Dr. Kathy Liptak
Interim Dean of the College of Professional Studies
Dr. Liptak works to promote and support the quality programs offered at Concord University, and she is here to foster success among our students and faculty. She wants our students to have high quality programs that are current, engaging, and will enable them to accomplish their future aspirations. Some of those programs include business and/or entrepreneurship, teaching, social work, sociology, sociology with an emphasis in criminology, and mass communication, which includes television and radio broadcasting, public relations, theater, or recreation and tourism management. Many of those programs are nationally accredited. Let Dr. Liptak and the College of Professional Studies faculty help you achieve your goals.
Faculty
Allen Smith '05
Senior Admissions Counselor
A former Concord University graduate, Allen Smith works to bring new students to CU. Allen spends a lot of time on the road visiting high schools and attending college fairs. When he is on campus, Allen is organizing campus visitations and helping families navigate the enrollment process. From scholarships and financial aid, to finding the right program of study, Allen and all our admission counselors are here for prospective CU students.
“Concord feels like home.”
Staff
Dr. Joan Pendergast
Chair, Department of Social Work and Title IX Coordinator
When Dr. Pendergast was finishing her Ph.D. in Social Work Education at the University of South Carolina, she dreamed of teaching at a school like Concord. “I have wanted to live in the mountains for as long as I can remember,” she says. In 2007, she accepted a tenure-track position at CU and has found a home here. “The campus community is welcoming and accepting,” she says. Before completing her doctoral degree, Dr. Pendergast was a practicing social worker, valuable experience she shares with her students. “When I speak with students about social work, I explain that this is the best job and worst job you can have,” she says. “It’s very rewarding to see how people can change their lives, and it can be discouraging when these changes do not come.” Dr. Pendergast is dedicated to preparing her students for the realities they’ll face after graduation, and says she enjoys “being a small part of their journey.”
Faculty