Morgan Phillips today stepped into his role as Gateway Technical College’s interim president and CEO, guiding operations of the oldest publicly funded technical college in America.
He succeeds Ritu Raju, who resigned from her post after leading the college since January 2023.
Phillips was named president after the Gateway Technical College Board of Trustees conducted a nationwide search earlier this year. He most recently served as vice chancellor for Academic Excellence in the Pima Community College District in Tucson, Ariz., a position he’s held since 2020.
“I’m excited to be at Gateway Technical College,” said Phillips. “The college has a long history of innovation and success, and I’m honored to help it move forward in meeting the evolving needs of students and employers. Gateway offers anyone the chance to earn an education that supports their career goals and family, and I’m eager to build on that legacy.
“Today marks an exciting new chapter for Gateway Technical College as we welcome Dr. Phillips on his first day as president,” said Gateway Technical College Board of Trustees Chairperson Jason Tadlock. “His passion for student success and commitment to innovation align perfectly with Gateway’s values, and we are eager to support his vision for the future.
“We also celebrate and sincerely thank Dr. Raju for her remarkable leadership – her dedication has helped shape the strong foundation we continue to build upon. We wish her every success in her next endeavor.”
Phillips brings more than three decades of experience in community and technical colleges. In addition to his vice chancellor role, he has served as campus president for Pima Community College and as vice president of Academic and Student Affairs at Southeastern Community College in Whiteville, N.C.
A lifelong learner, Phillips has earned three associate degrees: Pre-Engineering Studies, 1982, Brevard Community College, Cocoa, Fla.; Interpreter Education (Signed Languages) 2008, Blue Ridge Community College, Flat Rock, NC; General Studies, 2022, Pima Community College. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts in 1986 from the University of Central Florida, a master’s degree in Mathematical Sciences in 1991 from the University of Central Florida, an Education Specialist in Higher Education Administration degree in 2000 from the University of Florida and a doctorate in Education Administration from the University of Florida in 2002.
He was also selected for the initial cohort of the Aspen Presidential Fellowship 2016-17, was responsible for administrative and academic technology operations at Southeastern Community College and worked with Northern Arizona University to develop the first Engineering Technologist program in the state.