The following is an announcement from Fred E. Wood, chancellor of the Contra Costa Community College District, about the placing of college President Dr. Katrina VanderWoude and two others in leadership on administrative leave pending an investigation into a undisclosed personnel matter. Today at a press conference on the campus at noon, the African American Staff Association is set to respond to the Chancellor’s decision.
“Dear Contra Costa College Colleagues,
I have made the difficult decision to place Dr. Katrina VanderWoude on administrative leave pending the completion of an investigation of a personnel matter. In addition, interim Vice President Susan Kincade and interim Vice President Carsbia Anderson have also been placed on administrative leave pending the completion of separate investigations. These decisions are being made in an effort to protect all involved.
As with all personnel matters, I am not able to share the details of the investigations. I know these decisions leave a leadership void at the college and our District is committed to mitigating the impact. At my request, Mariles Magalong has agreed to serve as acting college president until the investigations are completed. We are very thankful for her willingness to serve in this temporary role. This morning the District leadership met with Mariles and the college management team to express our commitment to the college, and to begin the discussion of additional assignments and responsibilities in the near term. Mariles will share more details with the campus as they become available.
Please know the Governing Board and District leadership understand that Contra Costa College is a critical and valued part of the Contra Costa Community College District, and that the college is a beacon of hope for many West County residents. We are committed to doing everything possible to assist the college and I hope we can count on your understanding and patience during this challenging period. Thank you.”
VanderWoude became the 12th permanent president of Contra Costa College, taking office on Aug. 6. She had previously been serving as vice president for academic affairs at Grossmont College in El Cajon. Earlier, she was vice provost at Rochester College in Michigan.
