Mayland Community College officially marked a new chapter in its leadership today (1/16/26) with the Presidential Inauguration & Installation Ceremony of Dr. Aron Gabriel as the College’s next president.
The ceremony included the formal transfer of the ceremonial mace, the traditional symbol of presidential authority, presented by outgoing President Dr. John Boyd to Dr. Gabriel. The moment signified the official transition of leadership and the continuation of Mayland’s mission to serve the people of Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties.
Dr. Gabriel’s appointment was approved by the N.C. State Board of Community Colleges, in accordance with state law, following his selection by the Mayland Community College Board of Trustees.
Dr. Gabriel brings nearly three decades of experience in education, leadership, and community engagement. Most recently, he served as Superintendent of Newton-Conover City Schools, where the district maintained strong academic performance, expanded career and technical education opportunities, and strengthened partnerships benefiting students and the broader community.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Gabriel as the next President of Mayland Community College,” said Bryan Peterson, Chair of the Mayland Community College Board of Trustees. “We believe he will continue the strong tradition of academic excellence and community involvement that Mayland has established, and we are excited for what the future holds.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Gabriel has been a strong advocate for connecting education to real-world opportunities. He has worked closely with community colleges to expand access to career pathways, college credit options, and workforce credentials—an approach that aligns closely with Mayland’s mission and regional role.
Dr. Gabriel holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Western Carolina University, along with advanced degrees from Appalachian State University and UNC-Charlotte. He began his career as a teacher and coach and has served as a principal, associate superintendent, and superintendent, consistently focusing on students, equity, and regional impact.
Beyond his professional work, Dr. Gabriel is actively involved in community service through organizations such as Hearts and Hope Inc., volunteers with his family to support individuals experiencing homelessness, and teaches youth Sunday School at his local church.
“I’m honored to be named the next President of Mayland Community College,” said Dr. Gabriel. “Mayland’s values—Community, Opportunity, and Excellence—deeply resonate with me, and I’m grateful to the Board of Trustees for this opportunity. I look forward to working alongside Mayland’s dedicated faculty, staff, students, and community partners to build on the College’s strong foundation and shape its future together.”
