David Ford is running for re-election to the Central Oregon Community College Board of Directors. We, as citizens and voters, should be delighted he is willing to continue to spend the time and effort to help keep this great institution at the top of its game. I have worked closely with Ford for more than 12 years and have always found him hardworking, thoroughly prepared, open to all rational points of view, sensitive to all constituencies and striving to reach the best possible decisions for all stakeholders. He is an effective leader, able to build consensus and respected by his peers and subordinates.

COCC has seen unprecedented growth and success under the much-admired leadership of Jim Middleton and its board. The college has an excellent faculty and a strong board and executive team. It has good labor relations and is in sound fiscal condition. It recently achieved accreditation with commendations.

COCC needs the continuity of its experienced board leaders like Ford to conclude a successful search for a new president, to respond to PERS issues and state funding uncertainty and to provide continuing effective oversight to COCC, one of our region’s most respected institutions.

Please join me in voting to re-elect Ford to the COCC Board of Directors.

Mike Hollern

Bend