HICKORY, N.C. — Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) was recognized during the 2026 North Carolina Community College System Conference as one of the first eight North Carolina Community Colleges to sign an agreement through North Carolina Central University’s Eagle Connect Program. The partnership marks CVCC’s first articulation agreement with a historically Black college or university (HBCU). CVCC was recognized by Dr. Karrie Dixon, Chancellor of North Carolina Central University (NCCU), and Dr. Brian Merritt, Senior Vice President and Chief Academic Officer of the North Carolina Community College System Office, as one of the first institutions to sign an agreement through the Eagle Connect Program.

“Eagle Connect strengthens our commitment to expanding educational access by creating seamless transfer pathways that help students transition successfully from North Carolina community colleges to North Carolina Central University,” said Dr. Ontario Wooden, NCCU Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

The Eagle Connect Program provides guaranteed admission to NCCU for CVCC students who have earned an associate in arts (A.A) or an associate in science (A.S.) degree. It also waives the $50 application fee and offers transferring students assistance with selecting courses and early registration. Eligible students may also receive transfer scholarships through NCCU and explore additional ways to make a four-year degree more affordable.

“We are proud to have established our first HBCU agreement with North Carolina Central University,” stated Dr. Garrett D. Hinshaw, president of Catawba Valley Community College. “Through the Eagle Connect program, qualifying CVCC students are eligible for guaranteed admission to NCCU, creating a seamless pathway to continue their education and achieve their academic goals.”

“We are excited about this partnership and the opportunities it will create for students throughout our service area,” said Dr. Felicia Simmons, CVCC Vice President for College Access and Engagement. “This agreement represents an important step in expanding access to higher education, strengthening transfer pathways, and opening doors to new possibilities for our students.”

For more information about the Eagle Connect Program, please visit the CVCC website or contact April Harper, Director of Enrollment Management at [email protected]. Plan your visit with a CVCC College Transfer Enrollment Manager today to learn more about this exciting opportunity.