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Blue Ridge Community College is a public, two-year college in the mountains of Western North Carolina, serving Henderson and Transylvania counties through affordable education, workforce training, and community partnerships.

A College Built for Our Community

Blue Ridge Community College is a public, two-year comprehensive post-secondary institution located in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The College serves Henderson and Transylvania counties through academic programs, college transfer pathways, Continuing Education, workforce training, and community partnerships.

Students can choose from more than 200 degrees, diplomas, and certificates in 30 areas of study, including health sciences, public safety, automotive technology, engineering technology, machining, and many other career-focused programs. Blue Ridge also provides one of the largest Continuing Education programs in the state and helps students access scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial support. 

Locations

Blue Ridge Community College serves students across Henderson and Transylvania counties with campus locations and services designed to support learning, career development, workforce training, and community access. 

Our Mission, Vision, and Values

Blue Ridge’s mission, vision, and values shape how the College serves students, supports employees, and strengthens the communities of Henderson and Transylvania counties.

Mission

Blue Ridge Community College empowers individuals with knowledge and skills to enrich our communities and build a competitive workforce.

Vision

Transforming lives through the power of learning.

Values

We are committed to the success of our students by adhering to the highest levels of academic and professional standards.

We demonstrate the ideals of honesty, fairness, and ethical behavior in all situations and circumstances.

We are dedicated to continuous improvement and providing the highest quality teaching, training, and service to our community.

We accept responsibility for our actions and decisions and are accountable to our students, communities, and the generations who come after us.

We are responsive and innovative when meeting the changing needs of our communities.

Strategic Plan 2025-2030

Blue Ridge Community College’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan provides a roadmap for student success, employee support, community partnerships, and long-term regional strength. The plan reflects both continuity and innovation as the College prepares for future opportunities and challenges.

Our History

Blue Ridge Community College has served Western North Carolina for more than five decades, growing from its original charter into a comprehensive community college serving Henderson and Transylvania counties. Over the years, the College has expanded its programs, campuses, and community partnerships while remaining focused on accessible education and workforce training.

Historic aerial view of the Blue Ridge Community College campus
A historic aerial view of the Blue Ridge campus in the 1970s.
  1. 1969

    Original Charter

    Henderson County Technical Institute receives its charter.

  2. 1970

    First Classes Begin

    The first full-time curriculum classes are offered.

  3. 1979

    Institute to College

    The designation changes from “Institute” to “College.”

  4. 1987

    Name Changed

    The Board of Trustees approves the name Blue Ridge Community College.

College Presidents

Dr. William D. Killian

1969 — 1987

Dr. David W. Sink, Jr.

1987 — 2007

Dr Parkhill headshot

Dr. Molly A. Parkhill

2007 — 2017

Dr Leatherwood headshot

Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood

2017 — Present

Annual Reports

Blue Ridge Community College’s Annual Report highlights accomplishments, partnerships, student achievement, donor impact, workforce development, and community success.

Latest Report: At the Center — 2024-2025 Annual Report

Accreditation & Program Approvals

Blue Ridge Community College maintains accreditation and program approvals that reflect its commitment to academic quality, transparency, and continuous improvement.

Blue Ridge Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. The College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Blue Ridge Community College may be directed to the SACSCOC:

By Mail
1866 Southern Lane
Decatur, GA 30033-4097

By Phone
(404) 679-4500

Online
www.sacscoc.org

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Accredited Institution seal logo

Blue Ridge Community College is an accredited member of the North Carolina Community College System and all programs offered by the College have been approved by the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges.

ProgramAccreditation/ Regulatory Body
NursingNorth Carolina State Board of Nursing and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Practical NursingNorth Carolina State Board of Nursing
Surgical TechnologyCommission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Emergency Medical TechnicianCommission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and NC Office of EMS
Emergency Medical ScienceCommission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and NC Office of EMS
Early Childhood Education
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Higher Education Accreditation Commission
Automotive Systems Technology
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
2026-27 Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose (V4)

Beginning the 2026-27 academic year, all “Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose” forms must be completed in the Offices of Financial Aid.