Averett University introduces new president, David Joyce, to Pittsylvania supervisors and community leaders
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Summary
Averett University’s new president, Dr. David Joyce, and his wife Lynn were introduced to the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors on Jan. 21; Joyce described his experience leading college turnarounds and asked for community support.
The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors and local leaders met Dr. David Joyce and his wife, Lynn, during the Jan. 21 business meeting, where trustees and community members introduced the new president of Averett University.
Brenda Bowman, a member of the Averett Board of Trustees, introduced Dr. Joyce and noted that he had been on the job for two weeks. Bowman also acknowledged outgoing president Dr. Tiffany Franks, who retired after nearly 17 years of service.
Dr. Joyce said he has led three colleges during his career and described his decision to return from retirement in 2022 to take the Averett post: "I came out of retirement because I wanted to have some influence on turning around the trend that's happening to us in our country," he told the board. He described Averett as regionally important — noting its aviation program and that it is the only institution in the immediate area offering certain degrees — and asked the county to be supportive as the university works to stabilize and grow enrollment and financial strength.
County officials in attendance welcomed Dr. Joyce and his wife, and several local higher-education and civic leaders were listed among those who participated in a recent meet-and-greet organized by the university.
No formal county action was taken related to the university at the meeting. Averett and county staff are the points of contact for any subsequent collaborative initiatives.
