Search process continues for new TSJC head

Dr. Carmen Simone

VALLEY — Wednesday was the preferred deadline for applicants to replace Dr. Carmen Simone as president of Trinidad State Junior College, which has campuses in Trinidad and Alamosa.

However, the job is listed as “open until filled.”

The presidential search committee, which includes Karla Shriver and Mathilda Westerman from the San Luis Valley, is scheduled to identify initial candidates for the position next month, with semi-finalists announced publicly in January. Semi-finalists would visit the communities on each campus during community forums the end of January.

The goal is to select a new president in February.

Greenwood Asher and Associates, Inc. is providing technical assistance for the search under the direction of Team Lead, Narcisa Polonio, Ed.D.

The Trinidad President Search Committee consists of: Vice President for Student Affairs Kerry Gabrielson; faculty member Julie Kotalik; Athletic Director Michael Salbato; Budget Director Shannon Shiveley; Karla Shriver, Alamosa campus community representative; Greg Sund, Trinidad community representative; Classified, Student Services Specialist Mathilda Westerman; Pikes Peak Community College President Lance Bolton; Executive Director for System Foundation Adam Cermak; and Morgan Community College President Curt Freed.

Dr. Carmen Simone has served as TSJC president for five years. She is leaving to take a position as executive director of the Sioux Falls University Center (UC-SF) in South Dakota. Her last official day on the job at Trinidad State will be January 1, 2019.

During her tenure, Dr. Simone lead efforts to stabilize enrollment and increase retention rates while streamlining course offerings and tackling a severe budget shortfall in her first year. She made a commitment to unifying Trinidad State’s two campuses in Trinidad and Alamosa.

She oversaw the beginning of highly successful cross country teams in Alamosa, which expanded to indoor and outdoor track and field. In only two seasons several athletes have claimed individual NJCAA national titles.

She oversaw the re-accreditation process from the Higher Learning Commission, helped with internal planning for an upcoming four-year nursing degree, and supported the Trinidad State Robotics Team, which has gained a national reputation for excellence with the help of NASA.

Dr. Simone has kept an overwhelming schedule, committing early on to spending time on both campuses each week and has been involved in community planning and service clubs, while attending nearly all home sporting events.

She is known for her positive personality, her friendly nature and tireless energy.  She leaves Trinidad State much stronger than she found it. 

“I’ve made many new friends and wonderful colleagues in the last five years and will cherish so many memories,” she said, “but I’m ready to start a new chapter with my family in South Dakota.”