BCC Welcomes Two New Trustees

Brunswick Community College is pleased to welcome Douglas “Doug” Dawson and R. Kent Wood to its Board of Trustees. Dawson and Wood were sworn in during the Board’s regular meeting on August 20. Dawson was sponsored by the North Carolina House of Representatives, while Wood was sponsored by the North Carolina Senate.

“We are fortunate to welcome two accomplished leaders who bring tremendous experience and a strong commitment to service,” said BCC President Dr. Gene Smith. “Mr. Dawson and Mr. Wood understand the importance of Brunswick Community College to our students, employers, and community. I look forward to working with them and appreciate their willingness to serve BCC in this important role.”

Dawson brings more than four decades of military and public service leadership to the Board. He served 41 years in the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, retiring as a Captain, along with 33 years in federal civil service. Today, he serves as Chief and President of Brunswick Search and Rescue, volunteers with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol, and serves as Eastern Representative to the North Carolina Search and Rescue Advisory Council.

Wood brings more than 35 years of experience in real estate, accounting, finance, and executive leadership. A licensed North Carolina real estate broker and former CPA, he has held senior leadership roles in commercial real estate, investment, finance, and brokerage. He also has a longstanding connection to BCC, having previously served as President and a member of The Foundation of Brunswick Community College Board of Directors.

BCC is proud to welcome Dawson and Wood and grateful for their commitment to serving the College, its students, and the Brunswick County community.

September 2026