LAKELAND - Portage College is looking for a new president to build on the success of outgoing president Nancy Broadbent, who has held the role since 2018/19.
Randolph Benson, chairman of the Portage College Board of Governors told Lakeland This Week, “the College has been very successful at meeting regional needs and increasing operational efficiency, and our new President would build on this success.”
In addition to the main Lac La Biche campus where the incoming president will be based out of, Portage College has locations in Boyle, Cold Lake, Frog Lake, Saddle Lake, St. Paul, and Whitefish (Goodfish) Lake. Not all programs are offered at all locations.
“The college’s vision includes a continued focus on quality instruction for students and strong engagement with the communities in our region,” said Benson, noting he feels Portage plays a part in supporting economic prosperity.
One anticipated challenge for the incoming president is the economic outlook for the province. According to Benson, there will need to be a focus on finding new revenue streams and being very effective at cost control.
“The new president will need the passion and commitment to maintain positive relations and be a visible leader within the college, within the communities we serve and with government and industry partners,” said Benson.
He said cultural awareness and sensitivity will also be key, especially with regards to the Indigenous people and communities which the college serves. Portage opened the search for a new president with a pipe ceremony and feast on Feb. 4.
Saddle Lake Elder and Pipe Carrier Ben Steinhauer said the ceremony “linked the past with a path to the future.”
He emphasized the importance of maintaining that link in order to preserve cultures and histories.
“The more things are shared, the more it becomes understood and more familiar,” he said. “Culture is being lost because the details aren’t shared."
