Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College announces the appointment of Teresa McDonald as the new Associate Vice President for the School of Nursing and Health Professions. McDonald brings more than two decades of experience in healthcare education and academic leadership to the role, along with a deep commitment to expanding access to high-quality training for future healthcare professionals.

MGCCC’s School of Nursing and Health Professions is recognized for academic excellence, with its nursing program repeatedly ranked as the best in Mississippi. The college offers a wide range of health profession programs designed to meet critical workforce needs across the region. Students benefit from cutting-edge, hands-on learning experiences, including training at the state-of-the-art Simulation Center located at the Bryant Center in Biloxi. This facility features advanced patient simulation technology that prepares students for real-world clinical scenarios in a safe, controlled environment.

Prior to joining MGCCC, McDonald served as Dean of Health Sciences at Jones College, where she also held the roles of Assistant Dean and Director of the Practical Nursing Program. Her career in health education began in the classroom as a Practical Nursing instructor at Jones College and a Health Sciences instructor in the Clarke and Wayne County school districts. Her experience in both academic and clinical settings has given her a strong foundation for leading innovative and student-centered health programs.

“We are thrilled to welcome Teresa McDonald to our leadership team,” said Dr. Jonathan Woodward, vice president of Teaching & Learning/Community Campus. “Her impressive background in nursing education, combined with her vision for the future of healthcare workforce development, makes her an excellent fit for our institution and the communities we serve.”

During her time at Jones College, McDonald was honored with the Administrator of the Year Award, a recognition of her exceptional leadership and service. She is a graduate of the Mississippi Community College Leadership Academy, underscoring her commitment to continuous professional growth and educational excellence.

McDonald holds a Master of Science in Nursing Education from William Carey University and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education in Rural Higher Education Administration at the University of West Alabama. Her academic work and personal mission align with MGCCC’s focus on providing high-impact educational opportunities, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Teresa and her husband, Daryll, have been married for 31 years and have two daughters, Keri and Sydni. She credits her family’s support as the foundation of her success and remains committed to mentoring the next generation of healthcare leaders.

For more information about MGCCC’s School of Nursing and Health Professions, visit www.mgccc.edu.