On behalf of everyone at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, we humbly thank Rowan County voters for supporting the $45 million bond referendum to allow the college to expand and improve. Because of voters, we will be able to educate future students to perform important jobs that ensure the county’s safety, prosperity and quality of life.

Rowan-Cabarrus is the fastest-growing community college in North Carolina, and our faculty and staff work hard every day to offer relevant degrees, diplomas, certifications and job skills that meet 21st century requirements. The college is dependent on the county commission and bond issues such as the one on the primary ballot for its building construction since state funds can only be used for instruction and salary purposes.

The technology education complex funded by the bond referendum will address a critical need for hands-on training to prepare our citizens for jobs of the future. This skilled local workforce will attract new business and industry so that our region can continue to grow.

At Rowan-Cabarrus, we are thankful to be trusted stewards of public funds as we work diligently to offer our citizens access to affordable, quality higher education. The bond and resulting projects will be transformational and life changing for our students and Rowan County, and we look forward to sharing the next steps in this journey with the public.

We are grateful for each and every vote of confidence in our mission to improve lives through the power of learning.

Thank you, Rowan County.

— Carol Spalding and Chip Short

Salisbury

Editor’s note: Carol Spalding is president of Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Chip Short is chair of the school’s board of trustees.