Paul Burnette is a distinguished professional with a diverse background in education, community engagement, and military service. Currently serving as the lead Workforce Success Coach and Member of the 2023-2024 DCC Assessment Council at Danville Community College (DCC), Paul plays a pivotal role in guiding students towards successful career paths and providing essential support for their success. In addition, he holds the position of Secretary of the 2023-2024 Student Services Commission of the Virginia Community Colleges Association (VCCA), and also serves as a Member at Large in the 2023-2024 Learning Resources Commission.
Paul’s commitment to community service is further evidenced by his role as an Advisory Board Member to Vibrante Community Services, based in Collinsville, VA. He also serves as an Ambassador Committee Member of the Virginia Diverse Chamber of Commerce, actively contributing to the promotion of diversity and inclusivity in the business community.
As a member of the Ambassador Committee, Paul brings a unique blend of experiences from both the military and education sectors, allowing him to contribute valuable insights and perspectives to the committee’s initiatives. His passion for supporting individuals in their career pursuits, coupled with his extensive background, makes him an invaluable asset to the committee.
Previously, Paul supported Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC) for over two years as the Enrollment & Student Success Specialist. During that time, he served on the P&HCC Curriculum Committee and earned his Leadership Patrick County Certificate through the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce, the Reynolds Homestead, and Virginia Tech.
With a significant background in military, law enforcement, and security operations, Paul served in the United States Army Military Police Corps for over six years, including deployments to Uijeongbu-si, South Korea, and Kandahar, Afghanistan. His academic accomplishments include a BA in Art from Averett University, an AA&S in Liberal Arts – Social Science Specialization from DCC, and a Military Police Diploma from the United States Army Military Police School (USAMPS).
Paul’s professional credentials include being credentialed through the American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP) and holding the Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) designation, reflecting his commitment to excellence and professionalism in his field.
“I believe that every person deserves a world-class education and the opportunity to succeed. The American Dream should be accessible to everyone. At times it can seem like an endless uphill battle, but I believe a brighter day is coming. America is a big idea. She is like a painting that is not finished yet, so don’t give up. We will get there together, one step at a time.” -Paul
Paul’s dedication to the betterment of his community is evident through his active involvement in workforce development and his commitment to helping others achieve personal and professional success. His multifaceted background and genuine desire to make a positive impact make him an exemplary member of the Ambassador Committee.
Paul’s multifaceted background, dedication to community service, and his wealth of experiences make him a highly respected and invaluable member of the educational and professional communities he serves.