Great Plains College bids farewell to president Brad Mahon
By Joan Janzen
Great Plains College president and CEO Brad Mahon will step down in August after four years of leadership to become vice-president of community development with Assiniboine College in Brandon, Man.
Mahon said leading the regional college has been one of the most rewarding chapters of his career.
Great Plains College board members have appointed Keleah Ostrander, left, as interim president and CEO following the announcement that current president and CEO Brad Mahon will leave in August to join Assiniboine College in Brandon, Man. SUBMITTED PHOTO
"It has been a privilege to lead Great Plains College and to work alongside such a talented team of staff, faculty and board members," he said. "The relationships we've built with students, communities and partners across the region have shaped this chapter of my career in ways I'll always be grateful for."
Reflecting on his time with the college, Mahon said the greatest reward came from connecting with people throughout Great Plains College's 100,000-square-kilometre service region.
"What I enjoyed most was getting out and meeting people across our vast service region, connecting with college employees, working with our elected officials and their staff, and engaging with business and community leaders to understand how we can serve our communities," he said.
During his tenure, Mahon focused on collaboration and community engagement, strengthening partnerships with municipalities, industry, donors and other stakeholders throughout the region. He also helped advance the college's strategic priorities while supporting regional workforce and training needs.
As he travelled among the college's campuses and partner communities, Mahon said he came to appreciate that each community has its own character and needs.
"I appreciated what we accomplished by working together, ultimately building the college's brand through being present and offering relevant programs that connected students with in-demand careers," he said.
Mahon added that some of his favourite memories were the simple moments spent getting to know the communities Great Plains College serves.
"I really enjoyed all the community events, especially the parades, and I will absolutely miss the Lancer Ferry," he said.
Great Plains College board chair Jeremy Roberts thanked Mahon for his leadership and contributions.
"Brad's leadership over the past four years has helped strengthen Great Plains College's position as a leader within the regional college system, and we are grateful for his many contributions as we wish him all the best in this next chapter," Roberts said.
The board has appointed Keleah Ostrander as interim president and CEO for a one-year term beginning later this summer. Ostrander has spent more than a decade on the college's senior leadership team and brings extensive post-secondary experience and institutional knowledge to the role.
"The Board is confident in Keleah's ability to provide strong, steady leadership and ensure continuity for the college, our staff and our partners," Roberts said. "Her familiarity with our people, programs and strategic priorities positions her well to guide the college forward."
Mahon said he is confident the college's future is bright.
"I leave knowing the college is in capable hands and well-positioned for what's ahead," he said.
Great Plains College will continue serving students and industry throughout the region this fall, offering programs at its campuses in Biggar, Kindersley, Maple Creek, Swift Current and Warman in agriculture, adult basic education, business and administration, English language training, health care, early childhood education, trades and power engineering.