Author: Kathleen Stockham

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 7, 2025

South College has selected Dr. Timothy M. Smith, a South College longtime associate professor, as the School of Pharmacy’s new dean.

Smith, who earned his PharmD at the University of Tennessee in 1990 and has been an associate professor at South College since 2012 and has experience both as a pharmacy owner in Knoxville and as a leader in the pharmaceutical industry.

“Dr. Smith has demonstrated his commitment to his profession and has a firsthand understanding of the responsibility of leading the School of Pharmacy,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “His experience in medical settings, as a pharmacy owner and in the classroom combine to make him an excellent choice to lead the School in an ever-changing landscape in healthcare and delivery of pharmaceutical care.”

Smith, who has served as interim dean since July, became the official dean in November. In 2010, he founded P3 Pharmacy and has served as a preceptor for South College students taking rotations in Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) and Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE). He also is a resident practice site coordinator for postgraduate year one (PGY-1) pharmacy residents and served as the South College Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences’ faculty representative to the dean since 2019.

“Becoming dean of the South College School of Pharmacy is not something I set out to do after earning my degree, but it does bring me full circle to where it all started,” Smith said. “I am committed to the continued success of the School of Pharmacy and ensuring that our graduates are prepared for innovations and changes in every pharmaceutical field from research to community care to operations. I know how challenging and rewarding this profession can be, and I am eager to work with our faculty, staff and students as we move forward.”

Prior to earning his PharmD, Smith received a Bachelor of Science in biology from Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville in 1986. His lengthy professional experience includes director of pharmacy positions at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville and Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville. He is a member of the Tennessee Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and earned Tennessee Health-System Pharmacist of the Year in 2004.

Smith succeeds retiring dean Dr. William M. Gentry, who became dean in 2018 following the retirement of Dr. Walter L. Fitzgerald Jr., the founding dean of the South College School of Pharmacy.

“Dr. Gentry has elevated the School of Pharmacy during his successful tenure as dean and led initiatives to increase academic and professional opportunities and adapt through innovation from navigating a pandemic to offering a hybrid path to a PharmD with on-campus and online courses,” South said. “He has earned his retirement, and we wish Dr. Gentry all the best.”

South College offers an accelerated PharmD program to earn a doctoral degree in three years instead of the traditional four. Visit south.edu/pharmacy to learn more about the accelerated program.

South College offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE.

To learn more about South College, visit south.edu.

About South College

South College serves more than 14,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 13, 2024

The first cohort to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Anesthesia (NAP) from South College graduated Dec. 13 in a ceremony held at the Knoxville Convention Center.

The innovative advanced degree provides a specialized DNP NAP curriculum through hybrid distance education, on-ground intensive learning sessions, integrated simulation curriculum and clinical practicum experiences. The cohort began in January 2022 and became the inaugural graduating class.

“This is a remarkable achievement and a credit to the discipline and commitment of the students,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “The need is tremendous for skilled nurses in the field of anesthesiology. I congratulate this cohort on a milestone event for both the graduates and South College and its nursing faculty.”

In addition, graduates of the Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant (PA) Studies and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs participated in commencement ceremonies.

“All of the graduates earned degrees in advanced healthcare fields,” South said. “Our primary goal at South College is to provide a high-quality education for our students and prepare our graduates for opportunities in medical settings and other workplaces.”

The DNP NAP program prepares graduates to be independent, highly skilled anesthesia experts who deliver compassionate, evidence-based anesthesia care to patients across the lifespan. The curriculum is a commitment to excellence in education and scholarly activity, including research, service and patient care.

The blended learning model combines best practices in distance learning and hands-on immersive learning sessions to create a program where top critical care nurses can learn without the need to physically relocate until program quarter six, and if living in their clinical satellite region, no relocation is required for the duration of the program.

To learn more about South College, visit south.edu.

About South College

South College serves more than 14,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 11, 2024

South College is opening a new campus in Marietta, Georgia, marking the institution’s expansion to nine cities and 10 physical campuses nationwide, in addition to Online and Competency-Based Education (CBE) offerings.

Located at 1850 Parkway Place, the campus is set to welcome students starting in early 2025 as the college continues its mission to provide accessible, high-quality education to diverse communities. The new campus will offer a range of healthcare-focused degree and certificate programs to meet the needs of students and the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the region. Josh Huffaker, who has served as the Atlanta campus president for nearly seven years, will also lead the Marietta campus.

“Our Marietta campus is an important step in expanding South College’s impact in Georgia, a state known for its growing healthcare sector,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “We are dedicated to equipping students with the education and support they need to excel in growing fields, and we look forward to building strong ties within the Marietta community.”

