The Massachusetts Board of Higher Education immediately appointed former Pennsylvania Education Secretary Noe Ortega to function the following increased schooling commissioner.
“Noe is noted for strengths in being brilliant in policy and in operations, a rare combination, I might add; thoughtful and engaging; collaborative; empathetic,” stated Jay Lemons of the Commissioner Search Advisory Committee. “…Finally, it was noted that Noe is highly respected, and that his true strength is in leading groups of people around a united cause.”
Ortega’s references additionally stated that his “interest is in the public good, not looking for personal gain,” and that he’s “very student focused,” “mission driven” and “understands the field and is innovative, which is critical as the commissioner.”
“He’s calming in his approach,” Lemons added. “He’s above the fray and has garnered a tremendous amount of respect in Pennsylvania as a result of his leadership during, I would note a particularly divisive and tumultuous time.”
The board selected Ortega at a digital particular assembly 5 days after interviewing 4 finalists vying to succeed Commissioner Carlos Santiago.
The different three finalists have been Northern Essex Community College President Lane Glenn, Boston University Wheelock College of Education and Human Development Associate Dean Mary Churchill and California Community College Vice Chancellor Marty Alvarado.
From these 4, the board narrowed the choice down this morning to 2: Ortega and Glenn. The former obtained eight votes and the latter, 4.
Now, the board must negotiate the particular phrases of Ortega’s appointment, together with his wage and begin date.
Santiago proclaims his resolution to step down as commissioner in January.
“After forty years of engagement as a faculty member, researcher and academic administrator, it is an opportune time for me to assist the BHE in identifying new leadership and ensuring the completion of the Commonwealth’s first 10-year strategic plan to achieve racial equity in higher education,” Santiago stated in a press release.
Source: www.bostonherald.com”