Dr. Donald L. Reichard, president of Johnston Community College, has announced his retirement effective July 1, 2009.

"I will never be able to adequately express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve this great institution over the last 10 years," Reichard said. "The epitome of my 37 years in community college education has been the pleasure to work at JCC among such dedicated faculty, staff, and trustees."

The second president in JCC's history, Reichard joined the College in 1999 after serving as president of James Sprunt Community College for 10 years.

A respected champion for community college education, Reichard's progressive leadership at the state's 17th largest community college has focused on expanded opportunities for global education, diversity, biotechnology training, and innovative learning. He was named Wachovia President of the Year in 2007 and served as president of the North Carolina Association of Community College Presidents from 2006-07. Gov. Mike Easley awarded Reichard the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state's highest civilian honor, in 2002.

"I will certainly miss all the challenges, rewards, and excitement of being President," Reichard added. "I do believe the heyday for North Carolina's community colleges has just begun. I know that JCC faces a prosperous future. I look forward to my retirement and take with me a wealth of fond memories."

Lyn Austin, chair of the JCC Board of Trustees, praised the College's advances under Reichard, describing him as a selfless leader who empowers students, faculty, and staff to achieve their best and seize opportunity.

"It was with great sadness that the board received Dr. Reichard's resignation," Austin said. "We are so grateful for the wonderful leadership he has afforded our College and the great success that leadership has brought us."

"He leaves here with our future brighter than ever because of the direction he has given us," she added. "He was awarded the president of the year last year for the entire community college system, but to us at home the real measure of his success is that he leaves us all -- faculty, staff, students, and the people of Johnston County -- better off than when he came."

Related Links

1. http://www.johnstoncc.edu