Scott Ralls, who was elected last month as the next president of the N.C. Community College System, told the system board today that he's ready to get to work.

Ralls will succeed the retiring President Martin Lancaster on May 1, but he will report to work at the Raleigh headquarters April 1 as president-elect, Jane Stancill reports. Ralls is now president of Craven Community College in New Bern.

He told community college system board members this morning that the "Four C's" will guide his 100 days in office—community, collaboration, connection and change.

He also talked about the need for more state resources for the colleges as Baby Boomers retire and workforce needs evolve. And he emphasized how important it is to work with other education agencies, particularly the UNC system.

Martin Lancaster, president of the state's community college system, had a smile on his face yesterday as the state board elected as his successor Craven Community College President Scott Ralls.

For the past week, Lancaster has been pummeled for his support of admitting illegal immigrants to community colleges. On Thursday, he looked relaxed and relieved at the thought of passing the baton to Ralls next year, reports Jane Stancill.

When asked his reaction after the vote, Lancaster said, "The king is dead. Long live the king." The board erupted in laughter.