Meet the DIPS Leadership Team
The Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS) is guided by a team of dedicated directors and support staff who bring extensive professional expertise to advance our mission of accessible, industry-aligned, and excellence-driven professional education.
These directors contribute on a strategic, advisory, and programme-specific basis, alongside their full-time professional commitments, helping to strengthen learning pathways, expand career opportunities, and enhance the overall learner experience. Meet the DIPS Leadership below.
Colleen Waldron, MSBA, IWEP, IEDP
President, Founder
Colleen Waldron is the Founder and President of the Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS), with expertise spanning data analytics, business intelligence, marketing, and professional education. Holding a Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA), internationally recognized event planning and decoration certifications, and currently pursuing an MBA in Marketing, she combines analytical insight with creative leadership. Her experience includes serving as a Data Analyst in Atlanta, Georgia, over a decade in higher education administration, and delivering professional training across several Caribbean territories. Passionate about lifelong learning and community development, Mrs. Waldron is committed to expanding access to high-quality, skills-based education that empowers individuals with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to succeed in today's workforce and entrepreneurial environment.
Darrel Waldron, BSc, GCM, MCAS
Vice President & Co-Founder
Darrel Waldron is the Vice President and Co-Founder of the Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS), with expertise in application support, business intelligence, systems analysis, and technology-driven education. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering, he combines extensive experience in enterprise systems, data analytics, reporting, and compliance with a passion for practical education. As an Application Support Specialist and former Computer Science and Information Technology educator, Mr. Waldron brings both technical expertise and instructional experience to DIPS. He is committed to developing high-quality, skills-based programmes that foster analytical thinking, digital proficiency, and real-world problem-solving, helping learners thrive in today's technology-driven workplace.
Deneise Francis, MBA
Director of Finance
Deneise Francis serves as the Finance Director of the Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS), bringing expertise in finance, budgeting, procurement, and organizational management. Holding an MBA in Finance and Healthcare Management from Grand Canyon University, she combines strong financial acumen with practical experience gained in the Finance and Procurement Department at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Her background in financial analysis, compliance, and resource management supports DIPS' commitment to sound financial stewardship, accountability, and sustainable growth. Passionate about excellence and transparency, Deneise plays a key role in ensuring the Institute's long-term success and its mission of delivering high-quality, skills-based education.
Jane Blake, MBA
Director of Strategy & Quality
Janel Blake serves as the Director of Learning & Institutional Review at the Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS), bringing expertise in governance, learning quality, policy oversight, and business administration. Holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an emphasis in Accounting and Finance from Andrews University, she combines a strong academic foundation with over a decade of experience in finance, human resources, administrative leadership, and organizational operations. At DIPS, Mrs. Blake oversees the continuous review and enhancement of learning programmes, supports institutional quality standards, and provides strategic guidance to ensure that the Institute's training, policies, and governance reflect excellence, integrity, accountability, and industry relevance.
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Dr. Terrence Simon, PhD
Institutional Development Consultant
Dr. Simon serves as the Institutional Development Consultant at the Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS). An Associate Professor of Business and Finance at Livingstone College in North Carolina, he brings nearly three decades of academic leadership and executive experience spanning finance, accounting, management, insurance, telecommunications, and taxation. Holding a Ph.D. in Business Management, along with advanced degrees in education and management, Dr. Simon combines scholarly expertise with extensive industry experience. As a strategic advisor to DIPS, he provides guidance on institutional development, governance, organizational effectiveness, policy, and long-term growth, helping to strengthen the Institute's vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence in professional education.
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Colister Augustin - MSc.
Digital Strategy & Innovation Specialist
Colister Augustin serves as the Digital Strategy & Innovation Specialist at the Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS), bringing expertise in cybersecurity, digital systems, workflow optimization, and technology-driven solutions. Holding a Master's degree in Cyber and Information Security from St. John's University, she combines a strong technical foundation with professional experience supporting digital operations, process improvement, data management, and enterprise systems within leading organizations. At DIPS, she leads initiatives that strengthen the Institute's digital presence, supports innovative technologies, enhances online engagement, and identifies emerging opportunities that advance learning, operational excellence, and institutional growth.
Lisa-Kay Blackman, Bsc.
Business Operations Specialist
Lisa-Kay Blackman serves as the Business Operations Specialist at the Darcol Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS), bringing expertise in business administration, operations management, financial coordination, and organizational support. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Education, an Associate of Applied Science in Management with Accounting, and a Certificate in Facility Management, she combines strong academic credentials with extensive experience across public-sector and community-based organizations. At DIPS, Lisa oversees programme coordination, administrative operations, documentation, and financial support processes, contributing to the efficient delivery of the Institute's professional training programmes and its mission of providing high-quality, skills-based education.