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Dr. Chanel L. Fort Appointed as Dean of Academic Programs and Services at Gadsden State

Fort named Dean of Academic Programs and Services

Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College has announced the appointment of Dr. Chanel L. Fort as the new dean of Academic Programs and Services, succeeding Dr. Farrah Hayes, who now serves as the director of the newly established Challenger Learning Center. Dr. Fort brings over 20 years of leadership and program development experience to her new role, promising to drive academic excellence and innovation at the college.

“We look forward to the positive impact Dr. Fort will make in shaping the future of our academic programs and furthering Gadsden State’s mission of student success and community development,” said Dr. Kathy Murphy, president of Gadsden State.

Dr. Fort’s extensive academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences and Health Services Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a master’s degree in Human Services and Healthcare Administration from Capella University, and a doctoral degree in Education, Global Leadership, and Change from Pepperdine University.

Prior to joining Gadsden State, Dr. Fort served as the director of outcomes assessment at Jefferson State Community College, overseeing assessment and accreditation processes for its four campuses. She also founded Fortified Learning Solutions, where she served as CEO and learning strategist. Her other roles include adjunct instructor at Jefferson State, corporate dean of health sciences for Education Corporation of America, and program director at Virginia College.

Dr. Fort’s career highlights also include working as a grants officer for the Alabama Department of Public Health and as a district pharmacy training coordinator for Walgreens. Recognized for her contributions, she has received honors such as the Birmingham Business Journal’s “People on the Move” designation in 2021 and the UNCF Change Agent Award for Academic Improvement and Transformation.

In her new role, Dr. Fort will oversee academic instructional programs, library sciences, online education, international programs, and strategic planning. She also plans to focus on the Alabama Language Institute and the college’s community-based initiatives.

“My career has kept me at the forefront of educational practice, policy change, and academic improvement,” said Dr. Fort. “Collectively, these experiences will catapult my work as the dean of Academic Programs and Services.”

Dr. Fort is committed to fostering collaboration and inclusivity at Gadsden State. She plans to engage with faculty, staff, and students through focus groups and relationship-building to enhance academic support systems and professional development opportunities.

Expressing enthusiasm for her new role, Dr. Fort said, “Gadsden State is a community staple with a tremendous reputation. I’m an immediate fan and grateful to be a Cardinal.”

As she steps into her new position, Dr. Fort’s leadership promises to bring fresh perspectives and transformative growth to Gadsden State’s academic programs.

 

Fort named Dean of Academic Programs and Services

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