Tara Thompson

Results-driven professional with over 15 years of experience in designing and delivering comprehensive learning and training programs. Skilled in curriculum development, instructional design, and fostering professional development initiatives. Proven track record in leading large-scale training initiatives and driving continuous improvement processes. Adept at developing cross-functional partnerships and creating engaging learning environments that promote success and professional employee growth.

• Co-Developed institution-wide Faculty Teaching Academy focused on leadership and professional development
• Developed and delivered training for 3 newly created programs, including e-learning modules, one-on-one training sessions, group training, and peer-to-peer training.
• Developed and Coordinated events connecting students with local workforce , increasing apprenticeship, hiring, and networking opportunities.
• Streamlined onboarding process with emphasis on individualization for each new hire.
• Facilitated development of 3-phase Inclusive Teaching professional development training for multiple departments with positive feedback and reviews from participants
• Developed departmental leadership training that included case studies, role play, and mentoring.
• Designed a Leadership Liaison Structure , assigning specific initiatives to team members to clarify roles and responsibilities, which improved accountability and optimized project management.
• Established team-building events/activities , to foster community and collaboration across four campuses, supporting interdepartmental connections and camaraderie.
• Facilitated the hiring process for 50+ new hires in 2 years.
• Completed top-tier leadership training including conflict resolution, critical conversations, and performance management.
• Collaborated with Workforce Development to provide continuing education support

• WTCC Leadership Training (Includes Conflict Resolution, Critical Conversation, Performance Management, DISC) (2024)
• Inclusive Teaching Training (2024)
• Mental Health First Aid (2023)
• DEI Facilitator Training, Equity Literacy Institute (2023)
• OnCourse Training (2023)
• Green Zone Certification (2022)
• EPIC Certification (Wake Tech's Version of Quality Matters for Online Instruction; 30 hours) (2020)
• Wayne Community College Leadership Institute (An Understanding of Leadership in Community Colleges) (2009)

• American Association of Adult and Continuing Education (since 2020)
• Wake Technical Community College RISE Redesign Leadership Team
• Wake Technical Community College Breakout Group Facilitator (FA22 Leadership Rally)
• Wake Technical Community College Qualtrics Pilot (Institutional Effectiveness)
• Wake Technical Community College Staff Excellence Award Committee
• Johnston Community College Faculty Association President
• Johnston Community College Strategic Plan Committee
• Johnston Community College Associate of Engineering Degree Core Faculty
• Johnston Community College Associate of Engineering Advisory Committee
• Johnston Community College Transfer Advisory Committee
• Johnston Community College QEP Core Faculty
• Johnston Community College Phi Theta Kappa Induction Ceremony Guest Speaker

I enjoy travel. I currently live in Raleigh, NC, but travel up to Massachusetts regularly. Internationally, I've enjoyed exploring Italy and hope to see Greece someday.

I am an animal advocate. We have several animal sanctuaries nearby that I enjoy visiting, and when I travel, I always find the nearest animal support program.

I am a women's basketball enthusiast. I played a lot of basketball as a young person and have a true passion for my local college teams. I'm very excited about the recent rise in women's professional basketball!