Griffey appointed dean of academic programs and services

Gadsden State Community College has appointed Dr. Derrick Griffey as the new dean of Academic Programs and Services effective January 2.

As the dean of Academic Programs and Services, Dr. Griffey will provide leadership for the College’s largest instructional division, which includes the academic departments of Science, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Languages and Humanities, Fine Arts, and Business, Legal Studies and Computer Sciences. He will also oversee key academic support units such as the Teaching and Learning Center, Distance Education, Libraries and Learning Resource Centers, the Cardinal Tutoring Center, the Duplication Center, Faculty Development, and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
As part of his role as dean, he will also lead strategic planning and operational oversight for general education, liberal arts, STEM, transfer programs, the AAS degree programs housed within Academics, and a broad range of instructional initiatives. His work will focus on strengthening academic quality, supporting student persistence and completion, expanding high quality learning opportunities and ensuring that programs remain responsive to regional workforce and transfer needs.

“I am honored to serve Gadsden State in this new role,” Griffey said. “Our academic programs play a vital part in shaping student pathways, whether they are transferring, entering the workforce, or continuing their education. I look forward to supporting our faculty and staff as we strengthen learning opportunities and help more students reach their goals.”

Griffey has served in higher education for more than two decades. Before his appointment as dean, he served as the Director of Distance Education, Faculty Development and Learning Resources at Gadsden State where he guided the growth of online learning and use of library resources, coordinated faculty and staff professional development, and promoted the integration of instructional technologies across the College.

He earned a Ph.D. in instructional technology from The University of Alabama, a master’s degree in history from The University of Alabama, a master’s degree in sociology from Middle Tennessee State University and a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Jacksonville State University. He began his academic journey as a student at Gadsden State, earning an Associate of Arts degree before transferring to complete his undergraduate studies.

Griffey remains active in statewide initiatives related to teaching excellence, instructional innovation and student success. He serves his community as a volunteer community instructor for the OLLI program at The University of Alabama (Gadsden Chapter), supporter of the United Way of Etowah County, and as a member of the Gadsden Shrine Club.

Griffey is committed to fostering a supportive academic environment where faculty and staff work collaboratively to promote high quality instruction and meaningful educational outcomes for all students.

“I am committed to fostering an academic environment where faculty and staff feel supported, connected and empowered,” Griffey said. “When we work collaboratively and keep students at the center of our decisions, we create meaningful learning experiences that prepare them for success.”