Dr. Terri Dunn has served in various capacities within the Alabama Community College System over the last 22 years. She is a Certified Talent Developer for the State of Alabama and is part of the Alabama Committee on Credentialing and Career Pathways, a committee of the Alabama Workforce Council tasked with annually identifying regional and statewide in-demand occupations, career pathways, and credentials of value. She also serves on the Professional Development Planning Team for the National Association of State Directors of Adult Education and was named among the Top 50 Women Leaders of Alabama for 2023 by Women We Admire.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Higher Education Digest, Dr. Dunn shared her professional trajectory, the best piece of advice she has ever received, significant career milestone, personal hobbies and interests, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Dr. Dunn. Could you please share your background and your field of expertise?
My educational journey began with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA from Troy University, followed by a doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Law from Alabama State University. I also hold additional certifications, including one from the University of Alabama in Community College Leadership.
I began my professional career as an accountant and worked at a couple of local CPA firms. I have always had a side job or side projects going on, and at that time, my husband and I owned a country store and I picked up a job teaching Business and Accounting as an adjunct instructor at a local community college. This experience sparked my love for the community college environment. Within a year, we sold the store, I left my accounting job, and I took a full-time position managing a grant program at the college. Over the past 22 years, I’ve served in various administrative roles within the community college system, gaining experience in organizational leadership, program development, grant writing, workforce development, and more. Currently, I am the Southern Region Director of Adult Education for the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), where I collaborate with WIOA Title II sub-recipient programs across the state to expand educational offerings and align them with workforce needs.
What do you love the most about your current role?
What I love most about my current role is the opportunity to foster growth and create opportunities within the ever-evolving field of higher education. At ACCS, we are constantly innovating to meet the needs of both individuals and industries. I truly enjoy working with professionals from various backgrounds to solve complex problems and help individuals realize their potential. The partnerships we build help open doors for students to achieve their dreams and acquire the skills necessary for success.
What are some of the things you’re most excited about right now in your field?
There are several advancements in adult education that I find exciting. One initiative I am honored to lead is the development of a revamped end-of-sentence course in collaboration with the Alabama Department of Corrections. This project will assist inmates transitioning back into society, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed for successful reintegration.
Another exciting change in the field is the shift toward alternative placement options in adult education programs. Recent updates to the National Reporting System guidelines now allow states to incorporate these options into Adult Education, and Alabama has been a leader in this area. We’ve adopted four innovative alternatives to traditional testing requirements, such as the TABE test. This allows us to focus more on competency attainment as defined by employers, rather than solely on educational functioning levels, creating more flexible pathways for students to succeed.
The meaning of leadership can change from one era to the other, how would you define the meaning of leadership today?
Today, I believe leadership is about empowering others, fostering collaboration, and adapting to change. Effective leadership is less about authority and more about influence, guiding teams with empathy, communication, and a focus on shared goals. It’s about creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow. In education, this translates to providing clear direction while also remaining open to innovation and feedback from all levels of an organization.
How do you keep yourself skilled and relevant in terms of knowledge?
I stay current by prioritizing continuous learning and seeking out professional development opportunities. I attend conferences, participate in webinars, and collaborate with peers across the field to exchange ideas and best practices. I also read widely and stay informed about emerging trends in education and workforce development. Networking with professionals who challenge my perspectives helps me to refine my approach and remain agile in an ever-changing landscape.
In your academic or work career, were there any mentors who have helped you grow along the way? What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I’ve been fortunate to have had many mentors throughout my career. When I was in my late twenties, I became the youngest director of a local adult education program in the state. During this time, I received guidance from colleagues at other colleges, as well as from college presidents and deans who trusted me with autonomy in my role. The best advice I received, and one that took me some time to fully internalize, was: “Don’t wait for someone else to notice you. Hard work only gets you so far.” Growing up, I was taught that hard work and loyalty would be recognized. However, I learned that it’s equally important to actively share your accomplishments, aspirations, and goals with others to ensure visibility and create opportunities for advancement.
What do you feel has been your ‘career-defining’ moment?
A career-defining moment for me was being named Administrator of the Year for the Alabama Community College System. This recognition not only validated my own efforts but also highlighted the importance of adult education programs across the state. It was a pivotal moment that brought attention to the work of adult education directors and reinforced the significance of the contributions we make to our communities.
What are your passions outside of work?
Outside of work, I am passionate about developing others, particularly women and youth. My husband served as a youth pastor for many years, and I had the privilege of working alongside him. Over the years, I have mentored youth, spoken at various events, and volunteered with leadership programs. I also founded the Covington County Youth Leadership Program, which helps high school students develop leadership skills and make meaningful contributions to their communities. The program focuses on empowering students to become proactive leaders who embrace responsibility, cultivate empathy, and foster collaboration.
Where would you like to be in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I see myself in an expanded leadership role where I can have a significant impact on both education and community development. I would like to be leading a community college or a nonprofit organization focused on educational access and workforce development. I am passionate about expanding opportunities for individuals to gain the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing job market, and I hope to continue to have a direct impact on shaping educational initiatives that serve diverse populations. Ultimately, I want to be in a position where I can drive positive change, whether locally or nationally, and help individuals and communities thrive.
What is the one piece of advice that you can share with other professionals in your industry?
My advice is simple: Stay open to change and be willing to adapt. The landscape of education and workforce development is constantly evolving, and being able to pivot in response to new challenges and opportunities is crucial. Also, never underestimate the power of relationships—both in terms of building a network and collaborating with others to achieve shared goals. Cultivating strong, trusting relationships will help you grow both personally and professionally.