Oakton president donates raise for student scholarships
A little more than a year into her tenure, Oakton Community College President Joianne Smith is getting a contract extension.
The college's board of trustees this week approved a new three-year agreement with Smith, paying her a base salary of $272,924 this school year, which replaces the previous two-year agreement she signed when she was promoted to president in March 2015.
Smith's contract with the Des Plaines-based school now runs through June 2019.
She is donating her $7,924 salary increase to the Oakton Educational Foundation to be used for student scholarships and grants.
"I'm humbled and honored to continue to lead the college," she said at this week's board meeting. "I'm also grateful for the increase, but given my commitment to the college, I decided to donate the increase this year to the educational foundation because I'm grateful for the work they've done to step up to support our students."
Smith joined Oakton in July 2002 as its dean of students, and in 2005 was appointed to head the Office of Student Affairs. She replaced Margaret Lee, who retired after a total of 30 years at the college - 20 alone as president.
Board Chair Ann Tennes said Smith has done an exemplary job in her first 15 months as president.
"Her commitment and continued focus on student persistence and success is in line with the board's goals, and we look forward to her continued excellent leadership," Tennes said. "It was important to the board to make a commitment to Dr. Smith and a commitment to the institution."