Partnership Appreciation Breakfast showcases RCC 2.0 vision and strengthens collaborative pathways
Just as Randolph Community College (RCC) prepares to welcome students for the upcoming Winter Term, the institution hosted its Partnership Appreciation Breakfast on Thursday, Dec. 5, in the JB and Claire Davis Corporate Training Center. This timely event brought together a room full of leaders and practitioners from K-12 education, industry, universities, and government to celebrate collaboration, share RCC’s latest achievements, and plan for an even brighter future.
RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan shared the results of extensive strategic planning and visioning, which culminated in RCC 2.0: A more Relevant, Career-focused, and Committed RCC. Ardalan credited the College’s Board of Trustees for their vision, active engagement, and steadfast leadership.
RCC alum and Breakfast emcee James Walters tells his story.
“None of this would be possible without their consistent support and guidance,” he said, adding “at Randolph Community College, partnerships are not just connections; they are the foundation of our success. Together with our educational and industry partners, we are shaping pathways that empower individuals and elevate communities. The collective efforts of those in this room enable us to lead boldly, innovate consistently, and impact lives profoundly.”
Ardalan also highlighted RCC’s recent accolade of being named the No. 1 community college in North Carolina by two separate entities. The announcement was met with applause from the gathered leaders, further emphasizing the College’s role as a trailblazer in education and workforce development. The rendering and plans for RCC’s Liberty Center were met with widespread success and enthusiastic support.
The program’s emcee, James Walters — an RCC alum, former adjunct professor, and former advisory member — shared his personal journey of success, made possible by RCC, and spoke passionately about giving back to the next generation of students.
Half of the event was dedicated to active and structured feedback sessions, allowing participants to provide insights that will lead to stronger and deeper partnerships. These discussions are poised to shape the college’s initiatives for years to come.
Ardalan expressed his gratitude to the Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) Task Force members, the event’s organizing deans, and Enrollment Management Consultant Dr. Daniel Villanueva Jr., for their roles and leadership in making the breakfast a success.
As attendees learned about RCC’s latest accomplishments and upcoming plans, the event underscored the college’s commitment to building robust pathways that empower individuals and strengthen the Randolph County community.
Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Ranked No. 1 in North Carolina by Niche.com and SmartAsset and second in the nation by SmartAsset, the College offers affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs that start throughout the year, both in person and online. To register for Spring or Summer 2025, call 336-633-0200 or visit randolph.edu/register. 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.