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| GSCC News Gadsden State President Retiring Gadsden, Ala. -- Gadsden State Community College President Renée Culverhouse today announced her retirement effective December 31. In a letter to Alabama Community College System Chancellor Bradley Byrne, Dr. Culverhouse said, “For the last four years, I have been suffering with several serious and potentially debilitating illnesses…..Gadsden State , its employees, students and communities deserve a leader who can and will devote all the time and energy necessary to keep the college a vital, flourishing entity.” Byrne said, “Gadsden State will lose an energetic and dedicated president when she steps down at the end of this year. “ Culverhouse was selected to serve as Gadsden State’s fifth president in September 2001. Etowah County Probate Judge Bobby Junkins, a member of the presidential search committee that selected Culverhouse, stated, “This is a tremendous loss for our community. President Culverhouse’s leadership took the college to a higher level of growth through education in health care, workforce development, and community involvement.” Culverhouse strengthened relations with area school systems, improved involvement with community groups and enhanced cultural diversity. Community leader and former educator Katherine Barrett commented, “My relationship with Renée has been one of exceptional goodwill. Her accomplishments have made a positive impact on our community. My best wishes are extended to her for a great retirement.” Workforce development was a primary focus for Culverhouse, which culminated in 2007 with the establishment of the Workforce Development Partnership in Etowah County. Due to the increase in demand for high tech jobs in Alabama, Culverhouse continued to promote a curriculum devoted to meeting the needs of area industries. “She was truly a president driven by purpose. I appreciate the great educational relationships that she fostered and feel confident that she will encourage her successor to continue to support our future endeavors,” said Gadsden City School Superintendent Bob Russell. During her administration Gadsden State developed a much needed Skills Training Division. Since the inception of this division in May 2002, more than 1,000 students have taken advantage of the short term training to improve their job skills. Culverhouse was also instrumental in the merger of Ayers State Technical College in Anniston and opening the McClellan Center. “She has been a huge asset to our community. The improvements she helped make at Ayers and McClellan will have a long-lasting impact on the Anniston area,” stated Susan Miller Chairperson of Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce. Fall Semester the new academic facility, Gadsden State Cherokee, will open offering a wide variety of courses. Culverhouse has worked with tirelessly with Cherokee County leaders to make this a reality. Culverhouse has been a leader in helping the division of health sciences continue to play a major role in meeting the ever increasing demand for health professionals in Northeast Alabama. She was also responsible for creating the first honors scholar program in a community college in Alabama, an increase in hybrid and distance learning courses and wireless internet access for the campuses. Looking back over her tenure, Culverhouse said, “I appreciate the support I have received from the people in the Gadsden State service area. My husband Charlie and I look forward to remaining here and being an active part of our community.” She is active in numerous community organizations and is currently the chairperson for the Chamber, Gadsden and Etowah County. |