News Article

Atkins Named Edison College District Vice President

Aug 5, 2008

G. Steve Atkins, Ph.D., has been named Edison College's District Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. Atkins will serve as the College's chief learning officer and oversee student services district wide.

"A seasoned administrator, Dr. Atkins brings a deep commitment to academic excellence, and a proven record of collaborative leadership and innovation," said Dr. Noreen Thomas, the college's District Executive Vice President. "The entire college community will benefit from his exceptional experience, multitude of talents, and engaging personality."

Atkins was selected from a diverse pool of applicants following a national search. He served as a mathematics instructor at Surry Community College in Dobson, NC for 12 years prior to his appointment as the college's Dean of Arts and Sciences in 1997. Five years later, he was named Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. In that role, he directed Surry's Quality Enhancement Plan, administered transfer programs achieving impressive student success results, guided instructional and student services programs promoting collaboration and excellence, and designed an instructional portfolio initiative. He joined Edison College as Charlotte Campus Dean in 2007, managing all aspects of the campus academic programs.

Atkins received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from Elon College, NC; Master's degree in Mathematics from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte; and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

The appointment coincides with Edison College's recent designation as one of Florida's nine state colleges. "I am honored and very grateful for the privilege to serve this outstanding college, one with a great reputation for innovation. It is an exciting time, as we launch new opportunities for students at the baccalaureate level, while continuing to serve students in excellent associate degree programs," said Atkins. "In the months ahead, I am looking forward to working with the college's leadership team to craft a unique State College model that builds on our strengths and promotes excellence in teaching and learning."

Atkins and his wife, Robyn, live in Punta Gorda.

Last Updated: August 5, 2008