Eastern Shore Community College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Ramzi Ockaili as the the full-time Vice President of Academic and Workforce Programs. Serving as interim VP since March of 2025, Dr. Ockaili took part in interviews for the permanent position this spring and was chosen for the role.
Dr. Ockaili brings more than 25 years of distinguished experience in higher education, teaching, leadership, and research. He served as the Department Chair of Anatomy & Physiology and Biology at Reynolds Community College and has an extensive background in faculty development, student mentoring, curriculum innovation, and institutional effectiveness. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching, and supporting students and faculty alike.
Dr. Ockaili holds a B.S. in Biology from the American University of Beirut, an M.S. and Ph.D. in Physiology from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and a Post-Baccalaureate Graduate Certificate in Medical Education from VCU’s School of Education. He also completed his postdoctoral training in the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, at VCU.
With deep knowledge of the VCCS and a strong record of innovation and partnership, his strategic vision aligns with ESCC’s mission and will continue to be essential in guiding the college’s goals under the leadership of college president Dr. Daryl Minus.
In his year as interim, Dr. Ockaili has been instrumental in guiding growth both in Academic and Workforce programming at the college. In addition to leading ESCC faculty, he has worked to prepare the college for the launch of its new Engineering program for Fall 2026, designed to meet growing regional demand and expand educational opportunities for students across the Eastern Shore.