“I think it is important that all of us challenge ourselves in whatever position we fill. That’s how we learn. Often the experience is more important than the outcome,” said Dr. JoAnna Schilling, vice president of academic affairs, about her position as a finalist in El Camino College’s superintendent search.
She added, “I have a lot of mixed emotions, to be honest. It is an honor to be invited back as a finalist for this position, but I am also extremely committed and excited about the work we are doing here at Cerritos.”
Schilling said that no matter the outcome she would still work with great faculty, colleagues and students.
Schilling is one of five finalists, including:
· Kathleen F. Burke, president of Los Angeles Pierce College
· Dena Maloney, president of the West Kern Community College District and Taft College
· Sandra Mayo, president of Moreno Valley College
· Ron Taylor, president of Merced College
El Camino College began its search for a new superintendent after ECC President Thomas Fallo announced his retirement on Feb. 17.
“I have been very blessed to have a wonderful career serving the California community colleges. My tenure at El Camino College is the capstone of my work life. I am grateful to the community, the board of trustees, faculty and staff for their contributions to the success of El Camino College, but most importantly, the students, who motivate me every day,” he said in his retirement announcement.
According to James Walker, Community College Search Services, after the finalists are chosen, interviews with the El Camino College Board of Trustees are scheduled.
“Before the interviews, however, forums are set up to provide the community a chance to meet each of the finalists for about an hour,” he said.
According to the El Camino College presidential search website, the forum schedules are:
Monday, October 5, 2015
10:00-11:00 a.m. – JoAnna Schilling
11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. – Dena Maloney
12:30-1:30 p.m. – Kathleen Burke
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
10:00-11:00 a.m. – Ron Taylor
11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. – Sandra Mayo
Schilling said, regardless of the outcome, “M plan is to continue to find ways to help all students achieve their academic goals whether it is at Cerritos or El Camino.”
