President of Sandhills Community College Alexander “Sandy” Stewart of Sandhills Community College recently spoke at the State Board Summit for Community Colleges where he was a featured panelist about leading transformational change. The annual summit, held in Raleigh, was themed "Transformation for Student Success." Others on the panel included Dr. Vernon Lindquist of Johnston Community College and Dr. Mark Sorrels of Fayetteville Technical Community College.
“Community Colleges are perfectly positioned as a major component of the high school experience and offer an affordable pathway to both employment and transfer all while being relevant to the community’s needs,” said Stewart. “They serve as an economic engine for individuals and the region and are often the first choice in higher education for students and families, even lifelong learners. At Sandhills, our One College model embodies this vision, through a fully integrated approach to instruction and community engagement.”
Others also weighed in on the transformation for student success.
According to Scott Ottman, Chair of the State Board Transformation Committee,
"Transformation is hard and it takes vision, courage, and collaboration. Transformation doesn’t happen to people – it happens with them. I would add that people are the heart of transformation.”
Direction from the State Board's "Transformation Committee" moving forward includes:
Dr. Laura Dawson Ullrich Director of Economic Research added, "Schools will have to keep up with demand and policy changes will be needed to align institution-student-employer incentives."
To learn more about Sandhills Community College located in Pinehurst and Raeford, serving the community and employers in the Sandhills region with 11,049 current students, visit www.sandhills.edu. Sandhills CC is the 18th largest community college in the 58-member system in North Carolina and the first to offer comprehensive studies and transfer programs. It was founded in 1963.
AFCEA- NC Fort Bragg Chapter’s annual summit brings together leaders from industry, academic and research institutions, innovation hubs, Veteran organizations and elite Army and Special Operations commands. Graphic provided by Phil Williams
Fayetteville brokers and agents are entering 2026 with cautious optimism about what lies ahead.
Located at 225 Hay St. in downtown Fayetteville, Cameo Art House Theatre has two auditoriums and screens films ranging from classics to new releases. The theater also prioritizes spotlighting local and up-and-coming filmmakers. Photo by James Throsse
