This week’s spotlight is on Dr. April Cone, Dean of the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie. Originally from Barnwell, S.C., Dr. Cone graduated from Barnwell High School and went directly into nursing school at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College where she earned an associate degree. She began her nursing career at Allendale County Hospital, then moved to the Allendale County School District (ACSD) in 2005, where she served as a school nurse. While at ACSD, Dean Cone chose to continue her education, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
In 2010, Cone accepted a position at USC Salkehatchie as part of its Rural Nursing Initiative. While serving as the nursing student success manager, Cone pursued her master’s degree in nursing, then became the nursing program manager in 2014. She continued her education at the USC College of Nursing and earned a doctorate in nursing practice with an emphasis in executive leadership. When the dean’s position opened at USC Salkehatchie, a few colleagues encouraged her to apply.
“As a nurse, this is a role in which I never dreamed I would have an opportunity to serve. Being the dean at a university campus was never on my radar. When the opportunity presented itself, I prayed about it, talked with my husband, and decided to apply. I was offered the opportunity and was fortunate to begin in the role in July 2022,” she said.
When asked about her goals for the University over the next few years, Dr. Cone says, “Our team is working diligently to increase enrollment. Recruitment of traditional students will always be our primary focus, but community courses and non-degree offerings have become another focus area where we feel we can better serve our community.” Cone also would like to remind residents that if you are age 60 or older, you can take a course at USC Salkehatchie for free.
When asked if she could do anything with time and money not being an obstacle, Dr. Cone said, “Many might say jump on a plane and visit another country for a month. As much as I love to travel, that would be nice, but helping others find their passion would be the most rewarding. Not everyone gets to do what they love on a daily basis, and I feel like once you find your passion, it’s no longer work. I love what I do, and I wish everyone could feel the same way.”
“USC Salkehatchie offers a plethora of opportunities that many are still unaware of. On behalf of the university, I would like everyone to know who we are and what we offer. I want community members to understand that we have great opportunities, and it’s our mission to serve our community by providing higher education and intellectual leadership to our service areas.”
Dr. Cone resides in Sycamore, a small town in Allendale County. She has been married to her husband, Jason, for almost 24 years, and they have 20-year-old twins, Logan and Austin, who are also in college. Dr. Cone enjoys spending time at the beach and spending time with her family.
