The Cleveland Community College Board of Trustees and the Presidential Search Committee have selected Dr. Jason Hurst to serve as the third president of Cleveland Community College. He will assume the presidency on April 2, 2018.
"This has been a truly national search," said Wes Westmoreland, chairman of CCC's Board of Trustees. "The search committee took its charge very seriously. They dedicated a significant amount of time and effort to finding the right leader for Cleveland Community College. We are excited and ready to move forward with Dr. Hurst at the helm."
A native of Alabama, Hurst has five years of work experience in the manufacturing industry and 23 years of higher education experience, working in both two-year and four-year colleges.
"I feel so honored and blessed to have the opportunity to serve as the next president of Cleveland Community College. I've seen first-hand the incredible impact community colleges can have on students and communities, and I am prepared to continue that mission at Cleveland Community College," Hurst said. "It is a privilege to be selected to serve in this capacity. I am excited about what the future holds for our college, our students, area communities, and my family."
Before beginning a career in education, Hurst was a community college student. Working full-time and attending college, he commuted to college campuses for many of his classes and even experienced weekend, hybrid and online classes. He earned an Associate in Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology from Ayers State Technical College and went to work as a machinist. But, that was not the end of his educational journey.
Hurst returned to college, earning a Bachelor of Science in Career and Technical Education from Athens State University, a Master's Degree in Industrial Education from Auburn University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Community College Leadership from Mississippi State University.
During his career in higher education, Hurst has served in a variety of roles including faculty member, division chair, assistant dean, dean, vice president, executive vice president, and president. His most recent role has been the Senior Director of Workforce Development for the Alabama Community College System.
"I look forward to working with the Board of Trustees, and I am grateful for the trust they have placed in me. I am eager to begin working with the dedicated faculty and staff and the people of the communities we serve," said Hurst. "Together, we will build on the strong traditions of excellence that have been established here as we work to prepare our students for the many possibilities their futures hold."
Dr. Hurst will receive a three-year contract with an annual base salary of $198,200.
Submitted by Paula B. Vess