2021 – 2026 Strategic Plan
Values
Success – we believe an individual’s success becomes the success of the institution
Integrity– we are committed to excellence and honesty in everything we do
Respect– we promote inclusiveness, diversity, and compassion for all people
Adaptability– we are responsive and innovative in meeting the needs of our students and community
Collaboration – we work as a team fostering internal and external partnerships
Long Term Goals
1. Increase SCC enrollment through existing college programs and the development of new programs that support student success and community job growth.
2026 Target: Increase college FTE by 25%
Results:
The college increased FTE by an overall 37.2%, surpassing the long-term goal of 25%. This growth was driven by implementing a structured program review process, developing FTE-by-program and instructor reporting, and using labor market data to align programs with regional workforce needs. SCC also strengthened early connections with prospective students by using myFutureNC Columbus County data to guide enrollment projections and expanding summer registration support through the Golden Leaf Grant. The college improved the student entry experience by revising New Student Orientation and coordinating an annual schedule with high school partners.
2. Increase SCC Foundation support for college programs through gifts, donations and grants awarded.
2026 Target: Increasing funding of unrestricted gifts by 25% and awarded grants by 40%
Results
The college increased unrestricted giving from an average of $39,674 to $134,395. The college also increased grant funding by $9,164,166, growing from $0 in 2020 to $9,164,166 in 2026, significantly surpassing the target of a 40% increase in awarded grants. These results were achieved by strengthening philanthropic strategy through the creation of a Foundation Board Fundraising Committee, expanding coordinated annual giving and donor engagement initiatives, and increasing the college’s capacity to pursue state, federal, and foundation grants aligned with workforce and student success priorities.
3. Improve college infrastructure that supports existing programs, future programming for student/community success.
2026 Target: Increase funding support on college infrastructure by 25%
Results
The college secured more than $40 million in infrastructure funding support, far exceeding the 2026 target. This progress was driven by developing and implementing a Strategic Facilities Master Plan, conducting a comprehensive facilities needs assessment, and aligning infrastructure planning with long-term workforce and student success priorities. SCC secured significant state, federal, and county investments to expand and modernize facilities, including funding for the STEM/Transportation Technology Building, public safety training infrastructure, and major campus renovations. Additional investments strengthened campus safety, technology, and learning environments through facility upgrades, cybersecurity improvements, and expanded instructional capacity to support current and future programs.
4. Engage college employees and the citizens of Columbus County in activities that support a healthy community.
2026 Target: Increase the level of activity in college-sponsored community and health activities by 25%
Results
The college increased participation in college sponsored health and wellness activities from a baseline of 0 to 2,780 participants, significantly exceeding the target of a 25% increase in community and campus engagement. This progress was achieved by establishing a wellness framework built around five core elements of health and launching a coordinated series of campus and community wellness initiatives. SCC hosted a wide range of activities, including wellness education sessions, family-centered events, and community health programs, while strengthening partnerships with local organizations to expand reach and participation. Strong cross-department collaboration and targeted outreach helped position SCC as a hub for health, wellness, and community engagement across Columbus County.