Dr. Marianne Van Deursen, who has been associated with Warren Community College for 27 years, has been named the Acting President of the College effective Feb. 27.

Dr. Van Deursen, who had been Warren’s Vice President of Academics the past several years, is excited about her new post as Dr. William Austin starts a sabbatical to pursue other projects for the College. 

“I am honored that the Board of Trustees has appointed me to lead the College as Dr. Austin begins his sabbatical,” said Van Deursen. “Over the past 20 years, Dr. Austin built a very strong foundation for sustainability and growth; it is upon this foundation that I will work with the Board, Staff, and Faculty to continue to fulfill our institutional mission.”  

“The Board of Trustees has tremendous faith in Dr. Van Deursen,” said Yvonne Reitemeyer, the Board chair. “The has a great reputation at the College, with faculty, staff and students, and in the community. She has been instrumental in taking the lead in developing and implementing a host of programs, including distance learning, as well as being involved in many regional, state and national committees. We are thrilled and have all the confidence in the world with Dr. Van Deursen.” 

Dr. Van Deursen joined the College as an adjunct instructor in 1996 and became the Medical Assisting Program Coordinator/instructor in 1997. Shortly thereafter, she developed the Dental Assisting program. In 2014 she became Assistant Dean for Medical Assisting and Distance Learning Education, and in 2016 Dr. Van Deursen was promoted to Dean of Academics. In early 2018,  she was named Vice President of Academics after a short few months as the acting VP.

Dr. Van Deursen’s knowledge of college history and the community at-large, as a longtime resident and community servant of Warren County, will suit her well in her new role. 

“I will continue working with our various communities of interest as the College continues to explore opportunities for growth in areas where we can strengthen and expand our academic program offerings in order to meet the needs and demands of our local industry partners,” Dr. Van Deursen said. 

While Warren has articulations with several institutions already, Dr. Van Deursen indicated that securing additional transfer articulation agreements is a goal in the immediate future. “There is renewed interest in expanding our agreements with 4-year institutions, so I will be working closely with my colleagues to foster and secure those relationships,” she said.