Three Bainbridge College faculty members have been promoted to the rank of Dean, effective July 1, according to Bainbridge College president Dr. Richard Carvajal. “Bainbridge College is indeed fortunate to have this outstanding group of administrators,” said Dr. Carvajal. “They are very deserving of these promotions, and I am excited about the impact that they will make on this great institution for many years to come.”

Dr. Adria Belk of Tallahassee, Fla. has been promoted to the title of Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Professional Studies, and shall oversee the School of Health Sciences and Professional Studies and all related faculty.

Dr. Belk joined the Bainbridge College faculty in 2005 as the Director of Instruction, Division of Technical Studies. In 2011, she was promoted to the role of Chair, Division of Technical Studies and Interim Chair, Division of Health Sciences. Originally from Columbia, SC,

Dr. Belk received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Carolina, and both her Master of Science and Doctor of Education degrees from Florida State University.

Dr. Michael Kirkland of Iron City, Ga. has been promoted to Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, and shall oversee the School of Arts & Sciences and all related faculty.

Dr. Kirkland joined the Bainbridge College faculty in 2002 as an instructor of history. In 2007, he was named the Interim Vice President of Student Affairs. In 2010, he was named the Chair of the Division of Arts and Sciences as well as the Chair of the Division of Learning Support. Dr. Kirkland also currently serves as an Associate Professor of History and Humanities. An alumnus of Bainbridge College, Dr. Kirkland earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Georgia, his Master of Arts degree from Valdosta State University, and his Doctor of Philosophy degree from Florida State University.

Dr. Kirkland resides in Iron City with his wife, Katina, and their three children: Gracen, Landon, and Anna Kate.

Ms. Joan Simpson of Colquitt, Ga. has been promoted to the title of Dean of the Early County Center, and shall oversee all faculty and staff at the site. Joan joined the Bainbridge College faculty in 2006, as an Instructor of Accounting and Business. In 2007, she was promoted to the role of Director of the Bainbridge College Early County center.

An alumnus of Bainbridge College, Ms. Simpson received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Valdosta State University, her Master of Business Administration degree from Troy University, her Master of Education degree from Trident University, and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy degree from Trident University. She resides in Colquitt with her husband, Don.