Augusta Technical College proudly congratulates Dr. Melissa Frank-Alston on her appointment as the seventh President of Northeastern Technical College (NETC) in Cheraw, South Carolina. Dr. Frank-Alston, who has dedicated nearly two decades of distinguished service to Augusta Tech, will assume her new role on July 1, 2026 — making history as the first female president in NETC's history.

Dr. Frank-Alston joined Augusta Technical College in 2005 and served in a variety of vice-presidential leadership roles throughout her tenure. Most recently, she served as the College's Provost and Institutional Accreditation Liaison to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). She also served with dedication and steadiness as ATC's Interim President from April through December 2025.

“Dr. Frank-Alston’s impact on Augusta Technical College and the students we serve is immeasurable,” said Dr. Kendricks Hooker, President of Augusta Technical College. “Her leadership, her unwavering commitment to student success, and her passion for workforce education have strengthened this institution in profound ways. While we will miss her deeply, we are incredibly proud to see her take on this historic role. Northeastern Technical College is fortunate to have her, and we have no doubt she will lead that community to new heights.”

A highly accomplished educator and administrator, Dr. Frank-Alston holds a Ph.D. in Workforce Education and Development from Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Science in College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Northwestern State University of Louisiana.

“Accepting the presidency of Northeastern Technical College is both humbling and exciting,” said Dr. Frank-Alston. “The years I spent at Augusta Technical College shaped me as a leader and deepened my belief in the transformative power of technical education. I carry those lessons with me as I step into this new chapter, and I am grateful beyond words for everything that ATC has meant to me. I look forward to building on that foundation to serve the students, faculty, and community of Northeastern Technical College.”

Augusta Technical College serves students across the Central Savannah River Area through one campus and five sites. The College offers more than 130 programs of study and is committed to advancing workforce development, student success, and community prosperity.