The building will provide lab space and equipment storage space for programs in WCC’s Agriculture and Natural Resources department, including Agribusiness Technology, Applied Animal Science Technology, Forest Management Technology, Sustainable Agriculture, and Turfgrass Management Technology.
The new building will also include stalls for live animals, giving students the chance to hone practical skills with livestock brought on campus.
“It’s wonderful to come together as a community to celebrate what this structure will mean not only for our students but for all of us,” WCC President Patty Pfeiffer said at the groundbreaking ceremony.
WCC Agriculture and Natural Resources Department Chair Gabe Mitchell reflected on how the programs have grown since his time as a WCC agriculture student, when receiving hands-on experience required traveling off campus.
Mitchell thanked the project’s supporters for valuing agriculture education at WCC. “This place is special, rich in tradition, innovation, and integrity,” he said. “With this addition, we are guaranteed a brighter future for Agriculture and Natural Resources here at Wayne Community College.”
The building project was fully funded by donors. Jacqueline Kannan, executive director of the Foundation of WCC, expressed gratitude for their support.
“Their generous donations reflect their passion for agriculture and higher education, and we would not be at this ceremony today without them being champions of what we aim to do each day in the lives of our students and in the community,” Kannan said.
Joe Daughtery, chairman of the Wayne County Board of Commissioners and member of WCC’s Board of Trustees, acknowledged the importance of the building for Wayne County’s economic growth. “In such an agriculturally rich region, it is essential to provide the right resources to students who are preparing to join the number one industry in North Carolina,” he said.
The agriculture building was designed by C Design and is being constructed by Jackson Builders. It is expected to be completed in the summer of 2026.
Kent Warren, president of Jackson Builders, said that the project was especially meaningful for him as he has an educational and career background in agriculture.
“Getting to contribute to a facility that will educate the next generation of agricultural leaders is something I’m truly proud of,” Warren said. “We’re honored to contribute to a project that will benefit students, families, and our agricultural community for years to come.”
