Moorpark College’s new Interim President Dr. Bernard Luskin wants to hear from you.
Dr. Luskin hopes to establish lines of open communication between himself and the students of Moorpark College. In order to implement his communication plan, he intends to walk around campus to listen to students’ concerns. Additionally, he plans to set up a regular time each month to keep his office door open for students who want to share their insight or ideas.
Luskin, a former Ventura College student, said that he keeps his roots in mind as he readies himself for the challenges his position will bring.
“Students are my number-one priority,” said Luskin.”I am particularly interested in what students have to say because I was one.”
Luskin, began his tenure on campus this Tuesday, Sept. 3.
His goals for his term at Moorpark College include working with faculty and students to keep the college’s numerous academic programs going strong, keeping as many classes available as he can, improving online programs, and maintaining communication with the California State Universities and the University of California systems.
As interim president, Luskin will oversee all academic and student services functions at Moorpark College. He will also manage all of the financial decisions while implementing the districts rules and procedures.
“The interim president is the president,” said Luskin. “The only difference is that I have agreed to come on board [during] the extensive search for the permanent president.”
Moorpark College’s former president, Dr. Pam Eddinger, accepted a position at Bunker Hill Community College in Boston on April 30th, 2013. Acting President Iris Ingram assumed presidential responsibilities while the selection committee searched for an interim president. The committee selected Luskin on August 22nd. Under the leadership of VCCCD Chancellor Dr. Jamillah Moore, Luskin is expected to fill this position until a permanent president is chosen during the spring of 2014.
Luskin, who has held leadership positions at several colleges, universities, and business throughout the United States, is looking forward to working with the Ventura County Community College District to lead Moorpark College and its students to success.
“Moorpark College is a jewel in the crown of the community college system,” said Luskin, “and I will work very hard to continue to build the college.”
Luskin is the CEO of Luskin International, an education and media company that specializes in online programs. Luskin also serves as the director of the W.K Kellogg Foundation Community College Leadership Legacy Project, whose mission is to refine and expand two-year community colleges across the U.S.
Higher education, especially at the community college level, is very important to Luskin.
“The learning experiences shape your life, and the community college system is a unique contribution that America has made to the world,” said Luskin. “The VCCCD changed my life and if I can make any contribution, that is payback for me.”
