LANSING, Mich. — President Brent Knight has announced that he will retire from LCC next summer after more than a decade of service.
Knight began his service as the college’s sixth president in September 2008. He was hired for his comprehensive background in higher education – including beginning service as a college president at age 29 – coupled with his leadership experience in private industry. His chief focus at LCC has been building academic excellence, including developing programs and training relevant to the modern workforce. In addition, he has been a steadfast advocate of affordable tuition and responsible student loan debt.
“I hope that, after I retire, people remember my role as leading our community’s efforts to build a stronger foundation for student success while building a state-of-the-art campus on which our students, faculty and staff are able to achieve their highest goals,” Knight said. “I appreciate the dedication of every employee and the trustees with whom I have been privileged to work. This is a special place and the people are remarkable.”
Knight is an admired and respected leader locally and across the nation as evidenced by those who have reacted to today’s news. They include a range of voices, including leaders in education, government and business.
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow: “Under Dr. Knight’s leadership, Lansing Community College has been at the forefront of innovative workforce training and high-tech education. I have been proud to work with him and LCC’s leadership team in supporting the opening of the Center for Manufacturing Excellence, and in bringing Google to campus to provide digital skills training for businesses and job seekers. I wish Dr. Knight all the best for a well-deserved retirement.”
Walter Bumphus, President and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC): “It is really amazing how fast time has flown since I provided a recommendation and reference for Brent for this position a little over 10 years ago. Brent has been a national leader and has represented LCC so well over the past decade. He currently serves on the AACC Board of Directors, and has been a leader amongst leaders for our organization. I have often said that Brent is truly a genius when it comes to academic leadership and facilities. He has certainly proven that during his tenure, helping to establish LCC as a national leader in the Pathways initiatives, and his implementation of ambient learning has been a national model. I have known Brent for over 40 years, and he has not only been an outstanding professional colleague, but a great friend that I have been able to call on for advice and counsel. On behalf of AACC, we wish he and Rise’ nothing but the very best in retirement.”
Bob Tresize, President and CEO of Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP): “Dr. Knight arrived at LCC with a vision, not just for the college, but for the people in the neighborhoods surrounding the college and for the downtown area. He has transformed the campus and supplied me with a toolbox of ideas that have helped me attract businesses to the community.”
Lawrence Hidalgo, Jr., Chair LCC Board of Trustees: “We appreciate all the fine work Dr. Knight has done for the college and the leadership he has provided over the past 11 years. LCC has made great strides during his tenure. From the enhancement of the educational experience of students to the expansion and beautification of the facilities, he has left no stone unturned and has positioned the college for continued success. As he closes out this chapter in his life, we wish him the best in his retirement.”
In retirement, Knight is likely to return to private entrepreneurship after 29 years as a community college president.
The Board of Trustees plans to hold a special meeting this month to discuss the format and plans for a presidential search.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Appleand Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
