Mesa Community College administration undergoes more turnover
The Mesa Community College administration has undergone many changes since the beginning of the semester as Dr. Jeannetta Hollins was hired to be the Vice President of Student Affairs, President Robinson announced a leave of absence, and Vice President of Administrative Services, Mary Driessen, announced her resignation, though little information has been given regarding Robinson’s leave and Driessen’s resignation.
The Mesa Legend was unable to get further clarification regarding the reason or duration of Robinson’s leave of absence.
“We are not able to discuss the specifics of an employee’s leave, per our standard operating procedures,” said Heather Carter, senior vice chancellor of external affairs for Maricopa County Community College District, in an email response.
MCCD announced Kimberly Britt, the current president of Phoenix College, was to serve as interim president at MCC until Robinson’s return.
“During this transition period, I have asked Phoenix College (PC) President, Dr. Kimberly Britt, to assist with overseeing MCC. Dr. Britt has graciously agreed to step in and fill this critical leadership position. I have no doubt that Dr. Britt will work to ensure MCC’s strategic initiatives and service to students and the community at large continue without interruption,” said a statement from the Office of the Chancellor of MCCD regarding Robinson’s leave.
No additional information was given regarding why Britt was specifically chosen to serve as the interim.
“When a senior staff member goes on leave, it is a best practice to have another senior staffer assume those responsibilities in the interim for continuity,” said Carter via email.
Mary Driessen’s resignation came very suddenly as well, as an announcement was made on Feb. 1.
“This morning I accepted Mary Driessen’s resignation. In the coming days, I will use the Shared Governance process to determine an interim Vice President of Administrative Services (VPAS) and the next steps in the search for a new VPAS,” read an email announcement by interim president Britt to employees.
Driessen was unable to provide details when reached out to by The Mesa Legend.
“I don’t know if I can speak to you yet, let me find out. I have to speak with someone legally before I can get back to you,” said Driessen.
MCCD did not address Driessen’s resignation, and did not provide comment regarding the recent changes within the MCC administration.
“Although we cannot comment on personnel matters, the Chancellor of the Maricopa County Colleges District is fully committed to collaborating with his team of dedicated administrators to provide a best-in-class education for our students,” said Carter via email after being asked if there is concern from the district about the turnover of MCC’s administrative roles.
There are no timetables for when the newly vacant positions will be filled, according to Carter.
The Mesa Legend reached out to the Faculty Senate at MCC, however were redirected to Carter from the district for comments.
