Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College names Andrea ‘Lee’ Harrison as president

Published on May 14, 2025

Following a national search, the Kentucky Community and Technical College System has chosen one of its own as the next president of Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKCTC). Andrea “Lee” Harrison, Ed.D., a longtime advocate of the Appalachian region, will take the helm on July 1 of the 3,500-student college based in Cumberland.

For the past year, Harrison has served as the college’s chief advancement officer and dean of advancement and public relations, where she oversees institutional fundraising, strategic communications, community engagement, and a grant portfolio of $11 million. She is also the executive director of the Southeast Education Foundation.

“I’m excited to announce Dr. Harrison’s selection. She brings a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing the Appalachian region, along with a strong commitment and appreciation for its rich culture,” said KCTCS President Ryan Quarles. “Her proven leadership will be a tremendous asset as we continue to expand educational access, workforce training and economic development throughout the region.”

Prior to joining SKCTC, Harrison spent more than two decades at Milligan University in a variety of executive and academic roles, including vice president for enrollment and marketing and associate professor of communications. Her work encompassed enrollment and student success planning, program development, strategic planning, internal and external communications, and participation in multiple accreditation processes.

She has also served as vice president for partner services at Clark Higher Ed, where she supported enrollment strategy and marketing efforts for colleges and universities across multiple states.

"It is the honor of a lifetime to serve this college and community," said Harrison. "I believe deeply in the life-changing power of education and the importance of preparing students for meaningful work and engaged citizenship in our Appalachian region. I am committed to building on our legacy of excellence and working alongside our faculty, staff and community partners to expand opportunity and impact."

Harrison has served numerous community boards and regional economic development efforts. She currently serves on the Benham Schoolhouse Inn Board, the One Harlan County Board, and the Harlan Cub Scout Pack 149 Committee. She also volunteers with Tri-Cities Main Street and the Southeast Kentucky Hiking Club.

Harrison holds a doctorate in higher education leadership and a master’s degree in organizational communication from Regent University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in communication from Milligan University. She also completed executive education programs at Vanderbilt University, Bryn Mawr College and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

The college offers more than 50 programs at the associate degree, diploma and certificate levels across six campuses: Cumberland, Harlan, Middlesboro, Pineville, the Knox Campus in Barbourville and Whitesburg.

Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting assisted with the search. Harrison’s bio and curriculum vitae are available on the website.