Education 2024: MARCIA CONSTON

Conston became TCC’s sixth president in January 2020, just before the pandemic. Laser-focused on ensuring student success despite the daunting challenge, she guided the college forward with a strategic plan — Innovate 2026 — and a vision “to be the community’s first choice for education, opportunity, partnership and innovation.”

The second largest college in the Virginia Community College System, TCC had a fall 2023 headcount of 15,912 students, slightly down from previous years, but administrators say they’re seeing more success in retaining current students.

Last year, the college expanded its Skilled Trades Academy, which opened in 2019 in Portsmouth and trains students in maritime trades such as pipefitting, welding, wind energy and more. With the expansion, TCC now offers programs including building maintenance, heavy equipment operation and logistics.

A runner who’s completed multiple marathons, Conston served 20 years as a vice president at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, North Carolina, before moving to Norfolk.

WHAT I DO FOR FUN: I am an avid reader, dedicated journal writer, a published author of several articles and books, and a devoted mentor.