The Marietta campus will feature modern labs and classrooms designed to support a comprehensive learning experience for students pursuing futures in healthcare.

Programs planned to be offered at the Marietta campus, with needed approvals, include:

Associate of Science

Bachelor of Science

Certificate

“The addition of our Marietta campus expands South College’s reach to more students across Georgia who are eager to achieve their educational goals in healthcare,” South added. “We are committed to providing a supportive environment that empowers students to succeed.”

The Marietta campus will offer robust student support services, including academic advising and access to faculty and staff dedicated to student success. For more information about South College Marietta and its programs, visit south.edu/marietta.

About South College

South College serves more than 14,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Orlando, Florida; Dallas, Texas; as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 11, 2024

South College has appointed Josh Huffaker as campus president of its new Marietta location. Huffaker, who also serves as president of the South College Atlanta campus, brings nearly seven years of leadership experience in that role and an extensive background with the institution, including serving as president of the Asheville campus and holding various operations and admissions positions at South College’s main campus in Knoxville.

As the campus president at Marietta, Huffaker will oversee all academic and administrative operations, applying his strategic vision and commitment to higher education to this notable expansion. He will work closely with faculty, staff and local partners to ensure that the campus delivers high-quality education that aligns with the needs and aspirations of students and the workforce in Georgia.

“Josh’s deep understanding of our institution and his dedication to educational excellence make him the ideal choice to lead the Marietta campus,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “His strategic leadership has been integral to the growth of our Atlanta campus, and we are confident that his expertise will guide the Marietta campus to new heights.”

The Marietta campus marks a significant milestone in South College’s growth, expanding its reach in Georgia with a variety of healthcare degree and certificate programs. Offerings will include Associate of Science in Surgical Technology and Health Science Pre-Nursing, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Physical Therapy and Pre-Physician Assistant tracks initially. Programs to come include the Associate of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing in-person, accelerated and Hybrid/Online; Licensed Practical Nurse Certificate and more, providing students with practical skills for a successful future in healthcare.

“I am honored to lead the Marietta campus and continue South College’s tradition of delivering exceptional education,” Huffaker said. “Our programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of Georgia students, and I look forward to working with the community to support students as they pursue their dreams.”

The Marietta expansion reflects South College’s commitment to increasing access to education and preparing students for success. For more information about the Marietta campus, visit south.edu/marietta.

About South College

South College serves more than 14,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Orlando, Florida; Dallas, Texas; as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 10, 2024

South College Asheville is now enrolling students for a new Associate of Science in Respiratory Therapy program.

Respiratory therapists consult with and assist physicians to diagnose, treat and manage breathing problems and cardiopulmonary diseases and disorders. Students in the South College Asheville Respiratory Therapy program will work to earn this degree through a mix of online and in-person learning, studying a wide variety of respiratory care therapies, devices and techniques.

“Our institution is committed to delivering relevant programs for students, and respiratory therapy is a growing and rewarding profession, serving people of all ages and abilities,” South College Asheville President Dr. Danielle Kwasnik said. “We’re excited to launch this program, welcome students and help provide solutions for community and regional demand for professionals in this field.”

This program helps students develop essential skills, including cardiopulmonary pharmacology; mechanical ventilation and airway management; emergency and critical respiratory care; neonatal and pediatric respiratory care; pulmonary rehabilitation and home care; and cardiopulmonary testing and sleep studies.

Students will complete labs and clinical practice to gain hands-on experience with respiratory therapy equipment, procedures, imaging and lab data and patient care. The program is designed to prepare graduates for national credential examinations administered by The National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC).

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2023 median pay is for respiratory therapists is $77,960 per year. Additionally, the field is expected to grow at 13% through 2033. This growth is fueled by a large aging population, which leads to a rise in chronic respiratory conditions.

The Asheville campus is located at 140 Sweeten Creek Road in Asheville. Interested students may call the admissions team at 828-630-8104 or visit south.edu/asheville.

About South College

South College serves more than 14,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 10, 2024

South College has been awarded initial accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) for the Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program at its Atlanta campus.

“Surgical technologists have critical roles in healthcare settings, and the Associate of Science in Surgical Technology at South College offers excellent educational instruction in the classroom and practical training with clinical hours,” said Josh Huffaker, president of the South College Atlanta campus. “By earning initial accreditation in this degree program, we show our commitment to both an outstanding education and the preparation of students to start their careers after graduation.”

