Connecting Future Artists Before They Transfer

Driven by curiosity and built on purpose, we are expanding how our community colleges and four-year universities collaborate! The NC AFA Association is launching coordinated regional field trips to transfer institutions, bringing together students and faculty from multiple nearby community colleges for joint campus visits.

Regional Transfer Field Trips & Joint Campus Visits

These joint visits offer significant advantages for both students and participating institutions

Beyond touring studio spaces, meeting department faculty, and reviewing portfolio requirements, students get to build a peer community before they ever step foot on a university campus. Connecting with fellow transfer-bound fine arts students across neighboring colleges creates built-in support networks, reduces transfer anxiety, and fosters collaborative artistic relationships early.

Together, we’re making the transfer pathway more accessible, connected, and supportive for North Carolina’s visual and performing arts students

Upcoming Regional Transfer Caravan

East Carolina University (ECU) School of Art & Design

Date: Friday, October 2, 2026

Facilitator: Dr. Tony J. Jackson (Lenoir Community College)

Host universities can engage with larger, highly motivated pools of prospective fine arts transfers in a single event, maximizing outreach efficiency and strengthening regional transfer pipelines. Participating community colleges gain an enriched, high-impact experiential learning opportunity that boosts student retention and simplifies the transition to a four-year degree.

ECU University Communications

Join us for our first joint regional campus visit! The ECU School of Art and Design is welcoming community college partners and prospective transfer students for an immersive day on campus.

This collaborative trip gives students a firsthand look at university life while connecting with peers from neighboring community colleges before they transfer.

What To Expect

Campus & Studio Tours

Explore ECU’s state-of-the-art facilities and creative spaces. Meet ECU faculty, speak with current transfer students, and consult with academic advisors.

Portfolio & Program Guidance

Learn about specific fine arts transfer pathways and participate in feedback-focused portfolio reviews.

Interactive Learning

Enjoy hands-on workshops and studio demonstrations (tailored to student interest and attendance).

Information for Participating Institutions

We strongly encourage community college faculty and advisors to combine groups so students can travel and experience the day together.

  • RSVP Deadline: August 29, 2026

  • How to Register: If your institution plans to participate, please contact Dr. Tony J. Jackson at tjjackson94@lenoircc.edu with an estimated count of participating students.

ECU University Communications