Brunswick Community College Shares Model Program on National Stage

Brunswick Community College (BCC) took the national stage last week, presenting at the 2025 Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Leadership Congress in New Orleans—one of the country’s premier gatherings for community college leaders.

The presentation, titled “Breaking Barriers, Raising Expectations: Access to Achievement in North Carolina Community Colleges,” highlighted how BCC and other colleges across the state are expanding opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Through its Brunswick Interagency Program (BIP), BCC helps students with I/DD build confidence, develop job skills, and prepare for meaningful careers. The program reflects BCC’s commitment to helping every student find a sense of purpose, belonging, and success.

“We want community colleges across the nation to know about the outstanding work happening in the Brunswick Interagency Program at BCC,” said President Dr. Gene Smith. “Our goal is to ensure that every student, regardless of ability, can contribute, belong, and succeed. By breaking down barriers and raising expectations, we’re preparing all students for a brighter future.”

Representing BCC at the event were Board of Trustees Chairman Alan Holden, President Gene Smith, Vice President of Continuing Education and Economic & Workforce Development Greg Bland, and Brunswick Interagency Program Director Chad Cumber. Their presentation shared how BCC’s hands-on approach helps students reach their potential and strengthens the communities they serve.

The ACCT Leadership Congress draws more than 1,500 community college trustees, presidents, and leaders from across the nation, along with representatives from philanthropic organizations, government agencies, and educational partners. This year’s event focused on creating opportunities, sharing innovative practices, and celebrating the power of community colleges to transform lives.

October 2025