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Listen | Jason Hurst, 2021 NC Community College President of the Year

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“I think daily we struggle to change the image of community college and what that means to moms and dads and high school students – and that is not less than. It’s a great path forward – whether you want to move on to a university or move directly into the workforce.”

Jason Hurst, President of Cleveland Community College

Jason Hurst, president of Cleveland Community College, was recently named the 2021 North Carolina Community College President of the Year.

EdNC last sat down with Hurst in 2018, just four months after he started the job of president at Cleveland Community College. He spoke about his hopes for the future, including that the college get a mascot.

But a lot has changed since then– including a pandemic.

We caught up with him in February to discuss bright spots during his time as president, challenges he’s experienced, and the impact of the pandemic on the college and the community. 

Note: If you’re wondering, Cleveland Community College got a mascot. In spring of 2019, the college unveiled their new mascot – the Yeti. 

Behind the Story

Emily Thomas did the reporting and conducted the interview. Alli Lindenberg produced the podcast episode.

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Meet the authors

Emily Thomas

From 2019-2026, Emily Thomas created content, conducted research, and told the stories of our state’s students across the education continuum for EducationNC. Emily helped communities think strategically, connecting the threads of education, workforce development, and attainment. Her coverage after Hurricane Helene led to the N.C. Press Association honoring EdNC for public service.

Alli Lindenberg

Alli Lindenberg Semon is the director of engagement for EducationNC.

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