St Johns State College trustees appoint chair

The St. Johns River State College Board of Trustees announced to Historic City News in St. Augustine that, during this month’s meeting, a new chairman was appointed.

St. Johns County resident Diane Leone succeeds the outgoing chairman, Clay County resident Larry Lancaster. Lancaster has served on the Board since 2003. Board members also appointed Rob Bradley of Clay County to serve as vice chairman.

SJR State President Joe Pickens, J.D., said the College was fortunate to have Leone succeed the outstanding foresight and direction of former chairmen Bunky Roberts and Larry Lancaster, whose combined service equaled two decades of dedication and leadership. “Chairman Roberts’, and more recently Chairman Lancaster’s, contributions have made a permanent and positive impact on our students, the College and its growth,” Pickens said. “We anticipate an equally successful and productive year under Ms. Leone’s leadership,” he said.

Leone, who has served on the Board since 2005, said the appointment was an honor, and she looks forward to continuing her commitment toward higher education alongside President Pickens and fellow board members.

“It is a privilege to serve an institution that collectively and consistently strives to enhance, enrich and improve the lives of so many individuals within our communities,” she said. “Our district relies upon the College for its academic excellence and ability to prepare capable, trained professionals to enter the workforce. I can’t think of a better role to serve than that of guiding St. Johns River State College as it continuously creates and improves affordable, accessible and effective learning opportunities.”

Currently serving on the Board is John Nelson representing Putnam County and Carl Beck representing St. Johns County. Appointed in October are Mary Ellen Webb representing Putnam County and Ron Coleman representing Clay County.

SJR State serves approximately 11,000 students in Clay, Putnam and St. Johns counties and offers two baccalaureate degrees, more than 40 associate in science degrees, college credit and vocational certificates in addition to offering the associate in arts degree (transfer degree).

St. Johns River State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate and baccalaureate degrees.