WENTWORTH – Dr. Silvia Cox was officially sworn in as the sixth president of Rockingham Community College at a ceremony attended by several hundred state and community dignitaries, current and former RCC instructors, citizens, and students at the Robert Keys Gymnasium on the morning of Sept. 24.
“They say that the North Star has long guided travelers, not because it moves, but because it doesn’t. It stays fixed. Unwavering. A constant point in the sky to help us find our way. Rockingham County is often called the North Star of North Carolina, and for good reason. For decades, this county has anchored our state with deep values, resilient people, and spirit of purpose,” Cox said in her opening remarks.
Dr. Cox was one of six of approximately 50 applicants who were invited to tour the campus and meet with the trustees, college leaders, and employees of RCC earlier this year.
Former RCC Board of Trustees chair Randy Judkins was one of many in the community involved in the presidential search process said Dr. Cox made an immediate positive impact on the RCC staff, and the Board of Trustees. She said the committee liked her ideas, energy, knowledge, and passion to continue to provide workforce-focused education for RCC students.
Dr. Cox has 25 years of experience advancing education and workforce development in the North Carolina Community College System.
Prior to accepting the position at RCC, from 2021-2025, she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer at Southeastern Community College in Whiteville, NC. While serving at SCC, she managed Student Services, Academic Affairs, and Workforce Development.
Officially chartered in 1963, Rockingham Community College first opened its doors to the community in 1966. Over the decades, RCC has stayed true to its mission of enhancing individual and community success by fostering lifelong learning and economic development through high-quality, accessible education and innovative partnerships.
Dr. Cox said she is looking forward to continuing that mission and plans to actively listen to students, teachers, foundation members, and community leaders to serve the citizens of Rockingham County.
Dr. Cox succeeds Dr. Mark O. Kinlaw, who served as RCC president from 2015 to 2025.
“I want you to reflect often, lead boldly, work hard… sew goodness, and you will reap something even greater. And when the work feels heavy, when the path ahead seems unclear, look up. Remember your North Star. For me, that North Star is Rockingham Community College. A place of learning, hope, and of purpose. It’s the light that guides my leadership and the reason I stand here today,” Cox said.
James.Sands@greensboro.com
336-349-4331 x6141
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