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NC East Alliance Launches Health Science Technical Academy with Support from Camber Foundation

NCEast Alliance — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:34:48 +0000

Eastern, NC [September 9,2025] – NC East Alliance, in collaboration with College of the Albemarle (COA), seven county school districts, and regional healthcare partners, announces the launch of the Health Science Technical Academy (HSTA) at College of the Albemarle. This planning grant initiative, supported by Camber Foundation, is focused on transforming the healthcare workforce pipeline across seven rural counties in northeastern North Carolina.

“This initiative is about more than filling jobs, it’s about building futures and strengthening communities,” said Vann Rogerson, CEO, NC East Alliance, “we’re laying the groundwork for a healthcare workforce that reflects and serves our region.”

The COA region, which includes Chowan, Camden, Dare, Currituck, Gates, Perquimans, and Pasquotank Counties, faces significant healthcare workforce challenges. The region experiences an 88% RN churn rate, the highest in North Carolina, with nurse-to-population ratios ranging from 21.3 to 25.4 per 10,000 residents, only one-fourth of the state average. Community college attrition in health sciences programs stands at 44%, with just 56 out of 100 students completing their studies. Although four-year graduates achieve an 86% graduation rate, many leave rural areas within two years. By 2033, nearly 20% of RNs in several counties will reach retirement age.

The HSTA initiative is designed to build a sustainable, locally rooted healthcare workforce by engaging students from middle school through postsecondary training. The projected reach of the program is 6,000 students.

With support from Camber Foundation, the planning phase will include several key activities. The team will host Lunch and Learn sessions with healthcare leaders and educators. Curriculum development sessions will be held to co-design three full-day summer camps at COA campuses in Manteo, Elizabeth City, and Edenton. Partnerships and cohort selection processes will be finalized, with a focus on the 8th-to-9th grade transition. A scoring rubric will be created for student applications. Finally, regional planning efforts will be coordinated.

“We recognize the critical need to grow the healthcare workforce in Eastern North Carolina, and our commitments to supporting workforce development and access to healthcare drive our interest in seeing this program get up and running,” said Leslie Ann Jackson, Camber Foundation’s president and CEO. “By engaging local students early and supporting them every step of the way, this program has the potential to develop the next generation of healthcare professionals, who will be deeply connected to the communities they serve.”

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STEM East Announces Inaugural Industry in Schools Week

NCEast Alliance — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:00:53 +0000

Eastern North Carolina – [April 1, 2025] – STEM East is proud to announce its inaugural Industry in Schools Week, a weeklong celebration of STEM education and workforce development, scheduled for April 5-12. This first-of-its-kind regional initiative will feature over 40 events, hosted in partnership with regional community colleges and industry leaders, designed to expose students to the exciting career opportunities available in eastern North Carolina.

“Industry in Schools Week is about connecting students to real career paths right here in their own communities,” said Bruce Middleton, Executive Director, STEM East. “By partnering with our regional businesses and community colleges, we’re providing students with hands-on experiences that can shape their future career choices and strengthen our local workforce.”

To ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate, STEM East is offering transportation funding to school districts. Funding amounts range from $500 to $1,500, depending on student enrollment, to help offset transportation costs associated with attending Industry in Schools Week events. Schools are encouraged to register for events and submit their participation details to STEM East to qualify for reimbursement.

This initiative aligns with STEM East’s mission to bridge education and workforce development, ensuring that students are aware of the high-demand careers available in industries such as biopharma, aerospace, energy, advanced manufacturing, and more. Industry in Schools Week is a vital step toward preparing students for successful, growing careers in eastern North Carolina.

To learn more about Industry in Schools Week, explore participating events, or register, please contact Ethan Lenker, Director of Industry Partnerships, STEM East at lenker@nceast.org.

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NC East Alliance Welcomes Lauren Phillips Raynor as Director of Marketing and Communications

NCEast Alliance — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:00:11 +0000

Eastern North Carolina – [March 31, 2025] – NC East Alliance is pleased to announce the appointment of Lauren Phillips Raynor as the organization’s new Director of Marketing and Communications. Raynor has a dynamic background in marketing, most recently serving as Director of Marketing and Communications for the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce.

With a strong background in digital media, branding, event marketing, and community engagement, Raynor has been instrumental in driving visibility and outreach efforts in eastern North Carolina. At the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce, she managed social media strategy, promotional content, and advertising initiatives, including overseeing the production of Glimpse Magazine. Her leadership in marketing has enhanced regional economic and business development efforts, making her an ideal fit for this new role.

