County commissioners greenlight vital investment in workforce development, approve funds for RCC Liberty purchase

In an exciting development, the Randolph County Commissioners wholeheartedly endorsed Randolph Community College’s ambitious plans for a new Liberty Center. During Monday’s meeting, the commissioners unanimously approved the College’s funding request, allocating $1,498,000 for the acquisition of 22 acres in Liberty to establish a cutting-edge new center.

“This pivotal decision demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing workforce development and creating opportunities for our community,” RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan said. “The unwavering support from the Randolph County Commissioners reflects a shared dedication to providing unparalleled career training and fostering community growth. Together, we are building a foundation for continued success, innovation, and collaboration.”

Located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 421 and N.C. 49, the Liberty Center will be for workforce development and expansion. RCC is actively considering partnerships with education and industry for the multi-use site. The Center is part of the RCC 2.0, which builds on the 60-year legacy of the College and keeps RCC Relevant to the needs of the community, keeps Careers at the core of the College’s mission, and renews RCC’s Commitment to its employees, its students, its partners, and the community. The activities at the Center will complement those at the College’s main Asheboro Campus and the RCC Archdale Center.

Several community members spoke in favor of the purchase during the public comment period at Monday’s meeting, including RCC Trustee Andy Sykes and Liberty Mayor Filmore York.

York noted that the Center will serve workforce development needs within a 25-mile radius at the prime location. Sykes, who was appointed to represent Liberty by the commissioners in 1991, spoke with tears in his eyes.

“This location will greatly benefit Randolph County and the Liberty area,” he said. “Having an RCC presence in Liberty has been a goal of mine since I’ve been on the Board.”

After the public comments, Commissioner David Allen, a Liberty resident, made the motion to approve the land purchase and the budget amendment with Commissioner Kenny Kidd seconding the motion.

“This supports not only the growth in the area, but the community as well,” he said. “Putting a footprint in Liberty is an excellent use of the funds.”

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.