Dr. Robert Robinson has always been driven by a desire to help others. From his early days as a volunteer EMT to his current role as Dean of Health Sciences at Brunswick Community College (BCC), his career has been shaped by a commitment to caring for others and making a difference in his community.
“More than anything, I want to help people in my community,” said Dr. Robinson. “My experience as a volunteer EMT helped me realize that was my calling.”
Originally from New Jersey, Dr. Robinson began his career in healthcare as a volunteer EMT before becoming a Registered Nurse. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, he noticed that many new healthcare graduates needed additional guidance and support as they entered the workforce.
“I found myself spending more and more time teaching in the hospital, and I really enjoyed it,” he said. “I realized that if I could help licensed nurses become better at what they do, imagine the difference I could make by working with students from the very beginning of their training.”
After moving to Southport, North Carolina, Dr. Robinson became a RN Residency Manager that oversaw the new incoming New Nursing graduates with the Novant Health system. It was there that he first recognized the exceptional preparation and dedication of BCC students.
“BCC students were some of the most engaged students I worked with,” he said. “You could see the quality of their training and the dedication of their instructors. I knew I wanted to be part of that.”
He joined BCC as an instructor and quickly discovered that the College’s collaborative culture was another reason he felt at home.
“One of the things I love about BCC is how everyone works together,” said Dr. Robinson. “It’s not just within individual programs. Across the entire College, people genuinely care about helping students succeed.”
When the opportunity arose to become Dean of Health Sciences, Dr. Robinson welcomed the chance to make an even greater impact. His leadership style reflects the same personal approach that has guided him throughout his career.
“Every morning, I make my rounds, saying hello and checking in with faculty, staff, and students,” he said. “I never want someone to feel like they don’t know who their dean is. Being present, approachable, and connected to the people here is important to me.”
Although Dr. Robinson has served as Dean of Health Sciences for less than a year, his student-first philosophy is already evident.
Over the past three years, BCC’s Practical Nursing (LPN) program has maintained a 100% NCLEX pass rate and was ranked second in the state for 2026. The College also graduated its first Paramedic-to-ADN Bridge class in 2026, launched its first Dental Assistant II cohort this fall, and established its first Student Nurses Association, recognized at both the state and national levels.
These accomplishments reflect BCC’s continued commitment to expanding educational opportunities and keeping student success at the forefront. For Dr. Robinson, that success is never the work of just one person.
“Student success takes all of us,” he said. “It’s our faculty, staff, and leadership working together to make sure students have the opportunities and support they need to succeed.”
Outside of work, Dr. Robinson enjoys reading, fly fishing, walking his two hounds, and traveling with his wife. His commitment to serving others also extends beyond campus.
He currently volunteers as a firefighter and EMT with the St. James Fire Department.
Whether he’s supporting students at BCC or responding to calls in his community, Dr. Robinson remains committed to making a difference in the lives of others. His dedication to service, collaboration, and student success makes him a valued member of the BCC family.
October 2026