Debbie Adams
Fiscal Technician
dadams@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5606
Debbie provides support to the fiscal and human resources
administrator. She has more than twenty-five years of administrative experience in higher education, most of which has been at Virginia Tech. She is knowledgeable in state accounting, purchasing, and personnel procedures and regulations.
Debbie graduated from New River Community College. She resides in Bassett with her husband Mike and daughter Brittney.
Nancy Bell
Grant Writer
nbell@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5609
Nancy is an experienced grant writer, fundraiser and project designer. Former Director of Development for the Virginia Museum of Natural History and Director of Grants and Public Relations for Martinsville City Schools, Nancy was named "Citizen of the Year" in 2005 by the Martinsville Police Department for her role in bringing Boys and Girls Club programming to Martinsville & Henry County.
In addition to her grant work, Nancy is an active member of the Nonprofit Leaders Network and teaches non-profit management courses at Patrick Henry Community College. She serves as VP for Resource Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of MHC and is on the Board of Directors for the MHC Chamber of Commerce's Educational Foundation.
Nancy obtained her B.A. degree from Radford University. She resides in the Franklin County community of Snow Creek. She is married to television executive, Mike Bell, and has four children: James, Jessica, Eric and Anna. Nancy enjoys reading, photography, gardening, knitting and travel.
Leanna Blevins, Ph.D.
Associate Director
lblevins@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5603
Leanna began work with the New College Planning Commission in 2004 and currently serves as associate director.
Leanna has worked as assistant to the president at the University of Virginia as well as in the offices of state government relations, university relations, and faculty advancement. Leanna has also served as director of career development at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and as a student consumer advocate at Virginia Tech. She also worked as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for the deaf in southwestern Virginia.
Leanna earned a BA from Virginia Tech and an M.Ed. and Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. Her dissertation research focused on rural students in Virginia and their access to and persistence in public colleges and universities. As a first generation college graduate, she is passionate about working with individuals to introduce them to higher education opportunities.
A native of Chilhowie, Leanna resides in Martinsville with her husband, Gavin Russell, their daughters Grayson and Ainsley, and son Heath. She is an active board member of The Harvest Foundation, Citizens Against Family Violence, Piedmont Arts Association, and is a member of Charity League.
Leanna was featured in a New York Times article and accompanying slideshow on the impact of a college degree. Slideshow
Kelly Crawford
Receptionist
frontdesk@newcollegeinstitute.org
276-403-5610
A native of Pittsburgh, PA, Kelly has resided in Martinsville for approximately 6 years. She is currently serving as a part-time receptionist for New College Institute.
Since her relocation in 2002, Kelly has primarily worked as a Quality Analyst and Trainer in a call center environment.
Kelly is a Certified Massage Therapist, and is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. She attends Patrick Henry Community College.
In her spare time, Kelly enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
Katie Croft
Receptionist
kcroft@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5610
A native of Youngstown, Ohio, Katie has resided in Henry County for approximately 3 years. She is currently serving as a part-time receptionist for New College Institute. Prior to coming to NCI, she worked for the Henry County School System.
Katie attended Mid-Atlantic Christian University in Elizabeth City, NC and earned her B.S. in bible and theology and double minor in counseling and cross cultural studies. She also received the Who's Who Among American Colleges and Universities award. She plans to pursue her Master's in guidance counseling from Old Dominion University through NCI.
Katie resides in Collinsville with her husband Les, son Roc and their cat QT. She is an active member of Stone Memorial Christian Church and volunteers as their elementary coordinator. Katie also enjoys traveling and helping others - combining these two passions, she has been on mission trips to the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Paupa New Guinea, Singapore, Indonesia and New Orleans, LA. In her spare time she loves being with friends and family.
Suellyn M. Danter
Media Specialist
sdanter@ph.vccs.edu
(276) 403-5628
Suellyn is a Media Specialist, providing facilitation for New College Institute and previously at Patrick Henry Community College.
