Ģ������Ƶ is helping make the path from high school to college simpler for students across Edgecombe County through NC College Connect, a statewide effort that provides eligible North Carolina high school seniors with a direct path to college admission.

This fall, 105,036 North Carolina public high school seniors who are on track to graduate with a diploma and meet program requirements are eligible to receive direct admission to their local community college through NC College Connect. That represents more than 95 percent of current Grade 12 and 13 students in North Carolina public schools.

The program has also expanded this year to reach more students. In the previous two years, NC College Connect was limited to public high school seniors with a GPA of 2.8 or higher. This year, 37,429 additional students are being reached because eligibility for community college direct admission has been expanded to all public high school seniors who are on track to graduate, regardless of GPA.

Through NC College Connect, eligible students are guaranteed direct admission to their local community college with no essays, ACT or SAT scores, or letters of recommendation required. In addition, more than 67,000 students, or 64 percent of eligible seniors, meet criteria to receive direct admission offers from additional participating North Carolina colleges and universities.

A total of 99 North Carolina colleges and universities are participating in NC College Connect.

“Anytime we can remove a barrier or streamline the process for a student to pursue opportunities that can be life changing for them and their families is a good thing,” said Ģ������Ƶ President Dr. Greg McLeod. “With so many high school students taking advantage of college dual enrollment, this presents an incredible opportunity for them to continue with us after their high school graduation to complete those degrees, certificates, or diplomas they started while in high school before going on to the workforce or a four-year college or university.”

NC College Connect is coordinated through a statewide partnership that includes the North Carolina Community College System, College for North Carolina, the UNC System, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities.

“Ask a North Carolinian what a community college credential did for them, and you’ll hear about a career. NC College Connect makes that path easier to find. This year, it’s open to all students. Less time lost to paperwork, more time in the classroom, and a straighter line to a job that pays,” said Dr. Monty Sullivan, acting president & CEO of the North Carolina Community College System.

Eligible students can log in to their College for North Carolina account to view their direct admission matches and complete a short form to claim their spot. Applications to North Carolina community colleges are always free, removing another potential barrier as students take the next step in their education.

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Seventeen-year-old Amir Carr will attend Ģ������Ƶ this fall, saying the college’s proximity and sense of community helped shape his decision.

“I feel like it gives a feeling of community, family, and gives students the ability to feel comfortable,” said Carr, a North East Carolina Prep graduate. “I wanted to be closer to my home, my church family. I also wanted to go ahead and do a smarter way, in my opinion, of getting the career I desire.”

Carr was among the students from Edgecombe County high schools who took part in Ģ������Ƶ’s Signing Day events on May 12 and 13. The national initiative recognizes students who commit to enrolling in community colleges and technical programs.

Students participating in Signing Day, including Tarboro High School graduate Natalia Parker, will begin classes August 13.

“I’m enrolled in the dual program for welding and majoring in welding in the fall,” Parker said. “I feel welcome, like I was meant to be here. It’s local. I didn’t want to move off, and I already know people at the community college.”

Ģ������Ƶ administrators visited Tarboro High, North Edgecombe, SouthWest Edgecombe and North East Carolina Prep to meet prospective students. Ģ������Ƶ President Greg McLeod, along with vice presidents and deans, introduced themselves during the visits — a gesture that 17-year-old Mayrin Nogueda-Pacheco said made her feel more at ease.

“I feel like I have learned a lot of things about everybody here, and it’s joyful to be here,” said Nogueda-Pacheco, who is already dually enrolled and plans to enter the radiography program. “I already love the environment and the few teachers that I’ve had so far, so I didn’t want to start anywhere new.”

SouthWest Edgecombe graduate Fernando Ramirez Zambrano said he is excited to begin his studies in accounting.

“It feels great. There are a lot of people here I know, and it’s great to see them coming to Ģ������Ƶ with me,” said Zambrano, 18. He hopes to transfer to a university after completing his degree at Ģ������Ƶ and eventually pursue a master’s degree.

For high school graduates interested in attending Ģ������Ƶ, scholarship information and an online application are available at .

