Dr. Lisa Smelser named NCCCS’s Excellence in Teaching award winner

SANFORD, N.C. – Dr. Lisa Smelser, Central Carolina Community College Executive Director of Workforce Strategic Initiatives, has been named the North Carolina Community College System’s Excellence in Teaching award winner. In addition, she is the 2024-2025 CCCC Faculty Member of the Year.

This state award recognizes outstanding faculty members who exemplify the highest quality of instruction and make significant contributions to the North Carolina Community College System.

“I am deeply honored to receive both the statewide Faculty Excellence Award and the CCCC Faculty of the Year award. This recognition is not mine alone — it reflects the meaningful relationships I’ve built with countless colleagues, mentors, and friends at CCCC and across the state,” said Dr. Smelser.

“Reflecting on what this award represents, I’m reminded of a core belief that shapes my work: relationships matter. Dr. VanZoest from the Belk Center captured this idea perfectly when she wrote, ‘The relationship between faculty and adult learners determines the extent to which adult learners succeed.’ That sentiment resonates deeply with me because it has guided everything I do — fostering meaningful connections that truly impact our students' success,” said Dr. Smelser. “But these relationships extend beyond the classroom. Our industry partners keep us accountable and inspired, and our collaborations across North Carolina’s colleges strengthen not just local programs, but our entire state.”

Dr. Smelser, who has served as Biotechnology Chair at CCCC, is a transformative educator dedicated to student success and workforce development in biotechnology.

Dr. Smelser fosters a supportive learning environment, connecting students with industry professionals and ensuring they gain hands-on experience that translates directly into career opportunities. Through innovative teaching, including the integration of the Business and Industry Leadership Team model, Dr. Smelser aligns education with industry needs, equipping students with in-demand skills.

Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, securing grants and partnerships that expand access to life sciences careers, particularly for underserved populations. Dr. Smelser’s efforts have strengthened professional networks, enhanced curriculum development, and provided students with clear pathways to high-paying, sustainable careers. Her leadership in key initiatives, including the N.C. Community Colleges Biotechnology Alignment Project and securing a $25 million EDA Build Back Better grant, has significantly advanced biotechnology education.

Central Carolina Community College President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman says of Dr. Smelser: “Her passion for student learning and student success and her artful skill in working with our employer partners is evidenced in the rebirth and success of our Biotech programming. Lisa knows how important it is that our educational pathways are truly career pathways that directly connect and prepare our students to work with the employers we serve. From ensuring appropriate KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) and designing a seamless and attainable pathway for additional education, to connecting students with targeted work-based learning experiences and building a facility designed at every level with employer input, Dr. Smelser gets it -- just ask her students!”

“Lisa Smelser emphasizes the holistic development of her students by engaging with them on a personal level. She understands their barriers and roots for them in their personal lives, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment. Her approach includes connecting students to one another to build strong professional networks and providing hands-on learning experiences that make the laboratory come alive,” said Meghan Brown, CCCC Vice President of Advancement and Operations.

Dr. Smelser played a crucial role in securing a $25 million EDA Build Back Better (BBB) NC Biotech Center grant, including $16.4 million for community colleges. This grant aims to expand training and job opportunities in life sciences manufacturing, particularly targeting underserved and historically excluded populations across North Carolina. Dr. Smelser continues to be a faculty leader and subject matter expert in the execution of this statewide project.

She also led the 2022-2023 NC Community Colleges Biotechnology Alignment Project, which focuses on standardizing and aligning biotechnology programs across the state's community colleges. This project ensures consistency in curriculum, training, and industry partnerships, making it easier for students to transition into the workforce and for employers to find skilled graduates. The Alignment Project involves collaboration with multiple community colleges, industry partners, and the North Carolina Community College System to develop a cohesive strategy for biotechnology education.

Dr. Smelser leadership extends beyond the college, as she actively participates in industry events, conferences, and is a frequent presenter in biotechnology spaces and on education and recruiting practices. Her efforts have significantly contributed to the advancement of biotechnology education and workforce development in North Carolina, making her a pivotal figure in the state's biotech landscape.

“Her unselfish devotion to her students, colleagues, and the broader community is evident in her proactive efforts to build industry partnerships, secure equipment donations, and create job opportunities for students. She is widely regarded as the gold standard for biotechnology education in North Carolina, representing CCCC and the North Carolina Community College System with the highest degree of professionalism and dedication,” said Brown.

Dr. Smelser’s specialties include creating meaningful partnerships, where she brings together diverse stakeholders to foster collaboration and innovation. She excels in leading inclusive discussions, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in the decision-making process.

“I am filled with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose,” said Dr. Smelser. “This recognition isn’t just about me — it’s about all of us and our work together. I encourage you to reach out, support one another, and remember you’re not alone in this journey. Our shared strength and commitment drive real success for our community.”

Dr. Smelser holds a Master’s degree in Biology and a Doctor of Education in Science (Biology) from Ball State University.

Dr. Smelser will be honored at the N.C. Community Colleges Awards Dinner and Celebration on April 3 at The Umstead Hotel in Cary.