RCC embarks on transformative journey with launch of Strategic Planning process

In a landmark move towards shaping the future of education and fostering innovation in Randolph County, Randolph Community College Strategic Planning and Development Officer Linda Brown presented an outline of College’s 2024-2030 Strategic Plan process at the Randolph County Commissioners’ monthly meeting Monday, Feb. 5.

“We envision our college as a catalyst for economic growth in the county, fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation,” RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan said. “We believe that by aligning our instruction and training with the evolving needs of industries, we can empower our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. Through strategic partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, we aim to create internships, apprenticeships, and training opportunities that bridge the gap between education and employment. By actively engaging with local businesses, government agencies, and community leaders, we will work collaboratively to identify and address workforce needs, ensuring that our graduates are not only well-prepared academically but also possess the practical skills demanded by the local job market.”

Expanding on the College’s recent launch of RCC 2.0, Brown stressed that RCC must change, staying Relevant by aligning with student, employers, and community needs and priorities; keeping Careers at the core of the College’s mission, and making sure its employees redouble their Commitment to each other and RCC’s students, its partners, and its community.

“The strategic planning process is not merely a roadmap; it is a testament to our resilience and adaptability in an ever-evolving educational environment,” RCC Board of Trustees Chair Reynolds Lisk Jr. said. “Through thoughtful collaboration, transparent communication, and a commitment to excellence, we will identify key priorities that align with our mission and vision.”

Brown highlighted the need for the Plan with the influx of industries such as Boom, Toyota, VinFast, and Wolfspeed. The College is an economic engine for prosperity on three fronts — curriculum, workforce development, and continuing education with visible changes for RCC’s Strategic Plan being realized in the Applied Industrial Center of North Carolina (AIAINC), a new satellite center in Liberty, and expansion and renovations to current facilities.

“RCC propels students towards future success, blending emerging industries, tech integration, and workforce development. Through collaboration and continuing education, we ensure relevance and readiness for the dynamic job market ahead,” Brown said.

Brown revealed the Strategic Planning Process timeline — Getting Started (Nov. 2023); Vision, Mission, Values Review (Jan.-Feb. 2024), Seek Input (Feb.-March 2024); Objectives, Tasks, Metrics (March-April 2024), and Implementation and Alignment (beginning May 2024). The College is currently at the second stage, asking the community to participate in an upcoming public meeting, email StrategicPlan@Randolph.edu, or submit thoughts on this form.

For more on RCC’s 2024-2030 Strategic Plan, including dates of upcoming public meetings and a link to the feedback form, visit https://www.randolph.edu/about-us/24strategicplan/index.aspx.

Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs start throughout the year, both in person and online. For more information, call 336-633-0200 or visit www.randolph.edu and expect to engage with the most competent and compassionate team of faculty and staff.