Chancellorseeks inputfor WNCpresident

Churchill County residents along with elected officials will have an opportunity on Thursday to give their input for the qualities the next Western Nevada College president should possess.

The meeting with Chancellor Dan Klaich of the Nevada System of Higher Education begins at 5 p.m. in the County Commission chambers, 155 N. Taylor St.

“We are working to fill the room,” said Bob Clifford president of the Restore Our College Campus Committee. “Beyond that I don’t know what to expect.

Churchill County requested participation in selecting a new president, and the response from Klaich was to come speak at the meeting.”

Additionally, Clifford said Regent Ron Knecht will be at the meeting to give an update on the current status of the Fallon campus and to listen to the local community’s concerns and answer questions on the future of WNC Fallon including the search for, and desired qualities of, a new WNC president.

Thursday’s meeting is a continuation of a similar meeting held last month in Carson City.

A search committee is being formed to replace Dr. Carol Lucey, who retired last month, two months ahead of her planned departure. Lucey, who has come under fire from Fallon community members about centralizing services in Carson City and decreasing the number of classes and instructors, served in the post for 14 years.

“It’s very important for an excellent turnout to show the local community’s strong interest in and support of the Fallon campus,” added Ginny Duygan, the ROCCC secretary.

This will be the second time in a year Klaich has attended a meeting in Fallon to discuss WNC’s future.

At a Nov. 7, 2012, meeting Klaich told more than 100 attendees he wanted additional information regarding Fallon’s campus and how the Board of Regents can address them.

Both Klaich and Lucey talked to the attendees who offered suggestions about expanding the campus’ role in the community.

At the time, Klaich said he understands the concerns of rural Nevada and what makes those communities tick.

“I understand how important this college is for your community and for the kids and for the health of the economic diversity,” the chancellor said.

Klaich has said on several occasions he wants to work with the community and reiterated numerous times that he wants to hear the people’s concerns.