Kinlaw Installed as RCC’s Fifth President
Oct 20, 2015Kinlaw, who began his duties on January 20, was sworn in by Board of Trustees Chair Mark Collins of Reidsville and Board of Trustees Vice Chair Mrs. Elizabeth Maddrey of Eden.
Mr. George Fouts, interim president of the North Carolina Community College System recognized Rockingham County as the birthplace of the state’s community college system. In 1958, the Leaksville Vocational Training Center opened on the campus of John Motley Morehead High School located in Eden. The center was the first of seven that grew to 20 by 1963 and became the core of the community college system in North Carolina.
Fouts recalled his time working with RCC Presidents Gerald James and Jerry Owens and explained with certainty his confidence in Kinlaw’s abilities to continue the legacy of strong leadership.
Having worked in the community college system for 27 years, Kinlaw believes very strongly in the purpose of community colleges. He explained that the college must continue its mission to serve students and the community, and stressed the importance of maintaining strong partnerships with the RCC Foundation, public schools, county government, and business and industry.
“Our motto is Learning, Service, and Leadership. These I believe are embodied in five values that our college is committed to, including a commitment to students, a commitment to access, a commitment to excellence, contribution to the community, and a quality work environment,” said Kinlaw as he described the future of the college. “What a powerful mission and responsibility. Our college is up to it, and we will embrace it.”
Kinlaw came to RCC from Robeson Community College, where he served as Vice President for Instruction and Support Services since 2001. Prior to serving as Vice President, Dr. Kinlaw served Robeson Community College as Chair of the Early Childhood/Social Science Department from 1997-2001, Director of Title III Technology Grant from 1994-1997, and Director of Planning and Research from 1988-1994. In addition, Dr. Kinlaw taught collegiate level education and history courses from 1996-2001.
Kinlaw earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Wake Forest University, a Master of Arts degree in Administration and Supervision from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and a doctorate in Adult and Community College Education from North Carolina State University. He and his wife Julia have two daughters.
