COE Announces New Leadership and Board Members

The Council on Occupational Education (COE) has announced changes in leadership and the election of new members to the board. These changes decided during the Annual Business Meeting on November 14, 2024, in Atlanta, reflect COE’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in occupational education.

COE announced Dr. Gwen Sutton, President of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Memphis, as the newly elected Commission Chair. Dr. Sutton brings over 20 years of experience in technical education and workforce development. Under her leadership, TCAT Memphis has been recognized for innovation in curriculum design and partnerships with key industries, ensuring students are prepared for competitive careers. Dr. Sutton will assume the chair on January 1, 2025, succeeding Kim Ziebarth, associate commissioner for technical education at the Utah System of Higher Education.

Throughout her career, Dr. Sutton has been a steadfast advocate for technical education and workforce development. Under her leadership, TCAT – Memphis has been recognized for its innovative programs and strong partnerships with industry leaders, driving regional economic development and student success. Dr. Sutton’s commitment to excellence has positioned the institution as a leader in preparing students for careers in high-demand industries, including healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and automotive technology.

“I am honored to serve as the incoming chair of COE and to continue the legacy of advancing occupational education,” said Dr. Sutton. “The Council plays a pivotal role in ensuring high-quality standards for our member institutions, and I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to empower students and institutions nationwide.”

Outgoing chair Kim Ziebarth reflected on her tenure and welcomed Sutton’s leadership:
“Serving as Chair has been one of the greatest honors of my career. The Council’s dedication to advancing quality occupational education and ensuring student success inspires me. With Dr. Sutton’s visionary leadership, I am confident the Council will continue to break new ground and drive meaningful change for the future of education.”

Dr. Kirk Nooks, President and CEO of COE, expressed his enthusiasm for Sutton’s appointment: “Dr. Sutton’s visionary leadership and proven track record make her an exceptional choice to lead the COE Board of Commissioners. We are excited to work with her to further COE’s mission of fostering institutional success and student achievement. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Kim Ziebarth for her exemplary service and leadership during her tenure as chair.”

COE membership also elected two new members to the Board of Commissioners to assume their positions on January 1, 2025:

• Russell Penner: Director/Principal, James Rumsey Technical Institute, Martinsburg, WV
• Laura Travis: President, Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Dickson and Clarksville, Dickson, TN

The following Commissioners will continue their terms as members of COE’s Board:

• Ahmon Bryant: Director, Sharp Edgez Barber Institute, Buffalo, NY
• Dr. Darline Glaus: Chief Education & Training, Department of Defense – Defense Media Activity, Fort Meade, MD

• Julie Ha: President, Mayfield College, Cathedral, CA

• David Hawk: President, Texas Health School, Houston, TX
• Dr. Stephanie Houston: Assistant Superintendent – Innovation & Engagement, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, San Bernadino, CA

• Comelia Dunbar-Jackson: Corporate Nursing Program Director, Delta College of Arts & Technology, Baton Rouge, LA

• Terri Dowell-Kimble: Academic Dean, Concorde Career College, Memphis, TN
• Holly McClanan: Superintendent, Southeastern Regional School District, South Easton, MA
• David Osbourne: President, Kenco Associates, Inc., Ashland, KY
• Dr. Thomas Pfundstein: Director, Finishing Trades Institute, Annapolis, MD
• Amit Shorewala: President, Ace Institute of Technology, Elmhurst, NY
• Kristian Smith: Director, Lorain County JVS Adult Career Center, Oberlin, OH
• James Sullivan: Apprenticeship Director (Retired), Central Florida Electrical JATC, Winter Park, FL
• Steve Sullivan: Vice President, Pro Way Hair School, Stone Mountain, GA
• Dr. Alvetta Thomas: President, Executive Leadership Academy & Talent Initiatives (TCSG), Fayetteville, GA
• DeAnna Thomas: Executive Director, Lake Technical College, Eustis, FL