Colvin T. Georges Jr., a native of St. Thomas, has been appointed as the new Dean of Students for the Albert A. Sheen campus, beginning Sept.1, the University of the Virgin Islands announced in a press release Monday.
Georges returns to the Virgin Islands with a wealth of experience in higher education spanning over eight years. He is a nationally recognized student affairs practitioner, and his background includes work in student success, student engagement, residence life, enrollment management, fraternity and sorority life, new and transfer student orientation, student conduct, and academic affairs, among other areas, according to the press release.
“We are excited to have Dr. Georges at UVI. With his insight and the knowledge and dedication of the student affairs staff, we know that UVI will embark on enhanced programming and activities to better engage students in University life,” said UVI Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Camille McKayle.
“Returning to the Virgin Islands and serving the Buccaneer community is a profound honor. I’m committed to understanding UVI’s unique culture and needs and am eager to work with faculty, staff, and students to foster a vibrant, safe, and inclusive campus community,” said Georges.
Prior to joining UVI, Georges enriched student experiences at Chatham University as the assistant dean of Students for Student Success and Engagement. Before Chatham, he worked at the University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign as the strategic initiatives coordinator for Student Success in the Office of the Provost and as a research associate in the Office of Community College Research and Leadership. Georges also served as the assistant director for Student Engagement at the New York Institute of Technology, the press release stated.
Georges holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership with an emphasis in higher education from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs from New York University, a Master of Business Administration from the New York Institute of Technology, and dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Family and Child Sciences and Sociology from The Florida State University.
With a strong belief in building genuine connections within the academic community, Georges emphasizes, “I will be visible and available to students, proactively addressing their concerns, ensuring they feel a deep sense of belonging and ability to thrive inside and outside of the classroom.”
Georges is committed to working collaboratively around improving how students experience higher education in the Caribbean and their preparation level when entering the workforce post-graduation at UVI, in alignment with the institutional strategic plan framed by President Hall, the release stated.
“The UVI community eagerly anticipates the fresh perspectives, passion, and dedication Dr. Georges will bring, especially his unwavering commitment to student success and retention on the Albert A. Sheen campus,” said McKayle. “Even as Dr. Georges arrives at UVI, we are reminded of the void that was left when Ms. Hedda Finch Simpson, who passed away last year, was no longer able to serve.” McKayle continued, “I want to thank the committed staff of Albert A. Sheen Student Affairs for their work over the years with students to create and implement activities that engaged students intellectually and socially. Welcome to Dr. Georges and kudos to Student Affairs.”
