Danville Community College (DCC) announces the appointment of Dr. DeAndre Howard as the institution’s new Vice President of Academic Affairs & Student Services. Dr. Howard brings extensive higher education experience, with a career dedicated to student affairs, academic leadership, and fostering student success.
A native of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Dr. Howard spent a lot of time in Danville with family, making his return to the community both personal and deeply meaningful.
“Returning to Danville holds deep personal significance for me. It’s a chance for me to give back to the community that shaped many of my formative years,” he shared.
Dr. Howard is a proud first-generation college graduate. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Spanish from Saint Augustine’s College (now University) in Raleigh, North Carolina, followed by a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Juvenile Justice from Norfolk State University. In December 2018, he completed his Doctorate in Organizational Leadership with a focus on higher education administration from Gardner-Webb University.
Most recently, Dr. Howard served as Dean of Student Engagement and Chief Student Services Officer at Spartanburg Community College in South Carolina, where he also taught criminal justice courses. He has also led state peer groups, collaboratives, and system-wide initiatives through the South Carolina Technical College System. His professional experience spans across various academic, compliance, and student services units.
At DCC, Dr. Howard’s top priorities will include enhancing student engagement and services, fostering a continuous culture of academic excellence, and ensuring that programs align with the evolving needs of the community. He is also committed to strengthening partnerships with local businesses and organizations to create more opportunities for students, while supporting faculty and staff in their professional development.
“My background in student engagement and accreditation work has equipped me with the skills necessary to foster collaboration, strengthen curriculum, and improve student support services,” he said. “I am a transformational leader who focuses on inspiring and motivating my team to innovate. I believe in creating a supportive environment where faculty and staff feel valued and encouraged to share their ideas. This spirit of collaboration extends to our students, ensuring they have a voice in shaping their educational experiences.”
Looking forward, Dr. Howard expressed his enthusiasm for joining DCC at this pivotal moment in its history. “With the recent appointment of the 8th President, Dr. Cornelius Johnson, this is an exciting time for the college to expand its offerings and strengthen its role in the community. I stand ready and eager to be part of that journey and support the institution as we embark upon this important chapter.”
Dr. Howard will begin in his role at DCC on October 13, 2025.
For more information about Danville Community College, visit www.danville.edu.
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