SALISBURY, N.C. – Rowan-Cabarrus Community College is pleased to recognize Hanif Miller, Work-Based Learning Coordinator, who has been named the 2025 Jon A. Young Member of the Year by the North Carolina Work-Based Learning Association. This award recognizes professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and service while strengthening connections between education and industry to expand meaningful, real-world learning experiences for students across North Carolina. Recipients are selected based on their impact on students, employers and partner institutions, as well as their dedication to the mission and values of work-based learning.
“Hanif’s work reflects the very best of Rowan-Cabarrus and the impact work-based learning can have on student success,” said Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol S. Spalding. “His commitment to connecting students with real-world opportunities and building strong employer partnerships has created pathways that help students succeed both academically and professionally.”
Miller supports work-based learning for more than 20 technical and engineering-related programs at Rowan-Cabarrus each year, helping students apply classroom instruction to hands-on, professional experiences through internships and employer partnerships. He has served as an Internship Developer at the College for 12 years and is responsible for connecting students with local employers while promoting career awareness and exploration. Since 2020, four Rowan-Cabarrus students have been named the William D. Weston Work-Based Learning Student of the Year for the state of North Carolina.
“Hanif has built strong, trusted relationships with employers while always keeping students at the center of his work,” said Rowan-Cabarrus Vice President of Workforce and Technology Dr. Zack Hubbard. “His ability to connect education with workforce needs has strengthened our Work-Based Learning programs and created lasting opportunities for both students and employers across the region.”
With more than 20 years of experience in job placement, internships and career coaching, Miller has dedicated his career to helping students successfully transition from education to employment. He has previously served the North Carolina Work-Based Learning Association as Secretary and Director at Large and currently serves as Vice President. In addition, Miller has instructed and developed content for the College’s Work-Based Learning World of Work employability skills course.
“I am truly honored to receive this recognition,” said Miller. “Work-Based Learning has the power to change students’ lives by helping them see what is possible and giving them the skills and confidence to succeed. I am grateful for the opportunity to support Rowan-Cabarrus students and to work alongside employers and colleagues who believe in the value of hands-on learning.”
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College congratulates Hanif Miller on this statewide recognition and thanks him for his continued dedication to student success, workforce development and the advancement of Work-Based Learning across North Carolina.