Sampson Community College (SCC) is excited to announce the beginning of construction on its North-Kitchin Connector building, a new project aimed at enhancing campus by acting as a crucial link between the two facilities.

The Connector is designed to provide students, faculty and staff with a seamless transition between the two buildings, promoting a more integrated campus experience. The new facility will feature modern study rooms, larger collaboration spaces and an advanced information hub, all aimed at supporting SCC’s commitment to academic excellence and student success.

“We are thrilled to see the North-Kitchin Connector project come to life,” said Dr. Bill Starling, President of Sampson Community College in a press release. “This building will transform the centrality of our campus, becoming a vital link between two of our main buildings. The contemporary design will bring in much-needed natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. We hope that both students and employees will feel comfortable moving out of their offices and classrooms to work and enjoy the new spaces, fostering collaboration and learning in a fresh environment.”

Both the North and Kitchin buildings predate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and as such, required updated accessibility features. For example, the North Building, originally constructed in the 1970s, only yields a single operating elevator that services both it and its neighboring facility. To get to the second floor of W.W. Kitchen Hall, constructed in 1987, individuals had to walk across the tunnel after utilizing the North Building’s elevator.

The new change was prompted to bring SCC’s facilities up to an enhanced accessibility and sustainability approach to better serve the community. The North-Kitchin Connector will include a new and larger elevator to better serve all existing and future students, ensuring that SCC continues to provide an inclusive environment for everyone.

“This much needed connector building will help the College better serve our students and community. We thank Senator Brent Jackson for his advocacy in securing funding for the project and for his support of education and workforce training in rural NC,” stated Lisa Turlington, Dean of Advancement in a press release. 

Construction of the North-Kitchin Connector building is expected to be completed by Spring 2025. During this period, SCC will work diligently to minimize disruptions to campus activities and ensure a smooth transition upon completion.

An additional project that is planned to be completed during construction is the installation of a new sidewalk, connecting the parking lots to the back entrance of Kitchin- which will be used as one of two primary entrances during construction. This project is set to be completed in September 2024.

SCC extends its gratitude to all partners and stakeholders who have contributed to making this project possible. The college looks forward to welcoming students and the community to experience the new and improved campus facilities.

The College remains dedicated to its mission of delivering high-quality education and training opportunities to the community. The North-Kitchin Connector building is a testament to SCC’s ongoing efforts to invest in its facilities and future. 

For up-to-date information on closed access areas and building entrances please visit http://www.sampsoncc.edu/construction-access/.