College of Lake County to appoint chief academic officer as interim president

Kristen Jones, vice president of education and chief academic officer at the College of Lake County, will be named the school’s interim president effective May 1.

Jones’ appointment is expected to be made official when the CLC board of trustees meets April 28, the college announced Tuesday.

She replaces Lori Suddick, who resigned March 23 to become president and chief executive officer at Des Moines Area Community College. Suddick’s last day will be May 1.

“We think Dr. Suddick for her eight years of service and accomplishments and wish her well in new endeavors,” board Chair Amanda D. Howland said in Tuesday’s announcement.

Jones has been in her roles at CLC since January 2023.

Howland said Jones “knows our students, priorities and community,” and the board is excited for her to continue in a new capacity.

“(Jones) is an equity-minded, visionary leader committed to advancing student access to high-quality, active and collaborate learning experiences,” said board Vice Chair William M. Griffin.

Jones will serve as interim president through Jan. 3 or until a new president is selected.

“CLC’s commitment to teaching and learning excellence and focus on equity and student success inspires me,” Jones said in the announcement.

The Association of Community College Trustees is leading the search for a new president. The process will include interviews with faculty, staff and students. A timeline is being finalized.

Jones has a doctorate of education in community college leadership and a master's in counseling from Oregon State University and a bachelor's in psychology from the University of Oregon.

She previously was provost at Bellevue College in Bellevue, Washington, working in a range of divisions including academic affairs, student affairs, international education, institutional research, continuing education, accreditation and grants.

CLC has campuses in Grayslake, Vernon Hills and Waukegan. Its Advanced Technology Center opened in Gurnee in 2022 and Prairie Restaurant at Brae Loch opened in Grayslake in 2023.