Candidates recommended for interim presidencies of two Twin Cities area colleges

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Chancellor James H. McCormick said today he will recommend that the Board of Trustees appoint Jessica M. Stumpf as interim president of Anoka-Ramsey Community College in Coon Rapids and Cambridge and Shari L. Olson as interim president of Anoka Technical College.

Stumpf is vice president of academic affairs at Minnesota State College – Southeast Technical, with campuses in Red Wing and Winona.

Olson serves as a system director in the Office of the Chancellor of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, coordinating projects related to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and dislocated worker training.

“We are pleased to recommend these two individuals, both of whom have strong credentials for the interim presidencies of the colleges,” McCormick said. “I am confident the candidates have the relevant experience suited to lead each college effectively during a demanding time.” The Board of Trustees is expected to act on both recommendations at a June 16 meeting.

Stumpf previously served as dean of business at Hennepin Technical College; dean of transportation, coordinator of customized training, coordinator of enrollment and marketing and business instructor, all at Dakota County Technical College; and business instructor at Century College. She earned an associate degree at St. Cloud State University, a bachelor’s degree in business education at Buena Vista University, a master’s degree in business administration at Metropolitan State University and a doctorate in educational policy and administration at the University of Minnesota.

Stumpf will replace Patrick Johns, who has been named president of Lake Superior College in Duluth.

Olson had been president at Eastern Wyoming College; held several planning, administrative services, technology and outreach positions as vice president, dean and director at Northland Community and Technical College; was assistant professor of graduate education at Bemidji Sate University; and served as director and faculty member in early childhood education at United Tribes Technical College. She has a bachelor’s degree in vocational home economics education and a master’s in education, both from North Dakota State University, and a Ph.D. in higher education leadership from the University of North Dakota.

Olson will replace Anne Weyandt, who has been named senior fellow for academic affairs for the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.