The Columbia State Foundation Board is pleased to announce Dr. Martin Chaney, Shiphrah Cox, Hale Hawkins and Charlie Plunkett as new Foundation board members.

“These community leaders were invited to serve on the foundation because of their professional accomplishments and strong belief in education,” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “I anticipate collaborating with them as we further the mission of the foundation.” 

“We welcome our new board members!” said Stacey Shedd, Columbia State Foundation chair. “We are glad to have professionals of such caliber join us, bringing their varied expertise and dedication to communities in the college's service area. Together, we will work towards greater impact and success.”

Dr. Martin Chaney currently serves as chief executive officer of Maury Regional Health. Chaney has more than 25 years of clinical and management experience, including 21 with Maury Regional Health. As CEO, he oversees system operations and directs efforts in clinical quality, physician relations and recruitment. He earned his medical degree from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, where he also completed his internship and residency at the University of South Alabama Hospitals and Clinics. He is board-certified in internal medicine.

Cox currently serves in three roles for the city of Mount Pleasant, including assistant city manager, finance director and city recorder. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Martin Methodist College in Pulaski and later a master’s degree in business administration from Western Governors University.

Hawkins currently serves as the principal owner of Flying Hawk Ranch in Cornersville. He spent 33 years at Lewisburg Printing Company, where he worked his way up to become chief executive officer. Hawkins holds a bachelor’s degree in printing management from Murray State University. He currently serves as a director for the First Commerce Bank Board of Directors.

Plunkett currently serves as a financial advisor at Edward Jones. He first began his higher education journey at Columbia State, where he earned a general transfer Associate of Science degree with a concentration in business. Plunkett also holds two degrees from Trevecca Nazarene University: a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management, as well as a master’s degree in business administration. He is also a certified financial planner and a certified trust and fiduciary advisor. 

For a full list of the Foundation board members, staff and executive committee members, please click here.

Columbia State Foundation board members serve three-year terms and represent leaders from across the nine-county service area. The Columbia State Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports and partners with the college to positively impact student success and the communities in which it serves. For more information, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Foundation.