Western Announces Newest President, Dr. Kirk Young
The Western Wyoming Community College (Western) Board of Trustees unanimously approved the appointment of the College’s next president, Dr. Kirk Young at the April 25, special board meeting. Young will begin on July 1, 2024, and succeeds Dr. Kim Dale, who announced her departure from the College last year.
In discussing Young's appointment, Board President Jim Jessen shared that the board could not be more pleased to find a dynamic leader to continue Western’s evolution and on-going impact in the region. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Young to the Western community. We have every confidence in his knowledge of community colleges and skill in leadership to guide us to the next chapter,” said Jessen.
Dr. Young’s appointment comes after a comprehensive national search that involved campus and external community participation. Dr. Young said, “I express my sincere thanks to the Board of Trustees as well as the community at Western for this tremendous opportunity. I dedicate all I have to this position. I look forward to getting to know the entire community and working with you to build upon a legacy that has been forged throughout decades of determination and hard work. To the students of Western Wyoming Community College, I eagerly anticipate the chance to be a part of the team dedicated to helping you accomplish your educational and professional goals.”
The presidential search process consisted of a 20-member search committee led by Board President Jim Jessen and consultants, the Pauly Group, a national search firm with over 30 years of experience in academic and executive leadership placement. The search committee was comprised of community leaders and employees representative of the campuses communities.
As further details are determined regarding the presidential transition, the Western Wyoming Community College community will be kept apprised. For questions regarding the committee, search process, or Dr. Young, contact Kim Cramer, Executive Assistant to the President and Board of Trustees at kcramer@westernwyoming.edu or call 307-382-1602.