This morning, Fayetteville’s innovators, decision makers and educators gathered at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden for a morning of networking and business insights at the third Power Breakfast of 2025. A panel of four local college and university leaders to discuss bridging the gap between higher education and workforce needs.
The panel was composed of Fayetteville State University Chancellor Darrell T. Allison, Fayetteville Technical Community College President Dr. Mark Sorrells, Sandhills Community College President Dr. Alexander “Sandy” Stewart and Methodist University President Dr. Stanley T. Wearden.
Panelists addressed the nationwide decline in traditional college-age enrollment, attributing it to demographic shifts, but noted a significant rise in adult learners and military-affiliated students. Additionally, when asked to address ongoing debates about the value of a college degree, the panel emphasized that higher education remains a strong driver of individual and community wealth, citing that college graduates earn significantly more over their lifetimes than individuals who forgo higher education. However, the panel emphasized the flexibility in programming that can result in these well-paying careers.
The discussion highlighted the blurring boundaries between high school, community college and four-year universities, with new pathways and early college programs enabling students to earn both diplomas and workforce credentials. Businesses increasingly value short-term, workforce-aligned credentials and soft skills, and community colleges are well-positioned to deliver these programs.
Panelists agreed that effective partnerships and systematic communication between higher education and business are essential to meet dynamic workforce demands.
“It’s not about competition. It’s not about competing with each other for students. It’s about collaborating together toward critical employee metrics that are important to our community,” shared Dr. Sorrells during the panel discussion.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our third Power Breakfast of the year. We hope to see you in December at the final Power Breakfast of 2025!
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