ACCS appoints successor to WCCS President James Mitchell

A successor the Wallace Community College Selma (WCCS) President James M. Mitchell - who is retiring at the end of the month - has been appointed by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Board of Trustees. 

Dr. Donitha Griffin's appointment is effective on Sept. 1, said a press release from WCCS on Wednesday. 

“[WCCS] is as symbolic to its community and region as any Alabama community college, and Dr. Griffin has been an integral piece of the college’s success and growth for many years,” said Chancellor Jimmy Baker. “Dr. Griffin has the expertise, vision and passion necessary to lead Wallace Community College Selma. Her investment in the college and community is unmatched.”

Griffin is a native of Selma and her background includes being a social worker for the Alabama Department of Health. 

“I believe that Wallace Community College is poised for continued growth and impact, and I am honored to lead that journey forward," she said. “I hope to build upon the important work already underway, strengthening partnerships, expanding workforce development opportunities, and ensuring our students receive the support they need to succeed both in the classroom and life.”

She has spent more than three decades at the school, including serving as Dean of Students and Executive Assistant to the President, as well as Interim VP for Instruction, Director of Admissions and Records, College Counselor, Continuing Education Coordinator and Assistant Counselor Director.

Griffin holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the University of Alabama, a Master of Science in Counseling and Human Development from Troy University and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Walden University.