Central Carolina Community College honors Rep. John Sauls with Innovation Gallery dedication

SANFORD, N.C. — In recognition of his decades-long dedication to public service, visionary leadership, and tireless support of higher education and workforce development, Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) has named the Exhibition Lobby of the E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center the John Sauls Innovation Gallery.

A dedication ceremony was held on June 5, drawing a crowd of approximately100 attendees, including community leaders, college officials, friends, and members of N.C. Representative John Sauls’ family. The ceremony served as a heartfelt tribute to a man whose impact on the college and region will be felt for generations.

The E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center stands as a cutting-edge hub for innovation, training, and industry growth — a true game-changer for workforce development in the region. Spanning 180,000 square feet, this world-class facility is already home to essential CCCC programs like CDL training, forklift certification, and manufacturing maintenance fundamentals. But this is just the beginning. Plans are underway to add a 10,000-square-foot Biotechnology building and expand into high-demand fields such as computer-integrated machining, industrial automation, welding, robotics, and 3D printing. The center will also offer soft landing spaces, giving new and growing industries a place to launch and thrive — helping to power the region’s economic future.

A key feature within the Moore Center will be the Innovation Gallery, a high-impact, high-touch space designed to inspire and inform. The gallery will showcase the advanced manufacturing and biotechnology jobs of today — from semiconductor fabrication and automation technology to precision machining and biomanufacturing — through engaging, interactive displays. One day it may feature a robotic arm in action; the next, a hands-on exhibit demystifying how microchips are produced or how biologic medicines are developed.

This dynamic space is intended to spark interest and opportunity among transitioning veterans, K–12 students, and career-switching professionals alike, offering a tangible look at the career possibilities that exist in these rapidly growing sectors. The Innovation Gallery fills a critical gap in the talent pipeline by making the fields of advanced manufacturing and biotech accessible and exciting — and it is only fitting that the space bears the name of Representative John Sauls. Sauls embodies the intersection of education and economic development, and has dedicated his career to helping people build better lives and uplifting entire communities through opportunity.

The commemorative plaque unveiled during the event reads in part:

 "John Sauls Innovation Gallery

Dedicated on June 5, 2025

… With heartfelt appreciation for Representative John Sauls’ tireless advocacy and successful efforts in securing public investment for the Moore Center. His commitment to education, workforce training, and serving the community will leave a lasting legacy.”

A formal resolution adopted by the CCCC Board of Trustees highlighted Sauls’ many contributions to the college, including:

* Securing $10.8 million in state funding for the renovation of the E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center — a transformational investment that enhances CCCC’s ability to deliver cutting-edge education and training in critical industries.

* Obtaining $500,000 in funding for the remediation of fuel tanks on the property, contributing to the long-term environmental safety and sustainability of the college.

* Supporting the continued multicampus funding designation for CCCC’s Harnett and Chatham Main Campuses.

* Providing sustained support to the CCCC Foundation, advancing scholarships, faculty development, and program innovation.

* Serving as a CCCC Trustee from 2006 to 2008, offering valuable guidance and leadership.

In her remarks, CCCC President Dr. Lisa Chapman praised Rep. Sauls as a champion of community-focused education. “I cannot think of anyone who deserves this recognition more than our friend and representative, John Sauls. He has done so much for our community and for this college,” she said. “What he does for us every day simply cannot be overstated."

Sanford Mayor Rebecca Salmon called Sauls "a true champion of Sanford and Lee County," noting his unwavering belief in the transformative power of Central Carolina Community College. "You’ve always advocated for the role this college plays in changing lives," she said. "This is a true community vision — this is going to be a world-class, cutting-edge facility."

Lee County Board of Commissioners Chair Kirk Smith emphasized the broader regional impact of Sauls’ efforts: “Now we have something along the eastern coast of the United States that is going to be a regional asset, helping to propel this county and this region into the future.”

Julian Philpott, Chair of the CCCC Board of Trustees, spoke of Sauls’ integrity and faith-driven service. "John is a man of his word. He’s a true public servant — a servant of the Lord, but also a servant of the people."

The ceremony also included video tributes from several prominent leaders:

* Chet Mann, former Mayor of Sanford and current CCCC Trustee.

* Kirk Bradley, Chairman, President and CEO of Lee-Moore Capital.

* Speaker Destin Hall, N.C. House of Representatives.

* U.S. Rep. Tim Moore, former Speaker of the N.C. House of Representatives.

During his remarks, Rep. Sauls expressed gratitude and humility. He gave special thanks to his wife, Mardie, and family, and reflected on his life of service, including his early years as a minister in Sanford. "Servants serve, and they don’t care who gets the glory," Sauls said. "I can’t believe this many people came out in this kind of weather — but I know why you came. Because this is a community. When one hurts, all hurt. When one rejoices, all rejoice. This has been a great, great thing, and I’m totally surprised that I’m still standing."

With the dedication of the John Sauls Innovation Gallery, Central Carolina Community College honors a man whose vision and advocacy have directly advanced student success, innovation, and economic development throughout Lee County and beyond.