WHITEVILLE — Southeastern Community College is celebrating a year of major growth, national recognition and expanding opportunities across Columbus County with the release of its 2025–2026 Annual Report.
The report outlines how SCC served 6,160 students during the academic year — a 13.19 percent enrollment increase since 2021 — while awarding 474 curriculum graduates, 642 curriculum credentials and helping students earn 1,202 workforce credentials.
SCC President Dr. Chris English said the report reflects more than numbers. “Together, we are building opportunities, strengthening our workforce, and creating a brighter future for Columbus County,” English wrote.
Student Success And Community Stories
The Annual Report highlights students who returned to college after years away, graduates who overcame challenges to begin new careers and employees whose work continues to expand opportunities across the region. SCC leaders say these stories show how education and workforce training are helping families build stability close to home.
National Recognition
SCC earned national attention when the Aspen Institute named the college among the Top 200 community colleges in the United States, making SCC eligible to compete for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The recognition reflects SCC’s commitment to student achievement, workforce preparation and community impact.
Major Investments In Workforce Training
The past year brought significant upgrades to SCC’s career‑focused programs. Funding supported:
- Electric vehicle training development
- EMS lab upgrades
- Truck Driver Training expansion
- A mobile welding lab for high school students
Construction also continued on SCC’s new $22 million Transportation Technology and STEM Facility, which will support high‑demand career pathways.
New University Partnerships
SCC expanded its guaranteed transfer network to 10 partner institutions, adding agreements with NC State University, UNC Pembroke and Western Carolina University. These pathways allow students to begin their education locally, save money and move confidently toward a bachelor’s degree.
Improving Access To Education
The report highlights SCC’s efforts to make college more accessible through NC Reconnect, personalized support services and the Next NC Scholarship, helping adult learners, working families and first‑time students overcome barriers to enrollment.
Community Impact Beyond Campus
More than 3,400 children explored local careers during SCC’s first Careers on Wheels event, while high school summer campers earned 72 industry‑recognized credentials. SCC also expanded access through apprenticeships, career events and plans to offer classes in Bolton.
The Annual Report invites residents to see the opportunities being created across Columbus County — and to imagine what comes next.
Fall classes begin August 17, and registration is open now. Students can get started at sccnc.edu/start.
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