Charlotte K. Berger

cberger@thecherawchronicle.com

CHERAW - Dr. Ron Bartley was introduced as the new president of Northeastern Technical College at a Greater Cheraw Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours reception, sponsored by NETC and Founders Federal Credit Union on Mar. 13. He succeeds the former NETC president, Dr. Jimmie Williamson.

Prior to his arrival at NETC, Bartley served as interim president at West Virginia State Community and Technical College, since 2006 having previously served as vice-president of academic affairs. Bartley also served in many leadership and teaching roles at Southwest Virginia Community College, taught math, and was an assistant high school principal. He also has experience in economic development. Bartley holds a Doctor of Education Degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, a Master of Education Degree from the University of Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science Degree from East Tennessee State University.

Bartley's wife Rita, who has been in the field of Early Childhood Education for 21 years, was a reading specialist in Virginia and West Virginia. She is a graduate of Radford University and Clinch Valley College in Virginia. "I love children and I hope to work here as well," she said during the reception. The Bartleys have two children and one grandson. The couple relocated to Cheraw in late February. "I grew up in a rural region and I really wanted to come back to that same kind of area," said Bartley, who lists hiking, biking and canoeing among his hobbies.

Bartley brings with him many talents and attributes to Northeastern Technical College, along with a vision for a bright future. Bartley's vision encompasses only the local community, but also for students entering NETC from all walks of life. "The college will continue to work with area business and industry to maintain a growing family of educational pathways for the people of Chesterfield, Marlboro and Dillon Counties," he said.

"In addition to technical and business jobs, healthcare professionals are in demand both locally and nationwide. The hospitality and tourism industry is also growing, and we want to help people develop entrepreneurship skills for success in business."

He also emphasized NETC's role in preparing students for transfer to four-year colleges and universities.

According to Bartley, this is just the beginning of the new growth that NETC hopes to achieve. As Bartley takes the reins, interacts and moves ahead in his new position, he knows that it is "not an overnight process," but a gradual sequence of growth and development.

Bartley pointed out several assets that NETC offers, including the federally supported Student Support Services program, which provides special support for first-generation college students, along with financial aid, career guidance and tutoring. "We provide support for all students that we serve, including non-traditional, adult learners," he said.

Looking back on his first few weeks on the job, Bartley stated, "You have a priceless commodity here...true southern hospitality. I am thankful to be a part of the community and NETC, and I look forward to working with the administration, faculty and staff in making NETC the best place it can be."