Dr. Gwendolyn Sutton, President of TCAT Memphis, has been appointed chair of the Council on Occupational Education's (COE) Board of Commissioners. Dr. Sutton, with over two decades of experience in technical education, began her tenure on January 1st, marking a new chapter for COE-affiliated institutions.
According to Tennessee Board of Regents release, Dr. Sutton said, "I am honored to serve as chair of COE and to continue the legacy of advancing occupational education." She emphasized the importance of COE in maintaining quality across its member institutions.
Laura Travis, President of TCAT Dickson, also joined the COE Board of Commissioners for a three-year term. Travis, who has worked at TCAT Dickson since 1998, moved from director of nursing to president last year. "I am thankful for the opportunity to serve on the Board of Commissioners and am eager to help foster the ongoing growth and success of occupational education," she said in thge same release.
Dr. Flora W. Tydings, Chancellor of the Tennessee Board of Regents, praised both Sutton and Travis for their leadership. "The COE membership couldn’t have chosen a better leader for its board chair than Dr. Gwen Sutton. Her commitment to excellence has helped position TCAT Memphis as the premier provider of career and technical education in the Memphis area, preparing students for a broad range of high-demand careers," Tydings stated. She also commended Travis's selection to the board, as per the Tennessee Board of Regents.
Dr. Kirk Nooks, president and CEO of COE, shared his enthusiasm about collaborating with Dr. Sutton. He highlighted her strong leadership and impressive track record, noting that she is well-suited to lead the COE Board of Commissioners. With its accreditation of over 500 occupational education institutions, COE remains committed to upholding high educational standards.
