WCE Introduces Community College Roadshow

In October, faculty and staff from the Watson College of Education visited Lenoir, Craven and Carteret Community Colleges to share information about pathways and programs available to aspiring teachers and community college leaders. The sessions included discussions on new transfer options, the STEP-IN pathway for future high school teachers, the Middle Grades “Meet Us in the Middle” transfer route, WCE’s Workforce Learning & Development program, and leadership certificate and degree programs for current and future community college professionals.

Presenters included Drs. Denise Henning, Denise Ousley, Dennis Kubasko, Sarah Bonner, Andrew Ryder and Zakaria (Zak) Jaouibi, along with WCE Recruiter Dean Heath.

“Watson’s first-ever community college roadshow was impactful,” said Denise Henning, director of the UNCW Community College Collaborative (UNCW/3C). “Each visit generated meaningful engagement and strong interest in our teacher preparation and leadership programs, and offered valuable insight into how we can continue strengthening our partnerships.”

UNCW/3C, established in 2019, is a university-community college partnership initiative designed to strengthen college and career pathways, support adult learners and develop strong future leaders for North Carolina’s community colleges. Current partnerships and programs include:

STEP-IN – A new online pathway that enables students to complete coursework and field experiences in their home communities while preparing to become high school teachers. The program, offered in partnership with Lenoir, Craven, Carteret, Brunswick, James Sprunt and Wayne Community Colleges, launches in fall 2026 for future social studies teachers and will expand to additional subject areas.

Meet Us in the Middle – A transfer-friendly pathway for students at any of North Carolina’s 58 community colleges interested in teaching grades 6–9. Coursework is offered online and field placements are completed locally. Students may choose two specializations in subject areas including social studies, science, math and language arts.

Workforce Learning & Development – An online Bachelor of Science program that helps community college instructors and workforce trainers enhance their teaching skills and advance in their careers. The program offers flexible scheduling and up to 24 credits for relevant work experience.

Community College Leadership Programs – A certificate and Ed.D. specialization designed for professionals preparing for leadership roles in North Carolina’s community colleges. Both programs are cohort-based and structured for working professionals.

The inaugural WCE roadshow was developed to strengthen collaboration with community colleges and create opportunities for faculty, advisors and students to engage with faculty in Watson’s academic programs.

WCE extends appreciation to Lenoir, Craven and Carteret Community Colleges for their partnership, warm hospitality and active participation. Plans are underway to expand the roadshow to additional campuses in future semesters.