Surgical technologists learn skills to help care for patients, prepare for surgery, keep areas sterile and assist surgeons during surgical procedures. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2023 median pay for surgical technologists is $60,610 per year. Additionally, the field is expected to grow at 6% through 2033.

CAAHEP accredits educational programs that prepare health professionals in a variety of disciplinary areas. Programs are accredited when it is determined that they meet the educational standards and guidelines established by the profession. The Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA) has determined South College Atlanta’s Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program is in compliance with nationally established accreditation standards. For more information about CAAHEP, visit caahep.org.

South College offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE.

To learn more about South College or the Surgical Technology program, visit south.edu.

About South College

South College serves more than 14,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

About CAAHEP Accreditation

The Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (caahep.org) upon recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20, 2024

South College Orlando hosted teens from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida for Health Career Discovery Day to get a hands-on introduction to careers in healthcare and spark their interest in pursuing varying fields.

The teenagers are part of the Leesburg Branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, which operates 38 clubs in five counties and is one of the largest in the country. The club members participated in various activities related to a spectrum of healthcare careers in surgical technology, respiratory therapy, radiography and more.

“Careers in healthcare fields are some of the fastest-growing opportunities in the country and especially in Florida,” South College Orlando President Jim McCoy said. “We wanted to introduce these teenagers early to educational options that will become available to them after high school and let them see the wide spectrum of healthcare programs that we offer at South College Orlando.”

The activities included intubation of a model in respiratory therapy; the process of “scrubbing in” for a surgical technician; and ultrasound scanning through the use of medical imaging phantoms, which mimic body tissue, among other hands-on experiences.

The teenagers learned about careers in nursing, surgical technology, respiratory therapy, radiography, diagnostic medical sonography, medical assisting and physician assistant and then enjoyed pizza in the student lounge.

“An education at South College leads to multiple paths in healthcare,” said Dr. Melissa Kennedy, Associate Dean of Nursing South College Orlando. “We welcomed these teenagers to experience what it’s like in a college setting and to inspire them to continue their education after high school. We want to foster the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

The South College Orlando campus opened in 2021 and has expanded its original program offerings which now include healthcare-related certificate, associate and bachelor’s programs in areas such as Health Science, Imaging Science, Medical Assisting, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy and Surgical Technology.

Recently, 10 nursing students from South College Orlando were selected to participate in clinical rotations at the Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center’s (ORMC) Dedicated Education Unit (DEU). The selection marked a significant achievement for the students and the institution.

The Orlando campus is located at 6649 Westwood Blvd., Suite 100, in Orlando. For more information about South College Orlando visit south.edu.

About South College

South College serves more than 13,500 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 4, 2024

South College will open its first campus in Texas in the Dallas area to bring the institution’s presence to eight cities and nine physical campuses nationwide, plus Online and Competency-Based Education (CBE) offerings.

The Dallas campus, temporarily located at 1501-1507 Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway at Park West 1 & 2 buildings in Farmers Branch, Texas, is set to welcome students starting in early 2025 as the college continues its mission to provide accessible, high-quality education to diverse communities.

The Dallas campus will offer a range of healthcare-focused degree programs designed to meet the needs of students and the growing demand for skilled professionals in the region. Turner South, who has served as the Indianapolis campus president and institutional director of finance, will lead the campus as its new president.

“Our Dallas campus represents an exciting opportunity to expand South College’s educational impact in a city known for its dynamic growth and vibrant healthcare sector,” South said. “We are committed to providing students with the tools and support they need to succeed in high-demand fields, and we look forward to building strong connections within the Dallas community as we establish our permanent campus.”

The temporary location in Farmers Branch will serve as the primary site for faculty while the permanent facility is completed.

Programs planned to be offered at the Dallas campus, following receipt of all required approvals, include:

Associate of Science

Bachelor of Science

“The addition of our Dallas campus extends South College’s reach to more students who are eager to pursue rewarding careers in healthcare and other fields,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “We are committed to delivering high-quality education and providing a supportive environment that empowers students to achieve their goals.”

The Dallas campus will offer comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, career counseling and access to faculty and staff who are dedicated to student success. With its focus on career-focused programs and hands-on learning, South College Dallas is poised to become a vital educational resource for the region.

For more information about South College Dallas and its programs, visit south.edu/dallas.

About South College
South College serves more than 13,500 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 4, 2024

South College has selected Turner South as the inaugural president of its new Dallas campus, set to open in 2025. With more than three years of experience as president of the South College Indianapolis campus and an additional year as institutional director of finance, South brings a history of leadership experience and a strong commitment to student success to his new role.

