WCCD Appoints Dr. Chris Franklin as Dean of Student Services
Dr. Chris Franklin, WCCD Dean of Student Services
Wallace Community College-Dothan (WCCD) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Chris Franklin as Dean of Student Services, effective March 1, 2026.
Dr. Franklin brings nearly 30 years of experience in higher education, with a strong emphasis on enrollment management, student services, and student success. He also offers extensive leadership experience within the Alabama Community College System, where he has played a key role in advancing access, persistence, and completion for students.
“We welcome Dr. Franklin and look forward to his leadership in advancing enrollment growth, student success, and retention initiatives,” said WCCD President Dr. Kathy L. Murphy. “I am excited about the contributions he will make and the work we will accomplish together.”
In previous roles, Dr. Franklin has overseen a wide range of student-focused areas, including admissions, academic advising, assessment, career services, dual enrollment, student success initiatives, and recruiting. His comprehensive background and depth of knowledge will help ensure seamless access to the College while strengthening support systems that promote student achievement.
Throughout his career, Dr. Franklin has demonstrated a proven record of developing and implementing strategic enrollment initiatives, managing CRM systems and budgets, coordinating commencement and orientation programs, and utilizing data-driven decision-making to enhance institutional effectiveness.
“Student Success is at the heart of everything a community college represents, and I am honored to join WCCD – an institution so deeply committed to transforming lives through opportunity and education,” said Dr. Franklin. “I look forward to working with our dedicated faculty and staff to provide our students with an environment where every student feels inspired to reach their academic and professional goals.”
A native of Bessemer, Dr. Franklin earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from The University of Alabama. He also earned his Master of Arts and Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the university. He has presented at several state, regional and national conferences. Dr. Franklin is a past president of the Alabama Community College Association, the state’s largest professional development organization for two-year college employees and currently serves as its parliamentarian.