state-ofthe-art

Michelle D. Pfaff was appointed to the Jefferson Community College Board of Trustees in 1999 by then-Governor George Pataki and is in
her third term as trustee. She served as chair of the Board from 2002-2004, chair of the Personnel Committee from 2008 to 2015, chair of
the Budget and Planning Committee from 2001-2003 and currently serves on the Personnel Committee. Michelle holds a bachelor of arts
degree in economics and history from St. Lawrence University. In 2010, Michelle retired from a 35-year career in banking serving most
recently as vice president of Community Bank. Michelle remains active in several North Country organizations while she and her husband,
Dave, spend their free time traveling. Recently, we chatted with Mrs. Pfaff on her tenure as trustee.
Has your view of the College changed since you first joined the Board of Trustees?
To quote the College’s tagline, ‘There’s More Here.’ More educational opportunities, a more inclusive community for learners of all ages,
more student success.
How, if at all, do you think the community’s view of the College has changed over the years?
I like to think they also see ‘there’s more here’ – from courses and traditional degree programs, to seminars and workshops for career
and personal development, to the Center for Community Studies surveys and speaker series, to events like the Fort Drum Rally held on
campus in March.
What are some of the biggest changes you have seen occur at the College?
The onset and subsequent growth of online courses is a big change. Also, the development of the Higher Education Center.
During your 17-year tenure as a trustee, of what accomplishments are you most proud?
I’m proud at how responsive the College is to the needs of the community. Over the years we have offered degrees in EMS, dental
hygiene (through a partnership), a weekend option for the nursing program and developed more flexible courses, in particular those offered
on Fort Drum. The Higher Education Center brings bachelor’s and master’s programs to the community through partnerships with
other colleges. And, the variety of non-credit courses for career and personal development continues to grow. Personally I’ve enjoyed
many workshops including the Great Decisions seminar and ballroom dancing.
I’m also proud of the high marks that students give the College after they leave Jefferson – our rankings for quality of education and the
variety of student life activities are the highest among JCC’s peers in SUNY. But, perhaps I’m most proud that Jefferson has the highest
graduation rate of all community colleges in New York!
What challenges lie ahead for Jefferson?
Enrollment will always pose a challenge. High school populations are flat or declining. Like most community colleges, we see fluctuations
due to the cyclical nature of the economy, but unique to Jefferson are the ups and downs related to what is happening on Fort Drum with
both deployments and sequestration.
What is your favorite activity or event at Jefferson?
My favorite event is the annual Recognition Celebration held in May. It is a fun event where we have the opportunity to recognize faculty
and staff and celebrate their contributions and dedication to the College.
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