The Manning Rotary Club welcomed Misty Hatfield, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Central Carolina Technical College, as its guest speaker during their Sept. 24 meeting.
Hatfield, who has more than 20 years of experience in higher education, healthcare and the military, shared updates on the college’s leadership, facilities and enrollment, with a focus on Clarendon County students.
CCTC recently hired a new president from Horry Georgetown Technical College, bringing fresh energy and experience to the institution, Hatfield said. She also highlighted the college’s newest addition—a three-story academic and student services building on the Sumter campus that opened last fall, the first new construction in decades.
Closer to home, Hatfield noted that about 323 Clarendon County students are currently enrolled through CCTC, with nearly 20 percent participating as dual-enrolled high schoolers. Programs in HVAC, welding, mechatronics and health sciences continue to see growth locally. However, she emphasized the challenges of balancing shared space at the F.E. DuBose Career Center with Clarendon County School District, particularly as colleges and high schools operate differently in terms of security and student expectations. Plans are in place to create a separate entrance for college students to improve their campus experience.
Hatfield also discussed the rise of online learning, pointing out that nearly half of CCTC’s students take courses exclusively online. The college has responded with new support measures, including mandatory technology training to help nontraditional students adapt to virtual learning platforms.
Looking ahead, CCTC is pursuing new academic programs, including radiologic technology, physical therapy assistant and expanded computer science offerings. Workforce training remains a priority, with successful CDL and health sciences programs serving regional needs.
Hatfield closed by emphasizing the college’s commitment to retention and workforce placement, noting that 92 percent of CCTC graduates are employed in their field of study. She also encouraged continued community support through scholarships, partnerships and participation in upcoming events.
