Edgecombe Community College has experienced increased enrollment for the Spring 2025 semester. The college has also introduced a new engineering program, provided additional funding for students under the Next NC Scholarship, and continues to focus on student engagement.

As of Feb. 5, 2025, curriculum enrollment increased 7.65 percent from the end of the spring 2024 term. The largest headcount gains from Spring 2024 to Spring 2025 include: 20.4 percent in Associate in Arts; 55.4 percent in Associate in Science; 50 percent in Welding Technology for high school students; and 25.8 percent in Early Childhood Education, Birth-K Licensure. ECC has also experienced a 41 percent increase in the number of dual enrolled students, or high school students who are taking college courses. In the Public Safety Division, EMS programs have experienced a 21 percent increase in enrollment, with fire programs increased nearly 75 percent.

Volunteerism is not merely a pastime for Viola Harris. It’s ingrained in the life of this ECC employee, 24-year Edgecombe County commissioner and “woman of many hats.” It started when the Leggett native was just nine years old, and since that time, Harris has unceasingly pursued a life for the betterment of her community. That’s why she recently received the 2025 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Signed by former President Joe Biden, the award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to also take action.

Representatives of Edgecombe Community College were among the more than 400 attendees of the Vision 2025 Conference hosted by the NCEast Alliance. The conference was held Friday, Jan. 31 at the Greenville Convention Center and focused on the theme, “Celebrating Success and Envisioning Tomorrow.”

Each week during the month of February, we will highlight an African American who has made a tremendous difference at ECC and throughout the community. Check out our Facebook, Instagram, or X pages for daily features.