Chancellor Doré
“Every time a student earns a degree or credential, lands a job, or returns to finish their education, we see our mission in action – and proven possible.” VCCS Chancellor David Doré told college and system leaders from across the state this month that the times demand much from Virginia’s Community Colleges. “Students, communities, policy makers and legislators now expect greater quality, increased responsiveness and operational excellence,” he said. The 2025 Chancellor’s Retreat also put a strong emphasis on system unity.
The 2025 Chancellor’s Retreat was held at the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center on August 7-8.
The gathering brought together nearly 300 VCCS leaders to energize their efforts ahead of the new academic year and to work towards more coordination of energy and resources across the system. The theme of the two-day event was “Mission Possible.”
“Our job is to ensure that anyone, anywhere in Virginia can access opportunity through education,” said Dr. Doré.
“To meet this moment, we must move forward with:
unified purpose – honoring our founding mission while addressing the evolving needs of today’s learners,
- shared accountability – building trust with key partners, state policy makers and legislators, and philanthropic leaders by demonstrating cohesion and excellence,
- and strategic alignment – aligning programs, funding and policy advocacy to more effectively serve all Virginians.”
“We are stronger when we work collectively as one mission driven
System,” he added.
You can view a recording of Dr. Dore’s speech at the Chancellor’s Retreat.
Wooten
“We have important work to do. And leaders don’t stay in the lead by standing still.” VCCS State Board Chair Michael Wooten drove home the point. “We will become more powerful and effective as one system than we could be as individual colleges,” said Dr. Wooten. Wooten drew applause when he added, “We need to ask ourselves, how well does the system support the needs in a far corners of the Commonwealth?”
You can view a recording of Dr. Wooten’s remarks at the Chancellor’s Retreat.
Value of Retreat:
Treanor
“As someone who’s new to the system, I was impressed with the thought that went into planning for the Retreat,” said Dr. Laura Treanor, who took the helm at Virginia Western Community College in July. “It was especially helpful to sit with my team and with colleges in my region to talk about challenges, understanding our roles and setting goals that move the system forward.”
Minus
“These events are valuable for me as a new president,” said Dr. Daryl Minus, who assumed leadership at Eastern Shore Community College after five years in administrative roles at Southside Virginia. “It’s beneficial for all of us to share our ideas and strategies for serving our communities. I appreciate the informational and emotional boost that comes from a gathering like this.”
Sprinkle
“We were able to develop several ideas here that we’ll take back to our college,” said Dr. Dean Sprinkle, who has served as president at Wytheville Community College for a decade. Sharing with our peers not only generates new thinking, it also energizes us for the road ahead.”
You can view and download photos from the Chancellor’s Retreat.
