HUNTINGTON BEACH : College President Delays Retirement

Golden West College President Judith Valles has agreed to postpone her retirement for one year while college district officials embark on a second search for a successor.

“After much reflection, I concluded that it will be more beneficial to Golden West College and the process to select a replacement if I continue as president for the entire academic year rather than leaving halfway through the year,” Valles said in a prepared statement. She had originally announced that she would delay her retirement by six months.

Coast Community College District Chancellor Alfred P. Fernandez and Golden West College faculty members applauded Valles’ decision. Fernandez said officials will now have additional time to find a replacement.

Gary Stratton, president of Golden West’s Academic Senate, said he was disappointed that officials couldn’t make a decision on a successor last month but was pleased that Valles would return for the full year.

He said an interim president, serving just six months, might have proven ineffective in overseeing major programs.

“Judith has been very good for us, and (with her being here a full year) the college will continue to grow,” Stratton said.

Another faculty member, who declined to be identified, said he was relieved that Valles would remain the full year.

Under the six-month time frame, the faculty member claimed that the school ran the risk of attracting “candidates on the run” who would leave responsibilities at their respective colleges in midyear to become the new leader at Golden West.

Trustees could not break a stalemate on July 30 when they were asked to choose between Saddleback Community College President Constance M. Carroll and Pasadena City College Vice President James P. Kossler.

Officials say they expect to select a new president by July 1.

Golden West College, established in 1966, serves about 15,000 students each year in more than 140 academic and vocational programs.