The Macomb Community College Board of Trustees recently announced the appointment of James O. Sawyer IV as the college’s next president, approving a three-year employment contract at its meeting. Sawyer will assume presidency on July 1, 2017.The appointment of Sawyer as Macomb’s sixth president is the culmination of a national search initiated in Sept. 2016 to find a replacement for retiring president James Jacobs. Sawyer was one of four finalists for the position.
“As Macomb’s next president, Dr. Sawyer will not only ensure a seamless, positive transition for the college, but he also possesses the dual strengths of being an experienced educator with a comprehensive grounding in business and industry,” says Jennifer Haase, chair of the Macomb Community College Board of Trustees. “In addition, Dr. Sawyer’s work in spearheading the college’s cultural shift from student access to student success will be a valuable aspect of his institutional leadership.”
With 14 years of experience at Macomb, Sawyer previously served as vice provost for career programs and dean of engineering and advanced technology. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Lawrence Technological University, and a master’s in administration and doctorate in educational leadership from Central Michigan University.
“I appreciate the support and confidence of the college’s board of trustees, and I am humbled to be following in the footsteps of Dr. Jacobs,” says Sawyer. “I look forward to continuing to emphasize student success, working with Macomb’s outstanding faculty and staff in developing meaningful resources and support in helping students overcome barriers that sometimes interfere with their goals, whether that be earning a credential that provides direct entry to the workforce, working toward an advanced degree, mastering a new skill or learning for personal satisfaction.”
Macomb Community College’s comprehensive educational programming includes career preparation programs, bachelor degree completion and graduate degree programs, workforce training, professional education and certification, and continuing education and enrichment opportunities.