SANFORD - Stelfanie Williams, Central Carolina Community College dean of Continuing Education since November 2008, has been named the college’s vice president for Economic and Community Development, a new position.

“The new position better expresses what her job entails,” said Dr. Bud Marchant, college president. “The college is extremely fortunate to have a person of Mrs. Williams’ experience and background as we continue to move forward in working with our communities to increase economic development.”

Williams, a Sanford resident, will continue to supervise the Continuing Education department. The college’s Small Business Center, with centers in Chatham, Harnett and Lee counties, are now under her supervision. The change will provide a more comprehensive approach to workforce development, training, and outreach services that are offered through various entities of continuing education within the college.

“I am honored to serve the college in this capacity, but more importantly, this shift reinforces the college’s commitment to economic and community development in our service area,” said Williams. “It will facilitate the integration and delivery of training and enrichment programs that we offer.”

In 2006-07, Williams served as the college’s director of Continuing Education in Chatham County. She then served as dean of Continuing Education at Sandhills Community College before returning to Central Carolina as dean. She is the first African-American woman to hold a vice president’s position at the college.

Williams will receive her Doctorate (all but dissertation completed) in Adult and Higher Education from N.C. State University. She has bachelor’s degrees in Public Policy and Spanish from Duke University, and an M.B.A. in Project Management from Western Carolina University.