Dr. Charles Lea recently retired from his position as Special Assistant to the President and Professor of Educational Leadership at Welch College, according to President Matt Pinson.
Before coming to Welch, Lea served as executive director of the Hendersonville campus of Union University. Prior to his work with Union, Lea served 16 years as Academic Vice President at Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, Tennessee.
“I first met Dr. Lea when we started looking at our current property in Gallatin about thirteen years ago,” Pinson said. “Dr. Lea has been a wonderful friend to Welch, commending our mission and vision to the people of Sumner County and helping move us forward in a significant way. It’s been such a blessing to have his seasoned counsel and exemplary Christian leadership.”
Lea, who received his Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership from Vanderbilt University, has spent forty-five years in higher education and community leadership, most of that in Sumner County.
In a recent communiqué, Lea said, “It has been a joy to serve Welch College and to work with the many talented administrators and faculty at the college over the past four and one half years. I never thought when I began my work at Welch that I would stay this long, but due to the friendships, initiatives and Christ-like atmosphere, I delayed my departure.”
“When I came to Volunteer State Community College some 30 years ago, I never dreamt I would be able to complete my public service to the Tennessee Board of Regents in Sumner County and assist in bringing Union University to Hendersonville and assist Welch in its relocation to Gallatin,” Lea continued. “I am particularly pleased with the work which I have completed at Welch. We have formed unique partnerships with other higher education institutions, public schools and business leaders. We have also created a signature event for the college, Strong and Courageous.”
Pinson said, “I’m delighted that Dr. Lea will continue to volunteer as an advisor to me and our leadership team here at Welch. What a great friend he has been and will continue to be to our institution!”
The Welch community thanks Dr. Lea and wishes him and his wife Rita God’s blessings during their retirement.