“I am excited to join NC East Alliance and continue working to promote the incredible opportunities and assets of eastern North Carolina,” said Raynor. “This region is special, and I look forward to helping shape the messaging that attracts investment, talent, and growth.”

As Director of Marketing and Communications, Raynor will lead strategic marketing initiatives, brand management, and digital communications to support NC East Alliance’s various initiatives. She will work closely with NC East Alliance leadership, regional partners, and stakeholders to strengthen the visibility and impact of the organization’s mission.

A graduate of Meredith College, Raynor holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sports Science with a minor in Communications, as well as a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Digital Communication. She is also a graduate of the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute.

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Hands-On Training Brings FIRST Robotics to More Schools in Eastern North Carolina

NCEast Alliance — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:00:03 +0000

Eastern North Carolina – On Saturday March 22 and Sunday March 23, educators from across eastern North Carolina gathered at D.H. Conley High School in Greenville for a day of hands-on learning, inspiration, and innovation during the STEM East FIRST Robotics Investigation and Awareness Workshop. This immersive professional development event, hosted by STEM East, is a major step forward in expanding access to FIRST Robotics programming throughout the region.

Led by Julia Wagner, Director of Education & Programs for FIRST North Carolina, and Dr. Bill McClung, Professor at East Carolina University’s College of Engineering and Technology and long-time FIRST coach, the workshop provided aspiring coaches with practical training to help launch robotics teams in their own schools. Educators from 13 different schools across the STEM East network participated in this inaugural event, representing a broad commitment to expanding STEM opportunities for students in rural and underserved communities.

“STEM education is crucial to preparing students for the future workforce, and robotics programs like FIRST provide an incredible opportunity for hands-on learning,” said Dr. Patrick Miller, Director of District Engagement & Support for STEM East. “By equipping educators with the tools to lead these teams, we are opening doors for more students to participate in robotics competitions, develop critical problem-solving skills, and explore careers in engineering and technology.”

This workshop is part of STEM East’s broader initiative to grow FIRST Robotics programs in high schools throughout the 29-county NC East Alliance region. The event featured robot demonstrations, guidance on team organization and fundraising, and connections with current coaches and mentors. Attendees also received invitations to attend a live FIRST Robotics competition the following day, providing them with firsthand insight into the energy and teamwork that define these events.

NC East Alliance and STEM East are proud to support this effort with funding assistance and continued professional development, ensuring educators have the resources they need to spark interest in robotics and engineering in their classrooms. With overwhelming interest in this initial session, plans are already underway for future workshops and expanded support.

For more information on upcoming FIRST Robotics events, team startup support, or how to bring STEM East initiatives to your school, contact Dr. Patrick C. Miller (pmiller@nceast.org).

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Mark Hill Named Comptroller of NC East Alliance

NCEast Alliance — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 12:00:35 +0000

[Eastern North Carolina] — NC East is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Hill as Comptroller. Reporting directly to the President/CEO, Hill will play a pivotal role in leading the organization’s financial management efforts, ensuring financial integrity, and aligning fiscal practices with NC East’s mission and core values.

“Mark Hill’s extensive experience in financial leadership and non-profit management makes him an invaluable asset to NC East Alliance,” said Vann Rogerson President and CEO of NC East Alliance. “His expertise will help ensure the financial integrity of our organization, allowing us to continue driving economic growth and opportunity throughout eastern North Carolina.”

As Comptroller, Hill will be responsible for overseeing budgeting, accounting, and cash management, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations. He will work closely with the leadership team to develop strategies that secure financial resources while mitigating financial and operational risks. His role also includes supervising grant financial management, managing investment accounts, and providing financial stewardship for real estate development and capital planning. Additionally, Hill will oversee the organization’s IT systems in coordination with external vendors and manage employee benefits enrollment and renewals.

Hill brings over 33 years of accounting experience, including 31 years in the non-profit sector and 27 years in management. Prior to joining NC East, he served as Controller at Down East Partnership for Children, where he managed a $7 million budget and led process improvements. Previously, he was Finance Director, HR Director, and IT Director at Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments, overseeing a $14 million budget and playing a key role in financial operations and technology advancements.

“NC East Alliance is moving in a great direction in Eastern NC across many sectors,” said Hill. “I am excited to be working with such a dynamic team impacting the lives in our region.”

