Dr. David Doré, Chancellor of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), announced today that he has appointed Dr. Cornelius Johnson to become the eighth permanent president of Danville Community College (DCC). Dr. Johnson’s selection concludes a search that attracted 79 candidates nationwide. His service as president at Danville will begin July 1.
“We know that Dr. Johnson will definitely hit the ground running,” said Dr. Doré. “He has been serving as Interim President at Danville since last December and has been on DCC’s core leadership team since 2021. I know that students, faculty and staff at the college and the entire Danville community will benefit from Dr. Johnson’s knowledge, leadership and vision for DCC’s continued growth and service.”
“We’re excited that a leader of Dr. Johnson’s caliber has accepted this post and we’re grateful to all of the talented leaders who expressed interest in the Danville Community College presidency,” Dr. Doré added.
Dr. Johnson has served as Interim President at Danville Community College since December 1, 2024. Prior to that, Dr. Johnson held the role of VP of Academic Affairs and Student Services for DCC between 2021 to 2025. With more than 27 years in higher education, Dr. Johnson’s leadership resume includes service as Dean of Student Success at El Centro College in Dallas Texas, Interim Dean of Student Development at Lone Star College Tomball in Houston, Texas, Program Manager at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston Texas, and faculty service at Indiana State University, University of Texas at Dallas, University of Houston-Downtown, and the University of Houston.
Dr. Johnson earned an associate degree at Seattle Central Community College, a bachelor’s degree at the University of Washington, a master’s Degree at Indiana State University, and a Doctor of Education Degree at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. He also completed the Future Presidents Institute at the American Association of Community Colleges.
“Dr. Johnson’s appointment as president of Danville Community College marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter,” said Kathryn Roberts, chair of the Danville Community College Advisory Board. “With his extensive experience in higher education and dedication to student success, he embodies the values that will lead DCC to new heights.”
Board vice chair Ernestine Payne was equally enthusiastic about Johnson’s appointment.
“The leadership Dr. Johnson has demonstrated during his various roles at the college is a testament that Danville Community College stands poised for a new era of innovation and growth,” Payne said. “With his unwavering commitment to the college and visionary leadership, I know Dr. Johnson will continue to move DCC forward.”
“I’m excited and humbled to be appointed as the next president of this great college,” said Dr. Johnson. “DCC has a rich history and strong foundation in both workforce and transfer programs and plays a vital role in our city and region. I look forward to leading and working alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, and community partners as we write the college’s next chapter in advancing our mission and expanding opportunities for every student and community member we serve.”