Martinsville, Va. – August 18, 2026 – West Piedmont Higher Education Center (the Center) is strengthening its leadership team and expanding its organizational capacity with the addition of three new staff members, including a new Chief Program Officer who will serve as a member of the Center’s executive team.
Dr. Pamela Randall joins the Center as Chief Program Officer, bringing decades of experience in higher education, education programming, and academic leadership to the role. Her extensive history with the organization and experience working with students, educators, and community partners position her to lead the Center’s growing portfolio of programs and initiatives.
“I’m excited to join the team at West Piedmont Higher Education Center,” stated Randall. “I look forward to working with our community, partners, and individuals to strengthen educational opportunities and pathways for our constituents.”
Dr. Randall is no stranger to the Center. Prior to becoming Chief Program Officer, Dr. Randall served as Coordinator of Education Programs for Longwood University at New College Institute (now West Piedmont Higher Education Center) and as Coordinator of Elementary and Middle Education. She has also served as an Assistant Professor since 2021 and previously worked as an adjunct faculty member from 2011 to 2019, gaining tenure with Longwood. Her career has focused on education, program development, and creating opportunities for students and educators.
In her new role, Dr. Randall will provide strategic leadership and oversight for the Center’s programs, helping guide the development, implementation, and evaluation of initiatives that connect higher education, workforce development, industry, and community needs throughout Southern Virginia.
As a member of the executive team, Dr. Randall will also play an important role in shaping the Center’s strategic direction and advancing the organization’s mission as it continues to grow under its new identity as West Piedmont Higher Education Center.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Randall to our team,” said Joe Sumner, Executive Director of West Piedmont Higher Education Center. “Our programs are at the heart of what we do, and having dedicated leadership focused on their continued development and impact will be incredibly valuable as the Center moves forward. Dr. Randall brings a perspective and expertise that will help us identify new opportunities, strengthen existing programs, and build partnerships that benefit the communities we serve.
In addition to its new Chief Program Officer, the Center recently welcomed Karen Otterstein as Procurement Specialist, Tamara Scott as Testing Center Support Specialist, and Stephen Childers as Facilities Coordinator.
As Procurement Specialist, Karen Otterstein will support the Center’s purchasing and procurement operations, helping ensure the organization’s resources are managed efficiently and effectively.
As Testing Center Support Specialist, Tamara Scott will support testing sessions and make sure testing rules are followed, as well as greet visitors, answer questions, and keep the testing area organized and quiet.
As Facilities Coordinator, Stephen Childers will oversee the day-to-day coordination of the Center’s three facilities and support the Center’s ability to provide welcoming, functional spaces for students, educators, businesses, community partners, and event guests.
Together, the four new hires represent another step forward in West Piedmont Higher Education Center’s continued organizational growth.
“Growth brings new opportunities, but it also requires us to grow our capacity to meet the needs of our region,” said Sumner. “These additions to our team will strengthen our leadership, operations, and facilities while positioning us to continue expanding the programs and partnerships that make the Center a valuable resource for Southern Virginia.”
With the addition of its new Chief Program Officer and three additional staff members, the Center is continuing to build the team needed to support its growing role in the region and create more opportunities for students, educators, employers, and community members.
West Piedmont Higher Education Center welcomes Dr. Pamela Randall, Karen Otterstein, Tamara Scott, and Stephen Childers to the team and looks forward to the experience, expertise, and new perspectives they will bring to the organization.