November 16, 2023
New members will join one incumbent to serve on the board for the next four years.
In the November 7, 2023, local election, Johnson Countians had the opportunity to cast votes for three at-large positions on the JCCC Board of Trustees. Eight names were on the ballot; the three who earned the most votes will begin their four-year terms on the JCCC Board in January 2024.
The three candidates who were elected to serve on the JCCC Board are:
- Laura Smith-Everett
The only incumbent board member on the ballot, Smith-Everett cited her experience on the board as part of her campaign. She championed keeping taxes low, maintaining affordable tuition for JCCC students, investing in STEM and preparing the College for the future.
- Valerie Jennings
Jennings was one of several candidates endorsed by the JCCC Faculty Association. Her campaign focused on student success, business and community partnerships, shaping a belonging campus, empowering JCCC faculty and staff, and fostering an innovative and creative community for life-long learning.
- Greg Mitchell
Mitchell cited his passion for public education at all levels and focused his campaign messaging on defending and supporting the overall value and importance of public institutions to the well-being of a community.
“Our Board of Trustees fulfills a vital function at JCCC,” said Lee Cross, Chair, JCCC Board of Trustees. “I look forward to working with our new and returning members to continue the Board’s legacy of thoughtful leadership and guidance for the next term.” These elected board members will be sworn into service at the start of the Board meeting scheduled for 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Their four-year terms will end in December 2027.
The JCCC Board of Trustees is, according to Kansas Statute 71-201, the policymaking governing body that guides the operation, management and control of the College. They set the College budget and local tax levy, and adopt recommended policies to govern the College.
Regular Board meetings are typically scheduled for the third Thursday of each month at 5 p.m. with a few exceptions. Meeting dates are listed on the JCCC website, and the public is welcome to attend in person. Each meeting is recorded, and the audio recording, video recording and transcript are posted on the JCCC website within a few days of each meeting as well.
Contact Information:
For media inquiries, please contact:
Chris Gray
VP, Strategic Communications & Marketing
chrisgray@jccc.edu
913-469-7623
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