Southern WV Community & Technical College Appoints Chris Ward as Dean of Professional and Transfer Programs

Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College proudly announces the appointment of Chris Ward as the new Dean of Professional and Transfer Programs.

Ward brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and dedication to his new role—qualities forged through an extraordinary career that spans both military service and higher education. Raised along the shores of Lake Erie in Ohio, Ward enlisted in the United States Navy following high school. He served his country with distinction for 20 years, specializing in combat information systems and self-defense weaponry. His service included deployments in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, assignments aboard three aircraft carriers, and a tour of duty in Yokosuka, Japan. He retired in 2006 as a Chief Petty Officer.

Following his military retirement, Ward turned his focus to higher education, earning a master’s degree in mathematics from Washington State University. In 2015, he joined Southern as an Instructor of Mathematics at the Boone Campus. Over the past decade, Ward has played a pivotal role in academic leadership, rising to Associate Professor, serving on key institutional committees, and holding positions as Lead Faculty of Mathematics and Director of Math and Science.

Ward’s appointment as Dean of Professional and Transfer Programs marks the latest milestone in a career defined by service, scholarship, and student-focused leadership. His dual background in the military and academia uniquely positions him to guide Southern’s professional and transfer initiatives with vision and integrity.

“Chris Ward embodies the values of commitment, perseverance, and lifelong learning,” said Dr. Corley Dennison, Interim President of Southern. “We are honored to have him lead this important division and are confident he will continue to inspire excellence across our academic programs.”