February 12, 2024

On Friday, February 9th, Greater Winston-Salem, Inc. hosted their second annual Legislative Breakfast at the Rhoades Conference Center, marking a momentous occasion for dialogue and collaboration among key local leaders and the community. The event was graced by the presence of Representative Konika Brown, Representative Jeff Zenger, Mayor Pro Tem DD Adams, Chair of the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Don Martin, and Chair of the Board of Education Deanna Kaplan, each bringing their unique perspectives to the forefront of discussion on education, workforce development, and the evolving landscape of work.

The breakfast became a platform for insightful conversation on how Forsyth Technical Community College (Forsyth Tech) plays a crucial role in the local economy and education system. Rep. Jeff Zenger highlighted Forsyth Tech’s invaluable contribution to the community, sharing a personal note that each of his children attended the college, underscoring its exceptional value and impact. “Forsyth Tech offers a huge, huge benefit…from a consumer standpoint, for parents, it’s a huge deal, ” Zenger stated, pointing out the college’s role in not just educating, but also in shaping the future workforce. “We need workforce And in the legislature, we see the community college system as the key to that.”

Rep. Brown stressed the importance of working across the aisle, sharing a story that she and Rep. Zenger connected on her first day at the General Assembly, and have collaborated on bills and worked on more. She also encouraged the audience to reach out to their elected officials, sharing challenges and needs, as well as what is needed.

Mayor Pro Tem DD Adams addressed the challenges and opportunities presented by the new world of work. Adams emphasized the importance of adapting to changing landscapes, advocating for innovation in education and workforce development to meet the demands of tomorrow. “Adapting to the new world of work is imperative,” Adams remarked, urging the community to embrace change and prepare for the future.

The discussions underscored Forsyth Tech’s critical position as a catalyst for equitable economic mobility, empowering lives, and transforming communities in alignment with its vision. As an institution that prides itself on being “A Place of Promise,” Forsyth Tech continues to lead the way in providing access to high-quality, affordable, and relevant educational opportunities.

This Legislative Breakfast served not only as a reminder of the collaborative efforts required to navigate the future but also as a testament to the strong partnerships between Forsyth Tech and local leaders. Together, we are committed to serving our students and the community, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to pursue their dreams and succeed in the rapidly evolving world.

As we move forward, the insights shared by each speaker helped serve as a reminder to our commitment to equity, integrity, and innovation, guiding us as we continue to serve as a beacon of hope and progress in Forsyth and Stokes Counties.

Let us all take a moment to reflect on the importance of community collaboration, education, and adaptability as we strive to make Forsyth Tech and our community not just a place of promise, but a beacon of success for all.

In the words of our esteemed President, Dr. Janet Spriggs, “Every student’s success is our mission, and together, we can achieve remarkable things. Let’s continue to love and serve every student to success, embracing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

The future is bright, and together, we are blazing a trail towards a more inclusive, adaptable, and prosperous community.