We have some bittersweet Chamber Board news to share. The 2024 Chair of the Union County Chamber Board of Directors, Dr. Maria Pharr, has been selected as the next president of Pitt Community College.
Dr. Pharr has been President of South Piedmont Community College since 2017. Her exemplary leadership there and on YOUR Chamber’s Board of Directors has significantly impacted our community.
Dr. Pharr has served on the Chamber’s Board since 2017 and joined the Executive Committee in 2021. Dr. Pharr transitioned to Chair in late 2023, following the passing of Eric Dixon. The Chamber Board and staff will always be grateful for her selfless leadership, grace, and dignity during that transition.
Under Dr. Pharr’s tenure as Chair, the Board has maintained a laser focus on implementing our strategic plan, and strengthening our Public Policy efforts, and enhancing our organizational excellence.
“Her leadership focused on moving our organization forward; making sure we were working collaboratively with strategic partners, and ensuring we were reinvesting in the Chamber,” shared Chamber President and CEO Pat Kahle. “Her thoughtful leadership, wise counsel, and innovative spirit have been invaluable to this organization. It is an understatement to say she will be missed.”
One of Dr. Pharr’s favorite programs was the Women in Business Program, which hosted the largest annual conference this past May. Dr. Pharr was also a pivotal partner in the Chamber’s workforce development efforts.
Under her leadership of South Piedmont, the college secured a bond referendum allowing for expansion, and, just this week, held a groundbreaking for a new Aseptic Training Facility and the Center for Entrepreneurship. During her tenure, the college also realized explosive growth, with student enrollment increasing 18.6% since 2018.
In many ways, Dr. Pharr is moving home as takes over leadership at Pitt Community College. She grew up in eastern North Carolina and served as Pitt’s Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs from 2011 to 2014.
One of the most important aspects of good leadership is ensuring succession and continued success long after you are gone. Our Chamber is fortunate to have a strong Board of Directors who are implementing our succession plan. We will have an announcement with more details in next week’s newsletter.
Last modified: July 23, 2024
