Dennis E. Corbin, Ph.D., associate professor in the School of Social Work at Fayetteville State University, has been elected chair of the Cumberland County Department of Social Services Board.

Corbin has served on the Cumberland County DSS Board since 2024 and was most recently vice chair. His election reflects the board’s confidence in his leadership, institutional knowledge and longstanding commitment to advancing services that support children, families and vulnerable populations across the county. 

As chair, Corbin will lead the board in advancing its strategic priorities, supporting DSS leadership and staff and ensuring that Cumberland County residents have access to responsive, high-quality social services. 

“Being elected chair of the Cumberland County Department of Social Services Board is a great honor,” Corbin said in a press release. “For the past 28 years, I have served as a professional social worker through direct practice and academia, and, as someone from this region—Robeson County—it is especially meaningful to give back to a community that has given me so much.”

Corbin has been a faculty member at FSU since 2012. His teaching and scholarship emphasize social welfare policy, community practice, leadership development and the preparation of future social work professionals. He brings an evidence-informed, community-centered perspective to his service on the DSS Board. 

The Cumberland County Department of Social Services Board provides governance, oversight and policy guidance to ensure the effective delivery of programs that promote safety, stability and well-being within the community. The board oversees service areas including child welfare, adult protective services, economic assistance, workforce development and family support programs. The board works with county leadership to maintain accountability, fiscal responsibility and compliance with state and federal regulations.

Through active participation in local governance and service organizations, FSU continues to fulfill its mission of preparing students and faculty to lead and serve communities across North Carolina.