Dr. John Cox, Vice President for Finance, Operations, and Government Relations at Harford Community College, Confirmed as Next President of Cape Cod Community College

From Cape Cod Community College:

The Massachusetts Board of Higher Education, meeting today in Framingham, MA, has confirmed the appointment of Dr. John L. Cox as the next President of Cape Cod Community College, succeeding Dr. Kathleen Schatzberg upon her retirement at the end of June. Dr. Cox officially takes over the leadership post on July 1, 2012. Currently, he serves as Vice President for Finance, Operations, and Government Relations at Harford Community College in Bel Air, Maryland.

The College’s Board of Trustees made their unanimous selection from a large field on candidates on Dec. 7, 2011. Since that time, Dr. Cox has met at length with Massachusetts Commissioner of Higher Education Richard Freeland, and with the state Board, prior to today’s vote.

During his meeting with the State Board, Dr. Cox expressed his appreciation and looks forward to engaging in the policy deliberations on the Governor’s proposals affecting community colleges. Speaking afterward, Dr. Cox stated, “We are in an exciting time for community colleges. Our challenge is to serve the diverse educational needs of the Cape as an open admission institution that remains accessible and affordable. My family and I are looking forward joining the Cape Cod community this summer.”

Prior to the Board’s vote, CCCC’s Board of Trustees Chairperson Christopher Oddleifson was asked to speak to the State Board regarding the search process and the selection of Dr. Cox. In testimony on Tuesday January 24, 2012, he noted, “…Dr. John Cox has demonstrated…that he has the expertise to meet our institution’s challenges and opportunities ahead…We believe he is an experienced, visionary leader who embraces the needs and challenges of our institution, celebrates the diversity of our region, and for many years to come will champion our mission to serve our unique geographic area and contribute to the growth of the Commonwealth.”

Commenting on the State Board’s action this afternoon, the Trustee Chair noted his pleasure in the Board’s affirmation of the Trustees’ decision, and looked to continued institutional success, building upon the foundation laid by President Kathleen Schatzberg over the past 14 years.

“I am extremely pleased to have the Board of Higher Education join with us in seeing John Cox as the visionary and accomplished leader that he is, and in securing his leadership for this College for many years to come. We’ve chosen an outstanding individual who will take the very best that has been accomplished to date, and use it as a springboard to further success in serving the people of our region.

Dr. Cox returns to Harford Community College to finish this academic year. He and his family have visited the Cape as they prepare for their move. The in-coming President will be returning to the Cape and the College over the next few months as he prepares to make the transition this summer.