Hill’s qualified background in accounting and large budget management make him a wonderful addition to NC East. His familiarity with the financial operation of the non-profit world points to his ability to handle this position with integrity. Hill holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Pensacola Christian College. His extensive experience in financial leadership, compliance, and operational efficiency will be instrumental in supporting NC East’s growth and long-term sustainability.

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STEM East Hosts Lunch and Learn Series to Strengthen Career Pathways in Eastern North Carolina

NCEast Alliance — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:00:40 +0000

Eastern North Carolina – [March 10, 2025] – STEM East, an initiative of NC East Alliance, recently hosted a successful Lunch and Learn series aimed at strengthening career pathway awareness in eastern North Carolina. The sessions brought together career development coordinators (CDCs), middle and high school counselors, and career center advisors to discuss regionally significant career clusters and strategies for integrating industry connections into education.

There were three sessions held across the region, hosted by Craven Community College’s VOLT Center, Edgecombe Community College, and College of the Albemarle (CoA). The sessions engaged a total of 88 attendees representing 25 school districts and six community colleges. Participants explored the career clusters currently supported by STEM East’s Industry in Schools program, which include:

Aviation
Biopharma
Blue Economy
Energy Sector
Health Science
Smart Agriculture

These industries play a crucial role in eastern North Carolina’s economy, and STEM East is committed to ensuring that students have access to career pathways that align with their interests and regional workforce needs.

The Lunch and Learn sessions featured a presentation from Jamie Vaughn, Senior Analyst for Market Intelligence at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, who provided insight into labor market data and career development plans for students in grades 5 and 10. Natasha Roberson, a career center coordinator at Martin Community College, also co-presented, emphasizing the importance of equipping educators with the tools to guide students toward sustainable, in-demand careers.

“Educators are key in connecting students to career opportunities,” said Bruce Middleton, Director of STEM East. “By increasing awareness of industry needs and integrating real-world career examples into classroom instruction, we can better prepare students for the workforce and keep talent within our region.”

Each session also highlighted NCcareers.org, an essential resource for students to explore career options and build career development plans.

With Industry in Schools Leadership Institutes serving as a foundation, STEM East continues to collaborate with regional partners to enhance career exploration opportunities. These efforts ensure that educators can effectively guide students toward pathways in high-growth industries that support economic development in eastern North Carolina.

For more information about STEM East’s workforce development initiatives, please contact:

Trey Goodson
Chief Information Officer, NC East Alliance
Phone: (252) 814-0484
Email: goodson@nceast.org

About NC East Alliance & STEM East

STEM East is an education and workforce development initiative of NC East Alliance, a regional economic development organization dedicated to promoting growth in eastern North Carolina. Through programs like Industry in Schools and collaborative partnerships, STEM East bridges the gap between education and industry, ensuring that students have the skills and knowledge to thrive in the region’s workforce. The NC East Alliance model of combining economic development, education, workforce development, and marketing is a unique and innovative solution for rural economic development.

This Lunch and Learn series is another step forward in preparing eastern North Carolina’s students for meaningful, high-demand careers while strengthening the connection between education and industry.

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STEM East Awards Fall Outreach Grants to Community College Network Members, Engaging Over 1,000 Participants

NCEast Alliance — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:00:47 +0000

Eastern North Carolina – [March 3, 2025] – STEM East, an initiative of NC East Alliance, awarded Fall Outreach Grants to STEM East Community College Network members, supporting STEM-focused events across eastern North Carolina. The grants enabled 1,038 students, educators, and community members to participate in hands-on STEM learning experiences, fostering interest in high-demand careers.

The Fall 2024 STEM Outreach Grants funded a wide range of programs, including engineering camps, coding workshops, STEM career exploration days, and industry skill development sessions. These events, hosted by community colleges across the region, introduced students to career pathways in mechanical engineering, computer science, environmental science, forensics, industrial technology, and more.

Among the many successful programs, Wayne Community College’s Fire Pit Design and Construction Camp saw direct enrollment results, with students choosing to pursue advanced technical training after attending. Tiffany Creech, Director of Grants Development & Management at Wayne Community College, shared the impact of these events, stating:

“We are happy to report that two students from the camp are now enrolled in blueprint reading, two other students are now enrolled in WCC’s engineering program, and one other student is now enrolled in the machining program. These camps are great outreach and recruiting tools for the college and go a long way toward getting students interested in high-wage programs simply by taking part in a fun and engaging STEM camp!”

