Atlanta – Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Ron Jackson has appointed Steve Dougherty as the new president of North Georgia Technical College. 

Jackson’s selection of Dougherty was approved today by the state board that governs the Technical College System of Georgia during their monthly meeting at the TCSG’s Atlanta office.

“Steve will continue to provide outstanding leadership for the staff, faculty and, most important, the students of North Georgia Technical College,” said Jackson.  “He understands the vital role that the college has in the development of the North Georgia workforce.  I’m confident that his leadership and talent will help to chart new heights of achievement for the college.”

Dougherty had been serving as North Georgia Tech’s interim president since the departure of the college’s previous president, Ruth Nichols, in June. 

“I’m looking forward to creating new education opportunities and building upon the great reputation of Georgia’s oldest technical college,” said Dougherty.  “I’m excited because North Georgia Tech is positioned for terrific growth with it’s new SACS accreditation, extensive array of technical education programs, and the gorgeous mountain settings of our three campuses.

‘Though Kate and I will miss our many dear friends in Cobb and Bartow counties, we’ll strive to stay in touch while we build on great new friendships throughout all of the communities served by North Georgia Tech.”

Dougherty was the president of North Metro Technical College in Acworth from 2001 to 2008.   His career in Georgia’s technical college system began in 1996 as the vice president of student services and campus operations at West Central Technical College in Waco.  His education experience also includes terms as the executive director of the Georgia Student Finance

Commission from 1987 to 1996, deputy commissioner of the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education from 1978 to 1987, and director of financial aid at the University of Illinois – Springfield from 1975 to 1978.

He has a masters degree from the University of Illinois - Springfield and a bachelor of arts from Western Illinois University.

Dougherty has long been active in a number of civic, education and business organizations in the communities served by his colleges.

Last Year, North Georgia Technical College enrolled 3,311 students in its certificate, degree and diploma programs.   Many more students took part in the college’s adult education, continuing education and workforce training programs.

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