WNCC president's contract renewed

The Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents on Friday concluded an evaluation of Western Nevada Community College President Carol Lucey and renewed her contract through 2009.

"President Lucey has done a great job since joining the NSHE," said Dr. Stavros Anthony, board chairman. "She is one of our shining stars in the system and we're fortunate to have her leading Western Nevada Community College."

Regents conduct annual evaluations and periodic evaluations of all eight NSHE presidents. Lucey's periodic evaluation incorporated a wide range of comments from faculty, students, staff, and members of the community.

"These are always useful processes. They give me an opportunity to converse with the board about the direction we are taking WNCC and to get clear affirmation that this direction is appropriate," said Lucey. "I'm grateful to everyone who participated in this process, provided input, and gave of their time to help plan for the continued growth of the college."

Since coming to WNCC, Lucey has played a pivotal role in shifting the college's emphasis to academic programs, including new computer technology programs, a partnership with Nevada State College for baccalaureate degrees in education and the development of a new rural nursing program and clinic.

During her tenure, WNCC opened the Jack C. Davis Observatory and the Joe Dini Jr. Library/Student Center and started a new athletics program that now includes a co-ed rodeo team, men's baseball team and women's soccer team.

She receives an increase in her annual salary to $172,500 of $20,971 with additional allowances for a vehicle and housing.

Previously, Lucey was vice president of academic affairs at Alfred State College of Technology, N.Y., and spent more than two decades at Jamestown Community College in Jamestown, N.Y. At Jamestown, she served as professor of physics, associate dean of instruction, chairwoman of the applied sciences and mathematics division and the dean of academic affairs. Lucey has a doctor of philosophy degree in theoretical high energy physics from Brown University.

Regents also renewed the contract for Desert Research Institute President Stephen Wells and increased his base salary to $228,000. The salary increase for both he and Lucey are effective immediately.