Wilmington Chiropractor Knows that to Get Ahead, You Need to Give Back

Early in his college career, Dr. Rhett King '03 knew he wanted to be a physician. Deciding to open his chiropractic office in Wilmington, where he was raised, was an easy choice. But, that's about the only thing that was easy.

"Competition in Wilmington is fierce with physicians of all types on nearly every corner," said Dr. King. "I realized that I was going to have to find a niche fast and that I would have to get results quickly while building tremendous value for my patients."

And that is exactly what he's done, in his office, in his community and with his alma mater.

"I learned early that a business owner only has three spendable resources: time, money and energy. If you don't have lots of money then you spend what you have, which for me was lots of free time and energy to invest into my practice," he said.

When he first opened King Chiropractic, Dr. King worked at health fairs, charity events, area races and health talks to build referrals for his business. He also began an active adult group called the Wilmington Health Nuts on Meetup, an online network of local groups.

Originally started as "a way to educate my patients about exercise and fitness," the group was eventually opened to the public and is now the largest Meetup in Wilmington.

"We provide businesses with members to take their classes while allowing group members to try something new," says Dr. Rhett.

While helping to promote area businesses, Dr. King successfully helped provide fitness opportunities to hundreds of people.  His patients are mainly area athletes and he's established a referral network with other providers.

Along with continuing his volunteer work and charity events, Dr. King understands the importance of supporting his alma mater.

"I had no idea that a significant portion of the school's funding for my education came from donor gifts instead of tuition. The best way that we can ensure that the school continues to offer programs that increase the value of our education is to give back."

Networking Tips for the Job-Seeking Seahawk

For Seahawks looking for a job or trying to keep their options open, Cameron School of Business graduate, Brad Barbour '02, '03M, has some advice for networking in a digital world. Brad, who is the owner of TRC Staffing Services in Raleigh, works with both employers and job-seekers. After working in public accounting as an auditor for five years, Brad realized what he really enjoyed was recruiting, networking events, business development, and the time he spent with CSB during on-campus recruiting activities.

To help the job-seeker choose the best social media resources available, Brad suggests maintaining a presence on LinkedIn.

• To tackle the job search in today’s job market, it’s all about LinkedIn. Your LinkedIn profile should contain detailed information about your background, education and skill set. When your profile is containing the proper information, it will closely resemble that of your resume and will be easily found by hiring managers.

• Once your profile is complete, it’s time to build your connections and join groups. Begin connecting to other Seahawks in your area. A simple note stating “I’m networking with other Seahawks in the area to help with my job search” will typically illicit a favorable response and build your online network. Joining alumni groups such as “University of North Carolina Wilmington Alumni Association” or “UNCW – Cameron School of Business” will also instantly connect you to thousands of people.

Search for UNCW alumni who are already on LinkedIn.

Brad also recommends one-to-one interactions to build a network. "Even though we’ve seen unprecedented changes in the online world, there is still no replacement for face-to-face interaction with other Seahawks," he said.

• During alumni events, as you would at any other networking event, introduce yourself to strangers. While it’s easy to walk up to someone who is alone, you can also look for the loudest group or the group that is laughing and introduce yourself. Afterward, connect with these same people on LinkedIn and schedule a follow up lunch or coffee meeting.

It's easy to see how Brad has achieved great results despite starting his own recruiting business during tough economic times. "I view success not as a destination, but more of a journey," he said.

He encourages all graduates to remember their roots. "As a Seahawk, you have instant credibility and a common denominator with other Seahawks. Tapping into that Seahawk network can you help you land that next job."

Brad, who is also the President of the Triangle Area Alumni Chapter, is looking forward to catching up with fellow Seahawks at the Durham Bulls Picnic on August 8.

New Members Elected to the Alumni Association Board of Directors

The UNCW Alumni Association Board of Directors, a group of alumni volunteers who help guide and advise the association, elected six new members who began their terms this month.

"We are excited to welcome the incoming class of alumni board members," said Rob McInturf, Executive Director of the UNCW Alumni Association. "Each new board member has a unique area of expertise and we look forward to their participation."

Elaine Andrews '10M, received her master's degree in accountancy and has lived in Wilmington since 1993. Elaine and her husband John own Big Rock Holdings, which operates South Beach Grill in Wrightsville Beach. Ms. Andrews is very civic minded and takes active roles in numerous community organizations.

Ms. Bryant with current board chair
Sandra McClammy '03, '09M

Lolita Bryant '04, '11M, is a passionate nurse and advocate of life-long learning. She received both her bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing and is currently the Nursing Supervisor & Administrative Operations Officer at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Ms. Bryant is also the former president of the African American Graduate Association.

Ken Dieppa '09M, completed his MBA after his retirement from the military. He is currently a Senior Contract Fulfillment Engineer for General Electric - Hitachi Nuclear Energy and manages foreign and domestic projects and contracts. Mr. Dieppa previously spent two years as the Cape Fear Area Alumni Chapter President.

Mr. Gale speaking at a
COM Studies Reception 

Tom Gale '98, has remained in Wilmington since completing his degree in communication studies. Currently a realtor with Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty, Mr. Gale is a former Communication Studies Alumni Chapter President.

Bradley Heath '96, '97M, moved back to Dunn, NC after completing his MBA to work in his family's business, Family Medical Supply, of which he is now the President and CEO. He and his wife, Christie, a fellow UNCW graduate, fund a Cameron School of Business scholarship.

Mr. West with the Crews Faculty
Award recipient, Dr. Tammy Hunt

Wallace West '63, received his associate degree in mathematics before attending UNC Chapel Hill to attain his bachelors in the same field. He is President of Coastal Carolina Streetscapes, LLC, a family owned business providing full service site furnishings and neighborhood amenities. Mr. West is beginning his second three-year term and is Vice Chair of the board.

About the UNCW Alumni Association

The mission of the UNCW Alumni Association is to be the lead supporter in the university's strategic vision. It's purpose is to connect and involve alumni, students, and friends in the promotion and advancement of the university.

The UNCW Alumni Association provides free membership to all graduates and to individuals who have completed at least one course at UNCW. Membership includes benefits  as well as chapters and clubs for alumni who are close to campus and around the nation.