Two familiar faces to faculty, staff and students at Sandhills Community College are stepping into new roles for various academic disciplines. Dr. Maulin “Chris” Herring has been named Dean of Transfer & Comprehensive Programs and Mr. Ed Spitler has been named Dean of Workforce & Applied Programs. Their appointments are a result of an inclusive search and interviewing process to specifically impact the new integrated strategic plan of the College.

"Together, Dr. Herring and Mr. Spitler will offer complementary skills that will foster collaboration across programs and departments, strengthening the new One College model," said Sandhills Community College President Alexander "Sandy" Stewart in a press release. "By working closely with Dr. Rebecca Roush, Provost & Chief Academic Officer, and Michelle Bauer, Vice Provost, they will lead the alignment of our programs under career communities and clusters, which is critical to achieving our goal of a unified, student-centered campus community."

In alignment with the One College model, attention will be focused on ensuring that every institutional decision or action affecting students takes into account the needs of students across all programs; creating a seamless transition from program completion to an associate’s degree for students earning credentials of value; establishing strong coordination and collaboration between credit and credential-based programs, including joint leadership and program alignment to ensure effective support; and ensuring that learning in industry-focused programs is recognized for credit, creating a direct pathway to an associate’s degree.

Herring brings a wealth of experience that will greatly benefit the transfer and comprehensive programs. His background also offers strong connections to the workforce and applied programs, further enhancing Sandhills Community College's integrated approach to education. He has nearly 15 years of experience in law enforcement/public safety and more than 15 years of experience in higher education. He currently serves as the Social and Behavioral Science Department Chair at Sandhills Community College and previously served as the Executive Director of Institute for Homeland Security and Workforce Development at North Carolina Central University. Herring earned master’s degrees in public administration, sociology, human services and divinity. In addition, he earned a Doctor of Ministry degree.

Spitler has a rich history with Sandhills, and his extensive experience will be invaluable in his new role. He will further enhance the quality and impact of their workforce and applied programs. During his more than 25-year tenure at Sandhills he has helped secure a $1 million gift for the Student Success Center, implemented four new programs, aligned 15 programs, and introduced strategic initiatives that have expanded program offerings while increasing enrollment and retention. He holds a master's degree in Geospatial Information Science and Technology from North Carolina State University.

Both Herring and Spitler emphasized their commitment to putting students at the center of learning while supporting the educational programs, faculty, and staff. Their collaborative approach will further reinforce the One College initiative, ensuring that all departments work together to support and serve Sandhills Community College students effectively and holistically.

Full transition into these positions officially occurred in January 2025.