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Sablan’s candidcay for NMC prexy endorsed
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Posted on Oct 08 1999
The next president of the Northern Marianas College must come from the institution to ensure continuity of ongoing policies and better understanding of its situation, according to Senate Vice President Thomas P. Villagomez.
He openly endorsed NMC Vice President Jack Sablan to head the college, who is one of several aspirants to the post to be left vacant after outgoing President Agnes M. McPhetres retires in December.
“Why do we have to bring people from outside when we have Mr. Sablan who can become the next president? We should support internal promotion,” Villagomez said in an interview.
The senator vowed to lobby support from the Legislature and the administration for the appointment of Sablan, although that decision hinges with the Board of Regents, the college’s policymaking body.
“He’s been with the college for so many years who knows what is happening there,” Villagomez explained. “NMC may have to lose more if an outsider becomes the new president.”
The board has started reviewing the applications submitted by more than 20 individuals who aspire to replace McPhetres, who has assumed the post since the founding of CNMI’s lone higher learning institution in 1981.
Most of the applicants, however, are from off-island. It is not certain how long it would take the board to complete the process and name its choice.
The minimum qualifications for the position include a master’s degree and at least five years of experience in the field of education and administration.
Unlike the NMC regents who are appointed by the governor, the college president is not subject to confirmation by the Senate.
The cash-strapped college has come under fire in recent months over allegations of mismanagement of funds and lack of clear policies on its program. (BS)
