Provost appointed as interim leader following president’s removal by CCP board.

The Board of Trustees at the Community College of Philadelphia has appointed Alycia Marshall, the institution’s provost, as the interim president following a special meeting held on Monday. This decision comes approximately two and a half weeks after the board placed the former president, Donald Guy Generals, on paid administrative leave subsequent to a vote not to renew his contract.

Marshall has been serving as the provost and vice president for academic and student success for nearly three years and was elected unanimously by the board during a brief session that did not involve any public discussion prior to the vote. She will step into this interim role at a crucial time as college officials prepare for a budget hearing with the City Council on Tuesday and the upcoming commencement ceremony on Saturday.

The board emphasized the need for stability and continuity during this transitional phase, with plans to conduct a nationwide search for a permanent president. In her new capacity, Marshall is tasked with maintaining the college’s focus on academic excellence and student engagement.

A seasoned educator, Marshall began her career as an adjunct professor at Anne Arundel Community College in Maryland, where she rose through the ranks, ultimately becoming a full tenured professor and chair of the mathematics department. Her extensive experience spans nearly 23 years at the Maryland institution, where she played a pivotal role in founding the African American Leadership Institute and served as associate vice president.

In addition to her academic roles, Marshall is the founder and CEO of Educational Excellence LLC, a tutoring company. Her education credentials include a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, a master’s in teaching from Bowie State University, and a doctorate in mathematics education from the University of Maryland.

In the wake of the leadership changes, the board chair, Harold T. Epps, conveyed confidence in Marshall’s ability to provide stability and continuity. Epps underscored the need for support and collaboration from the board and administration, emphasizing that the institution’s focus remains on delivering quality education to students.

Previously, Generals, who held the presidency for nearly 11 years, expressed that his ousting was unwarranted, citing his achievements during his tenure, including progress in college enrollment, fundraising efforts, and successful contract negotiations with faculty and staff, which helped avert a strike. While the board has not disclosed specific reasons for his dismissal, it has reiterated its commitment to enhancing student experience and resource stewardship.

The situation has sparked discussion and concern within the college community, leading to resignation from some board members and ongoing scrutiny of the decision-making processes of the trustees. The board is now under pressure to demonstrate its commitment to transparency and effective leadership as it navigates this pivotal transition period.

As Marshall steps into her interim role, the focus will be on rallying support, maintaining academic standards, and providing a smooth transition for students and faculty alike amidst ongoing uncertainties.