New College Institute Statement on the Passing of Barry Dorsey

The board and staff of New College Institute (NCI) are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Barry Dorsey, NCI’s first executive director and a strong community leader throughout Martinsville-Henry County, Virginia.

“We are grateful for Dr. Barry Dorsey’s tireless efforts as NCI’s founding executive director to support more people from diverse backgrounds to attend and succeed in college,” said Karen Jackson, NCI’s interim executive director. “We are committed to continuing his legacy and ensuring that NCI serves as Virginia’s premiere training and education hub for workforce training, certification, and degree programs.”

Hired in 2004, Dr. Barry Dorsey is credited with bringing 18 degree and certificate programs to NCI. Dr. Dorsey was a first-generation college graduate and went on to earn a doctoral degree in education from the University of Virginia.

“We are thankful for Dr. Dorsey’s critical contribution to put NCI on the path for success,” said State Senator William M. Stanley, who serves as the board chair of NCI. “His steadfast commitment to create new educational opportunities strengthens our community and helps break the cycle of poverty in Southern Virginia.”