Trustee voted to statewide leadership position

May 8, 2007

Patricia Crosson, chair of the Greenfield Community College Board of Trustees, was elected as the chair of the Massachusetts Community College Trustees Association May 3 at the Association's quarterly meeting.

"By being elected as chair of that organization, Pat will have a significant voice on behalf of the whole system," said GCC President Robert Pura, who was with Crosson at the meeting. "To shape the conversation and bring her incredible experience to the table will benefit not only GCC, but the entire system."

The Community College Trustees Association serves as the voice of community colleges across the Commonwealth when it comes to policy decisions and advocacy. The organization is composed of all the community colleges' boards of trustees and presidents.

Crosson has been the chair of the GCC Board since July, when she replaced Kevin Parsons, who recently stepped down from the board. She has attended several meetings of the state association over the years.

"The Community College Trustee Association is an important group because it allows for the collective voice of trustees on policy and other matters affecting community colleges. I am pleased to be able to play a leadership role and hope that it will benefit all community colleges including Greenfield Community College," Crosson said.

Crosson retired from working at the University of Massachusetts Amherst five years ago after working 30 years in academia, most of which were at the University of Massachusetts. She also served intermittent terms in administrative positions at the University of Massachusetts, including interim provost and vice chancellor of Academic Affairs.

"I happen to think that we as a system are most fortunate that Pat is willing to take on this leadership role. Her own scholarship and experience at UMass as well as her experience here at GCC will add a very thoughtful and insightful voice," Pura said. "There are many leaders in higher education who consider Pat a mentor. This is a very positive step for the trustees association and the community colleges in Massachusetts."

For further information, contact the President's Office at 413.775.1410.