Discover. Connect. Lead.
VISION Transylvania is a 10-month civic learning and community immersion experience designed to help participants understand how Transylvania County works—and how to engage with it thoughtfully and effectively.
Through behind-the-scenes access, immersive experiences, and direct interaction with local leaders and organizations, participants gain a deeper understanding of the county’s history, systems, challenges, and opportunities. VISION serves as an experiential primer on civic life and a launchpad for informed, connected community leadership.
Quick Facts
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Program Sponsor: Organized by Blue Ridge Community College, in partnership with VISION Transylvania.
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Program Length: Runs mid-August through early June each year (10 months).
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Time Commitment: Requires attendance one weekday per month, typically the 2nd or 3rd Thursday from 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, plus a mandatory orientation session (one full evening) and a mandatory opening retreat (1.5 days), both in August.
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Application Timing: Registration opens in early March each year and often fills quickly. Applicants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Cohort Size: Limited to 35 participants annually to encourage meaningful connection and discussion.
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Tuition: Tuition for VISION is set by Blue Ridge Community College and can vary slightly from year to year. It's typically between $350 and $370 for the entire course.
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Employer Sponsorship: Many local employers cover the cost for their employees due to the program’s professional and civic value.
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Facilitator: Led by Angela Owen, a Transylvania County native and experienced leadership instructor known for her energy, expertise, and deep community connections.
Meet the Instructor
Program Structure
The course schedule includes:
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Orientation Session (mid-August) – A mandatory foundational kickoff session to introduce the cohort and course goals
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Opening Retreat (1.5 days; late August) – A mandatory immersive experience to build relationships and set the tone for the year
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Monthly Program Days – Ten full-day sessions that include guest speakers, site visits, hands-on learning, and dynamic discussions. Each day is organized around a specific theme, such as:
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History
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Government
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Environment and Natural Resources
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Business, Industry, and Economic Development
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Law Enforcement and Emergency Services
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Education
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Arts and Culture
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Health Care and Human Services
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Outdoor Recreation & Conservation
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Alumni Engagement & Visioning the Future
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Program Logistics
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Locations. Sessions are held at a variety of venues throughout Transylvania County, giving participants firsthand exposure to diverse organizations and sectors. Many program days begin and end at Blue Ridge Community College’s Transylvania Campus (45 Oak Park Drive, Brevard, NC).
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Transportation. Typically, we are able to provide transportation (often using a local school bus) to the various sites we visit during program days. Participants are welcome to drive their own vehicles if they prefer.
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Meals. Lunch is provided on all program days. We strive to accommodate dietary needs whenever possible.
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Attendance Expectations. Full participation is essential to the VISION experience. Orientation and the Opening Retreat are required. In accordance with Blue Ridge Community College policy, missing more than two full program days may result in dismissal from the course.
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Accessibility. We welcome applicants with limited mobility or other accessibility needs and are committed to supporting participation whenever possible. Please reach out to discuss accommodations.
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Dress Code. Business casual. Participants frequently meet with senior professionals, community leaders, and organizational staff.
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What Tuition Covers. Tuition includes instruction, materials, transportation to and from course sites, and meals on program days.
How to Register
Registration for the VISION 2026 - 2027 Course is now OPEN!
Registrants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Because the program is in high demand, it often fills quickly.
Before registering, please review the full course schedule (click the button below to view/download) and compare it carefully with your calendar.
Please Note: Mandatory Course Components
The first two sessions of the VISION course are MANDATORY:
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Evening Orientation Session: Thurs, Aug 13, 5 - 9 PM
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1.5-Day Opening Retreat: Fri, Aug 21, 1 - 5 PM & Sat, Aug 22, 9 AM - 4 PM
If you are unable to attend both of these events, we kindly ask that you wait and apply to VISION in a future year.
The remaining 10 monthly program days (one full weekday per month, usually Thursdays) are also an essential part of the experience. We understand that unexpected illness or emergencies can arise; however, in accordance with Blue Ridge Community College requirements, missing more than two of the monthly program days may result in dismissal from the course.
VISION is most impactful when participants are fully present. Reviewing the dates in advance helps ensure a strong, committed cohort and makes space for those who are able to participate fully.
