WILSON, N.C. – Wilson Community College has been selected to participate in the Train the East initiative after being awarded funding through the Anonymous Trust. Beginning in Summer 2026, the grant will provide significant resources to expand workforce development opportunities and improve student success across eastern North Carolina.
As part of Phase II of the Train the East initiative, Wilson Community College will receive a direct charitable grant of $250,000, distributed over two years in annual installments of $125,000. The funding does not require a matching contribution and is designed to increase student enrollment, retention, and completion by reducing financial barriers to education.
In addition to the initial award, the Wilson Community College Foundation is eligible to receive up to $50,000 in additional challenge grant funding through two separate $25,000 challenge grants. If those challenges are successfully completed, the total investment in Wilson Community College through the initiative will reach $300,000.
Grant funds will be used exclusively to support students, with resources designated for tuition assistance, books and supplies, industry-recognized certifications, work-based learning opportunities, and wraparound services such as emergency financial assistance. The College’s full allocation is dedicated to direct student support rather than institutional overhead.
The Train the East initiative seeks to increase workforce credentials, strengthen regional workforce participation, improve economic mobility, and expand educational opportunities for first-generation students. The program also addresses critical workforce shortages across eastern North Carolina while supporting the state’s myFutureNC educational attainment goals.
“This investment through the Train the East initiative represents far more than a financial award — it is a commitment to the people of eastern North Carolina,” said Jami Woods, WCC president. “By dedicating every dollar directly to students, we are removing barriers and creating pathways to life‑changing opportunities. Wilson Community College is honored to partner with the Anonymous Trust to strengthen our workforce and help our communities thrive for generations to come.”