Waak vies for appointment as Associate Dean for the Verde Valley Campus with Professor Peggy Liggit
Sometime this week, it is anticipated that a new associate Dean for the Verde Campus will be announced. The two candidates being considered for the position are Dr. Barbara Waak and Professor Peggy Leggit. Professor Leggit is a professor of biology and science education and serves as the director of the Faculty Development Center at Eastern Michigan University in the Ypsilant, Michigan. She has a bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University. Her parents have lived in the Verde Valley for decades.
Dr. Waak was a finalist in the College’s national search in 2015 for this position behind Dr. Kelly Trainer. She was appointed interim Verde Valley Campus Dean in August, 2016 after Dr. Trainor tendered his resignation. She has served in that capacity since her appointment.
Dr. Waak is entering her 23rd academic year on the Verde Valley Campus. She has served in many capacities over her tenure at the College, including Faculty Senate President and Dual Enrollment Liaison for the English Department. She is also an alumni of Yavapai College, attaining an A.A. in education with honors. Dr. Waak earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Secondary Education and English/Linguistics from Northern Arizona University. She went on to receive a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 2005.
When interviewed by Zachary Jernigan for the May 3, 2017 edition of the Cottonwood Journal Extra, Dr. Waak said that she was “very dedicated to this (Verde) campus.” Waak told the reporter that many in the Verde Valley feel that they have been forgotten by the College’s administration in Prescott and need a local advocate. Ms. Ligge indicated she was not aware of the tension between Prescott and the Verde Valley.
While both candidates are well qualified, because of her experience, residence, and thorough understanding of the Verde Campus and the Verde Valley, the Blog is cheering for Dr. Waak.