Patrick Johns recommended for presidency of Lake Superior College

Posted: April 19, 2010

Contact: Doug Anderson, doug.anderson@MinnState.edu, 651-201-1426

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Chancellor James H. McCormick said today he will recommend that the Board of Trustees appoint Patrick Johns as president of Lake Superior College in Duluth.

Johns has been president of Anoka-Ramsey Community College in Cambridge and Coon Rapids since 1991. Previously, he served as interim president, executive dean and acting financial aid director at the college. He has been dean of academic affairs at Minnesota West Community and Technical College; dean at Riverland Community College; and financial aid director, counselor, recruitment coordinator and an adjunct instructor at Mesabi Range Community and Technical College. Johns also was assistant men’s basketball coach at the University of Minnesota Duluth.

“For nearly 20 years, Pat Johns has led Anoka-Ramsey Community College,” McCormick said. “I am pleased that he rose to the top in a national search and is eager to lead a different college in this system. I am confident that Lake Superior College will continue to thrive under his leadership.”

Johns holds bachelor’s degrees in history and psychology from the University of Minnesota Duluth, a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Superior and a doctorate in educational administration and adult and higher education from the University of South Dakota.

The new president will replace Kathleen Nelson, who is retiring. The Board of Trustees is expected to act on the recommendation at it April 21 meeting. The process of replacing Johns at Anoka-Ramsey Community College is expected to begin soon.

Lake Superior College, which has more than 5,500 students enrolled this spring semester, is northeastern Minnesota’s largest two-year college. The college provides a wide range of programs and services, including liberal arts and science courses for transfer, technical programs intended to provide occupational skills, continuing education, and customized training for business and industry. The college is also a leader in Internet-delivered courses and programs in Minnesota.