. . . and a Leadership Challenge

Last week’s announcement that William Norlund plans to step down as president of Mission College leaves two of the San Fernando Valley’s three community colleges in search of a new leader. Last November, the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees refused to renew Pierce College president Bing Inocencio’s contract.

Unlike Inocencio, Norlund presides over a growing campus--enrollment climbed 40% in four years--that is financially stable--it was one of just two campuses in the community college district to end last year without a budget deficit. Although he drew criticism for not working with community leaders and for missing a $4.7-million grant deadline to the school last year, Norlund was instrumental in strengthening Mission College’s finances and academics. Norlund said his decision to leave had nothing to do with those controversies, explaining that college retirement rules made it more lucrative to quit now.

Whatever the reason, the district faces the task of finding replacements for both Norlund and Inocencio. It won’t be easy. Future presidents must have a rare mix of skills. They must be tough financial managers, able to rein in costs and increase revenues. They must demand academic excellence from their faculty and students. And they must appreciate the role the surrounding communities play in the future of their campuses.

These are critical times for the Valley’s community colleges. More than ever, they provide a bridge to higher education, a training ground for rapidly changing careers. None but the most able should lead them. As it sorts through candidates, the district must not settle for anyone but the best. Attracting top talent requires giving the new presidents the autonomy to guide their campuses into a changing world.