Community College Presidential Placement

Skagit Valley College names Dr. Thomas A. Broxson as the College’s next President

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — The Skagit Valley College (SVC) Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Thomas A. Broxson as the college’s next president following an extensive nationwide search. The appointment was announced during a special meeting of the Board of Trustees on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Following a comprehensive selection process, the board voted unanimously to appoint Broxson, who will assume the presidency on Jan. 1. His contract extends through June 30, 2030, with an annual salary of $295,000.

The presidential search was conducted with the assistance of RH Perry, a national executive search firm specializing in higher education leadership.

The search process included opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and community members to participate in forums, provide feedback, and share their perspectives on the college’s future leadership. SVC extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed their time and thoughtful input throughout the process.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Broxson as the next president of Skagit Valley College,” said SVC Board of Trustees Chair Flora Perez-Lucatero. “His extensive experience in Washington’s community and technical college system, collaborative leadership approach, and commitment to student success make him an outstanding choice to lead SVC into its next chapter. We are confident his leadership will build on the college’s strengths, support our students and employees, and advance our mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to the communities we serve.”

Broxson brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education, including more than two decades in Washington’s community and technical college system. He currently serves as vice president for instruction and chief academic officer at Clover Park Technical College in Lakewood, Washington, a position he has held since 2020.

At Clover Park, Broxson oversees 44 academic and workforce programs across seven instructional divisions, three locations, and the college’s career and technical high school. His leadership has focused on strengthening institutional effectiveness, expanding educational opportunities, supporting faculty development, and advancing student success through data-informed decision-making and collaborative governance.

Prior to joining Clover Park Technical College, Broxson held several leadership positions at Pierce College, including tenured faculty member, division chair, and founding district dean of the Math and Science Division. He is also an Achieving the Dream Leadership Coach and was selected as a 2024–25 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow, a prestigious national leadership development program for emerging community college presidents.

“I am honored and excited to join Skagit Valley College at such a meaningful time in its history,” said Broxson. “What stands out to me is the extraordinary work already happening across the college and the dedication of the people who make it possible. SVC is creating meaningful opportunities, changing lives, and making a lasting impact in the communities it serves. I look forward to working alongside students, faculty, staff, and community partners to build on this incredible momentum and shape an exciting future together.”

Broxson holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership from Oregon State University, a Master of Arts in Human and Physical Geography from California State University, Fullerton, and a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Geography from California State University, Fullerton.

Broxson will succeed Interim President Dr. Thomas Keegan, who returned to lead SVC in February 2026 after previously serving as president from 2012 to 2022. Keegan’s return provided continuity and experienced leadership during an important period of transition for the college.

His appointment comes as SVC celebrates its centennial anniversary, marking 100 years of providing educational opportunities and serving communities throughout Skagit, Island, and San Juan counties.

Macomb Community College names Dr. Lori Gonko as President

On behalf of the Macomb Community College Board of Trustees, Katherine Bracey Lorenzo, chair of the board and of the Presidential Search Advisory Committee, has announced the selection of Lori M. Gonko, Ed.D., currently interim president at Henry Ford College, as Macomb’s next president pending negotiation and approval of a contract. Macomb’s board of trustees anticipates considering a proposed contract at its April 15, 2026, meeting.

“Dr. Gonko has demonstrated the skills, abilities, enthusiasm and vision to lead Macomb Community College well into the future,” said Lorenzo. “She began and developed her passion for the work of community colleges here at Macomb and, eventually, that passion influenced her doctoral work in community college leadership and as an Aspen Fellow – both highly sought after credentials in a college president. Coming full circle, Dr. Gonko has come ‘home’ to lead the institution that profoundly influenced her career path. She brings a wealth of experience and perspectives that will greatly benefit the college, our students and our community.”

Gonko will assume the duties of the presidency of Macomb on July 1, 2026. She has 25 years of community college experience. Gonko joined Henry Ford College in 2012 as coordinator of Perkins before becoming coordinator of Program Improvement and Effectiveness, and then was named vice president of Strategy and Human Resources in 2018. She has served as the college’s interim president since July 2025.

Gonko began her career at Macomb Community College, where she worked from 2001 – 2012, starting as an administrative assistant before becoming a coordinator and then manager in career and technical education. Gonko serves as an adjunct professor in the Doctorate in Community College Leadership program at Ferris State University and is a graduate of the Aspen Institute’s Rising Presidents Fellowship. More detailed biographical information is available at https://www.macomb.edu/about-macomb/presidential-search.html.

The selection of Gonko as the college’s next president is the culmination of a national search that officially opened in November 2025 to identify a replacement for retiring Macomb Community College President James O. Sawyer IV. The 14-member Presidential Search Advisory Committee was comprised of representatives from the college’s board, employee groups and students, and members of community partner organizations in key industry sectors.

About Macomb Community College

Macomb Community College (www.macomb.edu) is about transforming lives and communities through the power of education, enrichment and economic development. Macomb grants the largest number of associate degrees in Michigan and is the largest community college in the state. The college provides programming for youth through seniors, including early college for high school students, university transfer and career preparation programs, workforce education, continuing education and certification, and a wide range of enrichment opportunities encompassing arts, culture and lifelong learning.

Illinois Central College names Dr. Jamonica Rolle as President

The Illinois Central College Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Jamonica Rolle (pronounced ‘role’) as the College’s next president following a comprehensive national search. Dr. Rolle will assume the role on July 1 and will lead ICC’s continued advancement as a regional leader in student success, workforce development, and economic vibrancy.

The Board’s decision reflects Dr. Rolle’s demonstrated ability to deliver measurable outcomes in student achievement, strengthen workforce-aligned programming, and build partnerships that support employers and communities. She will guide ICC’s next phase of strategic growth, expanding access, strengthening transfer and career pathways, and advancing the College’s impact across Central Illinois.

Dr. Rolle is a highly accomplished leader with 20 years of progressive experience across all aspects of a community college. Her strengths and qualifications clearly align with ICC’s mission and current priorities as evident in her strong commitment to student success, workforce development, and community impact. Her proven ability as a collaborative, innovative leader will also guide the College into its next era of excellence and community service. The Board looks forward to partnering with Dr. Rolle in supporting and advancing ICC’s vision and mission.

Cindy Byrd, Chair of the Board of Trustees

Dr. Rolle serves as College Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and College Operations at Broward College, where she leads the academic and operational strategy of an institution serving 52,000 students and 1,100 faculty members. With more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience, she has served as Campus President, Vice Provost, and Dean. Her work has advanced student retention initiatives, developmental education reform, and strategic partnerships that support local and state economic development. She has also championed innovation in teaching and learning through the integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and extended reality, across academic programs. Dr. Rolle holds a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Florida.

“I am truly honored and excited to serve as Illinois Central College’s sixth president, and I extend my sincere gratitude to the Board of Trustees, the search committee, and the entire ICC community for this opportunity to serve. ICC is a thriving college with deep community roots and a proud record of student success. I look forward to working alongside faculty, staff, students, and community partners to advance student learning, expand life outcomes, and continue driving innovation and opportunity throughout the region,” said Dr. Rolle.

The presidential search included a national recruitment effort and engagement with campus and community stakeholders. Feedback from faculty, staff, students, and community members informed the Board’s final decision.

Illinois Central College serves as a critical driver of educational attainment, workforce readiness, and economic vitality across Central Illinois. Under Dr. Rolle’s leadership, ICC will continue to build on its strong foundation and deliver expanded opportunity and measurable outcomes for the students and communities it serves.