During Monday evening’s Board of Directors meeting, Dr. John Clark, President of Mid-State Technical College (MSTC), announced his upcoming retirement. Serving the College for nearly 33 years, with the past eight years at the helm, Dr. Clark, the fourth MSTC president, announced that he would retire December 31.

After an expansive education career, Dr. Clark said he looks forward to spending more time with his family, playing golf, fishing and completing a couple of unfinished projects. “I am truly fortunate to have worked with outstanding and dedicated faculty and staff,” he said. “I am indebted to the College Board of Directors and the MSTC Foundation Board of Directors for their support over the years.” Reflecting on his tenure at the College, Dr. Clark said he is most proud of building stronger connections with the communities served by MSTC, growing new and innovative programs, and completing major renovations of campus buildings and facilities to accommodate student and workforce needs.

Peggy Ose, Board Chairperson, in a written statement, recognized Dr. Clark for his numerous contributions to the College and the Wisconsin Technical College System. “He is a strong and innovative leader who has positioned the College for continued success. The Board is pleased with his accomplishments and successful leadership of the district organization.” Ose said Dick O’Sullivan, Vice President of Human Resources, will begin the presidential search and recruitment process for Dr. Clark’s replacement.

In other action, the Board approved a resolution awarding the sale of $5 million general obligation promissory notes. Note proceeds will finance budgeted capital expenditures for facilities, grounds and equipment in fiscal year 2011.

Two members of the Board of Directors took the oath of office Monday evening during the Board's 2010-11 organizational meeting. Randall Dhein and Dr. Alice Randlett were each appointed to three-year terms. Dhein, Nekoosa, recently retired from Erco Worldwide. He has served on the MSTC Board of Directors since 1997. Randlett, Stevens Point, is a Professor Emerita from UW-Stevens Point. She has served on the MSTC Board since 1995. Joseph Kinsella, Plover, will be officially seated during the August 16 Board meeting. Kinsella is the President of Pointe Precision and has served on the MSTC Board since 2001.

The Board elected officers for fiscal year 2010-11. Peggy Ose, Wisconsin Rapids, was elected chairperson; Robert Beaver, Friendship, was elected vice chairperson; Betty Bruski Mallek, Junction City, was elected secretary; and Patrick Costello, Wisconsin Rapids, was elected treasurer.

Board members are appointed by county board supervisors, serve on a voluntary basis and are not paid. The nine-member MSTC Board of Directors is organized to represent employees, employers and the general public at large throughout the district; one member must be a public school administrator and one member an elected official. The Board is responsible for the administration of technical and adult educational programs and services in the district as authorized by the Wisconsin Technical College System Board according to state legislation.

At a Glance…Dr. John Clark Tenure at MSTC

• August 16, 1977 – Began his employment at Mid-State Technical Institute, now known as Mid-State Technical College
• Five years teaching in the auto mechanics program
• Served 11 years as department head of the Trade & Industrial Division
• Seven years as dean of the newly named Technical & Industrial Division (he also held dual posts as facilities director for three years)
• Two and a half years as executive vice president of academic affairs
• January 17, 2003 – Began his tenure as college president
• December 31, 2010 – Retire from MSTC