Dr. Towuanna Porter Brannon was inaugurated as Virginia Peninsula Community College’s ninth president in a heartfelt ceremony March 24 at Liberty Live Church in Hampton.
Brannon, who was named president in late 2020 and took over Jan. 1, 2021, said when growing up in Brooklyn, the greatest show of support was the phrase, “I’ve got your back.” She noted it conveys having someone’s best interests at heart, being dependable and watching out for someone.
She acknowledged many in the audience Friday have her back, the best interests of the College in mind, and are watching out for one another.
“I do not take your support for granted,” she said. “I will endeavor each day to live up to your standards and your expectations.”
Prior to her introduction, the Woodside High School chorus performed “I Give Myself Away” by William McDowell.
She said she uses the song as a guide to her life, particularly in her role as a College president: giving herself away to the student living in his car while working two jobs to pursue an associate degree; to the student who transitioned from incarceration to earn his CDL and now owns a small trucking company; to the veteran and single mother of three who worked part time at the College to earn her degree, becoming the first person in her family to graduate from college; to the thousands of VPCC students who rely on higher education to be their pathway to prosperity.
Her first two years in the position show she is more than just words. For the first time in eight years, the College is experiencing enrollment growth. There’s a new Workforce Development Center in Toano. The College is working with the cities of Hampton and Newport News to open an early childhood education center in 2024. The College is in the midst of expanding from three intercollegiate sports programs to nine.
She was quick to point out it wasn’t all her. She thanked the many who are responsible for the College’s success: the local business community and College partners, area educational leaders, the VCCS, and the VPCC students, faculty and staff.
A special message was directed at the students.
“I’d like to thank you for making us part of your higher educational journey,” she said. “We know that many alternatives exist, and we are grateful that you chose to make us your college home.”
Dr. Sharon Morrissey, the VCCS interim chancellor, presented Brannon with a blank journal so she can write her VPCC journey. Expect it to be productive and lengthy.
“As I stand here today, I’m exceedingly optimistic about the College and the impact that we will have in our region,” Brannon said.