FIRST DAY.

Dr. Casey welcomes students on their first day in a precalculus class.

STAFF SOCIAL.

From left, Kathie Noonan, associate professor of mathematics; Dr. Berrin Kilicarslan, assistant professor of mathematics; and at far right, Dr. Mustapha Habibi, assistant professor of physical science, enjoy some ice cream with Wor-Wic mascot Wicky and Dr. Casey.

GO FINS.

Dr. Casey has made “Go fins!” a catchphrase since discovering Wor-Wic’s mascot, Wicky the dolphin.

Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic Community College, has been working to make connections with students, faculty, staff and the community since taking the helm on Aug. 14.

Only a few weeks into her new role, Casey had already met the leaders of Salisbury University and University of Maryland Eastern Shore and acquainted herself with Wor-Wic faculty and staff through meetings and more informal events such as an ice cream social. She also bonded with students by greeting them on their first day of class and hosting “Pizza with the President.”

Casey, who took the role after serving as vice president of student affairs at Green River College in Auburn, Wash., was chosen by the Wor-Wic board of trustees following a nationwide search.

“I look forward to leading this vanguard institution into the future, fostering deep-rooted relationships within our community and celebrating the successful outcomes we can achieve together to positively impact the lives of our diverse students, communities and workforce on the Lower Eastern Shore,” Casey said.

She has 25 years of experience in higher education, and has worked in various administrative positions as interim vice president of human resources and instruction, dean, and in teaching roles at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton and the University of Florida in Gainesville. She earned her doctorate in educational leadership and research methodology from Florida Atlantic University.