Quesnel’s college has a new president and CEO.
The College of New Caledonia (CNC) has announced that Cindy Heitman, a one-time student there, has assumed the role.
According to CNC officials, she is the first woman to be appointed permanent president of the college.
CNC’s headquarters and main campus is Prince George but it has satellite locations in Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Mackenzie and Quesnel where classes and other resources reside at the North Cariboo Community Campus in space shared with the University of Northern BC.
“Cindy brings such a special combination of experiences, education, community support, and passion to CNC and particularly the students we serve,” said Shobha Sharma, chair of CNC’s board. “We look forward to her leading wonderful opportunities in support of CNC’s vision of learning together, changing lives, and creating futures.”
Heitman holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Simon Fraser University, as well as a Bachelor of General Studies in Education with a minor in Learning Disabilities.
Heitman’s career experience includes eight years as a school-based educator, 15 years as a school and district leader, and five years as a senior leader. She was most recently School District 57’s superintendent. She is committed to the north and is passionate about education. She has held positions on a variety of boards and committees at the executive level locally and provincially.
“CNC has been part of my life and the lives of my family members for decades,” Heitman said. “I’ve watched the college grow while maintaining its commitments to student success and achievement. I hope to work closely with the college community and many partners to inspire success in every student who chooses CNC, and support the diverse learning needs of the region we serve.”
Heitman takes the CNC office from Dr. Dennis Johnson who retired from the position.
“The past four years have been exciting as CNC embarked on new initiatives to improve student achievement and bring new approaches and practices to the College,” said Johnson. “I’m grateful for this opportunity to have led the college and confident that Cindy, CNC’s leadership team, and the entire college community will make great things happen for students in the years to come.”
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