Newman Out As Shelton State President, Replaced With Interim

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa Patch has confirmed that Shelton State Community College President Brad Newman is no longer in the position and has been replaced by an interim president, according to a release from the Alabama Community College System.

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ACCS Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker on Thursday announced the appointment of Chris Cox to the interim role, with his tenure effective immediately.

Newman previously served as plant manager at ZF Chassis Systems and as chair of West Alabama Works, with his time as president beginning in April 2021 and lasting less than a year.

It is unclear why Newman is no longer in the role and Patch will provide more updates once more information is gathered.

However, despite the shake-up, Cox expressed optimism and excitement for his new duties.

“It is an honor to be called on by Chancellor Baker to serve Shelton State Community College in this capacity," Cox said in a statement Thursday. “I look forward to working alongside the faculty, staff, and administration at Shelton State as we provide educational opportunities for students and help meet the workforce needs of business and industry in west Alabama."

The ACCS said in a press release that Cox has more than 25 years of higher education administration experience and most recently served as special assistant to the chancellor.

A native of Geneva, Alabama, Cox also previously served as interim president at Northwest-Shoals Community College in Muscle Shoals, Bevill State Community College in Jasper, and Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia.

“Dr. Cox has proven to be an innovative and capable leader,” Baker said. “I am confident Chris will lead Shelton State well and provide great value to the college’s students, faculty, staff, and the Tuscaloosa-area community.”

This is a developing story. Follow Tuscaloosa Patch for more updates as they come available.