Outgoing East Central President Recognized

Dr. Edward Jackson, president of East Central College since 2005, was presented with a resolution by the ECC trustees at his final board meeting June 18.

Jackson retires June 30 after seven years at ECC and a distinguished 46 year career in higher education.

The resolution noted that Jackson provided the leadership and vision that led to a number of accomplishments for the college.

Among those achievements was voter approval of Proposition RN, a $15.8 million general obligation bond issue that passed in August of 2006 with the support of 72 percent of the voters in the district, and the subsequent construction of the Health and Science Building, as well as the renovation of George H. Buescher Hall, formerly known as the Administration Building.

During his tenure the college set record enrollment levels while maintaining the lowest tuition and general fees of any college or university in the state of Missouri.

Under Jackson’s leadership the college enhanced its programs and services, starting new programs in biotechnology, chemical technology, occupational therapy assistant and health information management. Associate degree nursing programs in Union and Rolla were also expanded.

The resolution also noted that the college and its trustees, faculty, staff and students express sincere gratitude and appreciation to Jackson for his devotion and service to East Central College, and wish him well in retirement and all future endeavors.

“The last seven years have passed very quickly,” noted Jackson. “(My wife)Dana and I have often commented on how fortunate we are to have landed in this beautiful and interesting part of the country. I can’t imagine a better place to complete my 46-year community college career.”

Jackson said that the friendship and unwavering support of individual board members and the board as a whole made the experience one he will cherish forever.

“East Central College has a strong faculty, an excellent support staff, and physical facilities that other institutions envy,” Jackson said. “I know the college has a bright future under Dr. Jon Bauer’s leadership.”