We're Looking for Our Next Great Leader

Presidential Search Binoculars

Central Oregon Community College (COCC) is seeking its next president to lead the state’s oldest two-year college. This energetic, strategic and visionary leader will empower students and engage communities across the beautiful Central Oregon region through high-quality, equitable and accessible lifelong education.

Students walk towards the entrance of the Middleton Science Center at Central Oregon Community College (COCC). The building features modern wooden accents and large glass windows. Two students are seated on stone benches near the entrance, and the pathway is lined with trees, offering a scenic view. The day is bright and sunny, adding to the welcoming campus atmosphere.

 

WHO WE ARE

COCC is dedicated to supporting students as they pursue university transfer programs or one of our 50 Career and Technical Education programs. We are committed to providing workforce development, customized industry-specific training, and lifelong learning for area residents. We believe that diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and beliefs enrich the learning experience of our campuses and are committed to providing work and learning environments that respect and educate about cultural differences.

WHERE WE ARE

COCC proudly provides comprehensive, affordable college services to the residents of our nearly 10,000-square-mile district. A 175-acre main campus in Bend, along with additional campuses in Redmond, Madras and Prineville, provide students access to specialized programs, credit and non-credit classes and student services.

Presidential Profile

Appointed by the COCC Board of Directors, the ideal candidate will be a student-centered leader and collaborative team-builder who demonstrates integrity and embraces shared governance decision-making while having the courage to make tough decisions when needed. 

Group of graduates standing in line during an outdoor graduation ceremony, wearing caps and gowns. One graduate in the foreground is adorned with a purple flower lei.

 

They will also have a proven track record of:

  • Working at a multi-campus institution
  • Embracing rural education needs and resources
  • Working with or for an elected governing board
  • Managing large, complex budgets and significant capital investments in a fiscally responsible way
  • Implementing new technologies and understanding delivery systems and best practices to provide educational opportunities
  • Navigating the political system and legislative process
  • Creating environments that respect and educate the campuses on cultural differences
  • Fundraising, particularly with a college foundation
  • Successfully managing an accreditation process
  • Following and understanding trends in higher education
  • Working at an institution with student housing
  • Modernizing and streamlining processes
  • Making data-driven decisions that include consideration of impacts on students, staff, and the community
  • Working collaboratively with association groups and collective bargaining units

Challenges and Opportunities

  • To ensure the College remains a premier community college in the Pacific Northwest
  • To revitalize and grow services on branch campuses and in underserved areas to better serve all populations throughout the college’s District
  • To lead strategic efforts and meet evolving workforce needs in a changing and dynamic region
  • To increase funding and diversify revenue streams in preparation for the ongoing shift to outcomes-based funding in Oregon
  • To continue to foster and build COCC’s relationship with Oregon State University Cascades Campus, K-12 partners, and other regional/state academic institutions

Minimum Qualifications

  • Teaching experience, preferably at a community college
  • A successful track record as a senior-level leader, preferably at a community college
  • An earned doctorate from a regionally-accredited
    institution is preferred

 

How to Apply:

This is a confidential search process. To ensure full consideration, application materials should be received no later than October 18, 2024. The position will remain open until filled.

To apply, please submit the following documents to: preston@goldhillassociates.com 

  1. A cover letter (not to exceed 5 pages) that describes how the candidate’s experience and professional qualifications prepare them to serve as the President of Central Oregon Community College.
  2. A current resumé or CV, including an email address and cellular telephone number.
  3. Five professional references.

For additional information, nominations, or confidential inquiries, please contact Preston Pulliams, Search Consultant: preston@goldhillassociates.com | 503-704-3425

 

Collage of campus scenes at COCC: A globe sculpture in a modern hallway, students working in a hands-on workshop, a red 'C' sculpture outside a campus building with students walking nearby, and a smiling student wearing a 'Dreamer' t-shirt at an entrance.