Dr. Jane Harmon was selected by the Yosemite Community College District (YCCD) Board of Trustees to be the YCCD Interim Chancellor, effective Jan. 3, 2017. YCCD Board Chair and Vice Chair, Trustees Anne DeMartini and Darin Gharat, finalized contract language, as was agreed by the Board at its Dec. 14, 2016 meeting.

YCCD Board Chair Anne DeMartini stated, “Dr. Harmon is experienced in higher education and has held a variety of executive positions that will serve our district well.”

Beginning her career in Minnesota and New York, Harmon relocated to California in 2001 where she has held administrative positions at Gavilan College, Kern Community College District, and Contra Costa College, among others.

“We are very pleased that Dr. Harmon has accepted the position. She is exceptionally qualified,” said Board Vice Chair Darin Gharat.

In addition to her professional experience, Harmon holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from The University of Texas at Austin, Community College Leadership Program; a Master of Science Degree in Education with a concentration in reading/specific learning disabilities from Bemidji State University; and, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in reading from Moorhead State University.

“The Board looks forward to Dr. Harmon’s leadership as the District continues its work in serving the students and communities of the YCCD,” added Chair DeMartini.

The Board will restart the search for a permanent Chancellor in January 2017.

Dr. Harmon replaces retiring Chancellor Joan Smith, who provided executive leadership to the District since 2007 serving as Columbia College President (2007-2010), Interim Chancellor (2010-2011), and Chancellor (2011-present). Prior to YCCD, she served as Ventura College’s Executive Vice President of Student Learning (2002-2006) and held a variety of positions in the Ventura District, gaining instruction and administrative experience throughout her career.