CONTRIBUTED BY
SUSCC
OPELIKA — Southern Union State Community College has named Dr. Richard Pike as dean of health sciences. Pike assumed the position Sept. 1 following the retirement of Dean Rhonda Davis.
A graduate of Southern Union, Pike earned an associate in science degree and his emergency medical technician certification from the college. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in political science/public administration from Troy University, a master’s degree in emergency management from Jacksonville State University and a Doctor of Science degree from Faulkner University.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be selected as the dean of health sciences at Southern Union State Community College,” Pike said. “Southern Union has played a transformational role in my life and career, making this appointment especially meaningful.”
Pike has been a member of the Southern Union EMS faculty since 2016. Prior to joining the college as a full-time faculty member, he served his community as a paramedic and firefighter. He currently also serves as a flight paramedic. His extensive emergency medical services experience includes serving as a combat medic in the United States Army. He has also served in various leadership and service roles within civic and community organizations.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Pike into this new leadership role and look forward to the contributions he will make to the continued success of our health sciences division,” SUSCC President Todd Shackett said.
As dean, Pike said he looks forward to building upon the strong foundation established by those who have served in the division before him, particularly Davis.
“Healthcare continues to evolve rapidly, and Southern Union is prepared to produce highly skilled, compassionate professionals who will meet the needs of our communities across East Alabama and beyond,” he said.
Pike said his priorities as dean will include supporting student success, strengthening partnerships with healthcare providers, expanding workforce development opportunities and ensuring Southern Union’s health sciences programs continue to provide high-quality education and training.
Pike and his wife, Amanda, reside in Wedowee and have two sons.
With campuses in Wadley, Opelika and Valley, Southern Union State Community College is the second-oldest, two-year college in Alabama and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees.
For more information about Southern Union State Community College, visit www.suscc.edu.
