Brunswick Community College (BCC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. David Townsend as Vice President of Academic Affairs & Chief Academic Officer. Dr. Townsend brings nearly two decades of experience in education, leadership, and program development to his new role, where he will guide academic initiatives that support BCC’s mission of student success and community impact.
A proud first-generation college graduate and lifelong North Carolinian, Dr. Townsend earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees in English Education from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and holds a doctorate in Adult and Community College Education from North Carolina State University. His career reflects a deep commitment to the transformative power of education, both inside and outside the classroom.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Townsend to the BCC family,” said Dr. Gene Smith, BCC President. “His leadership, student-centered approach, and commitment to excellence make him the ideal person to help guide BCC’s academic programs into the future. “I am confident that Dr. Townsend’s vision and experience will not only strengthen our programs, but also open new doors of opportunity for every student we serve.”
Most recently, Dr. Townsend served as Dean for University Transfer and General Education at Piedmont Community College in Roxboro, where he oversaw a widerange of Curriculum and Continuing Education programs. He also provided leadership for College and Career Readiness, the Kirby Cultural Arts Complex, and several college grant initiatives. Before that, he served as Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness at Craven Community College, leading accreditation, program review, and strategic planning efforts.
Dr. Townsend has also served as a division chair, English faculty member, academic advisor, adjunct instructor, and high school English teacher in both traditional and early college settings.
“Brunswick Community College has experienced tremendous growth in both Curriculum programs and Continuing Education in recent years, and with new capital projects and opportunities for innovative programs ahead, this is an exciting time,” said Dr. Townsend. “It is essential that we listen to the needs of our community, our students, and our faculty to ensure we are growing in ways that truly serve those we support. I am eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work, and I look forward to helping lead BCC into this next era of growth, innovation, and student success.”
To learn more about BCC and the programs and services it offers, visit brunswickcc.edu.
September 2025