Halifax Community College announced that HCC President Patrena Benton Elliott has been reappointed to the American Association of Community Colleges Commission on Professional Learning and Leadership Capacity.

Her two-year term began July 1 and continues through June 30, 2028.

“The reappointment recognizes Dr. Elliott's continued leadership and commitment to advancing excellence in community college education on a national level,” the college said. “As a member of the commission, she will collaborate with community college leaders from across the country to provide guidance and recommendations that help shape professional development initiatives and strengthen leadership capacity throughout the nation's community colleges.”

"I am honored to continue serving on the AACC Commission on Professional Learning and Leadership Capacity," said Elliott. "This opportunity allows me to collaborate with exceptional leaders from across the country while bringing innovative ideas and best practices back to Halifax Community College. Together, we can continue strengthening leadership development and expanding opportunities that benefit our students, faculty, staff, and the communities we serve."

In its appointment letter, the AACC Board of Directors expressed confidence that Dr. Elliott's "insights and leadership will significantly contribute to the Board's decision-making process and its ability to serve the interests of all AACC member institutions."

The American Association of Community Colleges is the primary advocacy organization for the nation's community colleges, representing nearly 1,000 two-year institutions and more than 10 million students. Through its commissions, AACC engages experienced higher education leaders to help guide national priorities, develop policy recommendations, and advance innovation across the community college sector.