SALISBURY, N.C. – Rowan-Cabarrus Community College student Kylie Baucom has been honored with the 2025 Outstanding eLearning Student Award by the Instructional Technology Council (ITC). This national recognition highlights her dedication, academic excellence and commitment to student engagement in an online learning environment.
“Kylie exemplifies the resilience and determination that make online learning a valuable opportunity for students balancing education with work and family responsibilities,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of Rowan-Cabarrus. “Her achievements highlight the power of eLearning and the support systems that help students achieve their goals. We celebrate Kylie for proving what’s possible when students have the right support and flexible learning opportunities.”
Baucom is a full-time student pursuing an associates in arts degree in business administration, who has excelled in her studies while managing the responsibilities of being a mother to two young children. She chose online learning for its flexibility, allowing her to continue her education without sacrificing time with her family. Since beginning her studies, she has maintained a 4.0 GPA and actively contributes to the college community as a Student Ambassador, with plans to graduate in May 2026.
In addition to her academic success, Baucom has been a voice for non-traditional students, sharing her experiences as a panelist at the North Carolina Adult Learner Conference. She also participated in Community College Day in Raleigh, advocating for the vital role of community colleges in changing lives, building futures and strengthening communities. Her insights on balancing higher education with work and family responsibilities have inspired others to embrace online learning as a viable and rewarding path.
“The flexibility of online courses has allowed me to pursue my education while balancing responsibilities as a full-time student and a parent,” said Baucom. “As a mother of two young children, having the ability to learn on my own schedule has been essential. Online learning not only has allowed me to achieve my goals, but it has also shown me that I can thrive academically without sacrificing time with my family.”
The ITC Outstanding eLearning Student Award recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding performance in online education. Baucom’s recognition highlights how eLearning has allowed her to pursue her education while balancing the demands of motherhood, showing that flexible and accessible learning can make higher education possible for students in all stages of life. Her story reflects the impact of hard work, support and the opportunities online education provides.
“Kylie’s journey is a powerful example of how online learning can open doors that adult and working learners may not even know exist,” said Dr. Natasha Lipscomb, vice president of Student Success Services. “She has not only excelled academically but has become a meaningful voice for other adult students navigating similar paths. Kylie’s success is proof of how important accessible online pathways are for today’s diverse student population.”
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College remains committed to providing high-quality online learning opportunities that support students in achieving their academic and career goals. With more than 250 online courses and many fully online degree, diploma and certificate options, the College offers flexible pathways for students looking to further their education while balancing work and family responsibilities.
In addition to traditional online courses, Rowan-Cabarrus also provides HyFlex options, allowing students to choose between attending classes in person or online based on their needs from week to week. All eLearning students have access to essential college resources, including library services, advising and tutoring, ensuring they receive the support needed to succeed. The College congratulates Baucom on this well-deserved recognition and encourages students to explore the many opportunities available through online learning at Rowan-Cabarrus.