State Board of Community Colleges Advances Short-Term Workforce Grants, Student Support Services

The State Board of Community Colleges approved a series of workforce and student success initiatives during its April meeting, including expanded grant funding for short-term job training, new supports for students with disabilities, and the creation of a new health sciences degree to address regional labor shortages. 

The Board adopted and submitted to the General Assembly its annual report on the Short-Term Workforce Development Grant Program, which provides up to $750 per course for students pursuing noncredit credentials in high-demand fields. In fiscal years 2023–25, more than 3,000 students received grants totaling $1.4 million across programs including health care, construction, and manufacturing. 

“This program has been a game-changer for North Carolina, helping thousands of individuals quickly gain in-demand skills and transition into higher-paying, meaningful careers,” said Dr. Andrew Gardner, Associate Vice President of Workforce Strategies at the North Carolina Community College System. “These grants fill a critical gap where traditional financial aid doesn’t reach, especially for accelerated, industry-aligned programs in fields like healthcare, construction, and transportation.” 

The report highlights that these grants have helped expand access to short-term training for nontraditional students — including working adults — and contributed to increases in continuing education enrollment. Programs leading to credentials in Emergency Medical Services, Medical Office occupations, and Truck Driving were among the top funded. 
 
The Board also reviewed a report on the Hurricane Helene Emergency Grant Program, which has awarded nearly $6.5 million to over 6,300 students across 14 impacted community colleges. Funded by a $10.5 million allocation from the General Assembly, the grants—up to $2,500 per student—have helped cover tuition, fees, and critical emergency expenses like housing, transportation, and childcare.  

Funds were distributed based on the level of storm impact and college enrollment, with ongoing applications still being processed. The program aims to help students continue their education without interruption and will remain available for use in future semesters. 
 
“Our community colleges are not just places of learning—they are lifelines during times of crisis,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, president of the North Carolina Community College System. “Thanks to the General Assembly’s support, the Hurricane Helene Emergency Grant Program has helped thousands of students stay on track with their education despite unimaginable challenges. We’re proud to stand with our colleges and students as they rebuild and move forward.” 

The Board also reviewed the first legislative report on the Bridge to Success (B2S) Program, a new vocational rehabilitation pilot that places dedicated counselors on campus to serve students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). With a focus on individualized support, job placement readiness, and mental health resources, the pilot currently serves 41 students across six colleges. 

This program complements the Access to Achievement program, which is a broad, state-funded workforce training initiative available to all eligible students, while Bridge to Success is a vocational rehabilitation pilot that places specialized counselors on campus to serve a more limited group of students who meet stricter eligibility criteria through the Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) program. 

“Through the B2S program, we are enhancing and highlighting the employability of often overlooked community members. The program is equipping students with the tools to make fulfilling life choices while simultaneously making meaningful contributions to the economy,” said Dr. Torry Reynolds, Associate Vice President of Student Services at the System. 
 
While staffing in rural areas remains a challenge, Bridge to Success has received strong praise from students, faculty, and staff. The long-term goal is to connect 100% of students with I/DD to support services that prepare them for competitive, integrated employment. 
 
Other Business 

• The Board reviewed a proposal for a new Associate in Applied Science in Health Sciences program at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. This would be the first program of its kind in the system and was designed in collaboration with statewide health care employers and university partners to meet urgent workforce needs. It will be considered for approval by the Board at the earliest in July 2025.
• The Board approved four presidents for reelection: 
  • Dr. Laura Leatherwood, Blue Ridge Community College, through June 2029 
  • J.B. Buxton, Durham Technical Community College, through 2029 
  • Dr. Anthony Clarke, Guilford Technical Community College, through 2028 
  • Dr. Janet Spriggs, Forsyth Technical Community College, through 2027 

The next board meeting is on May 16.