Congratulations are in order for two VCCS classified employees who have won fellowships to boost their careers and advance the mission of our colleges. Chancellor David Doré announced the fellowships Sept. 21 for Ingrid Guillen Marquina from Northern Virginia and Kodi Fleming from Tidewater Community College. Guillen Marquina and Fleming will receive financial support for their graduate studies next year, along with leave of absence from their present jobs, with continued benefits and three-quarter’s pay.

Left to right: VCCS Chancellor David Doré, Ingrid Guillen Marquina and Kodi Fleming.
Guillen Marquina, who coordinates chemistry labs at NOVA’s Annandale Campus, plans to pursue her master’s degree in chemistry at George Mason University, with hopes of eventually earning a doctorate and continue advancing in her career within the Virginia Community College System.
Fleming currently serves as Interim Associate Vice President for Professional Development for Workforce Solutions at TCC and plans to continue his Ph.D. program in community college leadership at ODU.
“I’m so pleased this win-win program exists to encourage our colleagues in the classified ranks to advance their careers,” said VCCS Chancellor David Doré. “By helping our rising stars boost their skills, knowledge, and credentials, we enable them to enhance their contributions to the community college mission.”
Guillen Marquina and Fleming are both hoping to enter full-time graduate studies in January.
Two more classified VCCS employees will be eligible for fellowships next year. Applications for the Chancellor’s Classified Fellowship, including letters of endorsement and verification of acceptance into a degree program, must be completed by April 15. Application forms are available from the Office of the Chancellor, and from College Human Resource Offices.
You can read more about the Chancellor’s Classified Fellowship program.