Carol S. Spalding, EdD, received the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquis Who’s Who, an honor that reflects more than 15 years leading Rowan-Cabarrus Community College in North Carolina. For Dr. Spalding, the mission of advancing the abilities of students, strengthening programs and uplifting the future of community colleges has formed the centerpiece of her career.
As president of Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, Dr. Spalding guided three successful public bond referendums, each one marking a new chapter for the institution. The college’s continuous dedication to progress shone on a national stage in 2025 when the American Association of Community Colleges recognized Rowan-Cabarrus Community College as a finalist for both the Excellence in CEO/Board Relationship Award and the Outstanding College/Corporation Partnership Award.
“Community colleges are gateways to opportunity and engines for regional growth,” Dr. Spalding said, capturing the spirit driving her work. Early in her career, she shaped lives as a GED instructor, embracing opportunities in roles as grant coordinator, director, dean and provost. Dr. Spalding’s vision expanded at Florida Community College at Jacksonville, where she led the Open Campus. Under her direction, the campus grew into the largest and most dynamic within the college, enrolling more than 45,000 students annually and introducing remote degree programs for military and adult learners. This expansion not only broadened horizons for students, it reshaped expectations for what distance education could accomplish in the world of higher learning.
Leadership Woven Across Civic And Educational Communities
Dr. Spalding’s contributions have reverberated well beyond college walls. In her service on the board of the American Association of Community Colleges, she influenced national policy and academic ambition. Her work as co-chair of North Carolina’s Aspiring Community College Presidents Program set in motion opportunities for the next generation of college leaders. A summit focused on online education and artificial intelligence came together with Northern Virginia Community College and the Instructional Technology Council thanks to Dr. Spalding’s collaborative drive.
“I have always believed in blooming where you are planted and that outlook has guided me through challenges and opportunities alike,” Dr. Spalding reflected. Jacksonville’s ambitious visioning project advanced under her coordination, activating more than 1,000 volunteers beside the chamber of commerce. She played vital roles with the Jacksonville Transportation Authority and national boards committed to student engagement. Organizations such as the Rowan Economic Development Commission and Rotary International have also benefited from Dr. Spalding’s dedication, amplifying her impact throughout her career.
A Lasting Impact Through Mentorship And Engagement
Mentorship and advocacy for educational leaders have remained at the core of Dr. Spalding’s influence. Two vice presidents who worked with her at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College advanced to the presidency of sister colleges, continuing the legacy that she shaped. Having completed leadership programs at the local, state and national levels, Dr. Spalding chaired the National Association for Community Leadership Organizations, opening pathways for professionals throughout the sector.
“Staying open to possibility, persevering through challenges and being willing to change course is essential to fulfilling your purpose,” Dr. Spalding stated with conviction. The ripple effect of her leadership and mentorship continues throughout North Carolina’s community colleges, as new generations draw inspiration, guidance and momentum from her example. Through every chapter of her career, Dr. Spalding has elevated those around her, solidifying her reputation among the most impactful leaders in higher education.
About Marquis Who’s Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
