On May 8, the Highline Community Board of Trustees chose a familiar face to lead Highline Community College; interim president Dr. Jack Bermingham.

The appointment will be effective immediately.

"The Board of Trustees fully supports Dr. Bermingham and we look forward to working together for the betterment of students and Highline Community College," said Dr. Elizabeth Chen, trustee and co-chair of the presidential search committee. "The board appreciated the participation by the faculty, staff, students and community, and wants to thank everyone for their input. We read all of it."

Bermingham served as academic vice president at the college for twelve years before his appointment as interim president during fall 2006.

Dr. Ruth Windhover, Highline College Education Association president, said she was pleased by the board's decision.

"The appointment of Dr. Jack Bermingham will enable him to continue his exceptional leadership of the college in supporting student achievement, diversity, international education, basic skills attainment, and the economic growth of the region and the state. We look forward to continuing the strong collaborative relationship that he has helped foster between the administration and the faculty."

Bermingham received his Ph.D. in history from the University of California at Santa Barbara and went on to a faculty appointment at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. He received tenure as a faculty member and later became dean of social sciences at Pacific Lutheran University.

"On behalf of the student body of Highline Community College, I would like to express heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Jack Bermingham on his appointment to the presidency of this wonderful institution," stated Steven Simpkins, student body president. "Working with him over the past year has been an incredible experience for me personally and I have no doubt that he will lead Highline to an even higher level of excellence and multicultural awareness in the years to come."

Bermingham declared, "It is an honor and privilege to have been named the permanent president. We do important work at Highline Community College as we prepare students to live in a multicultural society and to work successfully in a competitive global economy. I will continue this work as I serve the college and community,

"I was overwhelmed by the support I received both on and off campus while interim president, and will strive to meet to the changing needs of our region."