Aug. 26, 2025
South College has named Dr. Claudine Bentham as Dean of Academic and Student Services at the Orlando campus.
Bentham earned her doctorate in higher education and policy studies from the University of Central Florida and brings nearly two decades of experience in the education sector, ranging from middle school instruction to tenured professorship. With expertise in higher education leadership and a heart for service, she approaches her work with empathy and passion for helping students succeed.
“I was drawn to South College because of its commitment to student-centered learning and ongoing academic support,” Bentham said. “I faced a lot of personal challenges when I was in college, but I had a mentor who encouraged me, and she was instrumental in my success – I want to give that same personalized attention and foster a learning environment rooted in care, collaboration and purpose.”
Bentham has experience as a faculty member and director in higher education and brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the position.
“Dr. Bentham is a dedicated servant leader who pursues excellence in all she does,” said Dr. Jim McCoy, president of South College Orlando. “Her commitment to serving others will help South College Orlando and our students grow in meaningful ways.”
Bentham, who grew up in New York, has lived in Florida for many years. She serves in ministry with the Faith Assembly Institute in Orlando. She also sings on the worship team at Faith Assembly Church, leading worship for more than 550 services.
“I’m a big believer in second chances,” Bentham said. “I had the support I needed to improve my life in youth, and I’m excited to pay that forward with the students I can help support at South College.”
Bentham and her husband have raised two adult children and also have 16-year-old twins at home.
South College Orlando, which opened in 2021, offers healthcare-related certificate, associate, bachelor’s and master’s programs in areas such as Health Science, Imaging Science, Medical Assisting, Physician Assistant Studies, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy and Surgical Technology.
The Orlando campus is located at 6649 Westwood Blvd., Suite 100. For more information about South College Orlando visit south.edu/orlando.
South College offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE.
About South College
South College serves nearly 17,000 students and is proud of its more than 20,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.
South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.
