we could reminisce about the good old days.

If someone gave you $100,000 to improve the community, what would you do with the money?
I would improve homes where needed and help senior citizens with medications.

If you wrote a book or screenplay about your life, what would the title be and who would star in it?
The title would be "If" and the star would be Whoopi Goldberg.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our world today?
The biggest challenge facing our world today is the lack of faith in others.

Who was the biggest influence on you?
My mother was my biggest influence. She stressed the importance of getting an education and doing your best at any task. She taught me to be honest and helpful to others.