Lawrence Rouse Awarded NC State College of Education’s 2025 Honor
Lawrence Rouse, former president of Pitt Community College and James Sprunt Community College, has been named the NC State College of Education’s 2025 Distinguished Alumnus. This recognition was conferred during a university event held on September 11, 2023. Rouse, who earned his Doctor of Education from the college in 1998, expressed his gratitude for the honor, highlighting the significant impact the education he received has had on his career.
Reflecting on his journey, Rouse shared that his high school guidance counselor had discouraged him from pursuing higher education. Contrary to that advice, he achieved remarkable academic success, earning a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Over a span of four decades, Rouse has played a pivotal role in the North Carolina Community College System, serving in various capacities that underscore his commitment to accessible education.
Rouse’s career commenced as the dean for students at Johnston Community College and later as the associate vice president for enrollment management and dean of students at Central Carolina Technical College. His leadership journey reached new heights in 2005 when he became the president of James Sprunt Community College. There, he introduced innovative programs, including a viticulture and enology curriculum and a commercial driver’s license program, aimed at enhancing workforce training for rural communities.
Under Rouse’s guidance, James Sprunt Community College earned accolades, including the North Carolina Community College President of the Year Award. In 2018, he transitioned to his role as the fifth president of Pitt Community College, where he prioritized student-centered learning and the establishment of mentorship-driven support systems. His tenure also witnessed the expansion of campus infrastructure, notably the opening of the Eddie & Jo Allison Smith Center for Student Advancement.
Rouse emphasized that the most fulfilling aspect of his career has been participating in commencement ceremonies, where he celebrated graduates’ achievements. “I chose education because of the power it has to positively transform individuals and their families,” he stated. His dedication to education stems from a profound belief in its ability to improve lives.
As he steps into retirement in 2024, Rouse leaves behind a legacy defined by commitment to community colleges and their critical role in the higher education landscape. His story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the transformative potential of education and the impact of perseverance in overcoming obstacles.
