The Erie County Community College (EC3) Board of Trustees has elected EJay Fyke as its new board chair, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for the college as it continues to expand its role in workforce development and higher education in the region.
Fyke, who has served on the board since 2024, succeeds Dr. Michael Victor, who will transition into the role of vice chair. Trustee Cheryl Rush-Dix was also selected to serve as board secretary.
As board chair, Fyke will help guide the college’s strategic direction, support student success initiatives, and strengthen EC3’s position as an educational and economic resource for Erie County.
Fyke said the appointment is especially meaningful because he began his professional career more than a decade ago with Empower Erie, an organization that advocated for the creation of a community college in Erie County. He described the opportunity to now serve as chairman of the board as a “full-circle moment.”
A lifelong Erie County resident, Fyke currently serves as Community Affairs Manager at Vesper Energy and is also Executive Director of Energize Erie, a nonprofit focused on youth development and community engagement.
Chris Gray, president of EC3, praised Fyke’s longstanding support of the community college and said his leadership and commitment will be invaluable as the institution continues to grow. Gray also thanked outgoing chair Dr. Michael Victor for his service, citing his experience in higher education and contributions to the college’s development.
Founded in 2021, Erie County Community College provides affordable higher education and workforce training opportunities for students throughout the region. College leaders say they remain focused on expanding partnerships, meeting workforce needs, and creating pathways to meaningful careers for local residents.