SCC releases 2025 to 2026 Annual Report celebrating growth, opportunity and community impact

Southeastern Community College has released its 2025 to 2026 Annual Report, celebrating a year filled with student success, enrollment growth, national recognition, stronger partnerships and transformative investments in the future of Columbus County. 

More than a record of the past year, the Annual Report shows how SCC is building momentum for the future. Through powerful student stories, campus milestones and community partnerships, the report demonstrates how education and workforce training are helping individuals build careers, support their families and create new opportunities close to home. 

“Together, we are building opportunities, strengthening our workforce, and creating a brighter future for Columbus County,” SCC President Dr. Chris English wrote in the report. 

During the 2025 to 2026 academic year, SCC served 6,160 students, representing 13.19 percent enrollment growth since 2021. The college celebrated 474 curriculum graduates, awarded 642 curriculum credentials and helped students earn 1,202 workforce credentials. 

While the numbers demonstrate SCC’s continued growth, the report also shares the people and stories behind that progress. Readers will meet students who returned to college after years away, graduates who overcame challenges to begin meaningful careers and employees whose dedication continues to create opportunities across the region. 

The year also brought national recognition when the Aspen Institute named SCC among the Top 200 community colleges in the United States eligible to compete for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The recognition reflects SCC’s continued commitment to student success, workforce preparation and community impact. 

Major investments strengthened the college’s ability to prepare students for high demand careers. SCC received funding to develop electric vehicle training, upgrade its Emergency Medical Services lab, expand Truck Driver Training and create a mobile welding lab for high school students. Construction also continued on the college’s new $22 million Transportation Technology and STEM Facility. 

New partnerships created additional opportunities for students to continue their education. Guaranteed transfer agreements with NC State University, UNC Pembroke and Western Carolina University brought SCC’s network to 10 university and educational partners. These pathways allow students to begin their education close to home, save money and move confidently toward a bachelor’s degree. 

The Annual Report also highlights SCC’s efforts to make college more accessible. Through NC Reconnect, personalized student support and the Next NC Scholarship, the college is helping adult learners, working families and first time students overcome barriers and take the next step toward a degree or career. 

SCC’s impact continued beyond the classroom. More than 3,400 children explored local careers during the college’s first Careers on Wheels event, while high school summer campers earned 72 industry recognized credentials. SCC also expanded access to education through career events, apprenticeships and plans to offer classes in Bolton. 

The Annual Report is more than a look back. It is an invitation to see the opportunities being created right here in Columbus County and to imagine what could come next.  

Fall classes begin August 17, and registration is open now. Whether you are starting college for the first time, returning to finish what you started or preparing for a new career, SCC is ready to help you take the next step. Get started today at sccnc.edu/start 

Explore SCC’s 2025 to 2026 Annual Report and discover how the college is opening doors to opportunities for students, families and the entire community.