Foundation Donors Honor Dr. Dorothy “Dottie” McIntyre
The Cleveland Community College Foundation recently gathered friends, colleagues, and community members in Keeter Auditorium for a special naming ceremony honoring Dr. Dorothy P. “Dottie” McIntyre. Dr. McIntyre is a cherished educator, leader, and friend whose 45 years of service helped shape the heart and mission of Cleveland Community College.
Dr. McIntyre began her CCC journey in 1970 and quickly became known for her dedication to students and her commitment to learning. Over the years, she served in many roles, including faculty member, department chair, academic dean, associate vice president for development, and assistant to the president for planning and institutional effectiveness. She officially retired in 2004, but her passion for teaching led her back to the classroom in 2008, where she continued to inspire students as an adjunct instructor until 2019. Her career reflects a lifetime spent lifting others and strengthening her community.
As the first Executive Director of the Cleveland Community College Foundation, Dr. McIntyre laid the groundwork for the Foundation’s mission and structure. Her leadership helped establish a strong culture of giving that continues to open doors for students through scholarships and community support.
In recognition of her guidance and lasting impact, the Foundation dedicated the Dr. Dorothy P. McIntyre Office of the Executive Director in her honor. This dedication was made possible through a generous gift from Patty Dorian and her husband, Eino Lindfors. Dorian, a former student and employee of Dr. McIntyre, credits her longtime mentor for shaping both her career and her commitment to service. Their gift ensures that Dr. McIntyre’s leadership will continue to inspire future generations of students, educators, and partners in the community.
Dottie at the reception held in Dottie’s honor.
“Dottie’s name is woven into the very fabric of Cleveland Community College,” said Dr. Jason Hurst, president of CCC, during the ceremony. “From the McIntyre Lobby to the Pennington McIntyre Gallery, and now the Office of the Executive Director, her influence can be felt in every corner of our campus.”
Dr. McIntyre’s impact reaches far beyond the College. A dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Shelby for more than 30 years, she was one of the club’s first female presidents. She also played a key role in naming the Rotary Center for Global Studies on CCC’s campus. Her service truly embodies the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self,” as it connects local education to global perspectives.
Her work has been recognized throughout the region. Dr. McIntyre was honored as Distinguished Woman of the Year in 1997 by the Cleveland County Commission for Women and received the Athena Award in 2003 from the Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce. These awards highlight her professional excellence and her commitment to empowering others.
Through her vision, generosity, and unwavering belief in education, Dr. McIntyre helped build the cornerstone on which the Cleveland Community College Foundation continues to grow today. Her legacy will guide the Foundation’s mission to expand access, support students, and strengthen the community she served with such dedication. Her name and spirit will continue to remind us that one person’s commitment can create opportunities for many.