As president of the Dallas campus, South will oversee the launch of the institution’s first campus in Texas, establishing South College’s footprint in a region known for its vibrant and growing demand for higher education opportunities. He will lead the development of academic programs, foster partnerships within the local community and ensure that the campus provides a supportive and enriching environment for students.

“Turner’s track record of establishing the foundation of excellence at the Indianapolis campus makes him the ideal choice to lead our expansion into Dallas,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “His dedication to creating high-quality educational experiences will be instrumental as we bring South College’s mission of fostering academic and professional success to the Dallas community.”

During his tenure in Indianapolis, South led the campus through significant growth, enhancing academic offerings and expanding services to support the diverse needs of the student body. His strategic vision and collaborative leadership style have been key to building strong community and industry partnerships, positioning the campus as a leader in professional and career-focused education.

“I am honored to take on this new challenge and to lead South College’s efforts to provide transformative educational opportunities in Dallas,” Turner South said. “Our new campus will be a place where students can pursue their passions, gain valuable skills and build their knowledge. I look forward to working with our dedicated faculty and staff to make this vision a reality.”

Programs planned for the South College Dallas campus, following all appliable approvals, will include nursing, surgical technology, dental hygiene and other healthcare specialties, to meet the needs of students and employers in the region. With modern facilities and a focus on experiential learning, the campus is designed to prepare graduates for future opportunities.

For more information about South College Dallas, please visit south.edu/location/dallas.

About South College
South College serves more than 12,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 4, 2024

South College has announced the appointment of Courtney Martin Sechler as the new president of the Indianapolis campus. Sechler, who previously served as the dean of academic and student services at South College Pittsburgh and director of admissions, brings a dynamic blend of leadership experience and a passion for student achievement to her new role.

As president of the Indianapolis campus, Sechler will oversee all academic and administrative operations, building on the strong foundation established under her predecessor, Turner South, who is transferring to Dallas, Texas, to lead South College’s new campus there. She will work closely with faculty, staff and community partners to continue the campus’s commitment to providing high-quality, practical education that meets the evolving needs of students and the local workforce.

“Courtney’s proven ability to lead and her dedication to student success make her the perfect fit to guide our Indianapolis campus forward,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “Her leadership at South College Pittsburgh was marked by a strong focus on academic excellence and community engagement, and we are confident that she will continue this tradition in Indianapolis.”

During her tenure as dean of academic and student services at South College Pittsburgh, Sechler was instrumental in expanding academic programs and enhancing student services. Her background in admissions also equips her with a deep understanding of the student journey, from recruitment through graduation, and a strong commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive campus environment.

“I am excited to lead the Indianapolis campus and to work alongside a dedicated team to support our students in achieving their educational and professional goals,” Sechler said. “We have an opportunity to shape the future of higher education in Indianapolis, and I am honored to be part of this journey.”

Sechler’s appointment comes at a time of growth and innovation for South College Indianapolis, which continues to expand its academic offerings and strengthen its ties to the local community. The campus provides a range of programs in healthcare, designed to prepare students for success in meeting their goals.

For more information about South College Indianapolis, please visit south.edu/indianapolis.

About South College
South College serves more than 12,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 22, 2024

South College’s Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program in Knoxville has been ranked first in Tennessee, fourth in the Southeast region and 11th nationally by College Factual. South College also is ranked 15th nationally by Niche for top surgical technology schools.

“We’re thrilled but not surprised by these elite rankings for the Surgical Technology program,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “Our dedication to equip students for a rewarding career in healthcare builds each day through brilliant and dedicated faculty and staff who prioritize learning, skill development, student resources and learning environments. We’re honored for this recognition.”

College Factual, a leading source for college data and insights, looked at 299 colleges and universities when compiling the 2024 rankings. Its website indicates that surgical technology is the 36th most popular major in the country, underscoring the importance of finding a school that is a good fit for students.  

Niche is an online tool that allows students to review schools based on multiple parameters. Rankings are based on analysis of college reviews from students and alumni and data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education and National Science Foundation.

South College was founded in Knoxville in 1882 and has two campuses – Lonas Drive and Parkside Drive – in the city. The locations offer professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs in multiple areas of study, including healthcare, business, education, computer science and more.

The associate level Surgical Technology program offers three paths, including two with concentrations, and students learn both in the classroom and in clinical settings. For more information about South College, visit south.edu.

About South College
South College serves more than 12,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and Competency-Based Education. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

About accreditation

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels. South College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling 404-679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (sacscoc.org).