Dr. Abraham Luis Dones

Vice President and Chief Student Services Officer at Durham Tech Community College

Dr. Abraham Luis Dones was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA where he grew up in a predominately Puerto Rican and Black neighborhood. He understands and embraces the cultural wealth and richness stemming from his upbringing and diverse community. Abe is an experienced practitioner who champions organizational change to improve student experiences. He has worked at both K-12 schools and higher education institutions culminating over 25 years of experience. He attended the University of Pittsburgh where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering. After graduating, he returned to Philadelphia and began his educational career as a Bilingual Secondary Mathematics Teacher. He furthered his education by earning a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from Drexel University. The Dones’ relocated to Raleigh, NC and Abe returned to his first passion, education. He worked in student affairs at North Carolina State University. He attributes his commitment, passion, and purpose for working in higher education to the academic experiences of his mother who was an adult learner and graduated from a community college. Abe credits obtaining the Educational Doctorate in Adult and Community College Education to his mother and family. Abe loves to cook, dance, and spend time with his wife and children.