Key Fall STEM Outreach Grant-Funded Events:

Beaufort County CC – Careers in Engineering (60 students)
Carteret CC – MLK STEM Youth Camp in partnership with NC Central University (25 students)
College of The Albemarle – Star Nights & Hour of Code (151 students & parents)
Craven CC – STEM Connections (150 students)
Halifax CC – Skilled Industry Days (60 students)
Lenoir CC – STEM Boat Race (110 students)
Martin CC – STEM Day Camps (69 students)
Pamlico CC – Fall Into STEM (175 students)
Pitt CC – EASE: Effective & Authentic Science Events (185 students)
Roanoke-Chowan CC – STEM Outreach Days (19 students)
James Sprunt CC – Professional Development for Teachers (20 teachers)
Wayne CC – Fire Pit Design & Construction (14 students)

Bridging Education and Industry

These outreach events reflect STEM East’s and NC East Alliance’s commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have access to regional career opportunities. By partnering with community colleges, K-12 educators, and industry professionals, STEM East is helping to create a pipeline of skilled talent ready to enter North Carolina’s high-growth industries such as engineering, advanced manufacturing, and health sciences.

“Through these outreach grants, our community colleges are equipping students with the skills and awareness needed to pursue careers in STEM fields that drive our regional economy,” said Wesley Beddard, STEM East Consultant. “Providing hands-on experiences and industry connections at an early age increases the likelihood of students staying engaged and pursuing careers in high-demand fields here in eastern North Carolina.”

Looking Ahead

STEM East and NC East Alliance remain committed to expanding workforce development initiatives and strengthening the connection between education and industry. By continuing to support programs like the Fall STEM Outreach Grants, the region is ensuring that students have clear pathways to meaningful careers that support the economic growth of eastern North Carolina.

These grants are just one example of how STEM East and NC East Alliance are working to bridge the gap between education and workforce needs, ensuring that eastern North Carolina remains a hub for innovation, talent development, and economic growth.

About NC East Alliance and STEM East:

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STEM East and Eastern North Carolina School Districts attending Strategic Planning Institute at the Smithsonian Science Education Center

NCEast Alliance — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 13:00:12 +0000

Eastern North Carolina – [February 24, 2025] – STEM East, an initiative of NC East Alliance, is partnering with eight STEM East member school districts to participate in the Strategic Planning Institute (SPI) hosted by the Smithsonian Science Education Center in Washington, DC. From February 24-28, 2025, educational leaders from across eastern North Carolina will convene at the National Museum of the American Indian on the Smithsonian National Mall for an intensive, week-long strategic planning program.

The Strategic Planning Institute provides school district leaders with the tools and expertise necessary to develop and implement comprehensive STEM education strategies. Throughout the week, teams will evaluate their district’s current STEM programming, align their curricula with regional workforce needs, and foster stronger community and industry partnerships. The ultimate goal is to create sustainable improvements in STEM education that enhance student engagement and prepare the next generation for high-demand careers in eastern North Carolina.

“Hyde County Schools is excited to partner with STEM East, the North Carolina Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Center (NCSMT), and the Smithsonian Science Education Center to strengthen STEM education for our students,” said Dr. Melanie R. Shaver, Superintendent of Hyde County Schools. “By aligning our district’s efforts with regional workforce needs and leveraging community partnerships, we are committed to ensuring that our students are prepared for the opportunities of tomorrow. This collaboration will allow us to build a strategic and sustainable STEM foundation that connects learning in the classroom to real-world applications, empowering our students in rural, Northeastern North Carolina to become our region’s future innovators and problem-solvers.”

By participating in the Strategic Planning Institute, these school districts are taking a proactive approach to strengthening STEM education, bridging the gap between classroom learning and workforce needs, and fostering a culture of innovation and career readiness. The Smithsonian Science Education Center’s guidance and resources will support these districts in developing actionable plans that align with best practices, industry trends, and community-driven STEM initiatives.

Bruce Middleton, Executive Director, STEM East Dr. Patrick Miller, Director of District Engagement and Support, STEM East, and Dr. Ethan Lenker, Director of Industry Engagement and Support, STEM East are all attending the SPI along with the STEM East member school district representatives. “The Strategic Planning Institute allows our school districts to engage in critical discussions that will shape the future of STEM education in our region,” said Bruce Middleton, Executive Director of STEM East. “By collaborating with the Smithsonian Science Education Center and our local industry partners, we are ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive in the workforce.”

