CFCC President's Newsletter

 

July 2025

 
 
 

A Message from the President

 
President Jim Morton

Dear Sea Devil Community,


One of the things that sets Cape Fear Community College apart is how our facilities serve students and the community. The Wilson Center is a powerful example of that dual mission in action.


Now in its tenth year, the Wilson Center has brought major Broadway tours, concerts, theatrical performances, comedy acts, and more to downtown Wilmington. It continues to thrive and be an economic driver in our community, with record-breaking ticket sales and an ever-growing calendar of events. The team is also expanding programming to welcome more people from across our region, many of whom are experiencing live theatre for the first time. A recent milestone was hosting a Netflix taping for comedian Leanne Morgan, drawing four sold-out shows and bringing national attention to the venue, raising its profile among promoters nationwide.


While we celebrate these successes, what matters most is the impact on student learning. Many in our community may not realize that these performances also provide hands-on learning opportunities for CFCC students. From working backstage with stage crews to running lights and sound, or coordinating events, our students are gaining real-world experience that translates directly into future careers. In addition, the Wilson Center offers students and staff opportunities to showcase their artistic talents. From performing as opening acts for major artists like Gladys Knight to contributing original artwork for program covers, the venue is a wealth of opportunity.. At the Wilson Center, the stage is more than a performance space; it's a classroom.


To learn more about the Wilson Center and upcoming events, visit wilsoncentertickets.com.

Jim Morton

CFCC President

 

CFCC on the Big Screen

 

You might recognize the locations in these photos. Amazon Prime's hit show The Summer I Turned Pretty was filmed in Wilmington! The newly released third season features CFCC's Union Station prominently in episode 2, with stunning campus exteriors and scenes inside our state-of-the art nursing simulation labs.

 

In Case You Missed It

 

CFCC is proud to announce the appointment of two new members of the Board of Trustees, Cailey Rash and Shannon Winslow. They were sworn in on July 17, 2025, and bring valuable experience and insight to the college's leadership.

This fall, CFCC is expanding class options in high-demand programs like Architectural Technology, Construction Management, and Mechanical Engineering Technology to make it easier for working adults to gain career-ready skills through hands-on, flexible training.

CFCC has been awarded SECU Bridge to Career Scholarship funding for 2025-2026. The program offers up to 30 scholarships of $500 each to help cover training costs like fees, books, childcare, and more. It supports eligible NC residents in approved workforce programs, helping them gain credentials for in-demand careers.

CFCC has partnered with StepUp Wilmington to offer "Jobs Week" courses through December 2025. These free, four-day workshops help participants build resumes, hone interview skills, and connect with local employers while exploring career and education opportunities.

 
 

Featured Sea Devils

 

After earning her Associate of Arts through CFCC's dual enrollment program at Hoggard High School, Emma Stevens spent a year exploring her options. She's now found her fit in Dental Assisting, gaining hands-on skills for a future in dental care.

Skyler Grappo found her passion in CFCC's Marine Technology program, where hands-on training, fieldwork, and a supportive community changed her outlook on learning. Now in her third semester, she's gaining real-world experience and exploring a future in marine biology or fisheries.

After years as a CNA, Haley Buchanan found her path in CFCC's Practical Nursing program. Drawn by supportive faculty and hands-on training, she's now thriving in clinical rotations and plans to continue toward becoming a registered nurse. She credits CFCC with giving her the confidence and preparation to succeed.

Jason Trusty is advancing his plumbing career through CFCC's Plumbing & Pipefitting Apprenticeship with T.A. Woods Co., gaining hands-on experience and classroom training that's preparing him for long-term success in the skilled trades.

 

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Contact Us

910-362-7000

 
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