Meet Presidential Ambassador Keith Utsey

For Keith Utsey, community service is a passion that drives his decision-making. Since enrolling at Virginia Peninsula Community College in the fall of 2023, he has immersed himself in campus life, aiming to create a lasting impact in his community.

As one of five students serving as a Presidential Ambassador for the 2024-2025 academic year, the Social Science major enthusiastically embraces the role. The program allows participants to volunteer at events and engage with the college community while receiving mentorship from College leaders and a $1,200 incentive.

Utsey, a 2023 Woodside High School graduate, is on track to earning an Associate of Science Degree. Here, he discusses his VPCC experiences, sharing a little about himself.

What inspired you to attend VPCC? My passion for helping my community inspired me to attend VPCC. After researching its programs and extracurricular activities, I found it was a great place to begin my educational journey as I navigate the future.

Why did you choose Social Science? I chose Social Science because I enjoy working with people toward common goals that will benefit society ... It is a field within the realm of Political Science and Government, which I am adamant about pursuing in the future. Analyzing and solving problems that will have positive effects on future generations is something that I am committed to achieving to the best of my ability.

What’s your five-year plan for academic and career goals? Within the next five years, my academic goals include achieving a bachelor’s degree in Political Science or Government, and then obtaining a master’s or potentially a doctorate. As for my career, I plan to apply for a U.S. government job. In addition to any side projects, I take up, the knowledge and experience I gain will aid me before I eventually plan to run for public office when I believe I am ready. 

In what clubs, organizations and activities do you participate at VPCC or in your community? I am involved in several VPCC clubs and activities. Here are two:

Student Government Association (SGA) - When I first enrolled, I wanted to get involved. However, I learned I could not become a full member until I had a qualifying college GPA. Despite this, I was still able to attend the SGA meetings and get to know SGA members … After I received my qualifying GPA, I was voted in SGA as a senator. As a senator, I added my passion to the team and I helped set up and provide feedback on a number of items, such as social events and coordinating with the College directory. When the 2024-25 officer election began in April 2024, I was confident that I would be a great SGA president … I was formally elected by the student body as the SGA president on April 17, 2024. Since then, I continue to work positively, revolutionizing student life at VPCC for current and future generations of students.

Men’s soccer - I am the goalkeeper for VPCC’s men’s soccer team … The team debuted in August 2023, and we played several games and won the (New South Athletic Conference) conference championship on Oct. 22, 2023. I am happy to be playing for the team again this year and meeting some new players.


How does engaging in these activities benefit you? 
My participation in these activities enhances my leadership and interpersonal skills … However, I am primarily concerned with how my participation affects others. The volunteer work I provide, and the effort I put into creating ideas that will benefit as many people as possible, is what drives me. Seeing the positive feedback, and the constructive criticism, if necessary, is what I love to see in the students I pledge to serve in good faith. My courses in social science, such as U.S government and Politics, extend my government vocabulary and systems of operation for when I eventually enter the field myself.

What makes you proudest so far on this higher education journey? I am most proud of the overall journey I have been on since joining VPCC in August 2023 … As for specific accomplishments, I am especially thrilled to earn the position of SGA president as I will have the opportunity to contribute even more to VPCC than I was able to before.

What family members do you want to recognize for their influence and inspiration? My parents have provided phenomenal support in my college endeavors and other responsibilities. The same goes for my aunts, uncles, and cousins who have been with me since the beginning.