The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) proudly announces the appointment of Ivo Philbert as Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement, effective May 11, 2026.
Philbert steps into this critical leadership role following the departure of Michael Morsberger, whose tenure concluded on March 31, 2026. A dynamic leader with deep roots in the Virgin Islands and a national reputation for driving strategic partnerships and philanthropic growth, Philbert will lead UVI’s advancement efforts at a pivotal moment in the University’s trajectory.
A native son of St. John, Philbert brings a distinguished career spanning nonprofit leadership, corporate strategy, and community engagement. He will join UVI after spending nearly a decade at the Jackie Robinson Foundation and Museum, where he served as Vice President of External Engagement. In this role, he has led high-impact initiatives across donor engagement, alumni relations, and strategic partnerships—significantly enhancing visibility, stakeholder alignment, and philanthropic support.
He also previously served at INROADS, Inc. for more than 20 years, including as Vice President for Strategic Account Management and Business Development and Assistant Vice President of Operations, where he advanced initiatives focused on talent development, equity, and access.
Philbert holds a degree in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Administration, with a minor in Accounting from the University of New Haven. His multidisciplinary academic foundation, combined with decades of leadership experience, has shaped a results-driven and relationship-centered approach to institutional advancement.
Over the course of his career, Philbert has also held leadership roles at organizations including PayPal. He is widely recognized for his commitment to mentorship, leadership development, and community impact, maintaining strong engagement both nationally and throughout the Virgin Islands.
In his role, Philbert will oversee fundraising, alumni engagement, and public relations—key pillars in advancing UVI’s mission and accelerating progress under its G.R.A.N.D. Momentum Strategic Plan. His leadership is expected to further strengthen UVI’s position as a premier institution dedicated to student success, innovation, and community impact.
UVI President Safiya George expressed deep appreciation for outgoing Vice President Michael Morsberger and confidence in Philbert’s leadership.
“We are grateful to Michael Morsberger for his leadership and meaningful contributions to the University of the Virgin Islands,” said Dr. George. “His work has strengthened our advancement infrastructure and positioned UVI for sustained growth. We thank him for his service and wish him continued success.”
Welcoming Philbert, Dr. George emphasized the significance of his appointment:
“We are thrilled to welcome Ivo Philbert to UVI. As a proud son of St. John, he brings not only deep personal ties to our community, but also a proven track record of strategic leadership, partnership development, and philanthropic engagement. His energy, vision, and commitment to impact will be instrumental as we continue to expand opportunities for our students and elevate the University’s role across the Virgin Islands and beyond.”
About the University of the Virgin Islands
The University of the Virgin Islands is a public, co-educational, land-grant institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. As the only Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located outside the continental United States, UVI is uniquely positioned to serve a diverse and global student population. The University is committed to academic excellence, innovation, and student success, fostering an environment that advances teaching, research, creativity, and community engagement.
Media Contact
Tamika Thomas Williams
Director of Public Relations
University of the Virgin Islands
Phone: (340) 693-1059
Email: pr@uvi.edu
