Chelsea Goins '19
Development Coordinator
As a member of the advancement staff, Chelsea fosters relationships with university donors and researches new donor opportunities to support the Concord University Foundation. “Our alumni and donors are so important to the university,” Chelsea says. “They provide funding for scholarships and campus projects that keep Concord the special place it is.” Chelsea also helps coordinate special events like Alumni After Hours, Foundation dinners, and Homecoming festivities. She says these events “allow Concord alumni, donors, students, and community members to gather and stay connected to the university and each other.” A graduate of Concord herself, Chelsea understands the importance of staying connected to CU and supporting all the university does for its students. “Concord has become a second home to me. I truly love this place.”
Staff
Marcus Murrell '17
Admissions Counselor
Marcus works to help new students through the enrollment process so that their transition to life at CU is easy, yet memorable. As an alum, Marcus knows first-hand the high quality and affordable education Concord offers, but that wasn’t all that drew him to the university. Marcus says it started in high school with his very first visit: “Although I was still in high school, I felt my presence was welcomed all over campus. This sense of individual welcoming on campus remained with me for the next four years.” Now that Marcus is an Admissions Counselor, he can share his experience with other prospective students. Call today and let Marcus tell you how CU is here for you.
“From my first visit on campus, I felt like I mattered.”
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