Dr. Sandra Barnes named Vice President of Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Natchez Campus
An Alcorn State University science professor and alumnus will soon transition into a new leadership role with a local community college.
Dr. Sandra Barnes, who earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Alcorn in 1993, has been appointed vice president of Copiah-Lincoln Community College's Natchez Campus in Natchez, Mississippi. Barnes is scheduled to begin her position on July 15.
Barnes has the best interest of the students at heart, which is why she looks forward to stepping into a role that allows her to play a vital role in their academic success.
"I am humbled to begin my career with Co-Lin," said Barnes. "I believe that the position will be challenging but rewarding. I pursued this position because I desire to impact the lives of as many students as possible. This role will afford me this opportunity."
While working at Alcorn, Barnes served as the chairperson and a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Physics. Also during her tenure, she served as an associate professor of chemistry as well as a research assistant professor for the Center for Biotechnology and Genomics.
As chairperson for Alcorn's Department of Chemistry, the chemistry program has experienced growth from an average of 40 majors to approximately 80 majors over the past few years. Barnes played a significant role in the department's mentoring program, tutoring center, and resource center for student academic support.
As an educational leader, Barnes successfully led the department's chemistry program from the pre-application process to the full application phase of the accreditation process by the American Chemical Society (ACS), which is the first time the department has successfully reach this level.
She received a doctorate in bioanalytical chemistry from the University of Kansas where she also served as a post-doctoral researcher for Pharmaceutical Chemistry. She earned a certification from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology Post Graduate in Academic Leadership.
A native of Taylorsville, Mississippi, Barnes has called Natchez home for the past 18 years. She's thrilled to serve the community she loves.
"I am excited about working in Natchez. I have been engaged in the community for a while in various ways. I love this community, and I appreciate the change to work here."
Thanks to her experience and numerous leadership opportunities at Alcorn, Barnes is uniquely prepared to oversee the campus. The new appointment allows her to put her vision into motion while growing stronger as a leader.
"I want to continue my growth as an effective administrator and develop new partnerships with the college. My goals are to move Co-Lin's Natchez campus forward."
Barnes is grateful for her employment at Alcorn. She applauds the university for preparing her for her new role.
"Alcorn has given me first-hand working experience and knowledge. I have gained valuable experience through my involvement in professional development activities and various committee duties. I appreciate my alma mater for equipping me to take on such a huge role in my career."
