College names special assistant to the president for inclusion

Published 06.13.2022

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Pennsylvania College of Technology has appointed experienced educator Nathaniel E. Woods Jr. to a newly created position: special assistant to the president for inclusion transformation.

Woods comes to Penn College from Grays Harbor College, Aberdeeen, Washington, where he is interim dean of workforce education and a tenured faculty member in human services.



Nathaniel E. Woods Jr. has been named special assistant to the president for inclusion transformation at Pennsylvania College of Technology. He begins his duties July 18.He is also managing partner for Developing Others Through Service LLC, Montesano, Washington, and he was employed previously as director of learning and development for Victra Verizon Wireless in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Woods holds a doctorate in strategic leadership from Southeastern University, Lakeland, Florida; a Master of Arts in human services (marriage and family counseling) from Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia; a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies from Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and an Associate of Applied Science in general studies from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, Salisbury, North Carolina.

Woods will begin his duties at Penn College on July 18.

“Dr. Woods is an exceptional leader and presents the ideal skills to build off our many strengths to create a more dynamic and positive experience for our entire campus community – helping to further advance our mission,” said Michael J. Reed, vice president for academic affairs and provost, who will become president of the college on July 1.

The special assistant to the president for inclusion transformation will help lead the college’s strategic planning efforts by engaging the campus community to improve inclusive practice; working to strengthen relationships, facilitate discussions and planning efforts; and implementing strategies to best support wellness, engagement, justice, diversity, equity and inclusion.

Some of the specific primary duties and responsibilities to be fulfilled by the special assistant to the president for inclusion transformation are:

  • Serve as a member of the President’s Council and as a key strategic partner with senior administrator colleagues.

  • Provide leadership to improve a campus culture committed to diversity, equity and inclusion for all.

  • Lead established initiatives surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion in the college’s strategic plan, while also recommending new and/or revised goals.

  • Partner with various departments to improve the student experience through engagement, wellness and support services to increase retention and build affinity.

  • Collaborate with the Office of People & Culture to enhance wellness, diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

  • Serve as a partner in the recruitment and retention of diverse faculty, staff and students.

  • Partner with Academic Affairs to evaluate and improve inclusive practices.


Visit online for more about diversity and inclusion at Penn College.

Penn College, a special mission affiliate of Penn State, is a national leader in applied technology education. For more, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.