CCC names Jonathan Fuentes president

Jonathan Fuentes, presently vice president of academic partnerships at Odessa College in Odessa, Texas, on Thursday was named president of Clovis Community College.

The action came after a 20 minute executive session by the CCC Board of Trustees.

Trustees also voted for board Chair Lora Harlan to enter into contract negotiations with Fuentes.

Fuentes is expected to take the office July 1. He is the college's sixth president.

Fuentes appeared before the board via internet video link.

"I look forward to working at Clovis Community College," he said.

Fuentes talked about moving his family to the area. He spoke of how his wife, a high school counselor, and two children, 4 and 5, enjoy parks.

"I believe in being a part of the community," Fuentes said.

In a CCC news release issued shortly after the session, Harlan expressed her belief in Fuentes' solidarity with CCC goals.

"Dr. Fuentes is already committed to our vision and mission. He is ready to strengthen and grow the service to our students, faculty, and staff. I believe he is ready to take the helm at CCC and become an integral part of our greater Clovis community," Harlan said.

Trustee Laura Leal said she thinks Fuentes is "going to be great. He shows a lot of passion for what he does."

Trustees Secretary Terry Martin liked Fuentes' resume' and experience.

"He's going to help us with our recruitment of students, help with our vocational programs," Martin said.

Trustee Jan Bradburn said she appreciates Fuentes involvement with public schools.

Trustee Carolyn Spence said: "He seems to have a sincere character. His openness is amazing."

Spence also said Fuentes has a lot of creative ideas.

"I also like his ability to cross fields. I think he's going to be excellent," Spence said.

And she said she was pleased with the process that led to Fuentes' selection over four other finalists.

"It felt like we had heavenly help," Spence said.

A search committee hired by trustees narrowed a field of about 50 applicants to five announced last month.

The other finalists were:

• Barbara Beebe, president of Western Texas College in Snyder, Texas.

• Morgan Phillips, vice chancellor for academic excellence at Pima Community College in Tucson, Ariz.

• Christopher Breitmeyer, former president of Clatsop Community College in Astoria, Ore.

• Bryan Newton, vice president for enrollment management and student services at Wor-Wic Community College in Salisbury, Md.

Robin Jones has been interim president since trustees placed Charles Nwankwo on administrative leave in August 2022.

Nwankwo resigned Feb. 1, 2023, without explanation, though several employee groups on the CCC campus issued "no confidence" votes on his leadership.

Jones plans on retiring July 1.