Washington, DC – Dr. Elaine Crider, chairperson of the University of the District of Columbia Board of Trustees, has announced the appointment of Dr. Dianna G. Phillips as the new Chief Executive Officer of the University’s Community College, effective November 17th. Currently, Phillips serves as the Executive Vice President for Educational Services at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, New Jersey. She replaces interim UDC Community College CEO, Dr. Calvin Woodland, who has led the school since August, 2012.
In making the announcement, Crider said that Dr. Phillips comes highly recommended with experience and credentials that are compatible with provisions of the University’s Vision 2020 strategic plan. She expressed confidence in the Board’s unanimous choice of Phillips to move the College forward.
“Under Dr. Woodland’s guidance, we’ve not only stayed the course, but have also forged an innovative plan to create a student-centered learning environment for the future,” she said. “As we evaluated Dr. Phillips’ professional experience, it seemed apparent that she is ideally prepared to lead the Community College through implementation of Vision 2020 and beyond. Her resume is very impressive.”
At Brookdale, Phillips is the College’s second-in-command with responsibility over both academics and student services. There, she has worked closely with the deans, faculty and staff to create a five-year operational plan, which serves as the strategic framework for that College’s Educational Services Division. She’s also been actively involved with recruitment, international education and laying the foundation for the implementation of new technologies at Brookdale, which serves a population of more than 14,000 students.
“Being selected to lead the UDC Community College is a phenomenal opportunity,” she says. “I am profoundly honored and excited to be part of an institution that enables me to build upon my life’s work in promoting and supporting student success. I look forward to working with Dr. Lyons and his team in developing a comprehensive community college that prioritizes student needs and is grounded in preparation, exploration and service.”
Prior to her position at Brookdale, Dr. Phillips served as Dean of Technical Education at Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York, where she increased student enrollment by 35% and elevated participation in Dual Credit courses with regional high schools. During her tenure, the school’s Technical Education Division was awarded nearly $4.2M in competitive grant funding and she garnered approximately $320K in new scholarships for students.
Interim UDC President, Dr. James Lyons describes Phillips as a passionate educator and thoughtful administrator who understands what it takes to create a learning environment that fosters career-ready individuals. Lyons says the University of the District of Columbia is fortunate to have such a talented professional.
“Dr. Phillips’ leadership qualities and broad experiences in academics, student services and workforce development will strengthen the University’s investment in educational programs and experiential learning opportunities that better prepare our graduates for the 21st century,” says Lyons. “Her proven track record is one that UDC can replicate and build upon as we move the Community College, our students, and the residents of the District of Columbia toward the future.”
Dr. Phillips earned a Ph.D. from the State University of New York at Buffalo, NY, in Social Foundation of Education with an emphasis on Higher Education Administration. She holds a M.S. from Buffalo State College; a B.B.A. from National University, San Diego, CA and an A.G.S. from Chaminade University, Honolulu, Hawaii. Additionally, Dr. Phillips is permanently certified as a School Business Administrator in New York State. Dr. Phillips served as Communications Specialist in the United States Navy on active duty for 14 years and was honorably discharged in 1990. She achieved the rank of Petty Officer First Class; held a top secret security clearance, and was awarded several medals and letters of commendation.
