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SANFORD, N.C. - A powerful partnership between �ڰ������� and three local public school systems, Chatham, Harnett, and Lee, is changing lives, reshaping academic pathways, and delivering impressive results. With students earning both their high school diplomas and associate degrees at no cost, the early college model has proven to be a game-changer for hundreds of students, especially first-generation college-goers.

The numbers tell a compelling story. In 2024–2025 alone:

Chatham Early College -- 25 graduates, 92% earning an associate degree.

Lee Early College -- 67 graduates, 95% will earn a �ڰ������� credential.

Harnett Early College -- 20 graduates, 90% will earn a �ڰ������� credential.

According to Dr. Karla Eanes, Principal of Chatham Early College, the �ڰ������� partnership is more than just a collaboration, it's transformational.

“It’s one thing to say we partner with �ڰ������� — but it’s another to see that partnership in action,” said Dr. Eanes. “From identifying and interviewing rising 9th graders to supporting students through rigorous college coursework, to proudly placing cords on graduates earning not one, but sometimes two associate degrees — the impact is undeniable. This partnership is changing lives.”

Dr. Eanes shared the success story of one student who, just two years after graduation, is completing her nursing degree at UNC-Chapel Hill and preparing for her master’s at Johns Hopkins — at only 20 years old.

At Lee Early College, academic excellence is both expected and celebrated. Dr. Kisha Timberlake, Principal, credits the staff and the �ڰ������� partnership for creating a learning environment where students thrive.

“Lee Early College is a great place to work and learn. I’m really proud of our students for embracing the opportunity to achieve at high levels,” said Dr. Timberlake. “Our staff works extremely hard to provide enriching lessons that make learning fun, and I’m very grateful for the partnership with �ڰ������� that gives our students the best of both high school and college experiences.”

Lee Early College’s Class of 2025 includes 11 students earning multiple credentials and several students receiving top academic honors, including �ڰ�������’s prestigious Academic Excellence Award, won by an early college student for the fifth consecutive year.

Harnett Early College continues to build on its reputation for academic rigor and student achievement. In 2025, the school will surpass 200 students for the first time in its history. Dr. Jasmine Nixon, Principal, emphasized the school's commitment to student empowerment and college readiness.

“Harnett County Early College seniors exemplify dedication, resilience, and a passion for learning,” said Dr. Nixon. “Our school takes pride in offering a unique educational experience, where students not only earn their high school diploma but also gain valuable college credits. Together with �ڰ�������, we’re laying the foundation for a successful future.”

Megan Burgess, �ڰ������� Executive Director of Secondary Partnerships, notes that the success of the early colleges in the college’s service area is a direct reflection of the strong partnerships the college has with Chatham, Harnett, and Lee County Schools.

“The leadership of our principals in each building is instrumental in setting high expectations and creating a culture where students are supported and encouraged to thrive,” said Burgess. “Additionally, our Early College liaisons, Nick Testa and Fae Goodman, play a pivotal role in managing the day-to-day collaboration between the schools and the college, ensuring that initiatives remain student-centered and focused on success.”

With high graduation rates and increasing credential attainment, Early College students are graduating not only with their high school diplomas but also with a significant head start on their college and career goals.