The following STEM East member school districts are participating in the SPI: Wilson County Schools, Nash County Public Schools, Martin County Schools, Edenton-Chowan Public Schools, Edgecombe County Public Schools, Wayne County Public Schools, Hyde County Schools, and Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools.

Following the Strategic Planning Institute, STEM East and participating school districts will begin implementing their strategic STEM action plans, working alongside local industries, educators, and workforce development organizations to drive meaningful, long-term improvements in STEM education throughout eastern North Carolina.

For more information about STEM East, its partnership with the Smithsonian Science Education Center, and its ongoing efforts to expand STEM education and workforce development opportunities in eastern North Carolina, please contact:

Trey Goodson
Chief Information Officer, NC East Alliance
Phone: (252) 814-0484
Email: goodson@nceast.org

About STEM East & NC East Alliance

STEM East is an education and workforce development initiative of NC East Alliance, a regional economic development organization dedicated to promoting growth in eastern North Carolina. Through education-industry partnerships, strategic planning, and workforce training, STEM East ensures that students are equipped with the skills and opportunities needed to excel in high-growth STEM industries. The NC East Alliance model of combining economic development, education, workforce development, and marketing is a unique and innovative solution for rural economic development.

This partnership exemplifies STEM East and NC East Alliance’s commitment to building a strong, sustainable STEM education pipeline, ensuring that eastern North Carolina’s students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

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Vision 2025 | Celebrating Success and Envisioning Tomorrow

NCEast Alliance — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 13:40:10 +0000

Thank you to 400+ attendees who were able to join us at Vision 2025 to celebrate Eastern North Carolina. We look forward to partnering and working with each and every one of you to work towards economic prosperity throughout the region. Please see the linked presentations and videos below.

Laura’s Vision 2025 Slides

Vision 2025 NC East Slides

Vision 2024 Recap Video

East Rising Interview with Nucor Steel

STEM East Industry In Schools Recap Video

Vision 2025 Agenda

NC East Alliance Initiatives

STEM East Community College Partners

Thank you to our Vision 2025 Sponsors!

STEM East School District Partners

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Bianca Gentile Shoneman Named Vice President of Community Development at NC East Alliance

NCEast Alliance — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 13:00:08 +0000

Eastern North Carolina — The NC East Alliance is proud to announce the appointment of Bianca Gentile Shoneman as Vice President of Community Development. Shoneman brings a wealth of experience in urban and rural economic development, community revitalization, and strategic planning to her new role with the Alliance, a leading organization dedicated to driving economic growth in eastern North Carolina.

“Bianca’s proven track record of fostering economic vitality through innovative initiatives and her passion for rural development make her an exceptional fit for our team,” said Todd Edwards, Chair of NC East Alliance. “Her leadership will be instrumental in furthering our mission to enhance the quality of life and economic opportunities across eastern North Carolina.”

As Vice President of Community Development, Shoneman will oversee the Alliance’s initiatives aimed at Community Development Planning and Impact, Leader and Talent Engagement, and Regional Systems outreach.

Shoneman joins NC East Alliance following her tenure as President and CEO of the Cool Spring Downtown District in Fayetteville, NC. Under her leadership, the organization experienced unprecedented growth, including a tripling of its budget, a 21% increase in the value of the Municipal Service District, the successful launch of the Safety and Engagement Ambassador Program and the Can-Do Coldwell Banker Trolley system. She and her team curated over 100 free community events and numerous placemaking initiatives including Prismatica, Old Street Oasis, and Arts Alley. Previously, she also led Uptown Greenville through significant revitalization efforts, attracting over 600,000 square feet of new residential and commercial development.

“I am honored to join NC East Alliance at such an exciting time,” said Shoneman. “Eastern North Carolina holds tremendous potential, and I am eager to collaborate with partners across the region to drive innovative solutions for economic development, workforce advancement, and community enrichment.”

Shoneman’s extensive background includes expertise in securing and managing federal, state, and local grants, implementing placemaking initiatives, and fostering public-private partnerships. She holds a Master of Arts in Geography with a concentration in Rural Economic Development and has been recognized for her leadership with awards such as East Carolina University’s Top Forty Under Forty and Woman of Distinction.

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