This week, Danville Community College welcomed their new president, Dr. Jerry Wallace. Dr. Wallace was chosen from three finalists who participated in on-campus interviews, open forums, and community tours in May after national search.
Born and raised in Muskegon, Michigan, Dr. Wallace obtained his Bachelor of Science from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI; his Master of Business Administration from Maryville University in St. Louis, MO; his Master of Arts from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI; and his Doctorate of Education from St. Thomas University in Miami, Fla.
“I’m eager to join DCC and support the growing number of workforce industries investing in the area,” said Dr. Wallace. “Additionally, I look forward to working with faculty and staff to collaborate on innovative strategies that will engage our students and grow our campus community.”
Dr. Wallace comes to Danville Community College from Hastings, Nebraska where he served as the campus president of Nebraska Central Community College for three years. Prior to this role, he served as Dean of Workforce, Technical, and Community Education at New River Community and Technical College in Beckley, West Virginia. Now, he brings his expertise and many years of experience to Danville and the surrounding communities.
“I believe DCC is positioned to not only be a leader in the region, but also a leader among the 23 community colleges in the state of Virginia,” said Dr. Wallace. “Many leaders and officials throughout the DCC service region have already sent welcome messages and extended opportunities to explore future partnerships. I have been very impressed by the hospitality that has been extended to me, both on and off campus.”
Dr. Wallace was selected by the American Association of Community Colleges to serve on their Commission on Economic and Workforce Development. His professional accomplishments include being awarded over $1.5 million in grants to support new programs, paid student internships, registered apprenticeship programs, increased job placements for graduates, establishing advisory committees, and building academic pathways to employment.
“My priority is to build on DCC’s reputation as a beacon of hope for those who may think college is unattainable,” said Dr. Wallace. “Other goals include connecting with employers and community members to get job seekers back to work, partnering with local school districts to establish pathways for students to continue their education, and to listen to the needs of the communities we serve. My approach to the new role is to highlight what DCC does well, grow enrollment, improve our partnerships, and develop a positive culture where everyone feels safe and supported,” Dr. Wallace continued.
Dr. Wallace’s first official day as president of Danville Community College was July 1.
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