Beaufort County Community College (Beaufort CCC) has been recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges for exceptional student success outcomes. The regional accrediting body presented Beaufort CCC with one of three Torch Awards granted within the community college sector, honoring the institution for achieving the highest student success and completion rates in the region. The announcement was made Monday, December 8, during the SACSCOC annual conference in Nashville.
The Torch Awards recognize institutions across categories of higher education.

Dr. David Loope, president of Beaufort CCC, attributed the achievement to the daily commitment of the college’s employees. “Our faculty and staff dedicate themselves to ensuring students have the support they need to succeed. Whether they are helping students academically, personally, or financially, they consistently show up for our community. This recognition from SACSCOC, along with August’s acknowledgment from SmartAsset, Inc., reflects the extraordinary work happening on our campus,” he said.
The Torch Award underscores Beaufort CCC’s efforts to strengthen student support, improve progression, and promote long-term success for learners across its service area. This recognition reinforces the college’s ongoing commitment to student achievement and community impact through advising, wraparound support, and high-quality instruction that helps students persist and thrive.
SACSCOC is the regional accrediting body for degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states. The Commission evaluates member institutions for educational quality and effectiveness and ensures compliance with its Principles of Accreditation, which apply to all applicant, candidate, and accredited colleges regardless of type or mission.