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Harvesting Fresh Ideas! The CORE to Success! NC CORD 2026 at Haywood Community College Oct. 14-16

Harvesting Fresh Ideas: CORE To Success

2026 NC CORD Conference | October 14-16

Get ready to gather the "fruits" of your labor and cultivate new strategies in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains! Join us for the 2026 NC CORD Conference, hosted by Haywood Community College in the scenic town of Clyde and historic Waynesville, North Carolina.

Just as the local orchards prepare for the famous Apple Harvest Festival, we are coming together to harvest the freshest ideas in resource development, grant writing, and institutional advancement. This year’s theme, "CORE To Success," focuses on the essential elements that form the heart of our mission: community engagement, innovative funding, and student-centered growth.

Over three days of immersive workshops and collaborative roundtables, you will:

  • Prune outdated practices and discover new, high-yield fundraising techniques.
  • Cross-pollinate with colleagues from across the state to share "bright ideas."
  • Cider-brate our collective wins during our signature networking events and the Executive Director Lunch.

Whether you are a seasoned navigator or a new sprout in the field, this conference will provide the tools you need to ensure your programs thrive for seasons to come. Stay through the weekend to experience the charm of downtown Waynesville's Apple Festival and see first-hand why our "CORE" is so vital to North Carolina's future.

Rooted in Excellence. Growing for the Future.

Ready to Gather? Register

Just like a successful harvest, the best results come from being prepared. Secure your place at the 2026 NC CORD Conference and get ready to bring home a "bushel" of new ideas, strategies, and connections. Whether you are joining us for the full three-day experience or dropping in for a single day of learning, we have a seat at the table for you.

Need help paying for the conference? Find out more about how the Harriette McKinnon Crump Memorial Scholarship can help pay your way to this years conference!

Catch the "Early Harvest": Register by September 1 to secure Early Bird pricing.

💡 Member Advantage: Are you an active NC CORD member? Make sure you have your membership up-to-date to unlock exclusive member pricing!

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Beyond the Conference, Haywood County Explore

While our sessions provide the "seeds" for success, the beauty of Western North Carolina provides the inspiration. We encourage you to take some time to explore our host college and the stunning Haywood County landscape.

Highlights

🍽️ Eat & Drink

Plan Your Visit - When you plan a trip to the Western North Carolina mountains, leave no stone unturned and no path unexplored.

Restaurants - Whether you're in the mood for barbecue, pub fare, a quick coffee break, or a five-course meal, you're sure to find something to satisfy.

Beer, Wine, & Spirits - From the award-winning craft brews at Boojum and Frog Level to the high-country class of B & C Winery, Haywood County offers a rich 'liquid harvest' that perfectly complements the local autumn flavors.

🍎 Apple Harvest Festival

Waynesville Stick around after the final session! Ranked as one of the "10 Best Fall Harvest Festivals in the Nation," this street fair celebrates all things apple.

Saturday, Oct 17 | Downtown Waynesville

What to expect: Freshly pressed cider, famous fried apple pies, over 200 arts and crafts vendors, and live mountain music.

Pro Tip: Visit the Barber Orchards Fruitstand on your way out of town for their legendary apple turnovers.

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🏔️ Blue Ridge Parkway

Haywood County has the highest number of peaks along the 46 miles of the Parkway running through it. The entrance is just a few miles from the college—perfect for a scenic sunset drive after Thursday's sessions.

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🌿 The HCC Arboretum

You don't even have to leave campus! Haywood Community College is a designated arboretum. Take a "mental health break" walk through the gardens and art trail to see the old gristmill.

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🎟️ Things to Do

Outdoor Activities - Haywood County, your gateway to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway of Western North Carolina.

Art & Culture - With time-honored traditions and an appreciation for history, the locals from the five mountain towns in Haywood County are eager to share the art and culture of their communities with anyone who passes by.

Shopping - Visitors to Haywood County are in for a treat as they explore the diverse offerings of its boutiques and shops

Kid-Friendly - Traditions start with family, and Haywood County has plenty of nostalgia and classic adventures to fuel your next memory making moments.

Pet-Friendly - There are plenty of pet-friendly activities and attractions to share with your four legged friend.

Agritourism - The rich soil of Haywood County has made it a robust agricultural community for hundreds of years.

🏫 Our Towns

Canton - The Pigeon River flows right through the middle of this historic mill town, fueling much of its history and growth while providing plenty of adventure for those who seek it.

Clyde - Clyde has a long, rich history of providing shelter for weary Appalachian travelers—a tradition manifested today in the Southern charm you'll find around every corner.

Lake Junaluska - The still, serene waters of Lake Junaluska, located in the heart of Haywood County, North Carolina, offer a picturesque retreat in the scenic Great Smoky Mountains.

Maggie Valley - this hidden gem is a haven for mountain enthusiasts, boasting enticing eateries, unique shops, and cozy accommodations.

Waynesville - Downtown Waynesville has a quaint, urban charm, perfect for walkable shopping in local boutiques and gift shops for artisan goods.