The Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) Board of Directors has chosen Lisa Skari, Ed.D., to become the college’s next President. Dr. Skari was selected by the board from among five finalists who visited the campus earlier this month.

Dr. Skari is currently the Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Highline College in Des Moines, Washington. She has spent 26 years in the community college system, beginning her career as an adjunct faculty member before working her way into a leadership role. Dr. Skari earned a Doctor of Education from Washington State University in Pullman, Washington and holds Master of Business Administration degree from Pacific Lutheran University in Parkland, Washington.

“The board is proud of the search process that brought us five highly qualified candidates,” stated Tamie Arnold, Board Chair. “Dr. Skari stood out as a bold and innovative leader, qualities that will bode well for the future of the college.”

The MHCC Board of Education voted Tuesday night to name Dr. Skari as the college’s new President. The vote was unanimous, and the contract is in the final stages of negotiation.

“Our board was committed to a transparent and inclusive process over the last six months. We had a highly competitive pool of candidates,” said Director Diane McKeel, Chair of the search committee. “We are so appreciative of the engagement of our search committee, the college community, and our community at large.”

Dr. Skari’s accomplishments and dedication to community service have brought numerous awards, including Communicator of the Year (Region VII) from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, Woman of Influence – Rising Star from the Business Examiner, Service Above Self Award from the Rotary Club of Federal Way, and Distinguished Service Award from The Association of Community & Technical College Administrators.

Dr. Skari becomes the college’s 9th President and follows Dr. Debra Derr, who will retire June 30th following five years as President at MHCC.