Mitchell Community College recently welcomed representatives and students from NC State University’s Belk Center for Community College Leadership and Research for a full day of presentations, discussion, and campus exploration at Mitchell’s Statesville Campus.
The visit began in Huskins Library, where President Brewer opened with a history of the institution — from its founding in the 1850s as a women’s college, to its expansion to include male students in the 1930s, to its incorporation into the NC Community College System in 1973. That history set the stage for the day’s central theme: how Mitchell’s unique roots continue to drive innovation in academics, workforce development, and student support.
Workforce Development and Continuing Education
David Bullins, VP for Workforce Development and Continuing Education, highlighted the community-driven approach behind Mitchell’s program development. He discussed the college’s commitment to stackable credentials — pathways that lead not just to employment, but to long-term career advancement. Bullins also spotlighted Mitchell’s Apprenticeship Program, which has grown its output by 42%, a critical resource as Iredell County ranks among the 75th fastest-growing counties in North Carolina.
Academic Affairs
Randy Ledford, VP for Academic Affairs and Institutional Effectiveness, framed program development around a key question: do programs create genuine pathways to economic mobility and transferable skills for students? Using Mitchell’s healthcare programs as a model, Ledford illustrated how “programs of need” can simultaneously serve the community and set students up for financial success. He also outlined Mitchell’s bridge programs, which connect classroom learning to clinicals and apprenticeships, address the regional skills gap, and help students achieve a livable wage — while aligning with Iredell County school districts to build that pipeline from early education onward.
Community Collaboration
Jenn Bosser, President and CEO of the Iredell County Economic Development Corporation, presented Iredell Ready — a collaborative initiative connecting students and residents with education, career, and community resources from K–12 through retirement. Organized around six key industries — manufacturing, agriculture, financial services, innovative economics, life science/health, and logistics/distribution — the initiative serves as a connective resource for educators, residents, industry partners, and the broader community.
Student Support
Dr. JJ McEachern, VP for Student Services, facilitated a student panel that brought the day’s themes to life. Students from across Mitchell’s programs shared why they chose Mitchell and the challenges they faced — time management, financial pressure, and sustaining commitment — while emphasizing that the college showed up for them both academically and personally. Dr. McEachern followed with a 21% increase in Mitchell’s enrollment over the past four years, and provided an overview of Mitchell’s wraparound support services, which address economic barriers through scholarships, social challenges through resources like the food pantry and Maverick Fund, and belonging through events and mentorship. His closing message was clear: community colleges exist to serve the community.
Adult Learners
Myra Lewis, Director of Advising, and Patrick Cline, Director of College and Career Readiness, shared Mitchell’s strategic approach to adult learners — one centered on equity, access, and completion. By recognizing prior learning and lived experience, and actively removing institutional barriers, Mitchell works to make higher education a realistic and supported path for adult students returning to or entering college for the first time.
Advancement and Alumni
Molly Nicholson, Executive Director for Advancement and College Relations, closed the presentations with a look at Mitchell’s legacy. As the college approaches its 175th anniversary, it holds one of the oldest Foundation endowments in the state — a reflection of the deep, sustained community investment in student success. Notably, Mitchell currently employs 193 of its own alumni, a testament to the lasting impact the college has on those it serves.
Campus Tour
The day concluded with a tour of the College’s Archive and a campus walk led by President Brewer — a fitting close that echoed his opening remarks: Mitchell Community College is where Iredell County’s history meets modernity, and it remains steadfastly committed to meeting residents where they are and empowering their futures.