COCC sets public meetings for input on presidential search

As it initiates the process of launching a presidential candidate search, Central Oregon Community College is holding a series of public forums Oct. 1-2 at several locations across its district to get a cross-sectional view on envisioning the ideal candidate.

“The college is holding these meetings to gather input on what the campuses and the community are looking for in a new president,” said Ron Paradis, COCC’s executive director of College Relations.

Preston Pulliams, president of Gold Hill Associates, a Mississippi-based recruiting firm that specializes in hiring executives for community colleges, is guiding the search process and will lead the forums. Pulliams formerly served as president of Portland Community College.

On Sept. 5, COCC’s current president, Dr. Shirley Metcalf, announced she would be retiring at the end of the 2018-19 academic year.

Schedule of meetings:

Monday, Oct. 1

9 to 10 a.m., COCC Madras campus, 1170 E. Ashwood Rd., Madras

11 a.m. to noon, COCC Crook County Open Campus, 510 SE Lynn Blvd., Prineville

1:30 to 2:30 p.m., COCC Redmond campus, Technology Education Center, Rm. 224, 2030 SE College Loop, Redmond

4 to 5 p.m., Deschutes Public Library, Brooks Room, 601 N.W. Wall St., Bend

Tuesday, Oct. 2

10 to 11 a.m., La Pine City Hall, 16345 Sixth Street, La Pine

In addition, the college is holding staff forums on its campuses for COCC employees to attend. For more information, contact Ron Paradis, executive director of College Relations, at 541-383-7599.

In advance of college events, persons needing accommodation or transportation because of a physical or mobility disability, contact Joe Viola: 541-383-7775. For accommodation due to other disability, such as hearing impairment, contact the Office of Disability Services: 541-383-7743.