ECC’s Board of Trustees looks to fill vacancy after resignation

Elizabeth Anton and Juan Castillo

Members of the Elgin Community College Board of Trustees are looking to replace a recent vacancy after Angela J. Holmes stepped down from her position earlier this month. After moving out of District 509, she was automatically ineligible to continue serving as a Trustee on the board.

Holmes was elected to a six-year term in April 2013. According to Senior Executive Assistant to the President, Diane Kerruish, Holmes’ departure from her position was unexpected by the board. Holmes announced she’d be moving out of district just before her official resignation on Nov. 14. She wanted to stay on the board, but was aware that legally she could not. The last time a member of the board had to resign mid-term was five years ago.

To be a potential candidate, applicants must be a citizen of the United States, 18 years or older, and a resident of District 509 for at least one year immediately preceding the election. Other than legal requirements for a Trustee, according to Kerruish, the board is looking for a candidate that will always keep the community in mind while serving on the board.

“Trustees are required to work cooperatively with other board members, college administrators, and community leaders,” Kerruish said. “It is a position that requires dedication, diplomacy, integrity and an open mind.”

The Board of Trustees oversees numerous tasks regarding the operation of ECC, including but not limited to, approving the college annual budget, selecting and evaluating the president, and helping shape a positive image of the college within the community.

Being a Trustee is a voluntary job; there is no direct compensation to individuals serving a position.

All applications must be submitted to the President’s office by Thursday, Nov. 30. Interviews are then to be held on Wednesday, Dec. 6, leading up to the making of the final decision and announcement at a board meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 12.