Dr David Marshall, a Chicago college VP has been appointed to the top job at the International College of the Cayman Islands (ICCI). Dr Marshall succeeds Dr Tasha Ebanks-Garcia, who is now the deputy chief officer at the employment ministry. April Cummings, Chair of the Board of Trustees of college said the board had voted unanimously on Marshall’s appointment during its February meeting and Marshall began his new job on 1 March. “Dr. Marshall is the right person to lead our College to its next level of achievement,” said Cummings.

“His wealth of experience and track record of promoting student success demonstrate his exceptional ability to move our College forward,” she added.

Marshall has more than 12 years of experience in higher education. He started as an adjunct professor and has since worked as a full-time professor, an academic department chair, a dean and an assistant vice president. Since 2012, he was Vice President for Academic Affairs at Olive-Harvey College, one of the City Colleges of Chicago. Marshall had oversight of an academic budget of $15 million and supervised 200 employees. Olive-Harvey enrolls over 5,000 students annually.

“Dr. Marshall brings a remarkable level of enthusiasm and dedication for doing the right thing for students. We were impressed that he presented to us sound ideas about how to improve graduation rates, retention rates, and most important ways to link our educational programs to the needs of employers so that more Caymanians can take their rightful places in business and industry,” Cummings added.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Marshall holds a Ph.D. in Mass Media and Communication from Temple University, a Master of Journalism, also from Temple, and a BA in Religious Studies from Morgan State University.

“I am so thrilled to join the International College of the Cayman Islands, under the leadership of this outstanding board as we partner to fulfil the mission of this great College,” said Marshall. “I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with the legacy of this historic institution and to have the opportunity to work collegially with this very accomplished group of students, faculty, staff, and alumni.”

Since the departure of Ebanks-Garcia, Dr Raymond Hayes served as the interim president. He is the former Chairman of the ICCI Board of Trustees and Secretary for the US-based non-profit organization, Friends of ICCI, which supports the college through fundraising and alumni activities.

Founded in 1970, the International College of the Cayman Islands is the birthplace of Higher Education in the Cayman Islands. The College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools in Washington, D.C. to award associates, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

The mission of the International College of the Cayman Islands is to prepare students for career placement and enhancement. The ICCI education instills attitudes, behaviours, sensitivities, skills and knowledge that are essential to life and learning.