WCCD President, Staff Part of Inaugural and Upcoming ACCS Economic Development Academy Cohorts

Members of the inaugural Alabama Community College System Economic Development Academy, which include WCCD President Dr. Kathy L. Murphy (front row, left) and WCCD Director of Workforce Development Joe Johnson (second row, second from left).

Wallace Community College-Dothan (WCCD) proudly announces that President Dr. Kathy L. Murphy and Director of Workforce Development Joe Johnson have completed the inaugural cohort of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Economic Development Academy, a year-long professional learning experience designed to strengthen the role of community colleges in statewide economic growth.

Additionally, Vice President and Dean of Institutional Services and Community Development Dr. Ashli Wilkins has been selected to participate in Cohort 2 of the program.

The ACCS Economic Development Academy, made possible through the support of the Paths for Success Foundation, immerses participants in every stage of the economic development process. Over the course of a year, participants engage with nationally recognized site selectors, learn from local and state economic developers, analyze real-world RFPs, prepare for site visits, and conduct project autopsies to better understand Alabama’s competitive advantages in attracting and retaining business and industry.

Dr. Murphy emphasized the importance of the Academy’s mission, saying, “Community colleges play a vital role in driving economic development through workforce preparation and partnerships that create opportunity for individuals and prosperity for communities. The ACCS Economic Development Academy provides valuable insight into how our colleges can continue to align training with the needs of business and industry to keep Alabama’s economy strong.”

Joe Johnson reflected on his experience as a member of the inaugural cohort, noting, “This program deepened my understanding of how every decision, from program design to industry engagement, affects a community’s ability to attract and sustain high-quality jobs. It also reinforced the power of collaboration between education and economic development professionals.”

As Dr. Wilkins prepares to join Cohort 2, she shared, “I am excited to continue Wallace’s engagement in this transformative program. The Academy’s focus on strategic partnerships and innovative workforce solutions aligns perfectly with our mission to serve students, employers, and communities in Southeast Alabama.”

WCCD maintains strong relationships with regional and state economic development organizations, working together to identify emerging workforce needs and to provide high-quality, industry-aligned training that supports business growth and economic vitality.

Matt Parker, President of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the critical role WCCD plays in the region’s growth, stating, “Wallace is an essential partner in economic development. Their leadership and commitment to workforce readiness help us attract new businesses, retain existing industries, and ensure our citizens have the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy. We are fortunate to have a college so deeply engaged in advancing our region’s success.”

Phil Clayton, Economic Development Director for the Eufaula Barbour County Chamber of Commerce, echoed those sentiments, saying, “Strong communities depend on strong partnerships, and Wallace Community College has proven to be one of our most valuable allies in economic development. Their responsiveness to industry needs and proactive approach to workforce training make a tremendous difference for employers and job seekers across our region.”

Dr. Murphy expressed appreciation to ACCS, Chancellor Jimmy Baker, and the Paths for Success Foundation for their vision in creating the program. “We are deeply grateful for this investment in Alabama’s community colleges. The Academy strengthens our collective capacity to be catalysts for economic progress and workforce readiness.”