���سԹ� (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

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���سԹ� is thrilled to announce that nine students from the Brunswick Interagency Program (BIP) have been selected to represent Special Olympics North Carolina (SONC) at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Games will take place June 20–26, 2026, and will bring together thousands of athletes from across the country.

Chosen from a pool of nearly 53,000 registered athletes and Unified partners across North Carolina, these remarkable students earned a coveted spot on the five-on-five basketball team. The 2026 SONC Basketball Team includes:

• • • • • Ashley Clarkson

          • • Edan Current

        • Cole Denny

        • Brandon Lewis

        • Fonz McDonald

        • Marquel Randall

        • Dion Smith

        • Andrew Stephenson

        • Kassie Walter

The team will be led by Coach Sean O’Donnell, who proudly introduced the athletes during a recent SONC Selection Show livestream.

Over the next year, these student-athletes will dedicate themselves to rigorous training and teamwork in preparation for the national stage. BCC is honored to support them on this journey. We are proud beyond measure and can’t wait to cheer them on as they represent North Carolina and BCC in 2026!

July 2025

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A familiar and friendly face to many across campus, Chad has spent the last 12 years working with BIP, most recently serving as Assistant Director. In that role, he led the implementation of the North Carolina Community College System’s IDD Pilot Program at BCC—an initiative that helped shape the statewide Access to Achievement program. This work continues to expand opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to pursue meaningful career paths.

“Helping students reach their goals and seeing the joy on their faces is what drives me every day,” Chad shared. “It’s an honor to step into this role and continue building on the incredible foundation of support and community here at BIP.”

Born and raised in Wilmington, NC, Chad is a graduate of UNC Pembroke, where he earned his degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.

BIP is built on the pillars of purpose, support, friendship, and respect. The program offers a holistic educational experience that includes Adult Basic Education, Employment Resources, the BIP Greenhouse and Gift Shop, and Transportation—all designed to help students gain confidence, build relationships, and prepare for successful futures.

“Chad’s leadership, experience, and dedication to our students make him an outstanding choice,” said Greg Bland, Vice President of Continuing Education, Economic & Workforce Development. “We’re excited to see the program continue to grow and thrive under his direction.”

To learn more about the Brunswick Interagency Program, visit www.brunswickcc.edu.

June 2025

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A Legacy of Support and Generosity

On Tuesday, January 28th, ���سԹ� (BCC) came together to celebrate and honor a family whose generosity has touched countless lives. The newly dedicated KTJ Food Pantry, located in Building E, now stands as a lasting tribute to Katie Juda and the Juda family’s unwavering commitment to supporting BCC’s Brunswick Interagency Program (BIP) students.

For over a decade, Wes, Diane, and Katie Juda have been a cornerstone of support for students facing challenges, providing critical aid in areas like food security, utility bills, clothing, and emergency needs. Their efforts have consistently lifted students during difficult times, leaving a lasting impact that goes far beyond the walls of the College.

A Beacon of Hope on Campus

The KTJ Food Pantry ensures that every BIP student has access to essential food resources—both on campus and at home. More than just a resource, the pantry represents hope, stability, and compassion for students navigating personal challenges. By removing the burden of food insecurity, the pantry allows students to focus on their education and personal growth, embodying BCC’s mission to foster success and well-being.

Reflecting on the significance of this dedication, Teresa Nelson, Executive Director of the Foundation of BCC, shared heartfelt words: “The Juda family has exemplified what it means to make a difference. Their dedication to supporting students in need reflects the values we uphold at BCC, and we are proud to recognize their contributions through the KTJ Food Pantry.”

Extending Their Reach Beyond the Pantry

The Juda family’s contributions go well beyond the food pantry. Their passion for community service includes supporting initiatives like supported employment, community engagement, and the Special Olympics. Thanks to their advocacy, BCC and Brunswick County have become more inclusive and supportive spaces where students with diverse abilities can thrive.

About the Brunswick Interagency Program (BIP)

BIP is a nationally recognized program dedicated to helping adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities integrate into campus life, achieve independence, and transition successfully into the workforce. The program provides a range of essential services, including Adult Basic Education, Employment Resources, the BIP Greenhouse and Gift Shop, and Transportation.

With its foundation built on purpose, support, friendship, and respect, BIP strives to empower students to reach their fullest potential. The KTJ Food Pantry is a perfect extension of this mission, ensuring students feel supported and valued every step of the way.

As BCC continues to prioritize student success and well-being, the KTJ Food Pantry stands as a powerful reminder of how one family’s generosity can make a world of difference. Thanks to the Juda family, BIP students can pursue their dreams with fewer obstacles and greater hope for the future.

