Area Report for Board of Trustees
The first few months as President have been an exciting time, filled with meeting a host of individuals throughout King County, Washington state, while getting to know the South King and Highline College communities. In late July, I attended the WACAC retreat and met the other 33 Community and Technical College Presidents. My colleagues, along with individuals from the State Board were extremely welcoming and have become a valuable resource as I learn a new educational system. The majority of the retreat discussion centered on advocating for competitive pay for the entire CTC system. As a follow up, I will be meeting with a group of Presidents and King County Legislators later this month to further discuss this issue, specifically regional pay. I look forward to the conversation with my Colleagues.
I had the wonderful opportunity to attend numerous events and receptions over the past few months. I attended the yearly Fusion Gala celebration in Federal Way, quite an event and opportunity to meet numerous officials and community members who are very supportive of Highline College. Many of the individuals either graduated from Highline or had family members that graduated from the institution. Individuals shared how the College impacted their life or their family member’s life and career path. What a wonderful introduction for me as President.
In addition, I’ve attended Chamber of Commerce Luncheons for both Federal Way and Seattle Southside Chambers of Commerce and was given a warm welcome and tour from Dr. Mark Pagano, Chancellor of University of Washington, Tacoma. This was my first time of the campus and I was impressed with the vision of Chancellor Pagano and the excellent higher educational opportunities provided to his students. I look forward to finalizing our collaborating and creating a clear pathway opportunity for students at both our colleges.
On campus, I have spent a considerable amount of time meeting with staff, faculty and students as they have shared their thoughts and experiences here at Highline. Departments and programs have invited me to have breakfast and lunch and meet their staff – such a great welcome and introduction. The energy from these areas has been so positive and exciting as our students are returning to the College. One experience that really has been impactful in my few months here was the opportunity to volunteer at the food pantry. I spent two hours assisting with providing food to our community and talking to our staff, faculty and students. The area is quite large and all the volunteers made the experience a positive one for those who benefited from using the pantry – all who left the building happy and thankful. The entire experience left me humbled and so proud to be part of the Highline College family.
Lastly, we have concluded our interviews for the Vice President of Advancement. Currently, references are being conducted with the hope of an offer being made by Tuesday, September 11. My hope is to make a College announcement with the selection by Friday, September 14. Many thanks to the selection committee, led by Dr. Wagnitz, Human Resources and the campus community for their participation in the process.
Report submitted Sept. 10, 2018, by President John R. Mosby, Ph.D.