Gogebic Community College President announces intention to retire

Credit: Gogebic Community College

IRONWOOD — Gogebic Community College President, James (Jim) Lorenson, has announced his intention to retire, according to a post on the Gogebic Community College’s Facebook page.

According to the post, Lorenson wrote a letter to administration announcing his decision. “After careful consideration, I have determined that it is time I step down from the Presidency of Gogebic Community College,” stated the letter.

Lorenson has served as the President of the College since 2007 and has been employed with GCC for 31 years in various administrative positions. Accomplishments during Lorenson’s tenure include fiscal responsibility and clean audit opinions.

He was influential in establishing a new college brand identity, stabilized enrollment, new instructional programs, a new advising process and restructuring the course schedule to better accommodate student needs. He expanded new partnerships with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and regional health care systems. He additionally spearheaded infrastructure improvements including the recent renovation of the Kleimola Technical Center, technology upgrades and strengthening campus safety.

“Jim has been a leader in advocacy for rural community colleges on the state and national level. He has extensive legislative relationships which has greatly assisted Gogebic Community College in securing state appropriations and funding for capital outlay projects. Under his leadership, GCC has become a leader in the state and is nationally recognized as a top community college,” said Board Chairman John Lupino.

“We wish him the very best in his future endeavors and sincerely thank him for his dedicated service to Gogebic Community College,” Lupino added.