COUNTYWIDE : College Affirmative Action Chief Lauded

The affirmative action officer for Ventura County’s three community colleges has received an award for his efforts in recruiting women and minorities.

Roland Glover, a 24-year employee of the Ventura County Community College District, was recognized on March 17 by his peers at a Southern California community college conference in Costa Mesa.

State Chancellor David Mertes honored Glover for outstanding leadership in identifying and recruiting qualified faculty and staff who reflect the diverse make-up of Ventura County’s population.

Each year, the California Community College Consortium on Affirmative Action honors two college officials, one from Southern California and one from Northern California. Peter Kolster, director of human resources for the Sierra Joint Community college District, was selected to represent Northern California.

Glover said he was thrilled to receive the Southern California award. “This is my first big award,” he said.

When Glover took over as the district’s affirmative action officer in 1989, there were no women in top posts in the district. Now, Elise Schneider is the president of Oxnard College.

Also, in 1989, the district had only one black manager, and now there are six blacks, including Chancellor Thomas Lakin. During Glover’s tenure, Latino administrators have increased from two in 1989 to four today, Glover said.

“We’re making progress, slowing but surely,” he said.

Under Glover’s direction, the district established a teacher internship program for women and minorities. He said he is also working to hire more physically disabled instructors.