SALISBURY — Winston McGregor, with The Innovation Project, asked over 100 business and community leaders to get involved with education at the Rowan Chamber of Commerce Power in Partnership breakfast on Thursday morning at Trinity Oaks. The PIP was sponsored by Global Contact Services.   

McGregor brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the event. As chief operating officer of The Innovation Project, she manages an approximately $25 million grant portfolio, working to drive innovations in small, large, urban and rural school districts across North Carolina to enhance student success. Since joining The Innovation Project in November 2023, McGregor has been a pivotal figure in fostering public-private partnerships at the national, state and local levels.  

McGregor said that chamber, realtors and Rotary Club members are where things happen in most communities. She said, quoting Author Margaret Wheatley, ”There is no power for change greater than a community who cares.” She called education “the ultimate contact sport” and said to “get under public education data” to understand how we can better help our education partners.

She encouraged business and community leaders to critique one another in one-on-one relationships and cheer loudly in public. McGregor said that when communities prosper and increase the per capita income, the socio-economic status of their citizens increases and academic achievement goes up. Leadership on school boards and county commission matters and community members should all have a good working relationship with principals, teachers and staff, she said.

“We only have 2,340 days with school students in our community and we need to have the humility to partner with the schools for their betterment,” McGregor said.

“The chamber has received very positive feedback on Winston McGregor as our PIP kick-off speaker,” said Chamber President Elaine Spalding, “We encourage everyone to get involved with our schools and not-for-profit organizations who support student success.”

The Power in Partnership breakfast series offers attendees an opportunity to enjoy a breakfast while engaging in networking, learning from industry leaders, and discussing the latest trends and challenges facing the community.

The next PIP breakfast is Oct. 17 with Todd Ward, from Red Rock Development, speaking. To make reservations or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact the Rowan Chamber at 704-633-4221 or info@rowanchamber.com.