MEDIA CONTACT:
Craig Butterworth
PR Coordinator
cbutterworth@vccs.edu
spollard@vccs.edu
(804) 819-4949
RICHMOND – The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is proud to announce that Dr. Felicia L. Ganther, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic and Workforce Programs, has been selected as a 2026 100 Women of Color Virginia honoree.
Ganther
The recognition celebrates women of color across the Commonwealth whose leadership, professional accomplishments, service, and commitment to their communities are making a meaningful impact.
In her role with Virginia’s Community Colleges, Ganther provides executive leadership for statewide academic, student support, institutional research, professional development, and workforce development programs across Virginia’s 23 community colleges. Her work focuses on strengthening the student experience, expanding pathways to credentials and careers, aligning educational programs with Virginia’s workforce needs, and leveraging the collective strength of the community college system to better serve students and communities.
In addition to her role at VCCS, Ganther is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Norfolk State University Alumni Association, and an avid supporter of the Arizona State University School of Community Resources and Development and the University of Illinois, Chicago – John Marshall Law School, where she earned her Ph.D. and J.D., respectively. Professionally, she serves on a commission of the American Association for Community Colleges, serves on the board of HERDI South, and has served as a presidential fellow for the League of Innovation. Through these affiliations, among others, she spends her time mentoring young professionals, coaching doctoral students, tutoring students for the LSAT, and serving as a guest presenter for various corporate and community organization events.
Ganther’s selection recognizes not only her contributions to higher education, but also her commitment to leadership, service, and creating opportunities for others. “Dr. Ganther’s recognition as one of Virginia’s 100 Women of Color is a testament to the impact of her leadership and her unwavering commitment to students and the Commonwealth,” said VCCS Chancellor David Doré. “Her ability to bring people together around a shared vision for student success, educational opportunity, and workforce development has strengthened our system and the communities we serve. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition.”
The honorees were selected by the 100 Women of Color Virginia Gala & Awards Committee. All 100 honorees will be formally recognized during a ceremony at the Hippodrome in Richmond on October 23.
VCCS congratulates Dr. Ganther on this distinguished honor and celebrates her continued leadership and service to the Commonwealth.
About the Virginia Community College System
Founded in 1966, The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) plays a crucial role in providing higher education and workforce training across the state. With 23 colleges serving the diverse needs of the commonwealth, VCCS supports over 230,000 students annually. Notably, Virginia’s community colleges account for nearly half (48%) of all public undergraduate students in the state. With more than 5.5 million alumni, VCCS is not just a singular institution; it represents Virginia’s commitment to accessible education. The system connects with nearly every household in Virginia through various programs, including high school dual enrollment, workforce credentials, and affordable degree pathways, making higher education attainable for all.
