Community College operations and Foundation are now “somewhat” independent
The appointment of Paul Kirchgraber to Executive Director of the Yavapai College Foundation, which was announced March 22, 2017, was a good one. Among other things, it begins the process of separating the interests of the independent Foundation from the wishes and desires of the Yavapai Community College administrators desires and wishes. However much needs to be done.
Kirchgraber’s predecessor, Mr. Steve Walker, was hired in 2006 as both the Executive Director of the Foundation and as a College Vice President. He resigned earlier this year. The conflict of interest with Mr. Walker wearing two hats simultaneously is obvious. While the Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) organization, and operates to support the Community College, it may at times have goals that are not necessarily in agreement with Community College administrators. With Mr. Walker as Executive Director and a vice president of the College, his ability to influence Foundation members in the direction of the wishes and desires of college administrators was enormous.
A Conflict Remains:
Although Mr. Walker has retired, College President Dr. Penelope Wills remains as an elected member of the Foundation directors and sits on its executive committee. Vice president Clint Ewell also sits as a director on the Foundation. These two individuals carry enormous weight and influence within the Foundation. It makes it difficult, if not almost impossible, for the Foundation to operate independent of their influence. Hopefully, that will change in the future.
You may find a list of the current Yavapai College Foundation board members by clicking here.