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Ģ������Ƶ is maintaining a strong upward trend in enrollment. Nationwide, the COVID-19 pandemic caused steep declines at community colleges, and while online courses are still prevalent, overall enrollment numbers are rebounding.

2026 began on a high note, with 1,679 curriculum (college credit-earning) enrollments, a 4.87 percent increase over last year. We are seeing gains in nursing (up 10.1 percent), computer science (up 40 percent) and respiratory therapy (up 20 percent). Total student contact hours also grew in continuing education, or lifelong learning classes, rising 12 percent from 2024 to 2025.

According to Ģ������Ƶ President, Dr. Greg McLeod, headcount at Ģ������Ƶ in college-credit classes grew 7.7 percent from 2024 to 2025, and 11.4 percent compared to 2023. Curriculum classes that saw the biggest gains in enrollment from 2023 to 2025 included business administration reaching 17.4 percent, medical office administration surging 59 percent and welding up 29.7 percent. In continuing education, the public safety and first responders sector saw the largest two-year jump in enrollment at 36.8 percent.

A major driver of Ģ������Ƶ’s growth is the rising number of high school students taking advantage of early college opportunities.

“Most of the increase is attributed to more and more high school students participating in the Career and College Promise Program (CCP),” said McLeod. “This year, the college is serving 632 dually enrolled students.”

CCP, often referred to as dual enrollment, offers tuition-free college courses that count towards associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as valuable workforce credentials. CCP is attractive to families seeking academic achievement and cost savings.

For more information on how to become a student at Ģ������Ƶ, visit .

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New to Ģ������Ƶ this year are the First Flight and Esports Scholars Scholarships. High-school graduates with an unweighted Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 2.6 may apply for the First Flight Scholarship. Students who enroll in a degree program at Ģ������Ƶ could receive $500 their first year, awarded at $250 each fall and spring semester.

Ģ������Ƶ launched the Esports gaming program in the fall. Seeking to build a league of gamers who will compete against other colleges in the state, this scholarship totals $2,000 per year for two years. Recipients must be 2026 high-school graduates of Edgecombe County or a surrounding county, with an unweighted GPA of at least 2.6.

These new scholarships are added to other existing scholarships, making college at Ģ������Ƶ even more affordable. For example, qualified students who receive the EDGE scholarship get a fully-funded education for up to two years. Based on in-state tuition, the EDGE Scholarship provides a financial aid package covering tuition, books and fees. Recipients must be current high-school graduates of either Edgecombe County or a surrounding county with an unweighted GPA of at least 2.8. Students must have completed at least six credit hours through the NC Career and College Promise Program or an approved Continuing Education Program with 96 or more contact hours.

The Eagle Mascot Scholarship was established in 2021. The mascot performer delivers excitement as he/she represents Ģ������Ƶ at on-campus and community events. The ideal student must take a minimum of six credit hours and maintain a GPA of 2.6 or higher for the $1,000 annual scholarship.

For more information about the Edge, First Flight, Esports Scholars and the Eagle Mascot scholarships, visit .

The Ģ������Ƶ Foundation also offers a number of annual scholarships and endowments totaling awards of approximately $100,000 each year.

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The second Health Careers Academy hosted by Ģ������Ƶ and made possible through a partnership with Area L AHEC and Edgecombe County.

A graduation ceremony was held June 20 on Ģ������Ƶ’s Rocky Mount campus to celebrate the accomplishments of rising high school seniors who completed the annual Health Careers Academy.

Thirteen students participated in hands-on healthcare activities, simulations, mock interviews and a resume building workshop.

“The goal of the academy is to open their eyes to the wide range of careers in healthcare, and to help them take the first step toward a future of purpose and service,” said Nacole Everette, dean of health sciences.

Students also performed a pig heart dissection with biology instructors, toured ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital and the Freedom Hill Community Center, and heard from professional guest speakers. According to Everette, students graduated from the program with a knowledge of healthcare career pathways, what Ģ������Ƶ’s Health Sciences programs offer, as well as scholarship and transfer opportunities.

“It’s incredible to watch students discover new possibilities and begin to see themselves in roles they may have never considered before,” stated Everette.

