Presidential search firm selected

Clark College has
selected Gold Hill Associates to assist the Board of Trustees in identifying
and recruiting a new president for Clark College.

Clark College President Robert K. Knight has announced he plans to retire August 31 at the end of the 2018-2019 academic year. He has served as college president for 13 years, helping Clark College expand and grow both in its programs and locations. Clark College is the largest community college in Southwest Washington and one of the largest community colleges in the state of Washington.

“For more than a
decade President Knight has provided stability and vision helping the college
grow, adapt and serve its community,” said Paul Speer, board trustee. Speer and
board vice chair Jane Jacobson are co-leading the board’s recruitment and
selection process. “This is an important moment for Clark College. We are
looking for the right person for the next chapter of the college,” said Speer.
“The board is fully committed to conducting an equitable, inclusive and
transparent national search. Gold Hill Associates will be a good partner in the
process.”

Gold Hill
Associates was selected following a competitive bid process. Its CEO, Dr.
Preston Pulliams, has worked in a variety of higher education leadership roles
for 25 years. From 2004-2013, he served as District President at Portland
Community College. Gold Hill has made successful placements at more than 20
colleges in the Pacific Northwest.

Gold Hill
Associates will also assist the board in identifying and recruiting an interim
president for Clark College.

The interim
president is expected to serve beginning August 2019 for a one-year period
allowing sufficient time for the permanent presidential search. The interim
will not be considered as a candidate for the permanent position.

“The presidential
search will also be assisted by a Presidential Search Advisory Committee
including representatives from the college and external community,” said
Speer.  “We look forward to updating and receiving feedback from the
community as we move forward.”

All interested
applicants must contact Gold Hill Associates directly. To contact Gold Hill
Associates or learn more about the presidential selection process, visit Clark
College’s website: www.clark.edu/presidential-search.