By China Cassidy The Navajo County Community College Governing Board met last week and approved the revised presidential profile drafted by the presidential search committee. Following former President Mark Vest’s resignation on Oct. 13, the presidential search committee was asked to create a profile outlining the desired qualifications and characteristics that the future president of the college should possess as part of the application process. Consultant for the presidential search committee, Dr. Celia Cervantes offered, “The main piece that we really want in terms of a president is that Northland Pioneer College is seeking an experienced and innovative, transparent and empathetic leader who will work to support all students and especially advocate for the colleges rural and unrepresented population is kind of at the heart of what we’re looking for.” The document presented to the board separated the requested attributes into four categories: College overview, challenges and opportunities, ideal characteristics, and minimal qualifications. After multiple work sessions and consultation from Certvantes, the committee completed the draft of qualifications and presented it to the board. While the board seemed mostly satisfied with the document, they did suggest that a few changes be made. In the college overview portion of the document, board member Everett Robinson suggested some minor edits stating that the college “Is on the wrong side of the digital divide.” Of the eight items in the second area of focus, challenges and opportunities, Robinson suggested an additional clause. Robinson stated, “I strongly believe that our president needs to somehow convince the state legislature to give us additional funding or at least review our funding formula. I felt that was a challenge that needed to be stated up front. That’s why I am proposing the ninth. To impress upon the state legislature the financial challenges of the rural community colleges strongly and to provide workforce training required by our business industry and employment partners.” After making the corrections suggested by Robinson, the board approved the document. Cervantes did inform the board that the process of selecting candidates will begin in March. Although the position will remain open until filled, individuals are encouraged to apply by the target date of Feb 4. Between Feb. 25 and March 3, the committee will begin reviewing the applications. On Thursday, March 4, the committee will meet virtually to determine who the seven or eight semifinalists will be. Interviews of three to five finalists that will be recommended to the board will begin on March 11 and 12. Reports will be done by the committee highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. During the week of Monday, March 22, the board will be interviewing the finalists. At that time, the names of candidates will become public. For more information visit npc.edu.
