Dr. James Lowe Becomes Bishop State's Third President

July 24, 2008 – Dr. James Lowe, Jr., was installed Bishop State Community College's third president on July 24, 2008, during an installation ceremony held at the school's Baker-Gaines Central Campus.

Dr. Lowe was appointed president on May 22, 2008, by the Alabama State Board of Education. He replaced Dr. Yvonne Kennedy, who retired after 26 years in office.

The ceremony was led by Alabama State Board of Education member Randy McKinney and Alabama Community College System Chancellor Bradley Byrne.

Community leaders credited Lowe with having a new vision for the College and, according to Mobile City Councilman William Carroll, taking the College "in a new direction."

Faulkner State Community College President Dr. Gary Branch said that if anyone can take Bishop State down a different path, it is Dr. Lowe. "He's a born leader. We've heard that said before. But I do not believe that leaders are born. I believe that leaders earn their leadership because of their experiences, because of their education, because of their values. He said that Dr. Lowe is prepared to lead Bishop State.

Dr. Lowe told the audience that if it had not been for his family and God, "none of this would have been possible." He said, "I am honored to have been selected as the third president of Bishop State Community College. Bishop State has been the cornerstone of Mobile for more than eight decades and I'm very proud to be a part of its history."

Dr. Lowe said Bishop State will be dedicated to serving every student, one at a time. "I want our students to become model students as they move toward their careers."

The new president pledged to make Bishop State's academic credits easier to transfer to other colleges and universities, so students can continue their education. Dr. Lowe said he will ensure the College becomes a partner with more local industries and healthcare providers to give students better real-life experiences in their chosen fields. Dr. Lowe also commended the faculty and staff for not giving up when they were faced with adversities. He described them as "champions."

"I will provide the leadership to move Bishop State forward," he said. I have every confidence we will succeed."

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Contact:
Herb Jordan
Director of Public Relations
P: (251) 405-7135
F: (251) 432-7812
hjordan@bishop.edu