A Holistic Approach to Student Success

As the largest higher education institution in Winston-Salem, Forsyth Technical Community College exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in realizing students’ dreams. With a mission to promote economic mobility, Forsyth Tech’s vision extends beyond individual success stories.

Amy Ball Braswell, executive director of strategic initiatives, and Dr. Stacy Waters-Bailey, vice president of transfer excellence and success, reflected on their efforts with The Winston-Salem Foundation to support students’ holistic needs. “Working in the grants office, I learned about the Foundation’s focus on building an inclusive economy and supporting affordable transportation initiatives,” Amy said. “Transportation was a big issue for students.” Stacy stressed the importance of understanding students’ challenges beyond the classroom. “We have to think about the family as a whole because what happens at home impacts learning.”

Grant support from The Winston-Salem Foundation helped Forsyth Tech identify how transit and school schedule misalignment creates barriers for low-income students. Their work uncovered important insights. “We thought free bus passes alone would solve the problems, but that wasn’t the case for all students,” Amy admitted. They responded with additional solutions, including gas cards and a fund to help students make car repairs, addressing a broader range of transportation challenges they uncovered.

Amy shared an appreciation for the Foundation’s flexibility through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, helping the college pivot and center students at every turn. “Collaboration with the Foundation goes beyond grant funding—it’s about building a lasting relationship with a shared vision for community change,” Amy said. “Their team understands local challenges from a unique perspective.”

“Collaboration with the Foundation goes beyond grant funding—it’s about building a lasting relationship with a shared vision for community change,” Amy said. “Their team understands local challenges from a unique perspective.”

Indeed, Forsyth Tech graduates play a crucial role in bolstering our local economy. Leaders like Amy and Stacy help ensure even more students are set up for future success. “I hope future generations see Forsyth Tech as a place of promise,” Stacy added with optimism. “By loving and serving every student to success, we are building a stronger, more resilient community that benefits us all."