Leadership Transition at OCCC: Seeking a New President to Guide Local College's Future

Oregon Coast Community College (OCCC) is currently searching for a new president, following an announcement from the Board of Education and the current president, Dr. Birgitte Ryslinge. Dr. Ryslinge, who is retiring after a decade in her role, is involved in selecting her successor. OCCC, a small community college located in Lincoln County, Oregon, achieved independent accreditation in 2020 and is in the fifth year of its first seven-year accreditation cycle.

In her letter to potential candidates, Dr. Ryslinge discusses the responsibilities and challenges of leading OCCC. She stresses the need for a president who aligns well with the college, especially someone dedicated to managing a small, rural community college. The role demands a leader who can maintain and improve operational systems established during the accreditation process, while also being innovative and focused on student success.

The new president will need to address several challenges, including enhancing operational systems, expanding curriculum and facilities as per the college's 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, and fostering a stable and mature organizational culture. These responsibilities require a leader capable of effectively managing various aspects of the college.

Dr. Ryslinge shares her experiences and the satisfaction she has gained from leading a smaller institution. She mentions the direct impact on students and the ability to swiftly implement new ideas. She also points out the strong community support in Lincoln County, which supports the college president's role.

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