Former four-term West Central Alberta MLA Bob Clark has been appointed as the chairman of the board of governors of Olds College by the Alberta Ministry of Innovation and Advanced Education.
The past vice-chairman of the board, Clark said he looks forward to playing an even bigger role in the college governance.
"My job as chairman of the board is to ensure that the policies that the board has implemented and put in place are observed and that the college continues to move forward in a very positive manner,î said Clark.
"I look forward to working with the board to do that and to working with president Tom Thompson. That's really the job for me, to chair the board meetings and to work with the board members and the president. I'm looking forward to the challenge.î
Clark replaces former chairman Barry Mehr. Clark's appointment took effect on Feb. 18.
"I've had the experience to watch Barry Mehr, our former chair, who has been an excellent mentor,î he said. "So I've had good teachers and I look forward to the challenge.î
Clark served 21 years in the legislature as a Social Credit MLA, including as minister of education. He has also served as Alberta Ethics Commissioner and as Information and Privacy Commissioner.
He says he sees funding as one of the long-term challenges facing the college.
"I think any institution in post-secondary education in Alberta today has to deal with shrinking resources from the province,î he said. "Our biggest challenge is to provide a quality education for our students and I think we do that. I look forward to being a part of that.î
Asked if he sees opportunities for the college, he replied, "I think that's something for another time, let's say. I think right now I'm understanding what it means to be chairman and we all have some thoughts, but until those become reality I think it's best to leave it there.î
Olds College president Thompson says Clark's long experience in public service makes him a good fit for chairman.
"We are very fortunate to have as our chair a person with such valuable leadership experience, dedication to public service, and passion for the values we hold dear at Olds College.î
In 2003 Clark was awarded the Alberta Lieutenant Governor's Award for dedication to the province.
"My job as chairman of the board is to ensure that the policies that the board has implemented."Bob Clark, chairman
