From the Edge of Extinction to International Acclaim

Abstract

Warren County Community College emerged from the edge of extinction when the board made the decision to hire 33-year-old first time president Dr. William Austin. Twenty years later and after many national and international accolades, the same board (different members) not only convinced a now much older and wiser president to continue his work but gave him the rest, resources, and unwavering support that many other leaders can only dream of in their career. While the road was certainly not easy, he had to first win back the support of the community while building financial reserves, he kept his most precious goal near and dear to his heart: student success. The community support and financial stability allowed for a reorganization that focused on students. The college emerged from COVID stronger and now has the programs, resources, and staff in place to meet the challenge of an increasingly technological world.