Myrtle Beach, SC, January 19, 2026
News Summary
Coastal Carolina University’s RISE Center internship program is enhancing student opportunities and regional economic growth. Supported by strategic partnerships, this initiative aims to provide valuable professional experiences for students, preparing them for impactful careers. With a collaborative approach to education, CCU continues to foster leadership and community engagement in the Grand Strand area, showcasing its commitment to both academic excellence and practical training.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Coastal Carolina University (CCU) continues to be a driving force in the Grand Strand’s educational and economic landscape, particularly through its innovative programs designed to cultivate future leaders and foster regional growth. A key initiative, the CCU RISE Center internship program, has garnered significant support, enhancing opportunities for students and reinforcing the university’s commitment to practical experience and community impact.
The university, located in Conway just minutes from Myrtle Beach, is dedicated to challenging students to lead boldly and inspiring them to make a difference. This ethos is central to programs that bridge academic learning with real-world application, preparing graduates not only for careers but for impactful roles within South Carolina and beyond. Through a combination of robust academics and strategic community engagement, CCU consistently works to elevate the educational experience and contribute to the region’s prosperity.
The RISE Center: A Catalyst for Experiential Learning
The CCU RISE Center internship program serves as a cornerstone for experiential learning at Coastal Carolina University. This program provides CCU students with opportunities to gain valuable professional experience through internships. These placements are designed to immerse students in professional environments, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge, develop critical skills, and build professional networks before graduation. The internships are a vital component in boosting both education and business development throughout the Grand Strand.
Strategic Partnerships Fueling Student Success
The success and expansion of the RISE Center’s initiatives have been significantly bolstered by strategic partnerships. The program has received a crucial funding boost from Partnership Grand Strand. This collaboration underscores a shared vision for strengthening the region’s workforce and ensuring that students have access to high-quality training and career pathways. Further demonstrating strong community backing, the CCU’s RISE Center summer internship program also receives support from Bank of America. These financial contributions are instrumental in sustaining and expanding the scope of the internship offerings, enabling more students to participate and benefit from these transformative experiences.
Broadening Academic Horizons and Impact
The impact of the RISE Center extends across various academic disciplines at Coastal Carolina University. The Spadoni College of Education is notably involved in the program, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of professional development and the university’s commitment to equipping educators with practical experience. By integrating real-world challenges and professional environments into the curriculum, the university ensures that its students are not only academically proficient but also professionally ready. The center’s work reinforces the value of academic freedom and discipline in preparing students to navigate complex professional landscapes effectively.
Economic Insights and Community Engagement
Beyond direct student internships, Coastal Carolina University actively contributes to the economic vitality and intellectual discourse of the Grand Strand. The CCU’s Grant Center is scheduled to host its 26th annual Economic Growth and Real Estate Summit. This event is a significant forum for discussing regional development, with this year’s theme centered on “Shaping Tomorrow: Growth and Innovation for the Grand Strand”. Such gatherings bring together experts, policymakers, and community leaders to analyze trends, share insights, and strategize for future economic expansion, demonstrating CCU’s role as a regional thought leader.
A Collaborative Educational Ecosystem
Coastal Carolina University operates within a collaborative educational ecosystem that benefits the entire region. The university partners with other institutions, such as Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC). These collaborations ensure a cohesive approach to higher education and workforce development across the Grand Strand. By working together, institutions like CCU and HGTC help to create comprehensive pathways for students, from vocational training to advanced degrees, thereby strengthening the overall educational infrastructure of South Carolina. This integrated approach emphasizes personal responsibility and the collective effort required to build strong, resilient communities.
Conclusion: Investing in Future Leadership
Coastal Carolina University, through initiatives like the RISE Center and its broader community engagements, consistently demonstrates its dedication to academic rigor, student development, and regional economic prosperity. The ongoing support from partners like Partnership Grand Strand and Bank of America ensures that CCU students continue to receive unparalleled opportunities for growth and leadership. As CCU students are challenged to lead boldly and inspired to make a difference, the university continues to be a pivotal institution in the Grand Strand’s educational landscape, fostering leadership and community impact. Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse programs offered by Coastal Carolina University and to stay informed about the dynamic developments within Myrtle Beach’s vibrant college community.
Key Programs and Partnerships at Coastal Carolina University
| Program/Initiative | Primary Focus | Key Partners/Contributors |
|---|---|---|
| CCU RISE Center Internship Program | Experiential learning, business development, student opportunities | Partnership Grand Strand, Bank of America |
| Spadoni College of Education | Academic rigor, professional development for educators | CCU RISE Center |
| Grant Center Economic Growth and Real Estate Summit | Regional economic insights, growth, and innovation | Grand Strand business and community leaders |
| Collaboration with Horry-Georgetown Technical College | Cohesive higher education, workforce development | Horry-Georgetown Technical College |
Frequently Asked Questions About Coastal Carolina University’s Community Impact
Q: What is the primary purpose of the CCU RISE Center internship program?
A: The CCU RISE Center internship program provides CCU students with opportunities to gain valuable professional experience and aims to boost both education and business development throughout the Grand Strand.
Q: Which organizations support the CCU RISE Center’s internship program?
A: The CCU RISE Center’s internship program receives funding boost from Partnership Grand Strand and support from Bank of America.
Q: What is the focus of the CCU’s Grant Center Economic Growth and Real Estate Summit?
A: The CCU’s Grant Center Economic Growth and Real Estate Summit focuses on “Shaping Tomorrow: Growth and Innovation for the Grand Strand.”
Q: How does Coastal Carolina University collaborate with other educational institutions in the region?
A: Coastal Carolina University collaborates with institutions such as Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) to foster a cohesive educational ecosystem.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
