Cobb Reporter

Dr. Ron Newcomb, president of Chattahoochee Technical College, has announced his retirement effective August 31, 2024. His departure marks the end of a career spanning 36 years at the pre-merger North Metro Technical Institute and 41 years in state government.

“It’s time. The college is at a great place in terms of enrollment and expansions. The faculty and staff are at the top of their game,” said Dr. Newcomb. “With enrollment this fall at 11,000 students, I’m so proud of the work of this team.”

Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) Commissioner Greg Dozier commented on Dr. Newcomb's leadership: “Dr. Newcomb has been an inspirational leader, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. His vision and passion have profoundly impacted his students, faculty, and staff, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.”

Appointed president in 2012, Dr. Newcomb guided the college through significant challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple regional and program accreditations, as well as various campus and program expansions.

Dr. Newcomb began his tenure in technical education in 1988 at North Metro Technical Institute as Vice President of Planning and Development before serving as Vice President of Student Affairs. During his time there, he was assigned to Governor Roy Barnes' office as Commission Staff Director to the Governor’s Education Reform Study Commission.

He played a key role in educational legislation that enabled technical institutes to rename themselves as technical colleges. He also served as Commissioner from Georgia to the Education Commission of the States (ECS).

Returning to North Metro Technical Institute, Dr. Newcomb held roles such as Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Vice President of Academic Affairs before becoming Acting President in 2008. He significantly contributed to the merger forming Chattahoochee Technical College from Appalachian, Chattahoochee, and North Metro Technical Colleges.

Prior to working with Gov. Barnes, Dr. Newcomb assisted Gov. Joe Frank Harris with the Governor’s Education Review Commission which led to the Quality Basic Education (QBE) Act in 1985.

Dr. Newcomb's public service extends beyond education; he served five terms as a Smyrna City Councilman where he focused on economic development and city policy reforms.

An alumnus of the University of Georgia with bachelor's, master's degrees in political science, and a doctorate from its Institute of Higher Education earned in August 2011 based on his experience with technical college mergers.

As president of Chattahoochee Tech, Dr. Newcomb emphasized crediting others for their contributions to the college's success while championing student access to quality instruction and resources.

Upon retirement, Dr. Newcomb plans to read more, travel extensively, and spend time with family and friends: “My health is good and there are other interests I’d like to pursue,” he stated.

For further details about Chattahoochee Technical College visit www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu.