DCCC President Receives Triad Business Journal Award

Dr. Mary E. Rittling named one of The Triad’s most influential people.

Each year, the Triad Business Journal unveils a list of individuals who are influential in the region and are recognized for being committed to helping the Triad region thrive. The Business Journal strongly believes that those who are selected are committed to more than just their “day jobs” but for also having a passion outside of work.

In announcing this year’s recipients, the Business Journal states, “influence means different things to different people. For this list, inclusion is not guaranteed by being at the helm of a major employer or a powerful institution. It is not defined by how many boards an individual sits on, but rather how an individual is making a difference with such organization.”

Dr. Rittling became Davidson County Community College president in 2003. Under her tenure, the college has grown to multi-campus status and opened education centers in Lexington, Thomasville and Davie County. As a community partner and advocate in both Davidson and Davie counties, Dr. Rittling has been recognized in the Triad as an influential leader annually since 2009.

In addition, Dr. Rittling is known as an advocate for community colleges at the state and national levels. She was named “North Carolina Community College President of the Year” in 2011 and currently serves on the board of Community Colleges for International Development and as a director of the American Association of Community Colleges.

Dr. Rittling states, “As an educator, you hope to significantly and positively impact your students and colleagues. Being recognized for this notable award is very humbling and an honor that would not be possible without the support of members of the DCCC community. I am very fortunate.” This year, the Triad Business Journal is partnering with Piedmont Triad Partnership to increase the depth of the Most Influential People program. The PTP is a leadership organization that is focused on bringing together the business community in the Triad region to promote prosperity and job growth.

Dr. Rittling will be personally honored, along with others acknowledged for this award, at a Nov. 5 reception at High Point University. All awardees will have the chance to hear the “State of the Region” address presented by the Piedmont Triad Partnership and celebrate with the other recipients.