RCC hosts Mayor’s Report to the Citizens of Asheboro, honoring transformational city leadership and a legacy of excellence
Randolph Community College had the privilege of hosting the 2025 Mayor’s Report to the Citizens of Asheboro on Wednesday, March 26, at the JB and Claire Davis Corporate Training Center. A capacity crowd of community members, elected officials, and business leaders gathered to reflect on Asheboro’s remarkable growth and to honor two of the city’s most impactful leaders.
RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan opened the event, welcoming everyone on behalf of the College’s Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff, and delivering a message of partnership and gratitude.
“We are deeply honored that the City of Asheboro chose RCC to hold this important and meaningful event,” he said. “RCC is your community college, and we take pride in our strong partnership with the city as we work together to serve as an engine of growth and prosperity for Asheboro and its businesses.”
Ardalan then presented Mayor David Smith and newly retired City Manager John Ogburn with gifts of gratitude for their years of hard work, heartfelt service, and passionate leadership, which have left a legacy that will live on to inspire and enrich future generations.
“It is both my honor and privilege to recognize two extraordinary and dedicated leaders and to celebrate their accomplishments that have made Asheboro a thriving city and a wonderful place to live, work, and learn,” Ardalan said.
Smith gives his presentation, entitled “Asheboro Transformed: Building a Better Future in a Time of Change.”
Smith, who announced in September that he will not seek re-election, delivered his final Report to the Citizens, “Asheboro Transformed: Building a Better Future in a Time of Change.” The presentation was both reflective and forward-thinking with a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the plans, policies, and partnerships that fueled the city’s progress, continually giving credit to Ogburn.
Throughout the morning, the audience was reminded of just how far Asheboro has come under their leadership, including Asheboro being one of only 10 cities nationwide and the only North Carolina City to earn the 2016 All-America City Award, Sunset Avenue being named a “Great Main Street” in 2015 by the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association for its community-centered revitalization and charm, and Asheboro Fire and Rescue earning a Class 1 rating in 2023 from the N.C. Office of State Fire Marshal — a top-tier distinction achieved by only 22 departments statewide.
Smith closed his address by proudly recognizing Randolph Community College as the No. 1 community college in North Carolina and No. 2 in the nation, drawing a standing ovation from the audience.
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 Fall or Winter 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.