WYE MILLS – Christopher Garvey of Queen Anne’s County is the new chair of the Chesapeake College Board of Trustees.

Mr. Garvey, a trustee since 2016, now leads the 10-member body charged with oversight at Chesapeake. Mr. Garvey succeeds Nash McMahan, whose term as chair ended in July.

Kent County’s Robert Grace, a trustee since 2016, will serve as the vice chair.

“It’s exciting to be a part of the evolution of Chesapeake College as we move from defining the goals within our new Strategic Plan to attaining them. As Board members, we appreciate the opportunity to help guide the College and see the success of our students. I’ve enjoyed my time with the Board and look forward to leading this group of dedicated trustees,” Mr. Garvey said.

A Kent Island resident, Mr. Garvey is the President and CEO of Associated Builders and Contractors Chesapeake Shores Chapter in Annapolis.

Of Mr. McMahan’s term as chair, Chesapeake President Clifford Coppersmith said, “Nash’s leadership in the last year helped guide Chesapeake through an unprecedented time during the Covid-19 pandemic. The college remains strong and well-positioned for the future despite the challenges we have faced recently.”

Mr. Garvey, with his professional experience in the building industry, is particularly interested in Chesapeake’s role in preparing the region’s workforce.

“Chesapeake College serves the community as a beacon of opportunity to so many students who are seeking workforce training, professional credentials, or an entree to higher education, and it is my honor to serve as the Chair of the Trustees,” Mr. Garvey said.

Chesapeake’s Board of Trustees is comprised of two members from each of the five support counties. Members are appointed to five-year terms by the governor.