Before coming to NCI, Suellyn worked nine years for several area veterinarians and boarding kennels. She assisted as a veterinarian technician, oversaw kennel operations, and provided dog grooming services. She currently owns and operates her own home pet sitting business.
Suellyn graduated Magna Cum Laude from Patrick Henry Community College with an Associate in Arts & Science. Her academic achievements earned her a membership in Phi Theta Kappa. She recently has graduated from Old Dominion University's TeleTechnet program and holds a Bachelor of Science degree, Occupational and Technical Studies with a training emphasis.
Previously from West Virginia and Texas, Suellyn currently resides in Fieldale. She enjoys horseback riding, swimming and home repair projects.
Barry Dorsey, Ed.D.
Executive Director
bdorsey@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5607
Barry has led New College Institute since its founding in 2006. He has served as president of the University of Rio Grande, deputy director of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, and director of student financial aid and assistant to the president of Radford University. He has also taught political science.
Barry earned a bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University, a master’s degree from American University, and a doctorate from the University of Virginia. He is a frequent speaker at civic organizations and has been a presenter-discussion leader at national higher education conferences.
He is committed to improving the college-going rate for underserved students in the country and, particularly, in Southern Virginia.
Active in a number of community organizations, Barry is a board member and a vice chairman of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and also a board member of the United Way and the SPCA.
Randy Ferguson
Multimedia Specialist
rferguson@ph.vccs.edu
(276) 656-0229
Randy Ferguson is a multimedia specialist and provides media and video production support to both New College Institute and Patrick Henry Community College, bringing with him over 20 years experience.
Before coming to NCI, Randy was a Producer and Production Supervisor for Time Warner Cable Media Sales in Greensboro, NC for nearly 10 years. He also owns RF Media, a local media production company where he produces commercials, marketing/informational videos, and other media projects. He has worked as a freelance producer, videographer, and editor. He also worked as a Broadcasting Instructor and Video Technician at PHCC and as Audio-Visual Supervisor at Danville Community College.
Randy is a graduate of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA where he received a B.S. in communications with a concentration in radio, television, and film. He has won many awards for his work including two Telly's, two Communicator Awards, and a top five selection at the Cable Advertising Bureau Awards. Most recently, Randy produced a commercial for PHCC that was selected for a Medallion Award from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations.
Randy is a native of Henry County and resides in Ridgeway, VA with his wife Amy and two daughters, Haley and Breanna. Together they enjoy camping, hiking, boating, whitewater rafting, and soccer.
Ariel Harrington
Recruiter
aharrington@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5623
As a part of the NCI staff, Ariel will organize focused recruitment campaigns for community colleges, organizations and public school systems. Also, she will work with individuals who might benefit from increased information about degree programs offered through NCI.
Ariel graduated cum laude from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor's in Commerce and Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship. She worked through college as a trained barista.
A Virginia native, Ariel currently resides in Henry County. In her free time she enjoys playing with her golden retreiver, spending time with her family and learning about Egypt.
Melanie Ingram
Administrative Assistant
mingram@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5607
Melanie is administrative assistant to the executive director.
Melanie was employed by BB&T for twenty-five years. During her banking career, she held various administrative positions in offices located in Martinsville and Franklin County. She earned an Associate in Applied Science degree from Patrick Henry Community College.
A native of Martinsville, Melanie resides in Franklin County with her husband Tommy. She is an active member of Twin Oaks Baptist Church in Ferrum where she serves as treasurer.
Ruby Jones
Assistant to the Associate Director
rjones@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5605
Ruby Jones came to NCI in October 2007. She brings with her over twenty-five years of professional office experience in areas of office management, public relations and event planning. At NCI, she manages the website, classroom schedules, and special events.
Ruby worked most recently as administrative assistant to the General Manager at MasterBrand Cabinets. Prior to that, she was an executive assistant at the Martinsville Economic Development Office and also at the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce.
A graduate of Laurel Park High School, Ruby has attended Patrick Henry Community College, and has completed several continuing education and technology classes and leadership development courses.
