College of The Albemarle (COA) is highlighting the leadership of its Board of Trustees as the college welcomes two new members and recognizes the continued service of reappointed trustees for 2025–2026.

During its regular meeting on Dec. 9 at COA – Elizabeth City, the Board of Trustees held a swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed members Renee Dowdy and Kathy Lauten. Judge Andrew Womble administered the oaths of office. Dowdy was appointed by the North Carolina Senate, and Lauten was appointed by the North Carolina House of Representatives. Their appointments complete the 25-member Board of Trustees, which includes representation from the Governor, the North Carolina Senate and House of Representatives, county commissioners, and the nonvoting, ex officio representative from the College of The Albemarle Student Government Association.

Judge Andrew Womble administers the oath of office to trustee Renee Dowdy during the Dec. 9 Board of Trustees meeting at COA – Elizabeth City.

Earlier this year, the board reaffirmed several trustees who were reappointed during the Aug. 12 regular meeting. Reappointed members include Gerry Anderson, Pasquotank County Board of Commissioners; Dr. D. Reide Corbett, Dare County Board of Commissioners; Tommy Fulcher, North Carolina Senate; Dr. Ellis Lawrence, Chowan County Board of Commissioners; Wallace Nelson, Perquimans County Board of Commissioners; Clayton Riggs, Camden County Board of Commissioners; and Dr. Andrea Williams, North Carolina House of Representatives. These trustees continue to provide representation from across COA’s seven-county service area.

Judge Andrew Womble administers the oath of office to trustee Kathy Lauten during the Dec. 9 Board of Trustees meeting at COA – Elizabeth City.

“We are grateful for the steady leadership and commitment of our Board of Trustees,” said COA President Jack Bagwell. “With new members joining us and experienced trustees continuing their service, the board’s guidance helps ensure that College of The Albemarle remains responsive to the needs of students, employers and communities throughout the Albemarle region.”

“Our board reflects a strong cross-section of the communities we serve,” said Tommy Fulcher, Board of Trustees Chair. “With new members joining and experienced trustees continuing their service, we bring thoughtful perspectives and shared responsibility to the work of supporting the college and its students across the region.”

College of The Albemarle extends its appreciation to all trustees for their willingness to serve and for their ongoing support of the college’s mission.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Tammy W. Sawyer, COA director of communications and marketing, at 252-335-0821, ext. 2420, or [email protected].