Public Invited to University Center Night at Randolph Community College March 30

Randolph Community College will host a University Center Night on Tuesday, March 30, from 6:30-8 p.m. in the R. Alton Cox Learning Resources Center auditorium on the Asheboro Campus. The University Center of Randolph County was established in 2008 and is a collaborative effort between Randolph Community College, Pfeiffer University, and Salem College. Courses are offered in particular disciplines at reduced tuition rates.

"Education is the master key that opens the door to participation in the new emerging economy and job market," said Dr. Robert Shackleford Jr., president of RCC. "Never before has a four-year college degree been so available and attainable for the people of Randolph County. It's just one more way we are creating opportunities and changing lives."

During the University Center Night program, representatives from both four-year schools will talk about their programs. They will also be available to answer questions after the program.

Salem College offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) through the University Center. The program has been approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). "The Salem program is designed for those who are looking to move up in management positions, financial institutions, and in marketing," said Clark Adams, RCC English/Communications instructor and liaison for the Salem program. "A number of students who are already in the program are working and looking to move up within their particular fields. The students are able to keep their current jobs and come here at night." Adams also noted another benefit is that students do not have to pay the parking fees that are charged at many universities. "It is a little bit easier to find a parking space (at RCC) at night. The key word for the entire program is convenience," he said.

Randolph County residents can also earn a degree in Elementary Education from Pfeiffer University through the University Center. "Many residents of Randolph County would like to earn a bachelor's degree, but their commitments to family, career and the community provide little flexibility to travel long distances to classes," said Maria LeBaron, RCC Psychology instructor and Pfeiffer liaison. "The Pfeiffer Elementary Education program brings university classes to Asheboro. The program provides an uplifting, rigorous and thorough preparation for teaching in the elementary school."

Pfeiffer's Elementary Education major prepares students for teacher licensure in North Carolina. The program is approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Candidates can take all general education courses through Randolph Community College and all professional courses for teacher licensure on the Randolph Community College campus or online.

Anne Hockett, vice president for instructional services at RCC, discussed the impact of the University Center on the local community. "The University Center of Randolph County provides an avenue to attain education through the baccalaureate level without having to leave the county. This enables adult learners to continue to meet their family obligations, while advancing their education and increasing their employability and earning level," she said.

The University Center Night program is open to everyone. The Asheboro Campus is located at 629 Industrial Park Avenue. Take the McDowell Road exit off Highway 220 Bypass (I-73/I-74), just south of the interchange with Highways 64 and 49, and follow the signs.