This was the second Health Careers Academy hosted by Ģ������Ƶ and made possible through a partnership with Area L AHEC and Edgecombe County. Everette says rising high school seniors or Early College seniors/super seniors in Edgecombe and Nash Counties can expect another Ģ������Ƶ academy in 2026 that will feature even more healthcare-related activities.

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Tarboro High School seniors were among 75 students from various high schools in Edgecombe County who declared their intent to attend Ģ������Ƶ in the fall.

“Congratulations on coming to the end of this journey—your high school years,” said Ģ������Ƶ President, Dr. Greg McLeod, to a group of high school students planning to attend Ģ������Ƶ in the fall. “Know that we have your back. We want you to reflect on your time at Ģ������Ƶ as one of the most wonderful times of your life.”

McLeod shared that declaration with 75 students from various Edgecombe County high schools during Ģ������Ƶ’s High School Signing Day events held in May. Signing Day is a national initiative to celebrate students for making a commitment to higher education. These students, from Tarboro High School, North Edgecombe High School, North East Carolina Prep and SouthWest Edgecombe High School, declared their intention to attend Ģ������Ƶ beginning Aug. 14, 2025.

Alongside McLeod, some of Ģ������Ƶ’s vice presidents and deans took a moment to introduce themselves to prospective students. In addition to knowing who their “village” will be, McLeod stressed the opportunities available at Ģ������Ƶ.

“Know that on top of college credit programs like English, you can add on multiple credentials to make yourself even more attractive to businesses when it comes to getting that first job,” shared McLeod. “If you want something else that will really help you stand out, we have OSHA 10 (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certifications, forklift training, welding and more.”

l-r: Ģ������Ƶ president Dr. Greg McLeod and Cayden Ethridge

Cayden Etheridge, a graduate of North East Carolina Prep, will attend Ģ������Ƶ in the fall. One of the reasons he chose the college is because of those multiple credentials.

“I chose Ģ������Ƶ because it’s local, it’s accessible, and because I took classes there in high school,” said Etheridge. “I took painting, refinishing and autobody. I just like it. I liked the vibe the school gave off.”

Etheridge will seek a business degree from Ģ������Ƶ, and he joins others who are already looking forward to starting their journey at the college.

l-r: Symone Seabreeze and Ģ������Ƶ president Dr. Greg McLeod

Jahlil Blue plans to pursue an associate degree in early childhood education, attending a four-year college after graduating from Ģ������Ƶ. Symone Seabreeze is interested in dental hygiene. Laura Daughtridge would like to become a digital assistant, while Arturo Rosas-Bautista has different plans.

“I chose Ģ������Ƶ for the two-year transfer program,” said Rosas-Bautista. “I want to major in psychology, so I’m choosing to get my associate degree first at Ģ������Ƶ.”

And while Earl Jordan hasn’t chosen his major yet, Ģ������Ƶ is familiar.

“I chose Ģ������Ƶ because it’s closer to home,” said Jordan. “My mom went there, so I thought, it would also be a good choice for me.”

Among the 75 seniors who committed to Ģ������Ƶ, 13 are EDGE scholars. Students who are qualified to receive the EDGE Scholarship receive full funding to attend Ģ������Ƶ, including tuition, fees and books. One student received the Hartwell Fuller scholarship and will also receive full tuition, fees, books and a laptop computer.

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Rebecca Stamilio-Ehret

By Jasmin Aparicio-Tobar
Edgecombe Early College High School

Rebecca Stamilio-Ehret, Pre-Engineering coordinator and instructor of Physics and Industrial Trades/Technology at Ģ������Ƶ, joined K-12 educators and administrators, primarily from Eastern North Carolina, to find strategic ways to enhance science education.

“We are trying to make Eastern North Carolina and Edgecombe County graduates more science literate so that they will be prepared for a wide variety of jobs in the future,” said Stamilio-Ehret.

The Smithsonian Science Education Center’s Strategic Planning Institute took place in Washington, D.C. at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. The instruction was funded by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) East. At this training, school participants developed a strategic plan for science in school systems.

