Dr. Paul Hutchins Announced as New President of SCC

February 29, 2012

Dr. Paul Hutchins, Dean of Educational Centers and Economic Development, has been chosen as President of Sampson Community College in Clinton, N.C. to succeed current SCC president Dr. William Aiken. Hutchins will assume his duties May 1.

A dozen candidates were chosen from applicants across the country, and those were whittled down to six who participated in public forums and follow-up interviews earlier this month. Hutchins kicked off the forums on Feb. 3, and was ultimately chosen to serve in a capacity only four others have since the college was established in 1965.

"It is an honor to be selected by the Board of Trustees to serve as the next President of Sampson Community College," Hutchins said. "I look forward to working with the Board of Trustees and an outstanding faculty and staff to continue to meet the needs of the SCC students."

Hutchins has been SF's Dean of Educational Centers and Economic Development since 2002. Prior to that, he served as director of the Andrews Center from 1995-2002.

"I want to convey to the Santa Fe College family that it has been a joy to have been a part of this great college since 1988," said Hutchins. "I leave with great memories, grateful for the colleagues and friends I have here and the experiences that have helped prepare me for this opportunity."

Hutchins has lived in Florida all his life, earning a bachelor's degree in Education from the University of Florida, a master's in Adult Education from the University of South Florida, and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from UF.

"My wife, Tina, and I (both native Floridians) are looking forward to living in North Carolina and experiencing four seasons for the first time in our lives," Hutchins added.