When N.C. Senator Bill Rabon made the recommendation, small town projects planner guru Al Leonard stepped up to answer the call for the latest appointment to the Southeastern Community College Board of Trustees. Leonard was sworn in to the board at its regular meeting in September. 

“Sen. Rabon has been a true public servant who listens locally and works very hard in Raleigh,” Leonard said. “When he appointed me, I was honored and humbled.” 

Leonard is the Capital Projects Director for the Town of Tabor City, and he serves as the Redevelopment Director for the Fair Bluff Chamber of Commerce.  

Leonard is a Burlington native and lives in Tabor City. He graduated from Cummings Senior High School in 1981, Appalachian State University in 1985 with a bachelor of science degree and UNC Chapel Hill in 1988 with a master’s degree in public administration.  

Leonard recalled a quote from Robert Inman, a land surveyor and local historian in Tabor City. Inman’s quote stated that, “I’ve always felt like the solutions to the problems in Columbus County will come from either the Economic Development Office or Southeastern Community College.” 

“The more I thought about that,” Leonard said. “It was very profound, and I just want to do what I can to help this community college help our county solve its problems. With the talent at this school, I am confident that will happen.” 

Taking into consideration the campus tours, input from fellow board members and SCC staff, Leonard said he is impressed that SCC is “realistic.” He commended the students earning degrees and certificates in technical fields such as welding, HVAC, automotive systems, construction and electrical engineering. Leonard said these students are more likely to stay in Columbus County and help build the economy.  

“When I see those technical classes on this campus, those are the things we need in our county,” Leonard said. “The college sees that need, and I think the focus is realistic.” 

Leonard’s role model and someone he draws inspiration from is former trustee Randy Britt. Britt serves on the Fair Bluff town commissioners board and has been Leonard’s boss for the past 30 years.  

“In some respects, I guess I’m taking his place,” Leonard said. “I have big shoes to fill because Randy is a tremendous listener and never makes rash decisions.” 

Leonard is married to Suzette Leonard, and they have two daughters Hannah Powell and Abigail Vick and two grandchildren, Jackson and Lyla-Grace.