Rappahannock Community College Welcomes New Vice President of Instruction and Student Success
After a months-long nationwide search, Rappahannock Community College is pleased to announce the hire of Dr. Marlena Jarboe as Vice President of Instruction and Student Success. Dr. Jarboe brings over 20 years of experience in higher education and an impressive track record of leadership and innovation.
Dr. Jarboe has spent the last nine years in various dean positions at Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC), part of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), most recently serving as Dean of Academic Affairs. In this role, she has effectively overseen a diverse array of academic programs, impacting approximately 3,500 students annually. Her extensive experience includes leadership roles across multiple disciplines, including Business, Technology, and Social Sciences.
"I decided to come to Rappahannock Community College because I understand firsthand the challenges of growing up in poverty and being a first-generation college student. Like many of our students, I know what it's like to face obstacles, but I also know the power of hard work and perseverance,” said Jarboe. “I am committed to helping our community thrive by ensuring that every student has the opportunity, support, and resources they need to succeed."
Some noteworthy accomplishments during Dr. Jarboe's tenure at BRCC include the successful implementation of innovative continuing education and workforce development programs, such as the Fast Forward eligible Security+ initiative and the gradCLASS Program. The latter is a collaboration with Rockingham County Public Schools aimed at preparing underserved students aged 18-21 for gainful employment.
Dr. Jarboe has played a pivotal role in developing eight new Associate of Science degrees and has established key partnerships with local hospitals to create vital healthcare programs. She was also an integral team member in achieving the recent SACSCOC 10-year reaccreditation for BRCC.
Dr. Jarboe holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Community College Leadership from Old Dominion University, where her dissertation on the experiences of low-income student-parents during the COVID-19 pandemic was recognized as the Dissertation of the Year. As a first-generation college student from a rural region in Virginia, she is keenly aware of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by smaller, rural institutions.
Her educational background also includes a Master of Science in Computing Technology in Education from Nova Southeastern University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information Systems from James Madison University.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Marlena Jarboe to the RCC family. She brings a wealth of experience and has an amazing attitude. She will make a great addition to the College and to the community,” said Dr. Shannon Kennedy, RCC President.
RCC looks forward to Dr. Jarboe's leadership in enhancing academic programs and fostering student success.