Rockingham Community College News Release • February 24, 2025 • G. Hunt, Director of Public Information
(Wentworth, NC) – Rockingham Community College is set to welcome a new president, with Dr. Sylvia Cox taking office May 1.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome to our new college president, Dr. Sylvia Cox. We are excited for the vision, leadership, and dedication she will bring to our campus. We look forward to her guidance in shaping the future of RCC,” said Randy Judkins, RCC Board of Trustees chair.
Dr. Cox will succeed Dr. Mark Kinlaw as RCC’s sixth president. Dr. Kinlaw retires Feb. 28 after 10 years of leading RCC and 40 years with the N.C. Community College System.
“We wish Dr. Kinlaw well as he enters into retirement,” Judkins said.
The Board of Trustees and the State Board of Community Colleges have approved RCC Vice President for Administrative Services Steve Woodruff to serve as interim president, effective March 1.
Dr. Cox comes to RCC from Southeastern Community College in Columbus County. Since 2021, she has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer at Southeastern, where she has led academic affairs, workforce development, and student services.
The presidential search began in September, with the RCC Board of Trustees leading the process internally. The Board made its final recommendation to the State Board of Community Colleges, which was approved Feb. 21.
“I am incredibly honored to have been selected as the next president of Rockingham Community College. RCC is not just a college; it serves as a pillar of opportunity, innovation, and lifelong learning. It is truly humbling to follow in the footsteps of Dr. Mark Kinlaw, whose leadership has been instrumental in RCC’s success,” Dr. Cox said.
Of more than 50 applicants, Dr. Cox was among six semi-finalists who each spent a day on campus meeting Dr. Kinlaw, the President’s Cabinet, touring campus, and holding a forum with employees, students, and the community.
“From the moment I arrived on campus, I felt the deep pride and care that resonate within RCC and throughout Rockingham County. The faculty, staff, students, and community members are all deeply invested in the success of the college, which plays a vital role in shaping the future of this region,” Dr. Cox said.
“I look forward to collaborating with the college’s exceptional team and the Board of Trustees to build on RCC’s strong foundation and ensure that we continue providing transformative opportunities for students and the broader community,” she said. “I am excited to become part of Rockingham County and fully immerse myself in this wonderful community.”
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