OC leader extends deal for final time

Oct 28, 2019 | 10:39 AM

The long-time leader of Okanagan College has extended his contract with the institution for what he expects will be the final time.

Jim Hamilton has agreed to stay on as president until Jan. 29, 2021, when he plans to retire.

The Vernon resident has held the role since 2004, and is B.C.’s longest serving post-secondary president.

His tenure has included overseeing the transition of the college, as Okanagan University College, into OC and UBC Okanagan.

His first experience with the college was in 1980, when he began his career as an English professor. He also spent eight years as a regional principal.

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College Board Chair Chris Derickson said the college has prospered under Hamilton’s leadership, and they are very pleased he is staying on.

“There are several strategic initiatives that will benefit from his considerable expertise and insight. The board also asked him to complete work on the College’s Indigenization strategy and lead the development of a new strategic plan for the College,” said Derickson.

Since becoming known as Okanagan College in 2005, the institution has grown by more than 70 per cent to become one of B.C.’s largest colleges. It also has the distinction of being the only college in B.C. that has met or exceeded government enrolment targets every year for the past 14 years.

“For all the growth, the thing that gives me greatest satisfaction is the increase in higher learning opportunities that Okanagan College has been able to provide for the region’s students,” said Hamilton. “Along with our partner institution UBCO, we have been able to distinguish ourselves as a collaborative engine of economic and social development for the communities we serve and the province as a whole.”

In 2016, Hamilton was recognized by Colleges and Institutes Canada with a distinguished service award for his work in promoting excellence in post-secondary education for many years.

by Pete McIntyre

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