Dr. Chew's Professional Biography Catherine Chew became the fourth president of Craven Community College on October 1, 2008.  A progressive career track in higher education including experiences in the university environment and dynamic community colleges in the Northeast, South and Midwest has given her a breadth of knowledge.  While at the University of Wisconsin-Madison she authored two best-seller resource guides on career pathways for the Center on Education and Work and consulted nationally on educational reform. Her experience at the postsecondary level, coupled with twelve years experience at the K-12 level, both as a teacher and counselor, have given her a keen understanding of the continuum of learning. During her career, regardless of the positions she has held or the places she has lived, Dr. Chew has been a strong advocate of students, an avid promoter of partnerships and a devotee to professional development.  Establishing Centers for Teaching & Learning and Faculty Innovation Grants at three different institutions to encourage new ideas and to support professional development reveals her commitment to continuous learning. Dr. Chew is intent on making sure that students leave Craven Community College with 21st century knowledge and skills. Deeply committed to the mission and open door philosophy of the community college, Dr. Chew recognizes that institutions such as Craven Community College are one of the nation's most valuable assets. The College has been serving the residents of Craven County since its official Founders' Day on April 23, 1968.

As President and as servant leader she is committed to serving students, colleagues and the community.  She believes deeply in nurturing the potential of students and staff.  A favorite quote by Nelson Mandela, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world" reveals the heartfelt sentiments of her professional aspirations.  Dr. Chew resides in New Bern, North Carolina with her husband who is a retired educator. She has one son, who resides in Charlotte. Family and friends are her first priority, along with yoga, nature and the arts.  And finally, learning to understand sports is an imperative when one is married to a coach; this part of life truly is a work in progress!

Education:  

• Ed.D Career Education (1991), Dissertation Topic: Female Mentors, Virginia Tech University
• M.A. Student Personnel (1984), Virginia Tech University
• B.A. Elementary Education(1977), Tennessee Tech University
• Mediator's Certificate (1985), Haynes Mediation Institute NYC

Other Professional Experiences:

• VP for Academic Affairs (2005 – 2008), Orange County Community College, Middletown, NY
• Asst. Dean, College of Professional Studies (2004-2005), New Jersey City University, Jersey City, NJ
• Dean, Business, Technology & Allied Health (1999 – 2003), Northampton Community College, Bethlehem, PA
• Dean Business, Science & Technology (1997 – 1999), Dallas County Community College District – Cedar Valley, Lancaster, TX
• Director, Center for Instructional Excellence (1995 – 1997), Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
• Coordinator, School-to-Work Programs (1992 – 1995), Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
• Project Director, Center on Education and Work (1991 – 1992), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
• Asst. Director and Instructor, Small Business Management Program (1990 – 1991), New River Community College, Dublin, VA
• Counselor (1983 – 1990), City of Salem Schools, Salem, VA
• Teacher (1978 – 1983), Roanoke County Schools