In an effort to prepare the next generation of college leaders, four Southwestern Community College employees recently completed nine months of training through the Western Community College Leadership Academy (WCCLA).
Kristan Blanton, SCC’s Director of Enrollment Management; Jennifer Brooks, English Instructor; Ed Nagy, Student Services Director for the Macon Campus; and Megan Nicholson, Emergency Services/Safety Coordinator were honored in a ceremony on April 26 at A-B Tech Community College in Asheville.
Formed in 2021, WCCLA aims to form values-driven, high-potential, high-performing leaders who think and collaborate in new and different ways with people within their colleges and across the region. The academy is a collaboration between Southwestern, A-B Tech Community College, Blue Ridge Community College and Haywood Community College.
“The WCCLA is a wonderful opportunity for our employees to grow as leaders,” said Dr. Don Tomas, SCC’s President. “I’m extremely proud that Southwestern works alongside our neighboring community colleges to offer this academy. Partnerships like this ultimately benefit all of our students and communities.”
Participants focused on a different topic each month. Topics ranged from strategic thinking and emotional intelligence to personal and work core values.
During the graduation ceremony, participants spoke about their key takeaways from the program and how they’ll apply those lessons in their current positions.
The program is overseen by Barbara Cooney, A-B Tech's Director of Professional Development.
“It is a privilege to facilitate the WCCLA,” Cooney said. “The participants bring their unique perspectives, along with much energy and enthusiasm. This academy requires a commitment by all involved, from the sponsors to the participants, and this year was no exception. I think this program shows that a collaborative approach like this academy builds great connections that makes all of our colleges stronger.”
For more information about Southwestern and the programs it offers, visit www.SouthwesternCC.edu, call 828.339.4000 or drop by your nearest SCC location.
