FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Slappy, Chief Communications and Public Relations Officer
410-386-8184 | lslappy@carrollcc.edu
Carroll Community College Hosts Inaugural Carroll Catalyst Executive Leadership Summit to Shape the Future of Workforce and Community Leadership
More than 20 regional leaders from business, government, small business, and nonprofit organizations attended Carroll Community College's inaugural Carroll Catalyst Executive Leadership Summit on September 25, 2025—a day dedicated to bold ideas, collaboration, and charting the course for the region's workforce and economy.
The summit opened with remarks from College President Dr. Rosalie Mince and Board of Trustees member Greg Kahlert, who welcomed participants and underscored the College’s commitment to innovation, access, and community impact. “Workforce readiness has never been more important,” said Dr. Mince. “With your insight and partnership, we can design a future that positions Carroll County as a leader in skills development and economic vitality.”
The event marked a bold step forward in shaping the region’s workforce and economic future—and introduced a powerful new resource for organizations ready to lead with intention: the Foresight Playbook, developed by the College’s Business Solutions department.
Mr. Kahlert highlighted the College’s new strategic plan, anchored by the pillars of Enter to Learn, Experience, and Earn. “These pillars are not just aspirational—they are actionable,” he said. “They reflect the values of our institution and the vision of our Futures Think Tank, which will shape a plan that is both ambitious and grounded in the needs of our region.”
A Day of Engagement and Vision
The summit agenda featured interactive sessions, including a PESTEL (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, Legal) analysis, group exercises on growth strategies, and “Imagine” reflection activities. Participants explored the challenges and opportunities facing higher education and the local workforce, including demographic shifts, declining interest in traditional college pathways, and the integration of technology, as well as the need for alternative routes to employment.
“IBEW Local 24 was pleased to participate in Carroll Community College’s leadership summit. The opportunity to work with our community partners to advance our common goals of workplace training and skill development is timely. I look forward to working with CCC to further our common interests in helping our neighbors gain the knowledge and skills to achieve success in the field of their choice,” said Michael McHale, Business Manager of IBEW Local 24.
A summary of participant reflections revealed a strong interest in expanding offerings in fields such as business management, cybersecurity, and agricultural technology. Attendees emphasized the importance of critical thinking, adaptability, and soft skills, as well as the need for robust partnerships with local businesses, unions, and youth organizations.
Recommendations included:
A highlight of the summit was the announcement of the new President’s Advisory Board, a collaborative group designed to formalize ongoing engagement between the College and its partners in business, government, and the nonprofit sector. Interest in joining the Advisory Board was exceptionally high, with leaders from across the county and region eager to participate.
The Advisory Board will play a pivotal role in:
“Your willingness to serve on the President’s Advisory Board is a powerful acknowledgment of our shared goals and mutual respect,” said Dr. Mince. “This board will help us ensure that Carroll continues to be a catalyst for opportunity, economic growth, and regional prosperity.”
PHOTO CAPTION:
More than 20 regional leaders from business, government, small business, and nonprofit organizations attended Carroll Community College's inaugural Carroll Catalyst Executive Leadership Summit on September 25, 2025.
