Ferrum, VA, July 14, 2026 — Ferrum College is pleased to announce the appointment of Penny Jackson as senior director of human resources. Jackson brings more than three decades of progressive human resources leadership and a distinguished record of building strong workplace cultures, developing talent, and supporting organizational excellence.
Jackson joins Ferrum College following her service as director of human resources for Tri-County Community Action Agency, where she established and led the organization’s human resources function, overseeing employee relations, talent acquisition, benefits administration, payroll, compliance, policy development, and organizational effectiveness. Throughout her career, she has held increasingly responsible human resources leadership positions with organizations including The Results Companies, Aramark at High Point University, Infinity Global, ICF International, and CIT Group.
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A Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), Jackson is recognized for her expertise in strategic human resources leadership, employee relations, organizational development, compliance, and talent management. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from Averett University and has built a career distinguished by collaborative leadership, sound judgment, exceptional integrity, and a genuine commitment to supporting employees while helping organizations achieve their strategic goals.
“We are pleased to welcome Penny Jackson to Ferrum College as our new senior director of human resources,” said Dr. Mirta M. Martin, president of Ferrum College. “Penny brings extensive experience, a deep commitment to supporting people, and a passion for building a culture where individuals can thrive. At Ferrum College, our greatest strength is our people, and Human Resources plays a vital role in cultivating a community where faculty and staff are empowered to serve our students and advance our mission. We are excited to welcome Ms. Jackson to the Panther family as we continue creating an environment where our people—and our students—learn, serve, and flourish.”
As senior director of human resources, Jackson will provide strategic leadership for all human resources functions, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, performance management, benefits administration, policy development, compliance, and professional development initiatives. She will work closely with College leadership to foster an inclusive, supportive workplace that reflects Ferrum College’s mission and values while positioning the institution to attract, develop, and retain exceptional faculty and staff.
Jackson said, “I am excited to begin this new chapter at Ferrum College and grateful for the opportunity to serve as director of human resources. After more than thirty years in human resources across a variety of industries, I am eager to bring my experience to higher education and support the talented faculty and staff who make the College’s mission possible. I believe that strong organizations are built by investing in people, cultivating trust, and creating opportunities for growth. I look forward to working alongside the Ferrum College community to strengthen an inclusive, supportive, and engaging workplace where employees can thrive.”
Jackson’s appointment reflects Ferrum College’s continued investment in strengthening its people, enhancing organizational effectiveness, and supporting the success of every member of the Panther Nation.
