By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Jefferson State Community College has announced Keith Brown as college president.

“It is an honor to continue to serve the thousands of students, hundreds of faculty, staff, and administrators, and the greater Birmingham community as President of Jefferson State Community College,” Brown said in a press release. “I would not be where I am today had my path not started at Jefferson State, and I am committed to helping as many people as I can to recognize their potential through the work we do every day. JSCC is near and dear to my heart, and it is truly a privilege to be selected to serve in this capacity.”

Brown has served as interim president since former President Dr. Judy M. Merritt

retired in 2014.

She had been president of the college for 35 years.

The selection of the new president was made by the Alabama Community College System board of trustees. David Bobo, director of community and media relations, said there is not a time limit for when the board has to appoint a new president.

Bobo said Brown has already contributed much to the college, and his vast experience with the school makes him the most prepared to lead.

“He’s a really great choice,” Bobo said.

According to a press release, “Prior to serving as Interim President, Brown served as Dean of Campus Development and Campus/Legal Services and also spent time in the classroom as a Business Law Instructor. Brown also serves in the Alabama Air National Brown Guard as a Colonel and Staff Judge Advocate.”

Brown is an alumnus of Jefferson State Community College, University of Alabama, University of Alabama School of Law, United States Air Force Air War College and the senior Air Force professional military school.

“As a Jefferson State alumnus who has dedicated his career to improving the lives of the college and its students, I can think of no individual more qualified for the role of president than Keith,” Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy Baker said in a JSCC press release. “Keith is highly regarded as a capable and compassionate leader, not only within the college, but with the greater community, and I’m confident that under his direction Jefferson State will continue its exemplary reputation of providing education and training opportunities for all those looking to better their lives.”

Jefferson State Community College includes four campuses: Jefferson, Shelby-Hoover, Chilton-Clanton and St. Clair-Pell City.