John Kane named Vice Chair of State Board of Community Colleges
The North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges unanimously selected Raleigh developer John Kane as its new Vice Chair during a board meeting on January 17.
The board election followed the vacancy left by Dr. Grant Campbell, who stepped down after being elected to the North Carolina House of Representatives in November.
John Kane, a distinguished leader in the community and founder of Kane Realty Corporation, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of successful development projects to the vice chairmanship. Since founding Kane Realty in 1978, John has been at the forefront of developing sustainable mixed-use communities that enhance urban living in Raleigh and beyond.
His most notable project, North Hills, transformed Raleigh’s Midtown into a vibrant hub for commerce, culture, and community life, earning multiple accolades for its design and impact on local development.
“I am delighted to welcome John Kane as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of the NC Community College System,” said Board Chair Tom Looney. “Having worked alongside John on the NC Economic Development Board, which established the Economic Development Partnership of NC, I have seen firsthand his wisdom and steadfast dedication to education and workforce development. His leadership and vision have played a pivotal role in advancing North Carolina’s economic growth. It is truly inspiring to have one of our state’s most influential leaders helping to guide the NC Community College System, shaping our state’s future.”
Kane’s commitment to community service is well-documented through his involvement in various local and national organizations, including the Young Presidents’ Organization and the Urban Land Institute. His leadership roles on several economic and health boards underscore his broad influence and dedication to fostering economic growth and community health.
“I am honored to serve on the SBCC Board as Vice Chairman,” Kane said. “I believe our community colleges are the best asset our state has to develop skilled workers and to fulfill jobs in our local and regional communities. We are arguably the best community college system in the country.”
Kane holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wake Forest University. His career accolades include being named Business Leader of the Year by Business Leader Magazine, receiving the Pillar Award by the Triangle Business Journal, and induction into the Raleigh Hall of Fame.
