Feb. 05, 2026
South College has selected Melissa McMahon, Ed.D., to lead the higher education institution’s Orlando campus. McMahon brings wide-ranging finance and education expertise to the role and is driven by her dedication to students and love of learning.
“My goal is to enhance the student experience,” McMahon said. “I want students to be supported, challenged and rewarded from the moment they walk in through graduation day and beyond.”
McMahon didn’t always have a clear vision for her future. She embraced numerous professional paths before finding a passion for higher education.
“When I first went to college, it didn’t really feel like a fit, so I can identify with students who are intimidated or struggling to find their path in life,” McMahon said. “That’s why I have an open-door policy and want to be a source of support for students throughout their journey.”
McMahon began her professional career working in oil and gas in Oklahoma. She later pursued culinary arts, earning an associate degree, and later a bachelor’s degree in food service management. After a foot injury, McMahon took a different path, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting and working for a renowned private equity firm.
She eventually took a business leadership position in higher education, where her passion for education really ignited. Today, McMahon has a doctorate in higher education administration along with years of experience in higher education administration.
“Dr. McMahon’s experience and passion are a great fit for South College, and we’re pleased to have her lead the Orlando campus as we expand to serve even more students in central Florida,” Chancellor Steve South said.
McMahon has lived in several locations across the United States, including Mississippi, Texas and Oklahoma, but is delighted to make a home in Orlando with her husband and young daughter.
She is eager to develop and strengthen partnerships with healthcare providers that will serve South College students as they seek clinical placements and grow as professionals.
South College Orlando, which opened in November 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 more than 20,000 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 and Marietta, 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.
