Catawba College hosted a bipartisan panel featuring election officials and experts to discuss and reassure the public about North Carolina's election security measures. The event emphasized transparency, robust checks, and balanced oversight in the electoral process, countering misinformation and promoting democratic engagement.

On August 12, 2024, an anonymous donor contributed $200 million to Catawba College’s endowment. Two-thirds of the donation is allocated as unrestricted funding while the remainder supports environmental education and sustainability initiatives. The financial boost further enhances scholarships, research opportunities, and sustainable campus projects such as the renovation of the old coal power plant into The Smokestack and new residence halls built with sustainable practices.

Catawba College has become a member of the Fair Labor Association's University Caucus, an affiliation that underscores the institution's commitment to fair labor standards and ethical practices with respect to worker rights.

On October 9, 2023, Catawba College hosted a meeting organized by the Commission on the Future of NC Elections, in collaboration with the Carter Center and the NC Network for Fair, Safe & Secure Elections, to discuss voting procedures, election security, and to rebuild public trust in the electoral process. The event featured presentations by notable figures including Catawba College President David Nelson.

Catawba College in Salisbury has established a new center dedicated to studying North Carolina politics and promoting civic engagement. Fueled by an anonymous donation of $360,000, the center will host speaker series, fellow programs, and support initiatives that aim to foster informed, cross-partisan public service and dialogue.

Catawba College received an anonymous $360,000 gift to establish a new center focused on studying North Carolina politics and promoting public service. Led by Politics professor Dr. Michael Bitzer, the center will engage students and the broader community through initiatives such as speaker series, fellowship programs, and civic education to foster cross-partisan dialogue and informed civic engagement.

Catawba College was highlighted in the 2023 Sustainable Campus Index for achieving carbon neutrality seven years ahead of schedule, marking a transformative step in its sustainable operations and setting an inspiring example for peers.

Catawba College, in partnership with the North Carolina Network for Fair, Safe, and Secure Elections, announced plans to form a cross-partisan commission aimed at reviewing and reforming the state’s electoral processes to enhance fairness, security, and public trust. The commission, which will officially launch in October 2023, is designed to bring together experts and stakeholders from across the political spectrum.