Northwest College President Lisa Watson recently returned from the Presidents Academy Summer Institute (PASI) in Dana Point, California where community college presidents from across the country met to share ideas and discuss the topics impacting higher education today. The annual professional development program is presented by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and was created specifically for presidents and CEOs of AACC member institutions to provide intensive focus on current challenges, emerging trends and opportunities unique to that position.

The PASI offers a mix of content experts and interaction around related case studies that result in the development or acquisition of ready-to-use skill sets that participants can apply at their respective campuses. It also provides opportunities for newer presidents to develop mentor-mentee relationships with more seasoned presidents, focusing on the immediate challenges and opportunities these presidents are facing on their campuses.

Among the topics presented and discussed at the 2022 PASI were crisis management, using data to make decisions and evaluate student performance, providing mental health services on campus, and the future of community colleges as whole.

Watson officially became the ninth President of Northwest College in March after serving as Interim President for more than 15 months. She is beginning her ninth year at the college overall, having previously served as NWC’s Vice President of Administrative Services and Finance.

“Attending the Presidents Academy was a great way to step into my new role,” said Watson. “Meeting with other Presidents to discuss, learn and share information on timely issues for our students and higher education was very useful. The academy also encourages us to connect with peers in similar colleges and share best practices and what’s working. I truly enjoyed the opportunity to attend and connect with other Presidents.”