Dr. James “J.W.” Kelley, hailing from Wendell, has been appointed as the next president of McDowell Technical Community College, as announced by the college’s Board of Trustees on Friday.
He will succeed Dr. Brian S. Merritt, who vacated the position last summer to assume the role of senior vice president and chief academic officer at the N.C. Community College System Office in Raleigh.
Kelley’s selection comes after a thorough and rigorous process conducted by the Board of Trustees to identify the best candidate to lead the college into its next chapter of growth and success.
James Kelley (Credits: McDowell News)
With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the mission of community colleges, Kelley is poised to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor and propel McDowell Technical Community College to new heights.
As the incoming president, Kelley brings with him a vision for excellence in education and a dedication to serving the needs of students, faculty, staff, and the broader community.
His leadership will be instrumental in advancing the college’s goals of providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education and workforce development programs to the residents of McDowell County and beyond.
McDowell Tech Community (Credits: McDowell News)
Kelley’s background and accomplishments make him well-suited to lead McDowell Tech with integrity, innovation, and a student-centered approach.
His leadership will be instrumental in fostering collaboration, promoting student success, and strengthening partnerships with local businesses, industries, and community organizations.
The Board of Trustees expressed confidence in Kelley’s ability to lead McDowell Tech effectively and wished him success in his new role.
With Kelley at the helm, McDowell Technical Community College is poised to continue its legacy of excellence and make a positive impact on the lives of students and the community it serves.
