Stanly Community College's (SCC) Dr. Jeff Parsons has been conferred a Doctorate in Higher Education Executive Leadership from Wingate University, Wingate, NC.
The current Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer focused his doctoral research on "OER and No-Cost Textbook-Based Courses and their Impact on Student Performance at a Rural Community College." OER refers to Open Educational Resources, which help to reduce the cost of education for students. This work reflects his dedication to enhancing educational accessibility and success for students in a rural setting.
With skills encompassing leadership, teaching, program development and research in advanced manufacturing, industrial systems and mathematics, Parsons has spearheaded collaborative initiatives, ensuring innovative workforce training programs aligned with community labor market demands.
His tenure as the Associate Vice President for the School of Advanced Manufacturing, Industry, Technology, and Trades showcased his leadership ability, overseeing major building renovation projects and managing substantial budgets. Dr. Parsons also championed diversity initiatives to increase enrollment of women and minorities in technical programs.
Before his tenure at SCC, Dr. Parsons worked as a strategic sourcing specialist at Ingersoll-Rand and an automation engineer at Corning Cable System, showcasing expertise in project management, automation, statistical process control and failure mode analysis.
Dr. Parsons' pursuit of knowledge has been marked by excellence, graduating summa cum laude with a bachelor's and master's degree in mechanical engineering and a Master of Arts in Christian Studies, respectively, alongside numerous accolades for his teaching and engineering contributions.
"Dr. Parsons' dedication to education and leadership continues to elevate Stanly Community College, leaving a lasting impact on teaching and industry within Stanly County," said Dr. John Enamait, SCC President. "His commitment to lifelong learning inspires us all, and we are proud to celebrate this significant achievement."
A native of Stanly County, Parsons resides near Badin with his wife and two sons.