CLC President Jerry Weber chosen to lead Bellevue College in Seattle area

Dr. Jerry Weber, president of the College of Lake County since April 2009, has accepted an offer to become president of Bellevue College in Washington. Weber informed the CLC Board of Trustees of his decision during closed session at the board's March 28 meeting. Weber said he expects to begin his new position this July.

Bellevue College is the third-largest institution of higher education and largest community college in the state, with over 30,000 students enrolled annually.

In a March 29 email to CLC faculty and staff, Weber expressed his appreciation to the college community. "Together we have accomplished so much in these last eight years, and I believe that CLC is poised to continue to grow stronger, grounded in our core values, our mission of service to our communities and the enterprising spirit embodied in students, staff and faculty," Weber said. "Over the next three months, I will be working with the Board of Trustees and the cabinet to ensure continuity in leadership, programs, services and new initiatives."

CLC Board Chair Dr. William M. Griffin expressed his thanks to President Weber for successfully leading the college through many positive changes.

"Under Dr. Weber's tenure, CLC has earned national awards in diversity, sustainability and international education, among others," Griffin said. "He led the college to develop both a comprehensive strategic plan and a sustainable campus master plan, resulting in new and updated facilities. By implementing these plans and a variety of student success initiatives, CLC is known as a leader among community colleges nationwide. Dr. Weber will be missed greatly, and the college community wishes him great success in his new position."

In announcing the appointment, Dr. Lisa Chin, chair of the Bellevue College Board of Trustees, said "Dr. Weber brings a track record of exceptional leadership, a deep commitment to the values we cherish and a passion for creating pathways to success for traditional and non-traditional learners. We are thrilled that he'll be leading our community, and after a thorough search with an exceptional pool of candidates, know he's the best choice to inspire the college to reach new heights," she said.