What’s ahead for NC’s community colleges this year?
A note from us
Welcome to Awake58 — a weekly newsletter with the latest updates on community college news and events. If you were forwarded this email, you can sign up for the Awake58 newsletter here, and you can find last week’s edition on our website.
This week’s edition is by Analisa Archer, senior director of policy at EdNC.
As a new academic year begins, take a look at seven key issues impacting the state’s community colleges… Learn more about how registered apprenticeships can support the early childhood education workforce… Plus, Dr. Monty Sullivan began as interim system president this week…
Good morning, and welcome to Awake58 — Analisa here.
As a new academic year begins, I’ve been reflecting on how vital North Carolina’s community colleges are to advancing many priorities that have bipartisan support in the state — including meeting the state’s 2030 attainment goal, increasing apprenticeships, filling high-wage, high-demand jobs, and maintaining the state’s often-cited ranking as No. 1 for workforce development.
At the same time, the N.C. Community College System is at a pivotal moment — the new state budget provided historic investments in the system, including funding for Propel NC, a complete overhaul of the system’s business model. Meanwhile, the system continues to navigate a leadership transition, major technology transformation, the implementation of Workforce Pell, and more.
Here’s a quick look at seven key issues impacting the state’s community colleges — you can go deeper in this piece.
- Navigating a major leadership transition: More than a year has passed since Jeff Cox announced his retirement as system president. On Monday, Dr. Monty Sullivan began as interim president while the General Assembly considers his nomination.
- Shifting to a labor market-driven funding model: The implementation of Propel NC will profoundly change how state dollars flow to community colleges, aiming to increase the number of students completing credentials in high-demand fields and potentially serving as a nationwide model.
- Continuing technology transformation efforts: A new ERP system to replace Colleague and other system office technology upgrades are still in the works amid delays.
- Developing a new strategic plan: After the State Board adopted goals for the system’s 2026-29 strategic plan in February, the strategic planning process has been on hold amid the transition to a new system president.
- Implementing Workforce Pell: Earlier this month, the NCWorks Commission approved the first 43 programs for Workforce Pell in the state, spanning 16 community colleges. Following federal approval, this new financial aid will begin flowing to students — with potential impacts on program design, employer partnerships, and more.
- Expanding work-based learning: With new state funding, ApprenticeshipNC is working to establish employer incentives and provide more support for community colleges.
- Navigating an accelerating pace of change: Community colleges continue to navigate a great deal of uncertainty regarding federal funding, faculty and staff recruitment and retention, and preparing students for the future of work.
What else is on your mind as the new academic year begins? Feel free to respond directly to this email — I’d love to hear from you.
Next week, my colleagues Sophia Luna, Chantal Brown, and I will be on the road visiting community colleges implementing the Boost program this year. We can’t wait to be back on your campuses!
Until next time,
Analisa Archer
Senior Director of Policy, EdNC
EdNC reads
Around NC
Dr. Monty Sullivan begins as interim system president | While the General Assembly considers his nomination, Sullivan started as interim system president on Monday. A press release from the N.C. Community College System notes that confirmation is “expected in fall 2026.” In the release, Sullivan says his focus will be on “execution, partnership, and results.” Separately, other outlets are reporting on Sullivan’s past comments on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Higher ed at a crossroads | As part of a WUNC series on the state and future of higher education, Wake Tech President Scott Ralls discusses how the college is working to challenge college’s purpose in this Q&A.
Blue Ridge students share their ‘why’ | As a new semester begins, Blue Ridge Community College students reflect on why they are pursuing higher education.
Gaston College campus selected as HQ for defense textile manufacturing initiative | Gaston’s Kimbrell Campus will serve as the headquarters of FutureTEX, a new Manufacturing Innovation Institute focused on strengthening America’s fibers, textiles, and advanced materials manufacturing capabilities.
Belk Center featured in ‘Spotlight on Community Colleges’ podcast | This episode, which features Dr. Emily VanZoest, explores the roles of adult students and their unique needs while pursuing academic goals.
Talking apprenticeships with ApprenticeshipNC, Stanly Community College, Southeastern Community College | This episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations explores how N.C. community colleges, school systems, and employers are working together to expand registered apprenticeships, particularly in rural communities.
Nominate a 2027 Champion for Attainment | myFutureNC is now accepting nominations for the 2027 Champions for Attainment, which will recognize organizations, partnerships, initiatives, and individuals making a significant impact on increasing access and completion rates among North Carolina’s adult learners. Submit a nomination here by Aug. 31.
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