March 31,2021 3:30 a.m.

Umpqua Community College has selected three finalists in the search for its next president.

Public Information Officer Tiffany Coleman said they are Ryan Melton, Rachel Pokrandt and Teresa Rivenes. Coleman said the candidates were recommended by a search committee comprised of students, college employees and selected representatives from the UCC Board of Education. That committee was chaired by UCC Board Chair Steve Loosely.

Melton is currently the dean of psychology and counseling at Bushnell University in Eugene. Prior to his current position he served in a variety of faculty roles at Portland State University, Oregon State University, George Fox University in Salem, Multnomah University and Chemeketa Community College.

Pokrandt is currently a vice president and campus dean for Colorado Mountain College. Prior to her start there in 2012, she was the dean of instruction at Front Range Community College in Fort Collins, Colorado. With a background in business, she has also served as an adjunct instructor since 2003.

Rivenes is the current chief academic officer and vice president at Tillamook Bay Community College. Prior to that, she served as dean of curriculum and instruction at Rogue Community College in Grants Pass. She has also worked as adjunct faculty within the Montana State University system.

Coleman said the next steps for the candidates include participation in virtual town hall meetings. Those are open to the campus and community and will be held:

*Tuesday April 6th – Ryan Melton

*Wednesday April 7th Rachel Pokrandt

*Thursday April 8th Teresa Rivenes

Each meeting will be held via Zoom from 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. To participate, the Zoom link is: https://umpqua.zoom.us/s/99463950605. During the third meeting, a survey requesting feedback will be shared.

Current UCC President Debra Thatcher will retire June 30th. The anticipated starting date for the successful candidate is July 1st.