A lifetime resident of Henry County, Ruby lives in Axton with her husband Freddie and daughter Mandy. Her son Brian and his wife Amber both serve in the US Air Force and are stationed in Tacoma, WA. She is active in her church and loves to read, cook, and spend time with her family.
Steve Keyser
Outreach Educator
skeyser@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5612
Steve Keyser joined the New College Institute staff after working as a teacher in the Martinsville City Schools for more than twenty years. He works with community members to help them understand the value of a college education and assist them in achieving their educational goals.
Steve earned a BS from Radford University and a M.Ed. from the University of Virginia. He has been a teacher, coach, and community advocate during his career in education.
Steve is a native of Clifton Forge and resides in Martinsville with his wife Joanna, daughter Sarah Beth, and son Zach. He is an active member of Christ Episcopal Church in Martinsville.
Mary Moyer-Redd
Receptionist
mredd@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5636
Mary joined New College Institute in August 2009, and serves as part-time receptionist. She brings with her over twenty years of professional office experience and computer expertise.
Mary worked most recently at Hooker Furniture Corporation as a Vendor Planner. Prior to that, she was the administrative assistant at Danville Community College's Education Opportunity Center program.
She has an Associate's Degree in Computer Application Management from National College, and is currently attending Patrick Henry Community College. A lifetime resident of Henry County, Mary lives in Martinsville with her daughter DeAnna. She is active in her church, Greater Refuge Temple Center of Deliverence and enjoys spending time with her family.
Sammy Redd
Outreach Educator
sredd@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5611
As part of NCI’s educational outreach team, Sammy partners with local schools and community organizations to create a college-going culture in southern Virginia.
Sammy worked most recently as a school counselor at Magna Vista High School. Prior to becoming an educator, he worked for ten years in the field of real estate management and finance.
Sammy graduated cum laude with a BA in art history from Yale University. A Martinsville native, he is an alumnus of Laurel Park High School. He is currently pursuing a master's degree in community and college counseling.
Sammy serves as vice chair of the board of trustees of the Virginia Museum of Natural History. He is a member of the executive committee of the West Piedmont Workforce Investment Board and serves as chair of the Youth Council. He was recently appointed to the board of directors of the Virginia College Access Network.
Charles Toothman
Fiscal and Human Resources Administrator
ctoothman@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5602
Charles supervises human resources, purchasing, technology, fiscal issues, and facility construction/maintenance. Before coming to New College Institute, Charles was the administrative manager for the West Piedmont Health District, which manages the Henry County-Martinsville, Patrick County and the Franklin County Health Departments. Charles also gained extensive experience in retail management prior to entering state service.
Charles graduated from Fairmont State University with a BS in business administration, and recently completed his master of business administration degree through Averett University. He resides in Martinsville with his wife Kimberly, daughter Sarah and son Ryan.
Barbara Waldron
Coordinator of Recruitment and Information
bwaldron@newcollegeinstitute.org
(276) 403-5635
Barbara came to New College Institute in 2008 after working as a business teacher at Franklin County High School in Rocky Mount. At NCI, she will coordinate educational information and recruit students through collaboration with regional community colleges, public school systems, businesses, and community organizations. Providing information to potential students and paving the path for continued education is the goal of the recruitment office, while partnering with NCI Outreach Counselors to present opportunities available in our region.
Barbara earned her A.A.S. degrees in General Engineering and Industrial Electronics from Patrick Henry Community College, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Averett University, as well as completed graduate classes at Virginia Tech.
Barbara has worked as credit program coordinator at PHCC and as enrollment counselor at Averett University. She has also worked as adjunct faculty for PHCC, teaching various IT courses.
Barbara is a native of Europe, the daughter of an American Army veteran/civil servant and a German mother. She attended elementary school in Germany, middle school in England, and high school in Italy. Having lived in Henry County for 25 years, she considers this home. Barbara has two children: Nic, who lives in Charlottesville and Kat, who lives in Henry County. Barbara enjoys walking, reading, movies and playing with her dog, Charley.