In addition to its stellar academic programs, Concord University offers plenty of opportunities for students to grow while having fun! There are several student organizations & Greek organizations you can join, exciting activities you can participate in, and workshops aimed to help your academic & professional development. 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.” Chair, Department of Social Work and Title IX Coordinator Director of Admissions Nursing Major with Psychology Minor Health Science Major After graduating from Concord with a degree in Business Administration—emphasis in Administrative Systems and Management—Carli worked in admissions at New River Community College in Dublin, VA and then took a position as an administrative assistant in the Department of Art and Sciences. Currently, she works with first and second year students at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in Blacksburg, VA. Concord played an important role in Carli’s life after graduation, providing her knowledge she took into the workforce.
“Concord helped me by giving me valuable life lessons, experiences, and knowledge to be successful,” Carli says. “Most importantly, I made connections and friendships that have been so valuable and rewarding for my life.”Concord Student Life
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Chair, Department of Social Work and Title IX Coordinator
Dr. Joan Pendergast
Allen Smith '05
Shannon Phipps
Josi Ervin
Draper, VA
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Student LifeASP Web Support2026-08-21T18:59:03-04:00
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Dr. Joan Pendergast
Carli Dotson '16
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