Presidential Search – Pitt Community College (pittcc.edu)

Pitt Community College has a new President and she is breaking down barriers already.

Dr. Maria A. Pharr will become only the sixth president in PCC’s 63-year history and the first woman as the college’s top administrator. She replaces Dr. Lawrence Rouse, who retired in June and is expected to begin her duties Aug. 13.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as next president of Pitt Community College and look forward to contributing to the college’s legacy of leadership excellence. As one of the top institutions in the North Carolina Community College System, PCC has been a catalyst for workforce development in eastern North Carolina and a place where individuals can cultivate the skills and talents needed to realize their dreams and enhance their lives. I believe our best days are ahead, and I’m excited about leading the college to its highest potential.” says Pharr.

Dr. Pharr graduated cum laude from St. Andrews University with a bachelor’s degree in Biology in 1987, Pharr earned a master’s degree in Science Education from East Carolina University in 2000. She received a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from ECU in 2014.

PCC Trustees Chairman Charles Ellis says “Through the assistance of Kennon Briggs and the Association of Community College Trustees organization he serves, the Pitt Community College Board of Trustees conducted an equitable, inclusive and transparent national search for Dr. Lawrence Rouse’s successor. After reviewing numerous applications, conducting many interviews, and going through the results of surveys submitted by employees and members of the community, it became abundantly clear to PCC Trustees that Dr. Maria Pharr was the ideal candidate to lead Pitt Community College.”

“I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Pharr when she first came to PCC and found her to be a dedicated, creative and thoughtful leader, The college will be in excellent hands with Dr. Pharr leading the way, and I look forward to welcoming her back to Winterville.” says PCC Interim President Ricky Brown said.

Pharr’s higher educational career includes service in several roles with Craven Community College (CCC), including dean of Liberal Arts and University Transfer, director of Planning and Assessment, and Science, Math, Health/PE chair. She also taught biology at CCC and Lenoir Community College.

Prior to her work with North Carolina community colleges, Pharr was a field chemist for the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Source: Dr. Maria Pharr appointed as first female president of Pitt Community College (wcti12.com)