5 Major Updates That Prove Sandhills Community College Is North Carolina's Most Forward-Thinking CC

Sandhills Community College (SCC), a pillar of education in Moore County, North Carolina, is currently undergoing a period of remarkable transformation, marked by significant leadership changes, major grant acquisitions, and the launch of groundbreaking student-focused initiatives. As of December 15, 2025, the college is solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking institution, heavily investing in workforce development, cybersecurity, and student support to meet the evolving demands of the local and state economy. This deep dive uncovers the most critical and recent updates that are shaping the future of SCC and its community. The institution’s commitment to providing a "student-ready" campus experience and bridging the gap between education and high-demand careers has never been clearer. Recent developments, including a new Small Business Center Director and a substantial cybersecurity grant, highlight SCC’s dynamic approach to educational excellence and community empowerment. These strategic moves ensure that Sandhills Community College remains at the forefront of the North Carolina Community College System, offering relevant and cutting-edge programs for its diverse student body.

The Latest Milestones and Leadership Updates at SCC

Sandhills Community College has recently welcomed new faces into key leadership roles while also hosting significant statewide educational gatherings, underscoring its influence within the North Carolina Community College System. These changes signal a renewed focus on entrepreneurial support and strong governance.

New Director for the Small Business Center

In a significant move in November 2025, SCC appointed Sara Holden as the new Director for the Small Business Center (SBC). Holden, a seasoned entrepreneur and U.S. Air Force veteran, brings a wealth of real-world experience to the role. Her appointment is expected to revitalize the SBC, enhancing its ability to support local startups and existing small businesses in Moore and Hoke Counties through expert consultation, training, and resources. This leadership change emphasizes SCC's dedication to fostering economic development and entrepreneurship in the region.

New Trustees and Governance

The college’s governing body also saw changes in August 2025, when the Board of Trustees swore in two new members and reappointed two others. Strong, engaged governance is crucial for guiding the college’s strategic direction, especially as it navigates new programs and funding opportunities. This regular infusion of new perspectives ensures that the college's policies remain aligned with the community's needs and the broader goals of the North Carolina education system.

Hosting the NC Community College Presidents

Early in the year, in January 2025, Sandhills Community College co-hosted a recent gathering of North Carolina Community College Presidents. This event positioned SCC as a central figure in discussions about the future of community college education across the state, showcasing its facilities and its role as a thought leader in adult and continuing education.

New Divisions and Initiatives Driving Student Success

In an effort to make the campus more accessible and to better serve students seeking immediate career paths, SCC has launched two major, forward-looking initiatives. These programs are tailored to meet the needs of a diverse student population, including the over 60% of students who are Pell Grant-eligible.

The Launch of "Access Advocates"

SCC is taking a bold step toward creating a truly student-ready environment with the launch of its "Access Advocates" initiative. This program is designed to equip campus community members with the tools and knowledge to critically and innovatively address issues of student access. The goal is to remove barriers to education, making the college experience smoother and more equitable for all students, from initial enrollment to graduation.

A New Division of Workforce Development and Continuing Education

Recognizing the urgent need for skilled workers, Sandhills Community College launched a new Division of Workforce Development and Continuing Education. This strategic restructuring aims to empower the community by creating a seamless connection between academic achievements, student interests, and real-world career opportunities. The division focuses on:

• Offering high-demand vocational training.
• Providing essential career skills for adult learners.
• Bridging the skills gap for local employers.

This initiative is a direct response to the economic demands of the region, ensuring that SCC graduates are immediately employable in fields like healthcare, skilled trades, and technology.

Financial Growth and Community Impact

The college’s recent success in securing significant grants and funding demonstrates its aggressive pursuit of resources to enhance student services and campus technology. These funds are directly impacting the quality of education and the security of the college’s infrastructure.

Securing a Major Cybersecurity Grant

In a major achievement, Sandhills Community College received $192,325 from the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program. This substantial funding is earmarked for critical security enhancements, including:

• Funding a full-time security analyst position.
• Strengthening the college’s overall cybersecurity infrastructure.
• Protecting sensitive student and institutional data.

This focus on cybersecurity is vital in today’s digital world, ensuring a safe and reliable technological environment for all students and staff.

Expanded Support for Pell Grant Students

With a significant portion of the student body (over 60%) being Pell Grant-eligible, SCC has been proactive in expanding student impact beyond tuition assistance. The college has implemented recommendations from high-level consulting to enhance support services. This includes training for the entire community on new technology, ensuring that all students, regardless of their financial background, have access to the resources needed for academic success. Furthermore, donor-paid scholarships continue to provide essential financial relief, helping students like Shanay Eason, a recipient of the Josephine Weiss Early Childhood Scholarship, achieve their educational goals.

Enrollment and The Sandhills Student Profile

While the college is focused on the future, its foundation remains strong. The total enrollment at Sandhills Community College was 3,824 students in 2023, with a full-time enrollment of 1,242. This small-to-medium size allows the college to maintain a highly personalized and supportive learning environment. The student body is diverse, with 2,025 White, 602 Black, and 56 Asian students represented in the 2023 data. The institution’s dedication to serving a broad demographic is evident in its new initiatives, which are designed to increase access and success for every student in the Sandhills region. The combination of new leadership, strategic funding, and student-centric programs positions Sandhills Community College not just as a local school, but as a regional leader in accessible, high-quality career and transfer education. The updates from 2025 confirm that SCC is aggressively pursuing strategies to remain relevant and essential in the ever-changing landscape of higher education.