National Park College Welcomes Dr. Wade Derden as New President

National Park College (NPC) has named Dr. Wade Derden as its new president, the fifth person to hold this position. The NPC Board of Trustees unanimously selected him during a meeting last Thursday. Dr. Derden will start his role on July 1, 2024, after a nationwide search that included input from the college community.

The search for the new president was extensive, with over 60 candidates considered. A committee appointed by the Board reviewed each application and organized campus visits and open forums. These events allowed students, faculty, staff, and community members to meet the candidates and share their opinions, ensuring the process was transparent and inclusive.

Joyce Craft, chair of the Board, approved of Dr. Derden's selection, noting his understanding of community colleges and leadership skills. She mentioned his commitment to student success and his vision for the college's future, stating that his strong character and community dedication were crucial in his selection.

Dr. Derden has over twenty years of experience in higher education. He earned a Ph.D. in Public Policy and a Master of Arts from the University of Arkansas, and a bachelor's degree in History from Hendrix College. Previously, he served as the president of the Arkansas Community College’s Board of Directors and has worked on important educational programs in the state.

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