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Congratulations to the BCC Brunswick Interagency Program students and administrators who participated in this one-of-a-kind pilot program. What a tremendous success for all involved. Thanks to your efforts, the future is brighter than ever for our students with uniquely “different” abilities. Today, the North Carolina Community College System published . Take a look and prepare to be inspired.

October 11, 2023

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When it comes to helping people with special needs, BCC’s Brunswick Interagency Program (BIP) is a standout and model for future programs in NC and nationwide. Yesterday, BCC President Gene Smith and VP Greg Bland were honored to showcase this program to several special guests and local dignitaries. Those present included William S. Carver, North Carolina Community College System Interim President; DeRee Jackson, Senior Director WIOA Programs/Gateway To Employment & Academic Readiness; Carly W. Price, Policy Advisor/NC Senate; Dr. Kimberly Gold, NCCCS Chief of Staff/Executive; Michael V. Lee, Senator (District 9), and Lisa Estep, NCCCS State Board Member.

BIP Director LeAnn Cecil, and advisory member Wes Juda, provided an inside look at this unique program that helps students reach their full potential, become more independent, and fully participate in their communities. Visitors toured the facility, including BIP’s Brunswick Blooms Greenhouse, observed instruction, interviewed students, and observed the program’s transitional crew use commercial lawn equipment. BIP has received grant funding that establishes best practices for providing vocational training for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This important work will be shared with other community colleges later this year.

To learn more about BIP, visit our website at /home/find-a-program/brunswick-interagency-program-bip/, or contact the program director at cecill@brunswickcc.edu.

Article Date: November 22, 2022

Photo Caption (top of page, l to r): William S. Carver, North Carolina Community College System Interim President; DeRee Jackson, Senior Director WIOA Programs/Gateway To Employment & Academic Readiness; Carly W Price, Policy Advisor/NC Senate; Dr. Kimberly Gold, NCCCS Chief of Staff/Executive; Greg Bland, VP; Michael V. Lee, Senator (District 9), Lisa Estep, NCCCS State Board Member, and BCC President Gene Smith

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If you want to feel both excited and inspired, click on the link below to read a Star News story about Shanequa Hill. Shanequa was just named the North Carolina Special Olympics Athlete of the Year! She is a student at the Brunswick Interagency Program at BCC and remarkable in every way. We are so proud of Shanequa and grateful to everyone who supported her on this journey. We know that even greater things are ahead. Her smile says it all! Congratulations, Shanequa! 

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Pictured are (l to r): Dr. Lois Smith, Executive VP and Chief Academic Officer; Greg Bland, Vice President Continuing Ed., Economic & Workforce Development; Wes Juda, Supported Employment Business Liaison; LeAnn Cecil, Director, Brunswick Interagency Program (BIP); Lynn Smith, Community Supported Employment Services Coordinator; Kamin Brennan, Coordinator for Community and Donor Relations; Sheila Galloway, Vice President of Budget and Finance/CFO; Gene Smith, President

On Sept 24th, ���سԹ� (Brunswick Interagency Program) was recognized as the 2021 winner of the North Carolina Community College Adult Educator’s Association Innovation Award. This award recognizes creativity, innovative program design, management practices, and excellent student services in continuing education. The award was based on the Project Search initiative, which creates employment opportunities for students with intellectual/developmental disabilities.

For many years, ���سԹ� has been a state leader in services for people with disabilities. This most recent effort is a collaboration between ���سԹ�, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, Brunswick County Schools, ���سԹ� Foundation, and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.

The project enables students to experience the following learning activities on-site at Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center: classroom instruction, employability skills, literacy, supported employment and job coaching, and evaluation. This serves students on lower levels of literacy and enables Novant to address high turnover rates and workforce gaps that exist among entry-level positions. Project Search is a win for both the student and the employer. The goal for each program participant is competitive employment.

Vice President Greg Bland stated that “competitive employment is the goal, the most rewarding outcome, for many of our students with special abilities. Competitive employment is a mainstream experience that ensures people with I/DD are working and serving alongside others who do not have a disability. Employment brings income but, more importantly, it brings a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and confidence. Seeing this occur in our community is extremely rewarding for our team. The students involved in this initiative are the most loyal, hardest working people in our community.”

A closer look at Project Search shows the Project Search location, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, is completely integrated, and the students have the same advancement opportunities as other employees. Project Search has provided real-life work experience combined with training in employability and independent-living skills to make successful transitions to productive adult life. Through a series of three targeted internships, the interns acquire competitive, marketable and transferable skills to enable them to apply for a related position. Interns also build communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills which is important to their overall development as an employee. Working from a task list, they acquire the core skills necessary to be hired in an entry-level position at the host business site or in the community. The Innovation Award highlighted that employment specialists, Brunswick County Schools instructors, and Novant Health employees are working together to provide an amazing environment for students.

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