The Ģ������Ƶ instructor attended the training as a community partner, or an individual from a community college or local industry. She joined teacher representatives from Martin Millennium Academy, Stocks Elementary School and Tarboro High School, among others.

“One of the goals for this project (strategic plan) is not just to make the science classes better, but to also incorporate science and engineering practices into everything,” acknowledged Stamilio-Ehret.

Although the strategic plan was not completed at the meeting, a 30-60-90 plan, including the next action steps, was achieved.

“There’s tons of jobs in our local area that are going unfilled because people don’t have the right skill set in order to go into those areas,” said Stamilio-Ehret. She believes a strategic plan will be beneficial in ensuring students are equipped with the skills necessary to succeed at the college level and in their career.

Some words of encouragement that Stamilio-Ehret would give to kids who want to be in a career that involves STEM but are finding it difficult–“Ask questions, have an open mind, and be curious about the world around you.”

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Ģ������Ƶ President, Dr. Greg McLeod (left), and Kate Brittain, director of Library Services (right), read to students on March 5.

Read Across America Week was celebrated March 2 to 6, and Princeville Elementary School invited two special guest readers from Ģ������Ƶ. Ģ������Ƶ President, Dr. Greg McLeod, and Kate Brittain, director of Library Services, read to students on Wednesday, March 5. McLeod engaged second graders by reading the book, “Just a Snowman” by Mercer Mayer. First grade students enjoyed Brittain’s book, “Chrysanthemum” by Kevin Henkes.

Many schools and organizations participate in Read Across America Week, hosting activities that promote the joy of reading. March is also National Reading Month.

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Ģ������Ƶ, in partnership with S.T.E.P (the Strategic Twin-Counties Educational Partnership) and Nash Community College, welcomed high school students to Healthcare Connections 2025 at Ģ������Ƶ’s Rocky Mount campus. S.T.E.P. is dedicated to improving educational opportunities for students in the Twin Counties area.

Students from Southwest Edgecombe High School, Rocky Mount Senior High, Northern Nash High School, Nash Central High School, Tarboro High School, Southern Nash High School, Rocky Mount Prep, Edge Academy, North East Carolina Preparatory School, Nash Early College, Nash Rocky Mount Early College High School, North Edgecombe High School and Edgecombe Early College High School were invited to attend.

“Through this event, students gained valuable insights into health sciences programs and the rewarding careers that await them in the healthcare field,” said Nacole T. Everette, dean of Health Sciences at Ģ������Ƶ.

More than 250 participants toured the Lamm Building Tuesday, Feb. 25 and Wednesday, Feb. 26.

“At Ģ������Ƶ, we are committed to equipping future healthcare professionals with the knowledge and resources needed to succeed,” said Everette. “We appreciate the collaboration of S.T.E.P., Nash Community College and our local schools in helping to inspire and prepare the next generation of healthcare workers.”

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Students enjoy “Would you Rather?” at the start of CTE Day.

Career and Technical Education Day at Ģ������Ƶ, held on Oct. 29, started with the popular game “Would You Rather?” Before the career exploration event that highlights CTE programs at the college, students from four area high schools had the chance to show their personalities and get comfortable with Ģ������Ƶ faculty and staff as they chose between two scenarios.

When asked, would you rather write a 10-page paper or do a 45-minute presentation, most chose the 10-page paper. Would you rather be the class clown or the teacher’s pet received the fitting teacher’s pet response. When asked would you rather live a boring but easy life, or a life where you are challenged but could ultimately result in success, students resoundingly chose the latter.

Ģ������Ƶ instructor Melissa Mabie introduces students to Agribusiness Technology.

On CTE Day, students from SouthWest Edgecombe, Tarboro High, North East Carolina Prep and North Edgecombe High Schools visited the college’s Tarboro campus to learn how Ģ������Ƶ could be that launchpad for success. Students learned how they could take courses in high school for free and earn a certificate while in high school. At the CTE Fair, participants got a glimpse of Ģ������Ƶ’s programs, like construction, welding, agribusiness technology, collision repair, automotive systems, cosmetology and more.

Students were also treated to a tour around Ģ������Ƶ’s campus, and had the chance to complete some hands-on activities.

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