Student Government Criticizes COC Board Amid CEO Search Progress

The College of the Canyons (COC) governing board faced criticism from its Associated Student Government (ASG) representatives during a recent meeting regarding the search for a new CEO/president. This criticism follows the ASG’s resolution of no confidence announced on October 8, which has left many students feeling unheard and frustrated.

The board had planned to provide an update on the CEO search after a series of campus forums. However, ASG members voiced their concerns about the board’s lack of communication since the resolution was presented. Over the past two months, the governing board has been under scrutiny, particularly after the separation of David Andrus from the interim president position. Initially, the board announced its intent to terminate Andrus “for cause” in early September, but he subsequently resigned and remains on paid administrative leave until the end of the year.

During the meeting, Farah Ghaban, ASG director of equity, stated, “Many students have reached out to us, expressing frustration and the lack of transparency and accountability they have witnessed.” Kristian Mengistu, from the ASG Valencia activities team, emphasized the significance of the no-confidence vote, stating, “It’s a call for reflection, responsibility, and meaningful change.”

The ASG representatives urged the board to take their resolutions seriously, highlighting the need for open communication. Ava Hernandez, ASG Vice President of Communications, expressed her feelings of isolation and disappointment, saying, “Silence will not rebuild trust; accountability will.”

Trustee Edel Alonso acknowledged the students’ concerns, stating, “Thank you for speaking to us. What you say to us is important and of value.”

CEO Search Progress and Timeline

The board is currently in the process of finding a permanent superintendent/president to replace Dianne Van Hook, who was placed on administrative leave in July 2024. Van Hook, who had served for 36 years, announced her retirement shortly after the board’s decision. The search for her successor is expected to conclude nearly two years after her departure.

Following feedback from the campus community during the recent forums, PPL Search Consultants representatives Pam Walker and Jim Riggs presented their findings to the board. The input sessions aimed to gather perspectives from diverse groups within the district, including three separate employee sessions and a student forum. Notably, the general public was not permitted to attend these forums.

The recruitment process will include the launch of a dedicated website for the superintendent/president search, scheduled to go live on December 1. This site will contain information about the college, the job posting, and will remain open for applications for two months, allowing candidates to apply during the holiday season.

A search committee will be formed with representatives reflecting the college’s constituent groups and community diversity. The committee members will undergo training to prepare for their roles in screening applicants, reviewing and scoring submissions, and engaging in the final selection process.

The timeline for the search includes a preliminary stage of 4 to 6 weeks, followed by an 8 to 10-week recruitment period, initial applicant screening and first-level interviews lasting 4 to 6 weeks, and a final selection process of 6 to 8 weeks. The new CEO is expected to begin on July 1, 2026.

Community Expectations and Future Conversations

As the search progresses, Walker and Riggs shared insights from forum participants regarding the qualities they seek in the new leader. Key attributes mentioned included a service mindset, the ability to learn from mistakes, adaptability, and a commitment to clear and direct communication.

Riggs addressed concerns over the district’s recent challenges, emphasizing the importance of transparency with candidates about past issues while promoting COC as an attractive opportunity for the right leader. Walker underscored the urgency of moving forward, stating, “We want to get it done. Help you move on and be proud of the work that we all did together.”

The search for a new CEO represents a critical juncture for College of the Canyons, with students and faculty alike hoping for leadership that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and community engagement.